MUSIC
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. Friday, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) The Impostors, a Beatles cover band, will perform.
Groovin' on the Green: 7-9 p.m. Friday, Ironwood Golf Course, 2100 NE 39th Ave. Free; drinks for sale. (tinyurl.com/gotgmay24) Uncle Morty’s Rhythm Cream, an R&B, rock and soul crossover band, will perform.
The Wire Birds: 7-9 p.m. Saturday, Heartwood Soundstage, 619 S. Main St. Tickets: $15-$18. (heartwoodsoundstage.com) The Wire Birds are an eight-piece chamber-folk group based in Gainesville.
Parker McCollum: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Daily's Place Amphitheatre, 1 Daily’s Place, Jacksonville. Tickets: Starting at $29. (dailysplace.com/events, 904-633-2000) The singer will perform as part of his “Burn It Down” tour.
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A Celebration of Paco: Noon-6 p.m. Sunday, Heartwood Soundstage, 619 S. Main St. Free; RSVP requested. (heartwoodsoundstage.com) Musical celebration in memory of Paco with music and food. The Heartwood bar will be open to purchase beverages.
Gator Jam: 6-9 p.m. Tuesday, Country Way Town Square, 1739 SW 248th Drive, Newberry. Free. (tinyurl.com/gjmay24) Concert with performances by Cam Wheaton, Rilynn Jean, Timothy Krutzfeld, Houston Keen, Jamie Davis, Andrea Kay and Justin Lee Partin.
“Happy Together” Tour: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Florida Theatre, 128 E. Forsyth St., Jacksonville. Tickets: $35-$75. (floridatheatre.com, 904-355-5661) The “Happy Together” tour originated in 1984 with mainstays The Turtles. This multimedia show will take fans back to the ’60s and ’70s with such hits as “Happy Together,” “Come A Little Bit Closer,” “Cherish,” “No Matter What,” “Baby Blue,” “Turn Around Look at Me,” “You’re The One” and “The Rain, The Park and Other Things.”
THEATER
“Treasure Island”: 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays through June 9, Gainesville Community Playhouse, 4039 NW 16th Blvd. Tickets: $24 general admission, $20 seniors, $12 students. (gcplayhouse.org) Based on the masterful adventure novel by Robert Louis Stevenson, “Treasure Island” is an epic adventure from Ken Ludwig. It begins at an inn on the Devon coast of England, and quickly becomes an unforgettable tale of treachery and mayhem featuring a host of legendary swashbucklers.
“The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee”: 8 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Saturdays-Sundays, 7 p.m. Wednesdays-Thursdays through July 21, Hippodrome Theatre, 25 SE Second Place. Tickets: $10-$30. (thehipp.org/the-25th-annual-putnam-county-spelling-bee) Join an eclectic group of six young people who compete in the spelling championship of a lifetime. While candidly disclosing hilarious and touching stories from their home lives, the tweens spell their way through a series of (potentially made-up) words, hoping never to hear the soul-crushing “ding” of the bell that signals a spelling mistake. Content Advisory: PG-13. Play discusses race, LGBTQ+ themes, and has some profanity and strong language.
DANCE
Celtic Throne: 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Florida Theatre, 128 E. Forsyth St., Jacksonville. Tickets: $25-$65. (floridatheatre.com, 904-355-5661) Celtic Throne explores the ancient origins of Irish step dance and celebrates the millennia-long journey of a music-and-dance-loving people as they migrate from the ancient Near East to Ireland, Scotland, England and the United States. Embarking on their fifth U.S. tour, Armstrong Dance presents their original Irish dance production, Celtic Throne, with Golden Globe-nominated composer Brian Byrne's majestic musical score.
ET CETERA
Rooterville Animal Sanctuary Visit: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday-Sunday plus Thursday, Rooterville Animal Sanctuary, 5579 Darwood St., Melrose. Cost: Suggested $10 donation per person. (tinyurl.com/rasvmar24, rooterville.org) From playful pigs to gobbling turkeys, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Connect with rescued animals and learn about the importance of animal welfare. All proceeds help care for the animals. You are welcome to bring snacks to feed the critters or buy them on site. They love baby carrots, strawberries, grapes, sliced apples and some veggies. Tickets are limited to 20 guests per 1.5-hour time slot.
