Events in Columbia County today

Join Open Gym at Easton Newberry Sports Complex every Saturday throughout the summer for a free, welcoming open gym session for both pickleball and basketball. Pickleball runs from 8:00 AM to 11:30 AM, and basketball runs from 12:00 PM to 3:30 PM. All skill levels are welcome, and participants are asked to bring their own pickleball paddles.

LifeSouth is hosting its first Jeep Meet Blood Drive at the LifeSouth Community Blood Center. This community event supports the local hospitals that LifeSouth supplies, inviting donors to arrive with their Jeeps, give blood, and help save local lives. Attendees can look forward to food, raffles, custom T-shirts, and more. Appointments are available to reserve a donation time, and vendors are welcome to participate and share their goods.

Help your little one discover the fun of soccer through an eight-week program with age-based sessions. Options are available for ages 18 months to 3 years, 2 to 4 years, and 3 to 5 years. The program fee is $135. For more information, contact Toddler Time at 352-425-0385.

Canvas Church presents the fourth annual Backpacks & Blessings at Promised Land Family Ministries. This family-friendly back-to-school gathering on the farm offers free backpacks, school supplies, and hot dogs. One backpack is available per student in Pre-K through 12th grade while supplies last, and students must be present to receive one. Additional details may be shared as the event nears. For donations or sponsorship inquiries, contact Rebecca Hall at (386) 515-5903 or RHall@PromisedLandFM.org.

Enjoy friendly, mixed doubles tennis for adults at Youngs Park Tennis Courts. All experience levels are welcome, participation is free, and the format makes it easy to meet new tennis partners while getting in some competitive play. No partner is required, as players will be matched.

Alachua County Animal Resources hosts a large summer adoption event focused on second chances for shelter pets. Adoption fees are waived for every animal, and each new pet parent receives a starter goodie bag to help their companion settle in. Visitors can meet dogs ready for adventure and cats hoping for a cozy home. The day highlights how community involvement, whether through adoption, volunteering, spreading the word, or simply stopping by to meet the animals, increases visibility and helps more pets find loving homes.

Create your own wearable art at an outdoor tie-dye workshop led by Groovy Ties and Freaky Dyes. Held beneath the shade of pecan trees, this hands-on class provides step-by-step instruction in folding, binding, and dyeing techniques. Learn how to produce standout designs like a crisp blue heart and a high-contrast spider pattern, with guidance aimed at clean, vibrant results. The cost is $35, and shirt size is selected at checkout.

Get ready for the new school year with a hair tinsel pop-up at 386 Market featuring young entrepreneur Addison Waldron. Guests can add sparkle to their back-to-school look while helping Addison work toward the goal of saving for a first car. Friends can come together to get styled for the first week of classes and show support for a young dream chaser. Even a small touch of shimmer can make a meaningful difference.

Celebrating two decades of sweet tradition, this 20th annual ice cream social and back to school bash offers an afternoon of treats, games, and family fun. Enjoy ice cream with more than 20 toppings in a safe, family-friendly setting, alongside efforts to prepare kids for the upcoming school year with backpacks and essential school supplies. Special guest Julien “King” Smith, founder of Born Elite from Gulfport, Mississippi and a White Springs native, will share messages about leadership, perseverance, and chasing dreams. The festivities bring community and education together in White Springs, Hamilton County, Florida, blending food, fun, and smiles. A lighthearted note for parents... let kids choose their own ice cream toppings unless there is an allergy.

This annual charity basketball tournament brings local first responders to the court in support of the CHS Tigers Basketball programs. Teams compete for bragging rights for the next year in a spirited, family friendly showcase. Admission is $5, payable in cash or via Cash App, and children younger than five are admitted free. Concessions will be available for cash purchase. Expect an afternoon centered on community, friendly rivalry, and plenty of hoops.

SFVC brings low-cost veterinary care to pets in the Ellisville and Providence area, with services that include vaccinations, microchipping, heartworm testing, flea and heartworm preventatives, and nail trims. All pet owners are welcome, and walk-ins are accepted. Discounts are available for military personnel and seniors. Pre-registration is offered to reserve a spot.

LyriCo Conservatory presents an Open House featuring complimentary mini-classes in music, dance, acting, and theater, followed by a student showcase performance. Guests can meet the instructors, tour the conservatory, explore fall class options for their student, and enjoy prizes on offer. Open to families at no cost.

The summer series from No Sitter Necessary wraps up with a high-energy family dance battle at The Woods in Lake City, FL, outdoors. Serving as the third and final show of the season, it doubles as a back-to-school celebration with one dance floor shared by children and parents. A live DJ sets the soundtrack while an MC keeps the crowd energized, and food and drinks are available. Beyond the music, there is pickleball, roller skating, water slides, and family movies. No babysitter is needed, families dance together under the open sky. Tickets start at $27.10.

Enjoy smooth jazz on the second Saturday of each month with Jazz on the Green. Pick up a drink or sweet treat and unwind along the Promenade as talented musicians set the mood. Each month features a different performer for a fresh experience.

