Explore Gainesville

Earth Day - Midland Greenway
2026-04-22 15:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | Midland Greenway, 682 Grove Street, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
Join us for a fun and interactive afternoon for our Earth Day celebration!
April 22, 2026
3:00–5:00 PM
Midland Greenway (find our tents near the large shade structures, between the amphitheater and playground)
Hosted in collaboration with Main Street Gainesville, Gainesville Parks and Recreation, Gainesville Department of Water Resources, Chattahoochee Riverkeepers, and Elachee Nature Science Center!
What to expect:
• Hands-on science activities
• Pond clean-up & trash clean-up efforts (jump in and make a difference!)
• Learn about local conservation and water stewardship
• Family-friendly fun for all ages
Whether you’re passionate about protecting our waterways, love getting your hands dirty for a good cause, or just want to enjoy a spring afternoon outdoors, there’s something for everyone! Let’s celebrate Earth Day together and make a lasting impact in our community.
FB Event Page:
https://www.facebook.com/events/1438994584672222/
🔗 Learn more about Science on Main Street Events: exploregainesville.org/science

Elementary Art Explorations: Session 2 - Quinlan Visual Arts Center
2026-04-23 16:00 - 17:00, 2026-04-30 16:00 - 17:00 | Quinlan Visual Arts Center, 514 Green Street NE, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
Elementary Art Explorations is a creative class designed to help young artists build confidence while experimenting with a wide range of materials and techniques.
Students will explore painting, texture, layering, and mixed media through playful, hands-on projects inspired by real-world art and design.
Artists will learn how to mix colors, change value, create patterns, and use tools in new and exciting ways.
Each class encourages problem-solving, creativity, and self-expression while strengthening fine motor skills and visual thinking.

Digital Photography With Any Camera - Quinlan Visual Arts Center
2026-04-24 10:00 - 12:00, 2026-04-25 18:00 - 20:00 | Quinlan Visual Arts Center, 514 Green Street NE, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
2 sessions | April 24 & 25, 2026 | $140

Field Shoot (Botanical Gardens) 10:00 AM-12:30 PM
Classroom instruction 6:00-8:00PM

Join award-winning nature photographer Larry Winslett for a special series of Digital Photography (with any camera) classes on April 24th and 25th!
Known for his stunning work capturing wildflowers, wildlife, rivers, and Georgia’s iconic granite outcrops—Stone, Panola, and Arabia Mountains—Larry brings decades of experience as both an exhibiting artist and dedicated educator. His photography has been featured in major publications, museums, and permanent exhibits, and he has taught workshops across North America.
In these hands-on classes, Larry will share his expertise in capturing the beauty of the natural world while offering practical techniques you can immediately apply in the field. Whether you’re looking to refine your artistic vision or strengthen your technical skills, this series offers a unique opportunity to learn from one of the region’s most respected nature photographers.

Spring Pottery and Art Market - Quinlan Visual Arts Center
2026-04-24 12:00 - 2026-04-26 18:00 | Quinlan Visual Arts Center, 514 Green Street NE, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
The Quinlan Visual Arts Center is proud to host the 4th Annual Spring Pottery and Art Market from April 24 through April 26. Come support local living artists! Open to the Public.
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Market hours:
Friday, April 24: 12:00 PM-8:00 PM
Saturday, April 25: 10:00 AM-6:00 PM
Sunday, April 26: 12:00 PM-6:00 PM
770.536.2575 | INFO@QVAC.org

Expressive Art as Therapy: Grief and Loss with Dawn Columbo - Quinlan Visual Arts Center
2026-04-24 14:00 - 16:00 | Quinlan Visual Arts Center, 514 Green Street NE, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
The arts can be supportive when experiencing grief and loss. Grief can be the end of a relationship, and/or the loss of a loved one. The act of creating something tangible can serve as a form of expression and allow your thoughts and feelings to guide and move you through the journey.
You can create your own art through monthly sessions. You can work at your own pace with at least 3 options available. The art materials/examples will be provided.
​No prior art experience is necessary. No pressure to talk. Just be present, and allow the process of creative writing, collage, painting, and other art forms be a catalyst for self-care.
Members: $40, Non-members: $65