Summer at the Library Kickoff: Campfire Stories: 1-4 p.m. Friday, Archer Branch Library,13266 SW SR 450, Archer. Free. (aclib.us) Sign up for summer fun, and earn your first badge and a button while enjoying a craft, face painting and more.
Summer at the Library Kickoff: Ice Cream Social: 3:30-5 p.m. Friday, High Springs Branch Library, 23779 W. U.S. 27 High Springs. Free. (aclib.us) Ice cream and other frozen treats will be provided while organizers present upcoming summer programs and sign people up for the Summer at the Library program.
Weekly Walk and Talks: 3-4 p.m. Friday, Tuscawilla Preserve, 406 SE Tuscawilla Road, Micanopy. Free; RSVP appreciated. (alachuaconservationtrust.org) Wetlands and bird hike.
“Florida Skies (Spring)”: 7 p.m. Friday, Kika Silva Pla Planetarium, 3000 NW 83rd St. Tickets: $7.19 for adults; $6.17 ages 4-12, ages 60 and older, UF affiliates, military and first responders. (showpass.com/florida-skies-spring-4) Join James Albury, former co-host of the PBS TV Show “Star Gazers,” as he takes you on a personally guided tour of the night sky using the GOTO Chronos Space Simulator.
Tioga Movie Night: 7:30-9:30 p.m. Friday, Tioga Town Center, 13085 SW First Lane, Newberry. Free. (tiogatowncenter.com) “Free Willy.” A heartwarming family drama about a young boy's touching friendship with an Orca whale that is the star attraction at his local adventure park.
Tour de Melon: 7 a.m. Saturday, Charles Strickland Recreational Park, Old Fannin Road, Chiefland. Cost: $55-$70. (tourdemelon.raceroster.com) Annual cycling event in its 13th year offering a family trail ride on the local, paved Nature Coast trail as well as century and half-century routes.
Chiefland Watermelon Festival: 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, 23 SE Second Ave., Chiefland. Free entry; items and food for sale. (chieflandwomansclub.org) Annual event in its 70th year featuring sliced watermelon, live entertainment, and craft and food vendors. Parade begins at 11 a.m.
Gainesville Cars and Coffee: 9-11 a.m. Saturday, Tioga Town Center, 13085 SW First Lane, Newberry. Free. (tinyurl.com/gccapril24) Family friendly gathering open to all automotive enthusiasts. Get together for a cup of coffee and show off each other’s vehicles regardless of if it’s an import, exotic, classic or jalopy.
Carson Springs Wildlife Conservation Foundation Tour: 10 a.m.-noon Saturday, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday, Carson Springs Wildlife Conservation Foundation, 8528 E. County Road 225. Tickets: $35 adults, $15 ages 2-11, free ages 1 and younger; $45 motorized-vehicle tours. (carsonspringswildlife.org, 468-2827, contact@cswildlife.org) Take a tour — on foot or in a tour vehicle — of Carson Springs Wildlife Conservation Foundation with big-cat feeding demonstrations and up-close encounters with the animals.
Kanapaha Botanical Gardens Guided Tour: 10 a.m.-noon Saturday, Kanapaha Botanical Gardens, 4700 SW 58th Drive. Tickets: $10 adults, $5 ages 5-13, free for ages 4 and younger; free for members; group rates available. (kanapaha.org) Guided tour of the gardens.
Historic Haile Homestead Tour: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays, noon-4 p.m. Sundays, Historic Haile Homestead, 8500 Archer Road. Entrance: $5 ages 12 and older, free ages 11 and younger. (hailehomestead.org) The Historic Haile Homestead is unique in the nation for its "Talking Walls.''
Creek Family Fest: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Tuscawilla Preserve, 406 SE Tuscawilla Road, Micanopy. Free; snow cones for sale. (alachuaconservationtrust.org) Event to celebrate the start of summer featuring conservation organizations, arts and crafts, games and snow cones vended by Wild Arctic Ice.
