Finish up those turkey day leftovers and get ready to hit the town. Here are some of the best things to do in Gainesville and Ocala this weekend 11/29-12/02.
Florida vs. Florida State
Probably the biggest thing to happen all weekend is by far the Florida Gators vs. Florida State Seminoles game. This game is known as the Sunshine Showdown and fans from all over flock into town for the biggest rivalry game of the year. This year the game will be held in the swamp or in other words, Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. The game kicks off at 7:30PM and there are plenty of great bars to watch it at that are nearby if you can't get tickets to the game.
Morningside Cane Boil and Fiddle Fest
The Morningside Nature Center will be hosting its annual Morningside Cane Boil and Fiddle Fest! "The Cane Boil & FiddleFest continues the age-old traditions of celebrating the fall harvest and live home-spun music. Be transported to bygone days by the rustic setting of Morningside’s Living History Farm. Hear the enchanting sounds of the youth fiddle contest as they twine through the pines and across the meadow to the kettle where sugar cane juice is boiling down into our yearly supply of sweet, rich cane syrup!" This event will be held on Saturday, November 30th from 10AM-4PM. Even better, this event is completely free for adults and children!
Thanksgiving Wildlife Tours
From turkeys to... large cats? Check out the Thanksgiving Wildlife Tours at the Carson Springs Conservation Wildlife Foundation. Apart from the tour, there will also be large cat feedings and warthog races. On Friday November 29th and Saturday November 30th at 10AM and again at 1PM for awesome wildlife tours you won't forget. Admission is $25 for adults and $8 for children aged 12 and under. The best part? 100% of your donation goes to wildlife care!
Black Friday in Gainesville
If shopping isn't your thing, you may just want to pass right over this event. Black Friday is not only a Gainesville and Ocala tradition but it's nationally recognized. Most people either love it or hate it. Nonetheless, it's an awesome way to get your family and friend's Christmas presents at a discounted rate. Places in Gainesville like the Oaks Mall, Best Buy and Target have plenty of Black Friday deals. Be sure to call ahead if you're curious about a particular store's sales on Black Friday. Either way, wear comfortable shoes and workout clothes because you may break a sweat fighting through bargain bins!
Disney’s Beauty and the Beast: The Broadway Musical
The Vam York Theatre is hosting Disney’s Beauty and the Beast: The Broadway Musical on Sunday, December 1st from 2-5PM. Tickets are still available online for $23 per person for single reserved tickets, $19 for seniors and $12 for youth. The Gainesville Community Playhouse is beloved by so many and is a true Gainesville staple. If you fall in love with this production, there are also memberships you can purchase which provide discounted rates for future shows too!
If you're like many people who travel far and wide to see their family this time of year, many of these activities are perfect for every one of your family members to enjoy with you so don't worry!
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