Special Events

Soggy Doggy Pool Party

Saturday, September 11 
Frances Meadows Aquatic Center, 1545 Community Way,
1 to 2:30PM for dogs up to 35lbs
2:30 to 4PM for dogs 36-70lbs
4 to 5:30PM for dogs over 70lbs
$10 per dog. People are free. Must show proof of Rabies vaccination and have tag on collar.
Limit 2 dogs per handler. Rain Date: September 12
Enjoy interactive water features, zero depth entry, slides, spray fountains, and more!  Avoid the line and pre-register at the center.

24th Annual Butterfly Release presented by Friends of the Parks

Sunday, September 19 - NEW THIS YEAR!
Migrating to a Park Near You Rain or Shine
1 to 3pm
Stop by and grab a bag with butterflies and other goodies to take home for your own at-home butterfly release.
Wessell Park - 493 Holly Drive
Midland Greenway - 682 Grove Street
City Park Playground - 549 Glenwood Drive
Rock Creek Veterans Park - 223 Northside Drive
Find out more about Friends of the Parks

18th Annual Mother Son Halloween Dance

Tuesday, October 26
Gainesville Civic Center Ballroom, 830 Green Street
6 to 8:30PM
City Residents: $50 per couple + $17.50 additional siblings
Non Residents: $60 per couple + $21 additional siblings
Catered Dinner, Dancing, Costume Contest and Raffles
Must pre-register by October 22. $15 late fee if space available. No Walk-ins.

Trick or Treat on the Trail - Canceled Due to Covid Precautions
DETAILS COMING FOR A SPOOKY SCAVENGER HUNT IN OCTOBER!!

Pumpkin Dash  

Thursday, October 21
Frances Meadows Aquatic Center, 1545 Community Way
6 to 7:45PM
$10 per pumpkin hunter. All ages welcome.
Must pre-register by October 18. Min/Max: 6/20 per age group
Passports and passes not accepted.

Swim with Santa

Friday, December 3
Frances Meadows Aquatic Center, 1545 Community Way
6-6:45PM for ages 5 and under
7 to 7:45PM for ages 6 and up
Take photos with Santa. Decorate and ornament.
$10 for anyone wanting an ornament and goodie bag. Adults Free.
Must pre-register by November 29. Min/Max:10/50
Passports and passes not accepted.

Christmas at the Civic Center
A Part of Christmas on Green Street

Sunday, December 5
Gainesville Civic Center, 830 Green Street
Free!
Christmas Movie in the Ballroom at 2pm. Enjoy the parade at 4pm from the front lawn
Christmas music, hot chocolate, cookies and more!
Food Truck on site.

The Amazing Santa Claus Race

Saturday, December 11
Free!
Photos with Santa a more!
11AM to 12PM Kenwood Park, 725 Kenwood Drive and Myrtle Street Park, 854 Myrtle Street
1 to 2PM Wessell Park, 493 Holly Drive
3 to 4PM Longwood Park, 20 Pearl Nix Parkway