Summer at the Library: Florida Wildlife Safari Scavenger Hunt: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, Archer Branch Library,13266 SW SR 450, Archer. Free. (aclib.us) Embark on an adventure exploring Florida's wildlife and identify some local animals with a summer scavenger hunt.
Horse Feeding: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Mill Creek Farm Retirement Home for Horses, 20307 NW CR 235A, Alachua. Entrance: Bag of carrots. (millcreekfarm.org) The Retirement Home for Horses provides lifetime care to elderly horses seized by law enforcement agencies, rescued by the SPCA or humane societies, as well as horses retired from government service such as police patrol or state and federal parks.
Friends of O’Leno: Noon-2 p.m. Saturday, O’Leno State Park, 410 SE O'Leno Park Road, High Springs. Free; registration required. (info@friendsofoleno.org) Presentation by Dr. Emily Taylor, executive director of the Springs Institute. Lunch provided. Members and those interested in joining are invited to hear about how Friends of O’Leno supports the parks.
Cease Violence in Da Hood: Noon-4 p.m. Saturday, Kelly Center, 1701 NE Eighth Ave. Free. (tinyurl.com/cvida24a) Family event featuring kids’ activities, bounce houses, face painting, sack race, music and free food.
Journey to Juneteenth: Alachua County Community Remembrance Project Exhibit Opening: 1-3 p.m. Saturday, Alachua County Commission Administration Building, 12 SE First St. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov) Opening of a new exhibit with speakers, music and food.
“Otro Mundo es Posible: Queer Latinx Joy in Florida”: 4 p.m. Saturday, Matheson History Museum, 513 E. University Ave.; also online via Zoom. Free; registration required. (tinyurl.com/qljifinperson, tinyurl.com/qljifzoom) Panel featuring oral histories collected from queer Latinxs in Gainesville. University of Florida gender studies scholar Cecilia Luna will moderate a conversation with narrators around how they find joy through their expressions of queer Latinx identity. The event will include the sharing of creative works by narrators that articulate how alternate futures can be enacted through art.
Journey to Juneteenth: Documentary Screening: “In Our Right Mind”: 5-7:30 p.m. Sunday, Cotton Club Museum and Cultural Center, 837 SE Seventh Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov) Event meant to promote awareness of, start conversations about and provide resources for Alzheimer's dementia, especially in the Black community. There will be a showing of the film, a panel discussion with the film producer and health professionals, tabling and refreshments.
Birds and Brews: 5:45-7 p.m. Sunday, First Magnitude Brewing Company, 1220 SE Veitch St. Free. (facebook.com/FirstMagnitudeBrewing/events) Bird walks. Meet in front of the metal Maggie sign by the entrance to The Source. The group, led by volunteers from the Alachua Audubon Society, will identify birds at Depot Park. Some binoculars and bird guides provided, but feel free to bring any other equipment you wish.
Summer at the Library: Adventures Around the World — Anna Moo: 11 a.m.-noon Monday, Headquarters Library, 401 E. University Ave. Free. (aclib.us) Travel with Anna Moo to hear songs and stories from around the world. Celebrate animals, people and the planet with songs from Florida to Mexico and Africa to China.
Summer at the Library: Florida Wildlife Safari Scavenger Hunt: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday, Archer Branch Library,13266 SW SR 450, Archer. Free. (aclib.us) Every week throughout the summer, the library will unveil a photo of a Florida bird or animal track for you to identify. These photos will feature QR codes that lead to recordings of the animals' calls.
Summer at the Library: Adventures Around the World — Anna Moo: 3-4 p.m. Tuesday, High Springs Branch Library, 23779 W. U.S. 27, High Springs. Free. (aclib.us) Travel with Anna Moo to hear songs and stories from around the world. Celebrate animals, people and the planet with songs from Florida to Mexico and Africa to China.
Summer at the Library: School's Out Celebration: 3-4:30 p.m. Tuesday, Newberry Branch Library, 110 S. Seaboard Drive, Newberry. Free. (aclib.us) This year’s theme is “Adventure Begins at Your Library.” Featuring adventure-themed crafts and games for kids and teens, photo station and more.
