Things to do in Gainesville, FL Dec 21 - 26, 2025

🎄 Holiday & Seasonal Events

❄️ Gainesville Winter Wonderland Craft & Vendor Market

A festive market featuring local artisans, seasonal gifts, and holiday food.
📅 Saturday, December 20, 2025 — 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM
📅 Sunday, December 21, 2025 — 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Perfect for holiday shopping, gifts, and festive strolls. Eventbrite

💃 Arts & Cultural Highlights

Dance Alive National Ballet — The Nutcracker

A seasonal holiday tradition featuring live music by the Ocala Symphony Orchestra and stunning dance performances. Performing Arts at UF
?? Friday, December 19 — 7:30 PM
📅 Saturday, December 20 — 2:00 PM & 7:30 PM
📅 Sunday, December 21 — 2:00 PM

This is one of the region’s premier holiday performances for families and visitors.

🎶 Live Music & Entertainment

Local calendars show a variety of fun nights and performances throughout the week, including:

• Third Friday Concert Series (Holiday Edition) — live music in the downtown area on December 19. AllEvents
• Art Walk – Holiday Jazz & Jingle Edition — jazz performance and strolling musicians on December 19. AllEvents
• Songwriter Showcase @ Limelight — singer/songwriter performances on December 20. AllEvents
• Annual Christmas Concert Presented by Unity of Gainesville — community holiday concert December 21 at 11:00 AM at Unity of Gainesville. Eventbrite

Live music and showcases are great options for local entertainment if you enjoy nightlife or laid-back performances.

🍿 Seasonal Movie & Family Events

Local event listings often include seasonal family activities like outdoor movie nights featuring holiday films (e.g., Elf) at venues such as Bo Diddley Plaza Bo Diddley Plaza. AllEvents
Keep an eye on local calendars for exact nights and movie titles, as these are often updated closer to show dates.

🎉 Other Community Events (Week of Dec 13–26)

While The Nutcracker and the Winter Wonderland Market are among the most seasonally prominent events, there’s a mix of smaller community, music, and winter holiday activities around town, like:

• Downtown and neighborhood light displays & tree lighting events in early December (may still be active or visible) Mainstreet Daily News Gainesville
• Holiday cheer and holiday music performances in neighborhood venues and local churches/organizations StayGainesville
• Ongoing yoga, nature, and community programs at local parks and centers (e.g., eco-themed activity programs, community gatherings) City of Gainesville
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📅 Quick Event Highlights by Date

Dec 13–15 (continuing holiday festivities)

• Community holiday concerts and local orchestral performances. StayGainesville

Dec 19

• The Nutcracker evening performance
• Holiday jazz and concert series in downtown venues.

Dec 20–21

• The Nutcracker matinee and evening shows
• Winter Wonderland Craft & Vendor Market
• Songwriter/limelight showcases and other local music.

Dec 21

• Christmas concert at Unity of Gainesville. Eventbrite

Dec 22–26

• Holiday displays continue — perfect for neighborhood lights walks, exploring downtown, and local holiday shopping.

📍 Places to Explore While You’re in Town

Whether you’re in town for events or just visiting:

• Hang out at Bo Diddley Plaza for seasonal outdoor concerts and plaza events.
• Catch live music at Heartwood Soundstage or downtown venues.
• Explore downtown and South Main Station for dining and festive gatherings.
• Consider grabbing holiday gifts or snacks near local markets.

⭐ Tips for Visitors

• Many events are free or family-friendly.
• Holiday markets and performances tend to run into the evenings — plan your rentals accordingly.
• Check individual event calendars for detailed admission info as dates approach.