Set out on a guided paddle along the Ichetucknee River, a clear spring-fed waterway celebrated for its natural beauty. An experienced guide leads the route with opportunities to spot wildlife and discover quiet corners of the river for an authentic Florida nature experience. Kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards are available. A shuttle, paddles, and a life vest are included, and the tour is suitable for beginners. Rates start at $55. Park admission is not included, and there is a $6 vehicle entry fee for up to eight guests.

Join Senior Bingo for a fun afternoon of games, friendly competition, and social time. The event runs each Monday through Newberry Parks and Recreation and includes free bingo with prizes awarded during every round. It’s a welcoming community gathering where you can come with friends or meet new people.

This community-led program offers no-cost health screenings to Florida residents with the highest needs, focusing on conditions such as hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. It concentrates on reaching those who can benefit most by providing essential screening without a fee.

Experience Ichetucknee Springs from a fresh perspective on a guided clear stand up paddleboard tour. Glide across the transparent waters of the Ichetucknee River on a see through board, watching the underwater world unfold beneath you as you travel through one of Florida’s remarkable spring systems. Knowledgeable guides lead the journey, blending paddling with wildlife viewing and insights into the river’s ecology and history. Keep watch for fish, turtles, birds, and other creatures along the way. The outing begins at the South Entrance with shuttle service to the North Canoe Launch. Essential gear is provided, including the board, paddle, and a life vest. The clear SUP option is $75 per person and accommodates one adult per board with a maximum weight of 250 pounds. Park admission is separate, with an entry fee of $6 per vehicle for up to eight guests. Availability is limited.

Bragging Rights sets aside one night each week to celebrate the people who keep the hospitality world running. This weekly industry night welcomes anyone working in restaurants, bars, hotels, coffee shops, catering, or similar roles. During the earlier portion of the evening, the usual $15 admission is waived with any beverage purchase. Happy Hour offers 20% off Corona, Narragansett, and White Claw. Hundreds of games are available for unlimited play until close. Later on, admission is reduced to $10 and includes a drink ticket valid for any beverage.

A weekly Grand Archive Constructed tournament takes place every Monday, offering competitive play for fans of the game. Entry is $10, and 1.5 booster packs per participant are added to the prize pool. Tickets can be purchased in advance through the store’s website, and entry is limited. Check-in is required before the event begins, and those who do not arrive in time may receive a refund and forfeit their spot. Hosted at PunkOuter Games, which provides a comfortable play area, refreshments, and a selection that includes single cards, RPGs, and miniatures.

Enjoy a relaxed Beyblade gathering that welcomes newcomers and experienced players alike. Attendees can bring their own Beyblades and any arenas they prefer, then match up for informal battles with fellow players. Participants set up their own play and handle judging themselves, keeping the focus on friendly competition and trading with others. PunkOuter Games offers a comfortable gaming space with refreshments and a wide selection that ranges from single cards to RPGs and miniatures, creating an inviting place to play at no cost.

A casual Flesh and Blood play and trade session at PunkOuter Games. This no-cost meetup is welcoming to beginners. Participants are encouraged to bring their own constructed or Blitz decks to trade and pair up for friendly games, and they handle their own setup and judging. The store offers a comfortable play space with refreshments and a broad selection of products, including single cards, RPGs, and miniatures. This gathering happens every Monday.

At Congregation B'nai Israel in Gainesville, enjoy an evening of Israeli circle and partner dancing led by Andy. The session begins promptly and features circle dancing followed by partner dancing, with optional beginner instruction available by request before and after the main program. First-timers are welcome and can learn by jumping in, and when newcomers attend the group focuses on accessible steps that are easy to follow. Expect a friendly atmosphere, uplifting music, and high-energy movement while building balance, learning partner skills, exploring Israeli dance traditions, and getting a good workout. The cost is $10 per family, with flexible arrangements available if needed. Step-by-step help can be scheduled outside the regular session, videos of the dances are available for self-study, and a newsletter is offered for ongoing updates.

Youth Competitive Fundamentals Archery is happening at Easton Newberry Archery Center. Match details, start times, and registration information are to be confirmed with the host club. It is a youth-focused archery event centered on building competitive fundamentals.

Now in its second year, this Community School Readiness Event centers on the theme Breakthrough and focuses on equipping students and celebrating community spirit. Last year, 200 fully stocked backpacks reached Gainesville families through largely personal contributions, with the City of Gainesville and the Fire Department taking part, a moment that showed how neighbors step up for one another. This edition is larger and free, with complimentary backpacks and school supplies for K-12 students, free food and refreshments, live music, bicycle giveaways, engaging experiences and activities, and participation from community vendors and local speakers. The goal is to support 300 to 350 families so every child leaves prepared for day one.

Cornerstone Care Clinic celebrates its grand opening with a ribbon cutting ceremony. The Chamber of Commerce, the Board of Directors, and fellow members will take part in the festivities to mark this milestone for the clinic.

