Now that Thanksgiving is over your family has left your guest bedroom, here are some exciting things to do in Gainesville and Ocala this weekend 12/06-12/09.

Thursday, December 5th 

Friday, December 6th 

Saturday, December 7th

Mischievous Madams Burlesque Troupe - Garters & Garlands

For late-night fun, visit the High Dive and take in one of the most exciting shows of the year. "This holiday season, Mischievous Madams present ‘Garters & Garlands’: burlesque with layers and layers of holiday cheer! Whether you were naughty or nice this year, we are ready to stuff your stockings with good tidings." The High Dive will be transformed into a winter wonderland on Saturday, December 7th at 11PM. Doors will open at 10:30PM. This show isn't for everyone though, so be sure to "leave the little elves at home - this show is for audiences aged 18 and up." Tickets are still available and range from $12-$18 per person.

10th Annual Downtown Gainesville Santa Crawl

Put down the turkey legs and pumpkin pie and grab your Santa costume! The 10th Annual Downtown Gainesville Santa Crawl will be in full swing (or crawl) on Saturday, December 7th from 6PM-1AM. The "Downtown Gainesville Santa Crawl is a pub crawl where groups of revelers gather and walk from bar to bar dressed up as Saint Nick, Ms. Claus, a snowman, a reindeer, an elf, etc. Prizes will be awarded for Best Santa, Best Mrs. Claus, Best Holiday and Best Ugly Sweater. We’ll enjoy some free holiday shots along the way, so round up your friends and show off your holiday spirit!" The start of the crawl will begin at V Pizza & Side Car. To participate in the crawl, tickets are $20 per person as well as one item of canned food to be donated and tickets are still available online. 

Sunday, December 8th

Hogtown Brewdown: Thirst for Adventure 

What's better than helping protect Florida's springs all while enjoying great beer and food? Probably nothing! "A dozen different craft beers from Gainesville's best brewers, each paired with an appetizer. And a collection of uniquely Floridian eco-adventures available to give as holiday gifts or keep for yourself! All to benefit the springs." There will also be items up for auction and a full list of these items are on their website so you can fully be prepared to purchase these amazing gifts! Tickets will go quickly so be sure to get yours early. Tickets are $30 per person for general admission. The event will be held on Sunday, December 8 from 1PM-4PM at Cypress and Grove Brewing Company.

lululemon Sweat X Connect

Work off those holiday pounds you might have put on during Thanksgiving by visiting Lululemon off of Archer Road in Gainesville. The Lululemon Sweat X Connect will be held on Sunday, December 8th from 11AM-12PM. This event is hosted by the Athletes Den. Even better, this event is completely free but spots will fill up quickly so be sure to register and save your spot well in advance. Participants are advised to bring their own mat and water!

3rd Florida Thoroughbred Expo

If you enjoy admiring horses and their astounding athletic ability, check out the 3rd Florida Thoroughbred Expo in Ocala! This event will "feature competition in 9 disciplines including barrel racing, dressage, working ranch, showjumper, show hunter, cross-country, polo, freestyle and new for this year OTTB In-Hand." This event also benefits a great cause. "The Florida Thoroughbred Transformation Exposition is presented by the charitable organization Run For The Ribbons Inc. who dedicates themselves to providing off-track Thoroughbreds (OTTB) the foundation needed to ensure a smooth transition into their next career and home." This event will be held all weekend from 7:30AM to 6:30PM. Registration for the event is available online.

Whether you're looking for an event indoors or outdoors, this list has something for everyone at every age.

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