Sparks in the Park at Depot Park
Sparks in the Park is back, come out and celebrate New Year’s Eve in Depot Park. All festivities are free, family-friendly, and open to the public. Beginning at 5 pm, bring blankets and chairs and find a spot in the park to enjoy the last sunset of 2022 while a DJ hosts a family-friendly dance party throughout the park. At 6:30 pm, the fun continues with a 20-minute musically choreographed fireworks show over the main pond. Following the fireworks display, neighbors are invited to enjoy dinner, drinks, festivities and all that downtown has to offer. Later, the Downtown Countdown begins at 9 pm, and continues until midnight in Bo Diddley Plaza.
Location: Depot Park 874 SE 4th St Gainesville, FL 32601
Time: Saturday December 31, 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Cost: Free
City of Gainesville Downtown Countdown
Ring in the New Year at the City of Gainesville’s Downtown Countdown! The party at Bo Diddley Plaza kicks off at 9 pm on Saturday, December 31, and continues through 12:30 am. The night features performances by Jackquelyn Graham and her Trio and 24-7. Let’s celebrate 2023 together!
Location: Bo Diddley Plaza 111 E University Ave Gainesville, FL 32601
Time: Saturday, December 31, 9:00 PM – Sunday January 1, 12:30 AM
Cost: Free
First Day Hike at Dudley Farm Historic State Park
Happy New Year! All 50 states are offering First Day Hikes in state parks across the country as a way to promote healthy lifestyles. Join us at Dudley Farm for a hike led by Ted & Mary Ellen from the Alachua Audubon Society. Other first day hikes in the Gainesville area include Ravine Gardens State Park, Paynes Prairie, and Manatee Springs State Park!
Location: Dudley Farm Historic State Park 18730 W Newberry Road Newberry, FL 32669
Time: Sunday, January 1, 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM
Cost: $5 per vehicle
First Fridays Downtown Newberry
Join the Newberry Area Chamber of Commerce for First Fridays this Fall! The local Chamber Board will be hosting themed gatherings once a month in Downtown Newberry. These free events will feature family-friendly movies projected on the City Hall Lawn, fun activities for kids, contests & prizes and much more! Head downtown to take a stroll, visit the local shops & restaurants, and enjoy the community.
Location: 25420 W Newberry Rd Newberry, FL 32669
Time: Friday, January 6, 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Cost: Free
Fun 4 Gator Kids Playgroup Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo
Fun 4 Gator Kids Playgroup is heading to the Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo! Meet them for a self-guided tour at 9:30 am. This is fun for all ages, and it’s shady and stroller friendly. Let them know if they will see you there and sign up now!
Location: Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo 3000 NW 83 St Gainesville, FL 32606
Time: Monday, January 2, 9:30 AM
Cost: $5 admission (be sure to mention Fun 4 Gator Kids)
Featured Image by Ian Schneider on Unsplash