Summer at the Library: Dungeons and Dragons for Teens: 3-6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Tower Road Library, 3020 SW 75th St. Free; registration required. (aclib.us) Play a one-shot in the world of Dungeons and Dragons. Teenaged players of all experience levels are welcome. These adventures will take place over just one session, so there is no need to have attended previous sessions. New players: Arrive early for the game with a prepared fifth-edition, third-level character. Assistance with creating a character is available prior to the start of the event.
Summer at the Library: Florida Wildlife Safari Scavenger Hunt: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Wednesday, Archer Branch Library,13266 SW SR 450, Archer. Free. (aclib.us) Every week throughout the summer, the library will unveil a photo of a Florida bird or animal track for you to identify. These photos will feature QR codes that lead to recordings of the animals' calls.
Summer at the Library: Story Time with Gentle Carousel Miniature Therapy Horses: 10:30-11:30 a.m. Wednesday, High Springs Branch Library, 23779 W. U.S. 27, High Springs. Free. (aclib.us) Children and caregivers can read tales and lead activities for infants through 5-year-olds. Presented by Gentle Carousel Miniature Therapy Horses.
Summer at the Library: Science Surprises: 11 a.m.-noon Wednesday, Library Partnership Branch, 912 NE 16th Ave. Free. (aclib.us) The Florida Museum of Natural History presents Science Surprises. In this program, participants will explore natural phenomena and how they occur by understanding the nature of science. Attendees will become better observers and problem solvers while also learning to use their creativity and communication skills. Maximum of 20 attendees.
Summer at the Library: Adventures Around the World — Anna Moo: 3-4 p.m. Wednesday, Archer Branch Library,13266 SW SR 450, Archer. Free. (aclib.us) Travel with Anna Moo to hear songs and stories from around the world. Celebrate animals, people and the planet with songs from Florida to Mexico and Africa to China.
Summer at the Library: Science Surprises: 3-4 p.m. Wednesday, Cone Park Branch Library, 2801 E. University Ave. Free. (aclib.us) The Florida Museum of Natural History presents Science Surprises. In this program, participants will explore natural phenomena and how they occur by understanding the nature of science. Attendees will become better observers and problem solvers while also learning to use their creativity and communication skills. Maximum of 20 attendees.
Summer at the Library: Florida Wildlife Safari Scavenger Hunt: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Thursday, Archer Branch Library,13266 SW SR 450, Archer. Free. (aclib.us) Every week throughout the summer, the library will unveil a photo of a Florida bird or animal track for you to identify. These photos will feature QR codes that lead to recordings of the animals' calls.
Summer at the Library: Bats at the Library: 11 a.m.-noon Thursday, Tower Road Branch, 3020 SW 75th St. Free. (aclib.us) Visit with real, live bats and flying foxes from the Lubee Bat Conservancy.
Summer at the Library: Mark Alan Magic: 11 a.m.-noon Thursday, Millhopper Branch, 3145 NW 43rd St. Free. (aclib.us) Join Mark Alan and his travel buddy, Bixby, for an adventurous interactive comedy magic show.
Summer at the Library: Art to Make You Smile with Local Artist Ari Uberti: 2-3 p.m. Thursday, Archer Branch,13266 SW SR 450, Archer. Free. (aclib.us) Experiment with art, mix it with love, and make joyful creations to take home guided by local Gainesville artist Ari Uberti.
Summer at the Library: Mark Alan Magic: 3-4 p.m. Thursday, Headquarters Library, 401 E. University Ave. Free. (aclib.us) Join Mark Alan and his travel buddy, Bixby, for an adventurous interactive comedy magic show.
CASTING CALL
Capella Nova: Auditions beginning at 5 p.m. July 23, Abiding Savior, 9700 W. Newberry Road. Free; registration required. (904-535-4779) Singers can audition for the 2024-25 season with the unaffiliated, classically oriented ensemble. Rehearsals are on Tuesday evenings September through April. No preparation is needed. For those with unavoidable conflicts, additional and later dates may be available.
