Explore Gainesville

Fall Exhibition Opening Reception - Quinlan Visual Arts Center
2025-08-14 17:30 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Quinlan Visual Arts Center, 514 Green Street NE, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
Join us for the Fall Exhibition Opening Reception at Quinlan Visual Arts Center on August 14 at 5:30 PM, featuring works by Kevin Chambers, Ester Deen, Beatriz Maliszewski, and the Georgia Art League.
CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

Art Expression for Grief and Loss - Quinlan Visual Arts Center
2025-08-15 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.

GlowBand: Tribute to The Eagles & Friends - Boot Barn Hall
2025-08-15 19:30 | Boot Barn Hall, 312 Jesse Jewell Pkwy, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
Doors 6:00 PM | Show 7:30 PM
Ages 14+
Two years in the making is GlowBand’s first complete musical show. It runs about Two hours and 15 minutes and formed by GlowBand’s seven musicians and vocalists. The show is a non-stop tour of the Eagles’ top hits from 70’s through the 90’s. It is presented in a “Las Vegas” style format, complete with large stage and theatrical lighting. GlowBand’s crystal clear sound system captures every note and guitar lick. The music, vocals and amazing 4 to 6 voice harmonies are breathtaking, absolutely note-perfect reproductions of the quintessential “Eagles’ Sound. ”Friends included are Jackson Browne, Linda Ronstadt and Bob Seger. GlowBand’s charismatic performers are fun, engaging, enthusiastic and they entice the audience to sing-along and dance.This must-see production has sold-out every performance and always receives rave reviews & standing ovations.

August Discovery Saturdays - Elachee Nature Science Center
2025-08-16 10:00 - 15:00, 2025-08-23 10:00 - 15:00, 2025-08-30 10:00 - 15:00 | Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville, GA, 30504, United States
Terrific Trees: August Discovery Saturdays
Celebrate the towering giants of the forest this August at Elachee! Our Discovery Saturdays will be rooted in fun as we explore the incredible world of trees and the forests they call home. Through interactive learning, guided hikes, and creative crafts, you’ll uncover how trees support entire ecosystems—and why they matter more than ever. Bring the whole family and branch out into adventure each Saturday!
Highlights:
Engaging Activities: Enjoy hands-on crafts and learning stations that explore the life cycle of trees, forest layers, and more with Elachee Environmental Educator. Kids can create their very own first field guides and explore the diversity of trees through leaf and bark rubbings.
Guided Forest Hike: Join Elachee’s Environmental Educator for a walk beneath the canopy. Learn how to identify native trees, explore their ecological roles, and discover fascinating forest facts along the way (plus use your new field guide!).
Live Animal Ambassadors: Meet the forest-dwellers that rely on trees for shelter, food, and camouflage.
Family Fun: Perfect for all ages—create lasting memories while learning about the woods that surround us.
Event Details:
Date: August 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30 (Every Saturday in August)
Time: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM (NEW extended Saturday hours!)
Admission: Members free, Non-members $10
Come grow your love for Georgia’s forests with us this August—because every tree has a story to tell! 🍂

Smartphone Photography Workshop - Atlanta Botanical Garden Gainesville
2025-08-16 12:00 - 15:00 | Atlanta Botanical Garden – Gainesville, 1911 Sweetbay Drive, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
Join us for a hands-on photography workshop focused on enhancing your smartphone photos using simple, effective techniques and editing. Set in the serene environment of the botanical garden, this class will teach you how to edit photos taken with your smartphone to bring out vibrant colors, adjust lighting, and fine-tune details. We’ll explore editing tools that improve exposure, highlights, shadows, saturation, clarity, and more, using popular mobile apps.
Whether you’re capturing the beauty of blooming flowers or lush landscapes, this class will guide you through easy editing steps to elevate your images. Perfect for beginners, this workshop will help you transform your everyday photos into professional-looking works of art, all from the convenience of your smartphone.

