FEST 23!! Welcome to our annual FEST guests! Welcome back to 2025

Every October, Gainesville transforms into a music lover’s paradise when THE FEST takes over downtown. For three high-energy days, fans from across the globe pack into local venues to see their favorite bands, discover new music, and soak up the one-of-a-kind atmosphere that only Gainesville can deliver.

Whether you’ve been to FEST before or you’re planning your first trip, here’s what you need to know about FEST 2025 — and why booking a StayGainesville property will make your weekend unforgettable.

THE FEST started more than two decades ago as a small gathering of punk and indie bands. Today, it has grown into one of the most recognizable underground music festivals in the United States. The 2025 edition runs October 24–26 and will feature hundreds of bands performing across multiple stages and venues in downtown Gainesville.

Part of FEST’s charm is that it’s still grassroots at heart. You won’t find corporate banners or over-commercialized spaces here — it’s run by music fans, for music fans. The lineup always mixes legendary acts with up-and-coming talent, creating a diverse and exciting weekend of shows.

The lineup for FEST 2025 is stacked, with nationally known headliners alongside emerging acts you’ll be glad you discovered. Bands like AJJ, Jeff Rosenstock, The Get Up Kids, RX Bandits, Shelter, and Coalesce are just a few of the highlights, with dozens more across punk, hardcore, indie rock, ska, and alternative.

The festival schedule is designed like a choose-your-own-adventure. With multiple shows happening at the same time across different venues, you can bounce between sets, catch a mix of genres, and craft a weekend that feels uniquely yours. Venues are close enough together that it’s easy to walk or take short rides between them, giving FEST its trademark fluid and spontaneous vibe.

The weekend officially runs October 24–26, but the excitement begins earlier with kickoff shows on Thursday night. If you want the full experience, plan to arrive by then and dive right in.

Of course, FEST is first and foremost about the bands. But it’s also about community. Fans reunite every year, artists hang out after sets, and strangers quickly become friends. Beyond the music, FEST includes comedy showcases, wrestling exhibitions, art displays, and plenty of local food and drink to fuel the long days and late nights.

Downtown Gainesville becomes one big block party during FEST. From coffee shops to breweries, the city hums with energy. Whether you’re seeing a legendary act in a packed venue or stumbling across a new favorite at a small club, the entire weekend feels electric.

If you’ve ever been to Gainesville during FEST, you know one thing: lodging fills up fast. Hotels downtown often sell out months in advance, and many are reserved as official festival hotels. That’s why more attendees are turning to vacation rentals — and specifically, StayGainesville properties — for a better FEST experience.

Here’s why FEST-goers love staying with StayGainesville:

Many StayGainesville rentals are located close to downtown or the University of Florida campus, which means you’re within easy reach of FEST venues. Forget about long drives or struggling to find a parking spot — you can simply walk to the shows.

FEST weekends are thrilling, but they’re also exhausting. After hours of music and dancing, you’ll want a comfortable place to relax. StayGainesville homes and condos offer full living rooms, multiple bedrooms, and quiet spaces to recharge between sets.

If you’re traveling with friends, a rental is a no-brainer. You’ll have room to hang out together, cook meals, and plan your schedule before heading out to shows. Splitting the cost among a group often makes rentals more affordable than hotels, with way more space and amenities.

Downtown parking during FEST is notoriously tricky. Many StayGainesville rentals include driveways, garages, or off-street parking so you can leave your car safely while you walk or rideshare to the venues.

StayGainesville has been part of the community for over a decade. Our team knows the ins and outs of FEST weekends — from what guests need to the best tips for enjoying Gainesville while you’re here.

• Book Early: Don’t wait until October to find your accommodations. Rentals and hotels sell out quickly.
• Plan Your Must-See Bands: With overlapping sets, it’s smart to prioritize your favorites in advance.
• Pack Smart: Comfortable shoes, refillable water bottles, and a light jacket for late nights are essentials.
• Explore Local Eats: Gainesville is home to legendary pizza, vibrant breweries, and late-night food trucks that become part of the FEST tradition.
• Take Breaks: It’s tempting to go nonstop, but don’t underestimate the value of a mid-afternoon nap back at your rental

FEST is more than a festival — it’s a Gainesville tradition that combines music, community, and adventure into one unforgettable weekend. With hundreds of bands, countless venues, and fans who travel from all over the world, it’s the kind of event you’ll talk about long after it’s over.

But to truly enjoy FEST 2025, you need the right place to stay. StayGainesville offers everything FEST attendees are looking for: prime locations near downtown, space to relax, group-friendly rentals, and the local expertise that makes your trip seamless.

Book your StayGainesville property today and get ready for a FEST experience you’ll never forget. 🎶