Battle of the Bands - The Arts Council
2026-04-24 19:00 | The Arts Council Smithgall Arts Center, 331 Spring Street SW, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
The Arts Council is excited to announce the highly anticipated 2026 Battle of the Bands, taking place on Friday, April 24, 2026, at the Smithgall Arts Center. This annual showcase brings together the region’s most dynamic emerging artists for an unforgettable night of live music, competition, and community celebration.
Bands of all genres are invited to apply for a chance to perform on stage, connect with new audiences, and compete for top honors, including our grand prize of $1,000 and the opportunity to headline a show in the 2026/2027 season with 50% of ticket sales or our People’s Choice award which includes a cash prize and an opportunity to open at a concert. A panel of judges—featuring industry professionals, local musicians, and community leaders—will evaluate performances based on originality, musicality, stage presence, and audience engagement. Our people’s choice will be determined by who can raise the most funds for the Arts Council through donations.
Applications are open now through March 4, 2026. Interested bands can apply by submitting basic group information, music samples, and a brief performance proposal. An application fee of $100 will apply and selected finalists will be announced in March 2026.

Excitable: A Tribute to Def Leppard - The Hall at Bourbon Brothers
2026-04-24 19:30 - 21:30 | The Hall at Bourbon Brothers, 312 Jesse Jewell Pkwy, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
DOORS @ 6:00 PM | SHOW @ 7:30 PM
Get ready to pour some sugar on your night out—Excitable is bringing the electrifying energy of Def Leppard to the stage for one unforgettable evening. Experience the iconic sound, soaring vocals, and high-octane performance that defined a generation of rock.
From anthems like “Photograph”, “Hysteria”, and “Rock of Ages” to the thunderous power of “Pour Some Sugar on Me”, Excitable recreates the legendary Def Leppard concert experience down to the last power chord and leather-clad swagger.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering these rock legends for the first time, this tribute show delivers the perfect mix of nostalgia and high-energy entertainment. Don’t miss your chance to relive the glory days of arena rock.

2026 Gainesville-Hall Dragonboat Challenge - Lake Lanier Olympic Park
2026-04-25 07:00 - 15:00 | Lake Lanier Olympic Park, 3105 Clarks Bridge Road, Gainesville, GA, 30506, United States
The 2026 Gainesville Hall Dragon Boat Challenge is slated for April 25th from 7am – 3pm!
REGISTER BY JANUARY 31ST AND RECEIVE 10 FREE PARKING PASSES!!!!!
Entry fee includes a 1.5 hr. practice session the weekend before races with trained steersperson: April 17th (evening), April 18th and 19th (day).
This event uses 10-person +1 drummer Dragon Boats (teams of 11) with a weight limit of 2000 lbs. Perfect for the small business teams, corporate teams, church groups, or neighborhood teams! Yes, this event uses the small dragon boats which are a perfect way to get part of your full festival squad improving through practices. 100% of the proceeds of this event goes to LCKC.
All teams will have three 200 meters races (2 heats and a final). We also have the exciting distance race for Open and maybe some openings for a few other adventurous teams wanting to take part in racing for + – 2,000 meters.
-Best Dressed Drummer Contest
-Adrian Williams Most Team Spirit Award
-The Scott Crain Memorial Overall Champion Award
-Medals for top three in divisions
With the sponsorship option, we will put your company logo on a banner that we will hang up on the day of the event, make special announcements about your company during the event, and post your company information on our social media leading up to the event.

Midland Market - NoFo Brew Co
2026-04-25 13:00 - 17:00, 2026-05-02 13:00 - 17:00 | Midland Greenway, 682 Grove Street, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
Come stroll the Midland Greenway and shop from amazing local vendors on Saturdays from 1 PM – 5 PM!
Fresh eggs, local produce, flowers, delicious baked goods, handmade jewelry, pottery, candles, artwork, and much more!
Right outside NoFo Brew Co.

Die Laughing Comedy - Blue Door
2026-04-25 20:00 - 21:30 | Blue Door, 107 Bradford St NE, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
Experience a live comedy show in Gainesville, GA that delivers real laughs and a real party. Die Laughing Comedy transforms The Blue Door nightclub into a full-scale comedy club for one unforgettable night. Featuring touring comedians and comedy club regulars, this show brings the best stand-up comedy to Gainesville’s nightlife scene.
This isn’t just another night out — it’s a professional comedy show in a nightclub setting, followed by a full night of music and dancing. Your ticket includes free entry to The Blue Door after the comedy show, so you can laugh hard, stay late, and skip the cover charge.
Expect high-energy performances, sharp jokes, and top-tier talent — the kind of comics who crush in major cities and are now lighting up Gainesville’s comedy scene. Whether you’re a fan of stand-up comedy, looking for a fun date night, or just need a reason to get out of the house, this is the Gainesville comedy event you don’t want to miss.