Still Life Three Day Workshop - Quinlan Visual Arts Center
2025-08-22 - 2025-08-24 | Quinlan Visual Arts Center, 514 Green Street NE, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
The workshop will concentrate on the concepts and principles of composition in still-life painting and how to execute them effectively. The first part of the workshop will include a presentation followed by a live demonstration. Participants will then create their own still-life arrangements using items they bring or materials available at Quinlan.
Starting on the second day, participants will focus on bringing their compositions to life. They will receive one-on-one critiques and guidance as they progress.​

Friday, August 22th – Sunday, August 24th
10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

A Night to Remember - Gainesville Civic Center
2025-08-23 18:30 - 22:00 | Gainesville Civic Center, 830 Green St NE, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
The late August night is set for an evening of grown, sophisticated, and fabulous fun featuring live performances by The N3D Band and Primetime Smooth Jazz Band with Guitarist Douglas Ellison.
Starting with smooth jazz, Primetime sets the atmosphere for easy listening. When you’re ready to put your dancing shoes on, dance and groove to The N3D Band performing the music of the mighty O’Jays and other R&B artists.
You do not want to miss this end-of-summer must-attend All White Party.
To learn more about The N3D Band and booking information, visit www.N3DBand.com.
This event is sponsored by the Grady Young Foundation, an organization committed to serving the community through scholarships and service. Visit www.gradyyoungfoundation.org for more information.

Brian Kelley - Boot Barn Hall
2025-08-23 20:00 | Boot Barn Hall, 312 Jesse Jewell Pkwy, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
Doors 7 PM | Show 8 PM
Ages 14+
DIAMOND-selling superstar Brian Kelley enters the next chapter of a record-breaking, history-making career with his sophomore album, Ed & Mary Margaret’s Son. A follow-up to his debut Tennessee Truth and the Deluxe edition via Big Machine Records, Kelley wrote the full-length project solely by himself.
With a sold-out run of headline shows and SURF POST SESSIONS live from Tribe Kelley Surf Post in Grayton Beach, FL – owned by the Ormond Beach native and his wife Brittney, Kelley continues to diversify his thriving enterprise with collaborations including Tribe Kelley (with Brittney), Papa Surf Burger Bar (with Brittney; Jason and Brittany Aldean; Tom and Chris Glavine), and a partnership with Real American Beer.
First known as the Florida half of the GRAMMY-nominated Florida Georgia Line, the ACM Breakout Artist of the Decade Award recipients garnered 19 career #1s and became the first and only act to achieve two RIAA DIAMOND singles in Country music history (14X PLATINUM #1s: “Cruise” and “Meant to Be” with Bebe Rexha). Surpassing 17 billion global streams, selling more than 40 million tracks and 4.8 million albums worldwide, plus playing to over 4 million fans, FGL has been honored by AMA, Billboard, CMA, and CMT Music Awards, as well as having a Florida Georgia Line: Mix It Up Strong exhibit at Nashville’s Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.

The Band Loula - The Arts Council
2025-08-24 19:00 - 22:00 | The Arts Council Smithgall Arts Center, 331 Spring Street SW, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
The Band Loula, a North Georgia duo, blends swampy, haunting acoustic country with raw harmonies and a soulful, song-forward approach. With their signature chemistry and hard-touring ethos, Gainesville natives Malachi Mills and Logan Simmons deliver real, gritty country music that resonates with themes of desire, betrayal, and yearning. After touring with artists like Brothers Osborne, Ashley McBryde, and Elle King, The Band Loula is excited to return to the Gainesville area and perform at the Smithgall Arts Center.

2025 Georgia Downtown Conference - Georgia Downtown Association
2025-08-25 - 2025-08-28 | Downtown Square, 112 Main Street, SW, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
We are so excited to welcome the Georgia Downtown Association to Downtown Gainesville for the 2025 Georgia Downtown Conference!
More information coming soon.
CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