ART
Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention: “Turning Tides: Save the Ocean Through Invention!” The museum is staying green and going blue. The ocean blankets the planet, covering a staggering 70% of its surface. As humanity brainstorms ways to keep our home-sweet-home happy and healthy, visionaries are no longer looking to the stars, but to the sea for solutions. Embark on a journey through inventions that are fostering a planetary partnership toward a greener future and bluer planet; “Rube Goldberg: The World of Hilarious Invention!” Created by the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh in partnership with the Heirs of Rube Goldberg, the exhibition showcases Pulitzer Prize-winning humorist and inventor Rube Goldberg’s iconic contraptions and celebrates his humorous storytelling and inventive cartoons. Inspired by Goldberg’s original illustrations, the exhibit contains a collection of new 3-D, life-size machines and hands-on, interactive components that connect Goldberg’s iconic cartoon contraptions to the way things work in the physical world; “Tom Petty: Among the Wildflowers.” This exhibit explores the joys, pains and creative awakenings that Gainesville native Tom Petty experienced while pouring his soul into his second solo studio album, “Wildflowers” (1994). Featuring artifacts previously on display at the Rock ’n’ Roll Hall of Fame, the exhibit allows guests to listen to first-hand accounts from Petty and the Wildflowers team about the album’s spirited creation. On display through Oct. 20. Tickets: $12.50, $10 seniors and college students, $7.50 ages 5-17, free ages 4 and younger. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday-Sunday. 811 N. Main St. (371-8001, cademuseum.org)
Cedar Key Arts Center: 10 a.m-1 p.m. Monday Adult Sewing Help with Bunny Hand. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. 457 Second St., Cedar Key. (543-5801, cedarkeyartscenter.org)
Florida Museum of Natural History: “Science Up Close: Incredible Insects” exhibit on display through summer. Visitors will have opportunities to interact with live bugs from Florida, view a busy ant colony at work and learn all about the insects that live among us. Tickets: $10 adults; $9 Florida residents, seniors and non-UF college students; $7 ages 3-17; free museum members and ages 2 and younger. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Saturday, 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday. 3215 Hull Road. (floridamuseum.ufl.edu, 846-2000)
Gainesville Fine Arts Association Gallery: “From Land To Sea: Clay Exploration,” featuring works by Verónica Villasenõr and Marcelo Buzzi, on display through Saturday; “Weeklong Solo/Curated Shows and Member Postcards” on display through June 22; “Invitations to Presence,” featuring works by Melody Lozano, on display June 5-8; “My Journey,” featuring works by Bob Senesac, on display June 11-15; “Botany to Biomorphia,” featuring works by Linda McVay, on display June 19-22; “Summer Showcase 2024” on display June 25-July 20; “Hair” on display July 23-Aug. 24; “Biennial National Juried Exhibition — Heat” on display Aug. 27-Oct. 19; “Nostalgia” on display Oct. 22-Nov. 23; “Winter Showcase 2024” on display Nov. 26-Dec. 20. Gallery hours are 1 to 6 p.m. Tuesday-Friday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. 1314 S. Main St. (gainesvillefinearts.org, info@gainsevillefinearts.org)
Harn Museum of Art: “Surrealism at the Harn,” a centennial celebration, on display through Sunday; “Gateway to Himalayan Art” on display through July. Museum hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday. 3259 Hull Road. (392-9826)
Matheson History Museum: “Return to Forever: Gainesville’s Great Southern Music Hall,” showcasing dozens of John Moran‘s performance photos from his two years as the Great Southern Music Hall house photographer. Also featured is a display of Bo Diddley artifacts, including one of Bo’s signature square box guitars. Written by music journalist Bill DeYoung and designed by historian Rick Kilby, this unique exhibit celebrates a golden age in the University City’s musical history, the likes of which may never be seen again. On display through June 8; “Weaving a Community: 30 Years of the Matheson History Museum,” an all-encompassing view of the Matheson’s history and its origins; “When Johnny Came Marching Home: Some Gave All – All Gave Some,” remembering those who came home from war with both physical and mental wounds, on display outside. Gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday. 513 E. University Ave. (378-2280, mathesonmuseum.org)
Melrose Bay Art Gallery: Works by Carron Wedlund on display Saturday-June 30, with Artwalk reception 6-9 p.m. June 7. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday or by appointment. 103 State Road 26, Melrose. (475-3866, melrosebayartgallery.com)
Santa Fe College’s Blount Hall: A large art collection from local collector Hector Puig on display. Hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Corner of West University Avenue and North Sixth Street.