Enjoy an evening of social dancing at Congregation B'nai Israel in Gainesville with three hour-long sessions that begin with Argentine Tango, continue with Swing or another style, and finish with Waltz alongside a dance mix or another option. Admission is $10. Each session starts promptly and blends a short lesson with plenty of time on the floor, about fifteen minutes of guidance and forty-five minutes of dancing, with coaching sprinkled throughout. No partner is required. Newer dancers are welcome in the Argentine Tango and Waltz hours, which build from walking fundamentals. The middle hour is geared toward participants who already know the basic steps, while complete beginners may prefer to begin with a separate four-week introductory series offered at other times. Instruction emphasizes a light, effortless connection and clear lead and follow techniques, supported by a partner-dance guide written by the instructor, with copies available. Financial accommodations are available for those who need them.

Enjoy a weekly music bingo session hosted by Lacey, combining lively songs with the thrill of calling bingo. Players can win prizes, and a late night happy hour brings added discounts to the evening.

In Limelight Suite 11, this free weekly improv gathering welcomes anyone 18 and older who wants to learn and explore improvisation. It offers a relaxed way to have fun, connect with others, and take part in a community-focused experience.

At GRACE Marketplace, this event provides essential services for pets of people experiencing homelessness, including vaccinations, microchipping, heartworm testing, flea and heartworm prevention, and nail trims. Pet supplies such as leashes, collars, dog jackets, and bowls will also be available. Sponsorships help cover the cost of care, and a contribution of $50 per dog or $30 per cat can make a meaningful difference for a pet in need.

Enjoy a relaxed Union Arena play and trade session that welcomes newcomers and seasoned players alike. Bring a constructed or starter deck and take part in friendly matches with others, with participants handling their own setup and judging. There is no cost to participate. The venue provides a clean, comfortable gaming area with refreshments and shelves stocked with single cards, RPGs, and miniatures, so you can play, refuel, and browse between games.

Enjoy a free, live weekly trivia event from Trivia Nation at Beef 'O' Brady's in Lake City. Teams take on general knowledge rounds inspired by classic quiz shows and board game trivia, with questions suited to all experience levels. Bring friends, coworkers, or family to play as a team, or link up with a group on site. There are $100 in prizes each week, adding extra excitement to every question. For a head start on scoring, Trivia Nation shares a free answer of the week on its website.

Trivia Nation hosts free, live pop culture team trivia at V Pizza Gainesville. Questions span movies, music, and cult favorites from the 80s, 90s, and 2000s, so teams can put their knowledge to work. Bring your own group or join a team when you arrive. Each game offers $100 in prizes, and you can check the Trivia Nation website for a free answer of the week to get a small head start.

This community-driven program provides free health screenings for Florida residents who are most in need, focusing on high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, and stroke.

Share a meal while learning how to put your wishes in place for the future at a free lunchtime learning session held at Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen. Participants can ask questions, receive straightforward answers, and leave feeling more assured that loved ones will have guidance when it is most needed. Whether you are just starting to think about preplanning or are ready to take the next step, this session focuses on helping you understand your options in clear, practical terms.

Casual tabletop battles for Warhammer 40,000, Kill Team, and Age of Sigmar welcome both newcomers and experienced players. There is no cost to participate, and the game library provides terrain and armies for anyone who needs them. This gathering repeats each week. It takes place at PunkOuter Games, which offers a clean, comfortable play space, refreshments, and shelves stocked with single cards, RPGs, miniatures, and more.

This event features two sessions of trivia hosted by Casey Hull. Each session includes three rounds covering general knowledge, an image round, and a sound round. Prizes are awarded for every round, giving participants chances to win whether they take part in both sessions or only one. Teams can collaborate to solve the questions.

Enjoy an evening of social dancing at Congregation B’nai Israel in Gainesville with a progression of sessions featuring Argentine Tango, West Coast Swing or another style, and a final session that includes Waltz with a dance mix. Each segment blends brief instruction with plenty of time on the floor, and guidance is woven throughout. No partner is required, and beginners are welcome in the Argentine Tango and Waltz portions, which build from walking fundamentals. The middle segment assumes comfort with basic footwork, so brand-new dancers are encouraged to begin with a four-week beginner series that is scheduled for newcomers. Instruction emphasizes a light, gentle connection rather than force, with clear principles for leading and following supported by a partner-dancing book. Admission is $10 per night, sessions begin promptly, and financial accommodations are available when needed.

Explore Reiki in a healing circle that focuses on easing stress, fostering relaxation, and encouraging healing. Participants will learn the basics, practice sensing energy, and take turns both giving and receiving Reiki. No prior experience is required. A donation of $10 or $20 is requested. RSVP by contacting Lori at lori@thesacredearthcenter.com or by texting Shenna at 352-372-8594.

At the Rosa B. Williams Center, GSD hosts free swing dancing in an air-conditioned hall with hardwood floors. It starts with a beginner lesson, and no partner or prior experience is required. After a few sessions, participants can step into progressive lessons to build skills and confidence, then enjoy a dance party in a welcoming, inclusive setting. Free street parking is available nearby, including in the Friends of the Library lot. Admission is free, with optional donations accepted by cash or Venmo.