A1A: Jimmy Buffett Tribute - Boot Barn Hall
2025-08-29 - 2025-08-31 | Boot Barn Hall, 312 Jesse Jewell Pkwy, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
Doors 5:30 PM | Show 7 PM
Ages 14+
A1A—The Official and Original Jimmy Buffett Tribute Show was born in 1991 when lead vocalist, guitarist, and keyboardist Jeff Pike invited drummer, harmonica player, and founder of the first Jimmy Buffett Parrot Head Club, Scott Nickerson to join Jeff’s already successful one-man tribute to Jimmy Buffett. In 1992, the band won a Jimmy Buffett Sound Alike Contest for Margaritaville Records, bringing them to the attention of Jimmy Buffett and his organization.
Starting in 1992, A1A was the first band to perform at and repeatedly headline the annual Jimmy Buffett ‘Meeting of The Minds’ Jimmy Buffett Parrot Head Convention and many other national landmark annual Parrot Head Events. These performances laid the foundation for the fundamental building and growth of the National Jimmy Buffett fan base, Parrot Head Club community, and the Trop Rock and Coastal Americana Music genres as they are today.
In 1993, A1A was invited to appear in Jimmy Buffett’s MTV Video, ‘Fruitcakes.’ In 1995, Jeff Pike performed with Jimmy Buffett and The Coral Reefer Band at Lakewood Amphitheater in Atlanta, Georgia. The show was recorded and released as “Jimmy Buffett’s Barometer Soup Radio Special.” This show and Jeff’s performance still receive regular rotation on Jimmy Buffett’s “Radio Margaritaville” on SiriusXM Radio.
In 2012, Jimmy Buffett and his assistant, Mike Ramos, were instrumental in landing A1A in the Lions Gate Major Motion Picture Release, ‘What to Expect When You’re Expecting.’ The band recorded Jimmy’s classic, ‘Why Don’t We Get Drunk,’ included in the movie and on the soundtrack released by Capitol Records.
In 2016, A1A was honored to be requested to perform with Jimmy Buffett and Mac McAnally as their band in a private performance for State Dignitaries and some of Jimmy’s personal friends at The Masters Open in Augusta, Georgia. A1A closed out 2016 at The Labor Day End of Summer Beach Bash for The Washington State Fair with Tim McGraw, Kid Rock, and Uncle Kracker.
Today, the band’s popularity continues to grow, and with Jimmy Buffett’s devastating passing in September 2023, their mission, show, and presence are ever more critical.
The energy, musicianship, originality, excitement, and continuous honest dedication to preserving Jimmy Buffet’s legacy that has always surrounded a Jeff Pike and A1A performance are an experience and a driving force that has helped the band remain the first, foremost, and longest-running Jimmy Buffett Tribute Show in history.

Chicken City Paddle Battle Pickleball Tournament - Gainesville Parks and Recreation
2025-08-30 08:00 - 17:00 | GA
Get Ready for the First-Ever Chicken City Paddle Battle!Pickleball Tournament | Mixed Doubles | Ages 16+
Join us for a day of fun, friendly competition, and community spirit at the Inaugural Chicken City Paddle Battle Pickleball Tournament!
Wessell ParkSaturday, August 308:00 AM – 5:00 PM$50 per teamMixed Doubles | Ages 16+
Spots are limited!Register by August 22 to secure your spot and paddle your way to pickleball glory!
Whether you’re a seasoned player or just love a good match, this is an event you won’t want to miss. Bring your game. Bring your team. Bring the heat!
https://webreg.gainesville.org/webtrac/web/splash.html

Back to the Castle: A Night of Wizarding Wonder - Elachee Nature Science Center
2025-08-30 18:00 - 21:00 | Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville, GA, 30504, United States
Back to the Castle: A Night of Wizarding Wonder ✨🦉
Date: Saturday, August 30th, 2025
Time: 6:00–9:00 PM
Wizards, witches, and magical creatures—your letter to Hogwarts ® has arrived! Join us for a spellbinding evening as Elachee is transformed into a school of witchcraft and wizardry for one enchanted night only. Whether you’re a brave Gryffindor ®, a clever Ravenclaw ®, or something in between, there’s magic waiting for you in the forest!
This year’s magical offerings include:
Planetarium Program: Uncover the mystical connections between the world of Hogwarts® and the celestial wonders of the night sky. Learn about the stars, planets, and constellations while immersed in the enchanting atmosphere of Harry Potter®
Potions Class – Create bubbling, fizzing potions with hands-on science experiments
Herbology Class ® Guided Hike – Discover the magical properties of native plants on a guided trail walk
Animal Encounters: Practice Your Parseltongue ® – Meet some of our slithering and scaly animal ambassadors
Butter Beer Station – Enjoy a frothy cup of our non-alcoholic Butter Beer, perfect for witches, wizards, and magical creatures of all ages!
Costumed Photo Spots – Strike a pose in front of our castle backdrop or enchanted forest scenes
Tickets:
$16 for Non-Members
$13 for Elachee Members
Costumes encouraged | Best suited for ages 6 and up | Pre-registration required