UPCOMING CONCERTS
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. June 7, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) Mindwalk will perform contemporary jazz.
Jazz on the Green: 7-9 p.m. June 8, Celebration Pointe, Celebration Pointe Avenue off of Interstate 75 and Archer Road. Free. (celebrationpointe.com) Gruv Therapy will perform on the stage in the promenade, food and drinks, lawn games and more.
Mean Mary: 6 p.m. June 11, Lightnin' Salvage, 1800 NE 23rd Ave. Free. (meanmary.com) The international touring musician will perform songs from all of her albums and many old favorites as well.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. June 14, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) Loosey’s Downtown Showcase.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. June 21, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) Little Wings Studio Showcase.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. June 28, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) Mei, Now Leaving Space and The Mermers will perform.
Bryan Bielanski: 10 p.m. July 1, University Club, 18 E University Ave. Free. (ucnightclub.com) Imagine Nirvana and the Beatles had a kid together who became an acoustic rock singer-songwriter — that's Bryan Bielanski. Although he is inspired by some of the rock greats like Tom Petty and REM, he has a distinct musical style and lyrics that make audiences think deep thoughts and feel like they're really alive.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. July 5, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) Pet Detectives will perform ’90s alt-rock covers.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. July 12, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) The ox Showcase featuring Short Stack, Cooper and Wiley Gaby.
Jazz on the Green: 7-9 p.m. July 13, Celebration Pointe, Celebration Pointe Avenue off of Interstate 75 and Archer Road. Free. (celebrationpointe.com) D.R. Band and Soul Fire will perform on the stage in the promenade, food and drinks, lawn games and more.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. July 19, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) The Gainesville Big Band will perform jazz/swing.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. July 26, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) MusicGNV Showcase: Tribute to Gainesville Bands.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. Aug. 2 Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) TBD.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. Aug. 9, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) Stereo Vudu will perform rock, blues and funk.
Jazz on the Green: 7-9 p.m. Aug. 10, Celebration Pointe, Celebration Pointe Avenue off of Interstate 75 and Archer Road. Free. (celebrationpointe.com) Swing Theory will perform on the stage in the promenade, food and drinks, lawn games and more.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. Aug. 16, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) D.R. Band and Soul Fire will perform R&B, neo-soul and funk.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. Aug. 23, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) PULP Arts Showcase.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. Aug. 30, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) The Lions of Jah will perform reggae.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. Sept. 6, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) FEST 22 Showcase.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. Sept. 13, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) TBD.
Jazz on the Green: 7-9 p.m. Sept. 14, Celebration Pointe, Celebration Pointe Avenue off of Interstate 75 and Archer Road. Free. (celebrationpointe.com) Brazil Side B will perform on the stage in the promenade, food and drinks, lawn games and more.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. Sept. 20, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) Morningbell will perform psychedelic rock and soul.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. Sept. 27, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) Savants of Soul will perform soul.
Suwannee Roots Revival: All day Oct. 10-13, Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park, 3076 95th Drive, Live Oak. Tickets: $160-$275. (suwanneerootsrevival.com/tickets) Artists include Old Crow Medicine Show, Yonder Mountain String Band, Donna the Buffalo, Peter Rowan Band, Della Mae, Henhouse Prowlers, The Ain’t Sisters, Kaleta and Super Yamba Band, Blair Crimmins and the Hookers, Snake Oil Medicine Show, Grandpa’s Cough Medicine, Sloppy Joe, Quartermoon and Magic Moon Traveling Circus.
Jazz on the Green: 7-9 p.m. Oct. 12, Celebration Pointe, Celebration Pointe Avenue off of Interstate 75 and Archer Road. Free. (celebrationpointe.com) Marty Liquori Jazztet will perform on the stage in the promenade, food and drinks, lawn games and more.
Jazz on the Green: 7-9 p.m. Nov. 9, Celebration Pointe, Celebration Pointe Avenue off of Interstate 75 and Archer Road. Free. (celebrationpointe.com) Ed Roth Trio will perform on the stage in the promenade, food and drinks, lawn games and more.