Wellness Wednesdays - Smithgall Arts Center
2026-04-29 17:45 - 18:45, 2026-05-06 17:45 - 18:45 | The Arts Council Smithgall Arts Center, 331 Spring Street SW, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
Wellness Wednesday – Yoga for a Cause!
Join Us Again for Wellness Wednesdays – A Serene 8 Week Yoga Series Supporting Brain Cancer Research
Step into a space of tranquility and purpose with Wellness Wednesday—a rejuvenating outdoor yoga class dedicated to raising funds for brain cancer research with KMF. This is your chance to nourish your mind, body, and soul while making a meaningful impact in the fight against brain cancer.
Event Details:
Dates: Wednesdays, April 1 – May 27, 2026 (No class on April 22)
Time: 5:45 – 6:45 PM (Rain or Shine)
Location: Smithgall Arts Center Pavilion
Gates open at 5:30 PM and close at 7:00 PM
About the Class
Led by experienced yoga instructor Becky Martin (E-RYT 200), Wellness Wednesday is designed for all levels, ages 13 and up. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or brand new to the practice, this class offers a peaceful and uplifting experience, all while supporting a great cause.
Why Join?
Support Brain Cancer Research – 100% of proceeds benefit the Knox Martin Foundation for Brain Cancer Research, a local 501(c)(3) nonprofit advancing research and treatment.
Guided Yoga Flow – A mindful, breath-centered practice to restore balance and inner calm.
Serene Outdoor Setting – Practice in nature’s beauty, surrounded by fresh air and greenery.
Sunset Meditation – Reflect and recharge as the sun sets.
Community Connection – After class, enjoy refreshments and dinner at local venues while connecting with fellow participants.
What to Bring
Yoga Mat or a comfortable blanket
Water Bottle to stay hydrated
Weather-Appropriate Attire (layers recommended)
Smartphone for easy access to the liability waiver and donation via Venmo or QR code
Class Fee & Registration
$15 donation per class OR $90 for the full 8-week session ($10 per class)
By joining Wellness Wednesday, you’re not just prioritizing your well-being—you’re contributing to life-saving research and giving someone else’s Knox a shot at a longer life.
For questions, contact Becky Martin at becky@knoxmartinfoundation.org
Let’s move, breathe, and make a difference together!

Block pARTy - Vision 2030 Public Art
2026-04-30 18:00 - 21:00 | Grove Street Station, 610 Grove St, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
Art for Public Art. Food Trucks. Music.
Art less than $100 for sale by Local Artists.
Silent Auction artwork.
All proceeds from this fundraiser go to place a new piece of public art in Hall County.
Details, Anna Hester, 678-617-0898.
PublicArtGainesvilleGA.com

USO Dance and Desserts Fundraiser - NEGA History Center
2026-04-30 19:00 - 21:00 | Gainesville Civic Center, 830 Green St NE, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
NEGA History Center’s USO Dance & Desserts Fundraiser will transform the Gainesville Civic Center into a lively 1940s canteen—complete with live big band music from the Southern Journey Band, special appearances, and a few surprises along the way.

This special evening supports both the Northeast Georgia History Center and Caleb Schneider, Gainesville’s own Youth Ambassador for Tours of Duty, as he works to preserve the stories and legacy of World War II veterans.

Desserts, dancing, a 50/50 “War Bond” raffle, and more
1940s attire encouraged (but not required!)
A meaningful night honoring the Greatest Generation
Doors open at 6:30

Women of the Woods Club - Elachee Nature Science Center
2026-05-01 15:00 - 17:00 | Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville, GA, 30504, United States
Women of the Woods Club
Find your confidence, build your skills, and connect with community in the great outdoors!
As part of our Forest Fridays series, Elachee is excited to launch the brand-new Women of the Woods Club—a monthly gathering designed to empower women to explore nature with knowledge, safety, and confidence.

First Program: Friday, October 3, 2025. Programs will take place on the first Friday of each month as a part of the Forest Fridays programming.
Time: 3:00–5:00 PM
Admission is FREE!

Each month, participants will learn a new outdoor skill and experience a different hiking trail in the Chicopee Woods. We’ll start with shorter hikes and gradually level up, building endurance and confidence together.
Sample Topics Include:

Proper Footwear for Hiking (with special guests from REI or Big Peach Running Co.)
Orienteering and Navigation
How to Pack a Backpack
Wildlife Encounters: Snakes, Bears, and Beyond
Basic First Aid & Hiking Safety
Archery and Fire Building
The Mental Health Benefits of Nature
Earn Badges as You Go!

Track your progress and celebrate your achievements—attend 3 programs to earn your first badge, 5 for the next, and keep going to build your collection!
Whether you’re brand new to hiking or looking to expand your skills, Women of the Woods Club is your chance to learn, grow, and find strength in nature.

First Friday Concerts - Downtown Gainesville
2026-05-01 19:00 - 22:00 | Downtown Square, 112 Main Street, SW, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
First Friday Concerts continue ON THE SQUARE in Historic Downtown Gainesville!
Join us on the Downtown Square on the first Friday of the month from May-September for our First Friday Concert Series!
CLICK HERE TO VIEW EVENT DETAILS

Priscilla Block - The Hall at Bourbon Brothers
2026-05-01 19:30 - 22:30 | The Hall at Bourbon Brothers, 312 Jesse Jewell Pkwy, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
Priscilla Block is one country’s boldest and most unapologetic breakout voices, cultivating a fiercely loyal fanbase of more than 5 million who have grown to adore her unfiltered storytelling and catchy, confessional hooks that turn pain into empowerment. Her sophomore album, Things You Didn’t See (10.10 via MCA) offers a unique, mature perspective of the cost of always being “on” — the anxiety, the burnout, the pressure, and everything that bubbles beneath the shiny surface of fame. Across 14 tracks, Things You Didn’t See is an invitation to know Block on the most personal level, and it has been praised by The New York Times, The Recording Academy, the TODAY Show, and more.
Block has achieved success on the iTunes All-Genre and Country charts with her PLATINUM-certified track “Just About Over You,” and notched her first No. 1 hit at country radio with her Justin Moore duet “You, Me, And Whiskey” in 2023. She’s earned more than 700 million global career streams and has made appearances on The Kelly Clarkson Show, The Tamron Hall Show, The Ellen DeGeneres Show, and more. Her debut album, Welcome to the Block Party, received recognition from The New York Times (“Best Albums of 2022″), CMT (“Breakthrough Video of the Year”), and the Academy of Country Music (“New Female Artist of the Year” nomination), among others. Block has opened for Shania Twain, Jon Pardi, Old Dominion and Cole Swindell. Block kicks off her headlining Things You Didn’t See Tour this Fall, followed by a Spring leg that will include stops in Nashville, Houston, San Diego, and more. For more information, visit priscillablock.com/tour.

Over the Edge: Fundraising Event - Center Point
2026-05-02 08:00 - 15:00 | Downtown Square, 112 Main Street, SW, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
On Saturday, May 2, 2026, Center Point will host its second Over the Edge event on the Downtown Square. Over 80 individuals will have the opportunity to rappel down seven stories of the Main Street Parking Building. To learn how you can support Center Point’s mission and check an item off your bucket list, contact Elain Ellerbe, Operations Manager, elain.ellerbe@centerpointga.org.

Spring Concert: From Stage to Screen - Believers Concert Band
2026-05-03 16:00 - 17:00 | Gainesville First United Methodist Church, 2780 Thompson Bridge Rd, Gainesville, GA, 30506, United States
Believers Concert Band Spring Concert
The Believers Concert Band has a real treat for you! You are invited to experience the magic of musical storytelling in “FROM STAGE TO SCREEN” – an afternoon of celebrating songs that made the leap from the theater to the silver screen. Featuring music from iconic stage productions that became legendary films such as West Side Story, Phantom of the Opera, Grease, the Sound of Music, Fiddler on the Roof and more, this program blends Broadway excitement with cinematic grandeur.
Please join us on May 3rd at 4pm at Gainesville First United Methodist Church!
Address:
2780 Thompson Bridge Rd.
Gainesville, GA 30506
Free admission.

Blue Sky Concerts - Downtown Gainesville
2026-05-06 11:30 - 13:30 | Downtown Square, 112 Main Street, SW, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
Join us for lunch on the Downtown Square and enjoy our Blue Sky Concert series!
Enjoy live music under the beautiful spring blue skies on the square from 11:30am to 1:30pm each Wednesday in May!

Click here to view event details

Elementary Art Explorations: Session 3 - Quinlan Visual Arts Center
2026-05-07 16:00 - 17:00 | Quinlan Visual Arts Center, 514 Green Street NE, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States

Foodees Fest - Lakeshore Mall
2026-05-08 - 2026-05-10 | Lakeshore Mall, 150 Pearl Nix Pkwy c9, Gainesville, United States
Get ready for a weekend of delicious food, unique crafts, and family fun at Lakeshore Mall, in Gainesville, Georgia, May 8-10, 2026! With over 40 food trucks and vendors serving gourmet dishes and sweet treats, and dozens of artisans showcasing handmade jewelry, art, and crafts, there’s somethin for everyone! Enjoy a vibrant community atmosphere with activities for all ages!
Friday, May 8th: 1:00 PM-9:00 PM
Saturday, May 9th: 11:00 AM-9:00 PM
Sunday, May 10th: 11:00 AM-7:00 PM

Reinterpreting American Symbols - Brenau University and NEGA History Center
2026-05-08 - 2026-05-31 | NEGA History Center, 322 Academy St NE, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
Presented by Brenau University & the Northeast Georgia History Center
All rising 6th through 8th grade students residing in Northeast Georgia are invited to submit up to two works in any 2D or 3D media to be considered for the Student Art Juried Exhibition. We invite you to put a fresh and modern spin on American Symbols and Iconography!
Examples of American Symbols and Icons:
The American Flag, The Bald Eagle, The Statue of Liberty, Uncle Sam, and more!
SUBMISSION DEADLINE: MAY 31ST, 2026
Please visit the link for more information and entry submission:
https://brenau.formstack.com/forms/opencall

Foxfire at the History Center - NEGA History Center
2026-05-09 10:00 - 15:00 | NEGA History Center, 322 Academy St NE, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
In Collaboration with the Foxfire Village Museum & Mercantile of Rabun County, GA
The Foxfire Museum will be in residence at the History Center, bringing their artisans and history to share in Gainesville. Learn about blacksmithing, woodcarving, flintknapping, and more! We are delighted to have Foxfire join us and talk about their mission to preserve the culture and arts of the Appalachian Mountains. If you’ve ever wanted to experience Foxfire but couldn’t make the trip up to Rabun County, now you have the opportunity to see them right here in Gainesville!
A portion of the proceeds from this event will support The Foxfire Village Museum & Mercantile in Rabun County, GA.
The Foxfire Museum: http://www.foxfire.org/
Pre-registration Now Open! Walk-Ins Welcome!

Ekphrasis for the Masses - Quinlan Visual Arts Center
2026-05-12 12:00 - 13:00 | Quinlan Visual Arts Center, 514 Green Street NE, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
Writing POETRY in Response to Art at the Q
Second Tuesday of each month at the Quinlan
12:00 pm- 1:00 pm I Open to the Public
What is Ekphrasis?
The word ekphrasis comes from the Greek language and is used for a vivid, often dramatic, verbal description of a visual work of art.
Ekphrastic poetry may include literal descriptions of a work of art, the poet’s mood in response to a work of art, metaphorical associations inspired by a work of art, or personal memories about a work of art.
Five ways to write an Ekphrastic poem or story.
– Describe what you see
-Describe what’s happening beyond the frame
– Write from the perspective of the artist
-Give voice to a major or minor character in the image
-Explain your response to the art
The “Q” continues to be a fountain of inspiration for artists, writers, readers and poets! Their walks through each gallery inspired by the art we see there have been rich in so many ways. It is a joy to have patrons of Ekphrasis return, eager to discover nuances. Please join QVAC for this welcoming and fun poetry session to learn more about ekphrastic poetry and to write poems of your own! All levels of writers and poets are welcome. Feel free to ask a Quinlan staff member for a chair if you wish to write in the presence of the artwork; sit in the Quinlan’s Sculpture Garden for some fresh air; take a photograph of the piece and write at your leisure.

Artist Showcase Reception - Gallery on the Square
2026-05-12 17:00 - 19:00 | Main Street Market, 118 Main Street, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
The 13 artists of Gallery on the Square will be showing new artwork, in oils, acrylic, watercolor, pottery and sculpture. We will also be featuring a guest artist Jim Froelick who makes beautiful wood pieces. There will also be delicious appetizers.

Forum: Miracles & Episcopal Influence in the Late Roman Empire - NEGA History Center
2026-05-12 19:00 - 20:00 | NEGA History Center, 322 Academy St NE, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
Forum Lecture Series | Miracles & Episcopal Influence in the Late Roman Empire
With Special Guest Speaker: Dr. Michael Proulx
Miracles played an important role in revealing divine favor in ancient Mediterranean societies. However, in the emerging Christian-Roman Empire, they were used to promote distinct and contradictory forms of spiritual authority. This talk explores the popular use of miracle stories in the late 4th century. It highlights an age of anxiety over who best represented model leaders of a Christian community.
The presentation will be follow by a Question and Answer Session with our guest speaker.