Girls Flag Football Clinic - Atlanta Falcons
2025-09-02 18:00 - 20:00 | Johnson High School, 3155 Robert Wood Johnson Dr, Gainesville, GA, 30507, United States
Experience the excitement of girls flag football with the Atlanta Falcons at a free clinic on Tuesday, September 2, from 6 PM to 8 PM at Johnson High School in Gainesville.
Athletes will train with flag football experts, sharpen their skills through dynamic drills, and build confidence while learning the fundamentals of the game. This clinic is free to attend, but registration is required.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Wellness Wednesday: Fall Series - The Arts Council
2025-09-03 17:45 - 18:45, 2025-09-10 17:45 - 18:45 | The Arts Council Smithgall Arts Center, 331 Spring Street SW, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
Join Us Again for Wellness Wednesdays – Serene 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, September & October 2025 (w/the exception of September 24)
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.
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 $80 for the full 8-week session ($10 per class)
For questions, contact Becky Martin at becky@knoxmartinfoundation.org

Behind the Scenes: Animal Care in Action - Elachee Nature Science Center
2025-09-04 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-09-11 12:00 - 13:00 | Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville, GA, 30504, United States
Get an up-close look at what it takes to care for Elachee’s resident animal ambassadors! Join our Animal Curator and volunteers each Thursday afternoon to assist with real animal care tasks—like feeding, habitat upkeep, and enrichment—while learning fascinating facts about the reptiles, amphibians, and other creatures that call Elachee home.
Perfect for curious minds ages 8 and up—space is limited for this hands-on experience!
Admission: $10 non-members, members free

Artist Educator Exhibit: Opening Reception - The Arts Council
2025-09-05 17:30 - 19:00 | The Arts Council Smithgall Arts Center, 331 Spring Street SW, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
Join us for the Third Annual Artist Educator Exhibit opening reception on Friday, September 5th from 5:30-7:00pm at the Smithgall Arts Center.
The exhibit features work by Artist Educators from the Hall County School District, Gainesville City Schools, Private Schools of Hall County, Brenau University, and University of North Georgia
Works will be on display from September 5th through October 17th. The exhibit will be open from 10am-4pm on Tuesday, Thursday, & Friday and 10am- 7pm on Wednesday. Additional visitors can be taken by appointment.

Marbling on Paper, Silk & Cotton - Atlanta Botanical Garden Gainesville
2025-09-06 10:00 - 13:00 | Atlanta Botanical Garden – Gainesville, 1911 Sweetbay Drive, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
Marbling or Ebru art is an age old surface pattern design art. Using a thicken liquid and special paints, participants will learn marbling techniques on watercolor paper, silk and cotton. By the end of the class, guests will take home their unique creations and knowledge of a new artistic process. All materials will be supplied. Beginners welcome!
CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

September Discovery Saturday - Elachee Nature Science Center
2025-09-06 10:00 - 15:00 | Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville, GA, 30504, United States
Backyard Wildlife Discovery Saturdays!
This September, discover the wild side of your own backyard at Elachee! Every Saturday, we’re highlighting the amazing animals that may be living just outside your door. Through hands-on activities, up-close encounters, and guided programs; you and your family will learn how to identify, support, and protect the wildlife that calls Georgia home.
Highlights:
Live Animal Encounters: Meet some of our resident animal ambassadors—like snakes and turtles—and learn how to spot their wild relatives in your own neighborhood.
Wildlife-Inspired Crafts: Our nature crafts are fun for all ages, with a special focus on early learners.
Naturalist-led Habitat Explorations: naturalist-led forest exploration to discover and collect backyard flora and fauna to use in craft.
Family Fun: Perfect for all ages—spend meaningful time together while learning how to make your own outdoor spaces more wildlife-friendly.
Event Details:
Date: September 6, 20, and 27 (Every Saturday in September, except Sept 13th)
Time: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Admission: $10 non-members, members free

Midland After Dark: Fireworks and Concert - Gainesville Parks and Recreation
2025-09-06 19:00 | Midland Greenway, 682 Grove Street, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
Midland will be LIT with a fabulous party band, glow in the dark fun and FIREWORKS!

LIVE music from the incredible Mass Affect Party Band
Delicious tacos and pizza, plus local beer & alcohol vendors (Carniceria Tapatia, Peyton’s Pie, La Mejor Michoacana, King of Pops, Downtown Drafts, Tap It, & Sanctuary on the Square
Pretty Panda Face Paint Glow-in-the-dark face painting, 360 Photo Booth, & Chippers Axe-Throwing
Where: Midland Greenway 682 Grove St
When: Saturday, September 6Get ready for a glow party under the stars!