Jazz on the Green: 7-9 p.m. Dec. 14, Celebration Pointe, Celebration Pointe Avenue off of Interstate 75 and Archer Road. Free. (celebrationpointe.com) Natalie Rella Jazz will perform on the stage in the promenade, food and drinks, lawn games and more.
UPCOMING EVENTS
“Room to Dance”: 7:30 p.m. June 7-8, Santa Fe College, 3000 NW 83rd St. Tickets: $15 adults; $9 seniors, students, military service members and children 12 and younger; free for SF students, faculty and staff with college ID cards. (395-4181, showpass.com/room-to-dance-3) Students in the Dance Theatre of Santa Fe will present the student-choreographed audience favorite with a question-and-answer “talkback” between the audience and the student choreographers following each performance.
“Cabaret”: 8 p.m. Thursday-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays June 7-23, Acrosstown Repertory Theatre, 3501 SW Second Ave., Suite O. Tickets: $25 general admission; $20 students, seniors, military and teachers. (acrosstown.org) In a Berlin nightclub, as the 1920s draw to a close, a garish master of ceremonies welcomes the audience and assures them they will forget all of their troubles at the Cabaret. With the emcee’s bawdy songs as wry commentary, “Cabaret” explores the dark, heady and tumultuous life of Berlin’s natives and expatriates as Germany slowly yields to the emerging Third Reich. Cliff, a young American writer newly arrived in Berlin, is immediately taken with English singer Sally Bowles.
“Dead Man’s Cellphone”: 8 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays June 7-30, High Springs Playhouse, 23416 NW 186 Ave., High Springs. Tickets: $15 general admission, $10 students and ages 65 and older. (highspringsplayhouse.com) An incessantly ringing cellphone in a quiet cafe. A stranger at the next table who has had enough. And a dead man — with a lot of loose ends. So begins “Dead Man’s Cellphone,” a wildly imaginative new comedy by Sara Ruhl. A work about how we memorialize the dead — and how that remembering changes us.
Reader Palooza: 10 a.m.-noon June 8, Depot Park, 200 SE Depot Ave. Free. (aclib.us/Summer) Kickoff to Summer at the Library featuring Santa Fe College, Fun 4 Gator Kids, Matheson Museum, UF HealthStreet, Okito America, Sun Country Sports, Lynx Bookstore, NAMI Gainesville, Florida Virtual School and more.
Brew at the Zoo: 4-7 p.m. June 8, Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo, 3000 Northwest 83rd St. Tickets: $60, $25 for non-drinkers. (showpass.com/brewatthezoo2024) For ages 21 and older. All ticket sales include admission to the zoo, animal encounters, beer and food tastings, live entertainment, food trucks, games and commemorative souvenir cup. All funds raised will directly support the zoo and its mission to educate, inspire and secure a future for wildlife. Held rain or shine.
Journey to Juneteenth: Film Festival Meet the Artist and Reception: 5-6 p.m. June 8, A. Quinn Jones Museum, 1013 NW Seventh Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov) Evening showcasing independent films crafted by local filmmakers. Among the highlights, award-winning shorts filmmaker Myquel Lewis presents "A Time to Heal," a narrative exploring the dynamics of a father-daughter relationship as the daughter embarks on a new chapter of her life.
Journey to Juneteenth: Greatest Graduation Party "For the Culture": 6-9 p.m. June 8, A. Quinn Jones Museum, 1013 NW Seventh Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov) Community event featuring DJ Sed, games, food and the PowerUp Experience. Explore future opportunities at the career fair and honor outstanding young leaders at the Standing on Business youth awards.
Journey to Juneteenth: Smooth Flava Line Dancing Party: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. June 9, Bo Diddley Plaza, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov) Join Smooth Flava for a line-dance party.
Journey to Juneteenth: The History of the Seminole Nation: “Unchained and Unconquered”: 4-8 p.m. June 9, Cotton Club Museum and Cultural Center, 837 SE Seventh Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov) Discussion and Q&A session with renowned writer and professor Dr. Anthony Dixon, the author of “Florida’s African Diaspora Timeline” and his most critically acclaimed work, “Florida’s Negro War: Black Seminoles and the Second Seminole War.”
Water Park Community Days: 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. July 14, Kulaqua River Ranch, 23400 NW 212th Ave., High Springs. Cost: $18, free ages 3 and younger. (kulaqua.com) Annual discounted swimming days. Operators request that modest swimsuits be worn. Also, feel free to bring food and coolers, but no glass containers or alcoholic beverages are permitted in the water park.
Journey to Juneteenth: Freedom Walk 5K: 7-10:30 a.m. June 15, Depot Park, 874 SE Fourth St. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov) Walk meant to educate and engage the community on the rich history, legacy and resilience of Black Americans locally and nationally.
Journey to Juneteenth: Freedom Fest 2024: 3-9 p.m. June 15, Bo Diddley Plaza, 111 E. University Ave. Free; items and food for sale. (gainesvillefl.gov) Annual music and arts festival in its third year featuring live performances, art exhibits, food trucks, small-business vendors, community organization booths, children’s activities including bounce house and popcorn machine, elder's corner and more.
Journey to Juneteenth: Tha Cookout: A Juneteenth and Fatherhood Celebration: Noon-6 p.m. June 16, Bo Diddley Plaza, 111 E. University Ave. Tickets: $0-$40. (gainesvillefl.gov) Celebration of Black unity and fatherhood featuring food, music, lawn games, card games, dancing and family centered competitions. Spades enthusiasts will have an opportunity to participate in a spades tournament to become the 2024 reigning champion.
Journey to Juneteenth: “Justice on Trial — Reloaded:” Off Broadway Play: 6 p.m. June 16, Upper Room Ministries, 3575 NE 15th St. Tickets: See website for details. (gainesvillefl.gov, thechadcoopercompany.com) Time-traveling witnesses, including Harriet Tubman, Medgar Evers, Emmett Till, and Dr. W. E. B. Du Bois testify on behalf of civil rights attorneys suing the U.S. Justice Department for $14 trillion in reparations. The play showcases these historical figures sharing their stories with a modern multicultural jury, culminating in discussions around Juneteenth.
“In The Heights”: 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays July 19-Aug. 11, Gainesville Community Playhouse, 4039 NW 16th Blvd. Tickets: $24 general admission, $20 seniors, $12 students. (gcplayhouse.org) “In the Heights,” created by Lin-Manuel Miranda, tells the universal story of a vibrant community in New York’s Washington Heights neighborhood — a place where the coffee from the corner bodega is light and sweet, the windows are always open and the breeze carries the rhythm of three generations of music. It’s a community on the brink of change, full of hopes, dreams and pressures, where the biggest struggles can decide which traditions you take with you and which ones you leave behind.
“The Wizard of Oz — Youth Edition”: 7 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays July/August, High Springs Playhouse, 23416 NW 186 Ave., High Springs. Tickets: $15 general admission, $10 students and ages 65 and older. (highspringsplayhouse.com) Join Dorothy and her loyal companion Toto as they “Follow the Yellow Brick Road” through the Land of Oz, determined to reach the Emerald City, where the great and powerful Wizard of Oz will help them get home. Of course, along the way, Dorothy encounters witches (both good and bad), Munchkins, talking trees and winged monkeys. But most importantly, she befriends three unique characters: a scarecrow with no brain, a tin man with no heart, and a lion with no “nerve.” Their journey to happiness — and self-awareness — is a glowing testament to friendship, understanding and hope in a world filled with both beauty and ugliness.
Black Business Expo: Time TBA July 20, Santa Fe College, 3000 NW 83rd St. Free entry; registration requested. (GBPinc.org) Event dedicated to celebrating and promoting the achievements of Black-owned businesses in the community.
Zach Williams and Tim Tebow: 7 p.m. Sept. 5, O’Connell Center, 250 Gale Lemerand Drive. Ticket prices vary; see website for more information. (tinyurl.com/williamstebow) An evening of worship and inspiration, with a message of love, hope and God’s grace highlighting the importance of persevering in Christ through life’s challenges.