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

Soggy Doggy Pool Party - Gainesville Parks and Recreation
2025-09-07 13:00 - 16:30 | Frances Meadows Aquatic Center, 1545 Community Way NE, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
Soggy Doggy Pool Party!
The Splash Zone is going to the dogs — literally! When the Splash Zone closes to the public, it’s time for pups to take over and make a splash of their own!
Date: Sunday, September 7Time: 1:00pm to 2:30 for dogs under 40lbsTime: 3:00pm to 4:30pm for dogs over 40lbs.Location: Frances Meadows Aquatics & Fitness CenterAdmission: $15 per dog and people free
To keep our best friends safe and sound, all pool chemicals will be removed for a dog-friendly swim! We have two times set to keep small dogs and larger dogs separate. The Splash Zone is zero depth entry for pups not sure of the water.
Important requirements:Owners must present proof of current vaccinations: DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus) & RabiesDogs must wear rabies tags on their collars at all timesLimit 2 dogs per handlerDogs swim at owner’s riskOwners must clean up after their pups
Avoid the line by pre-registering at the Frances Meadows Center or online at https://webreg.gainesville.org/webtrac/web/splash.html

Ekphrasis for the Masses - Quinlan Visual Arts Center
2025-09-09 12:00 - 13:00 | Quinlan Visual Arts Center, 514 Green Street NE, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
The “Q” continues to be a fountain of inspiration for artists, writers, readers and poets! Our 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 us 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. ​

September Forum: The Women of World War II - NEGA History Center
2025-09-09 19:00 - 20:00 | NEGA History Center, 322 Academy St NE, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
With Special Guest Speaker Dr. Jonathan Beall, Professor at the University of North Georgia – Dahlonega campus.
Please join us for his fascinating presentation on the Women of World War II! The presentation will be about 1 hour and will end with a short Question and Answer session.
More information and registration form on our website: negahc.org/events

Homeschools Days - Elachee Nature Science Center
2025-09-11 13:00 - 15:00 | Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville, GA, 30504, United States
Welcome local homeschool families! We invite you to join us for an afternoon of adventure and learning!
Your students will discover how animals and plants adapt to their environments and how that impacts their diets, habitats, and more!
Theme: Migrations and Adaptations
Activities to include:

Oh Deer- guided at 1:15 and 2:15
Tree adaptation game
Fill the Bill
Bat vs. Moth
Create an animal for your chosen habitat

Recommended ages: Kindergarten through 6th grade

Time: 1:00-3:00 with guided activities at 1:15 and 2:15

Admission: $10/child, $50/family (5+), members free

Preregistration encouraged, walk-ins welcome based on availability

This program will take place rain or shine. Please come dressed for the forecasted weather!

Questions? Call 770-535-976 or email sam@elachee.org

Chi-Town Transit Authority: Chicago Tribute - Boot Barn Hall
2025-09-12 19:30 | Boot Barn Hall, 312 Jesse Jewell Pkwy, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
Doors 6:00 PM | Show 7:30 PM
Ages 14+
Chi-Town Transit Authority (CTA) is an 8-piece Chicago tribute band founded in 2017 and based out of Atlanta, GA dedicated to reproducing the “Chicago” concert experience.
The key to their success has been knitting together a highly accomplished team of long-time musicians who truly love the music of Chicago. With this foundation, they then pay close attention to detail in recreating the best of Chicago’s songs from studio and live versions and then design a show that first captures the audience, gets them involved, and finally brings down the house. It’s easy to do because the band is having as much fun as the audience is.
The band certainly doesn’t lack a large selection of instantly recognizable songs. This allows the band ample opportunity to spotlight each of the three main vocalists as well as showcase a tight horn section and beautifully arranged vocal harmonies. They have honed their craft by playing over 90 shows at casinos, festivals, performing arts theaters, and music venues all around the southeastern US. Beat Atlanta Magazine calls them “The best tribute band out there.”

Concerts in the Garden: Emmylou Harris - Atlanta Botanical Garden Gainesville
2025-09-12 20:00 - 22:00 | Atlanta Botanical Garden – Gainesville, 1911 Sweetbay Drive, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
Legendary singer-songwriter Emmylou Harris returns to the Atlanta Botanical Garden, Gainesville on September 12 for an encore performance celebrating the Garden’s 10th anniversary.
The 14-time Grammy Award winner last performed at the Gainesville Garden in 2015 during its inaugural concert in the Ivester Amphitheater, where the intimate outdoor setting and exceptional acoustics offer artists and guests an experience unlike any other.
CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS
