Explore Gainesville

Wellness Wednesday: Fall Series - The Arts Council
2025-10-08 17:45 - 18:45, 2025-10-15 17:45 - 18:45, 2025-10-22 17:45 - 18:45 (America/New_York) | 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

Taste of History - NEGA History Center
2025-10-09 11:30 - 13:30 | Gainesville Civic Center, 830 Green St NE, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
As the History Center welcomes its new Executive Director, we reflect on the impact we’ve made on history education—and the challenges that lie ahead. Mary Hemmer, who began her leadership in July, comes from a family deeply rooted in North Georgia and committed to preserving our community’s heritage. At the 2025 Taste of History, we invite you to stand alongside Mary and celebrate our shared legacy with some of Hall County’s most influential and forward-thinking citizens. Join us as they share how Northeast Georgia’s past can help shape a brighter future!
CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS

Behind the Scenes: Animal Care in Action - Elachee Nature Science Center
2025-10-09 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-10-16 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-10-23 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

Homeschools Days - Elachee Nature Science Center
2025-10-09 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 learn how to navigate and identify like some of Georgia’s earliest explorers.
Theme: Astronomy
Activities to include:

Starlab (new)
Bottle Rockets
Walking solar system & solar telescope- guided at 1:15 and 2:15
play doh solar system model, pocket solar system model

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

Mule Camp Market 2025 - Gainesville Jaycees
2025-10-10 - 2025-10-12 | Midland Greenway, 682 Grove Street, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
Join us for the 31st Mule Camp Market that will take place October 10th-12th at the newly renovated Midland Greenway in Gainesville, Georgia. This annual event features over 180 vendors offering arts, crafts, food, and live music. Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of carnival-like activities for all ages, and there will be local and regional musicians performing throughout the weekend.
Festival hours are Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Additionally, a shuttle service will be provided from the Gainesville Parking Decks to the Midland Greenway for easy access!

PLEASE CONTACT THE GAINESVILLE JAYCEES DIRECTLY FOR VENDOR INFORMATION AND OTHER QUESTIONS: (770) 532-7714

Rooftop Concert Series: Brother Jason & the Red Dirt Saints - Tap It Growlers
2025-10-10 18:30 - 21:30 | Tap It Growlers, 110 Maple St, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
Join us for a special rooftop concert featuring Brother Jason & the Red Dirt Saints you won’t want to miss!

Expect ice-cold drinks, killer rooftop views, unforgettable live music vibes.

Grab your friends, claim your spot early, and kick off a new tradition at Tap It!

The Classic Rock Experience - Boot Barn Hall
2025-10-10 19:30 | Boot Barn Hall, 312 Jesse Jewell Pkwy, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
Doors 6:00 PM | Show 7:30 PM
Ages 14+
Inspired by 70’s Arena Rock Legends Led Zeppelin * Pink Floyd * Deep Purple * Boston * Styx and other Over the Top Classic Icons…The Classic Rock Experience combines ALL of those Live Theatrical aspects into an audio & visual production to present an Authentic Epic 70’s Rock Concert Recreation performing only the Greatest classic rock musical anthems of the 70s!

October Discovery Saturdays - Elachee Nature Science Center
2025-10-11 12:00 - 17:00, 2025-10-18 12:00 - 17:00 | Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville, GA, 30504, United States
Nocturnal Nature Discovery Saturdays
This October, step into the shadows and uncover the secrets of nocturnal and “spooky” creatures at Elachee! Each Saturday, we’ll shine a light on bats, owls, spiders, and other misunderstood wildlife that play important roles in our ecosystems. Through hands-on crafts, sensory adventures, and up-close encounters, you and your family will discover why these creatures are more fascinating than frightening.
Highlights:

Live Animal Encounters – Meet some of Elachee’s resident nocturnal and misunderstood animal ambassadors.
Bat Craft – Create your very own bat-inspired art project to take home.
Using Your Senses Hike – Explore the forest in a whole new way by discovering how nocturnal animals rely on their senses of sound, smell, and touch to survive.
Family Fun – Perfect for all ages—celebrate the season with nature-themed activities that bring out the magic of fall.

Event Details:

Dates: October 4, 11, and 18 (**Please note Saturday, October 25 is a special Discovery Saturday that has a separate event registration and we will not be open until 1 pm that day)
Time: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Admission: $10 nonmembers, free for members

October No School Nature Days - Elachee Nature Science Center
2025-10-13 - 2025-10-15 | Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville, GA, 30504, United States
October No School Nature Days
Explore the Wild Side of Fall Break at Elachee!
When school is out, adventure is in! Join us this October for No School Nature Days, a fun-filled, educational experience at Elachee. From guided hikes and live animal encounters to hands-on crafts and activities, kids can spend their fall break immersed in nature!
This October, we’ll put a spooky spin on our adventures by focusing on nocturnal and misunderstood creatures—the animals that thrive in the shadows!
Highlights:
Themed Activities & Crafts – Create spooky-inspired crafts and explore the secrets of bats, owls, spiders, and other “creepy-cool” creatures.
Live Animal Encounters – Meet Elachee’s resident animal ambassadors up close, including reptiles and other misunderstood wildlife.
Guided Nature Hikes – Discover the wonders of the forest while learning about nocturnal animal adaptations.
Explore the Exhibits – Enjoy our discovery spaces with interactive learning opportunities indoors and out.
Dates: October 13–15, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM* *Extended hours!
Admission: $10 nonmembers/members free
Perfect for elementary aged children and younger. Give your child a fall break full of fun, learning, and outdoor adventure!

Ekphrasis for the Masses - Quinlan Visual Arts Center
2025-10-14 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. ​

Catering Showcase - Brenau University
2025-10-14 14:00 - 16:00 | NEGA History Center, 322 Academy St NE, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
Welcome to the Brenau Catering Showcase! Join us at the Northeast Georgia History Center on October 14, 2025 at 2:00 PM for an exciting event filled with delicious food and drinks.
Experience a wide array of culinary delights prepared by our talented chefs, perfect for any occasion you may be planning. Whether you’re looking for the ideal menu for a wedding, corporate event, or special celebration, our showcase will have something for everyone.
Come taste, sample, and discover what Brenau Catering has to offer. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to elevate your next event with our exquisite catering options. We look forward to seeing you there!

Movies at Midland - Film Ready Gainesville
2025-10-14 17:00 - 21:00 | Midland Greenway, 682 Grove Street, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
Join Film Ready Gainesville under the stars for a special double feature on the Midland Greenway! We’re getting into the Halloween spirit with a family-friendly favorite followed by a Gainesville-filmed romantic comedy.

5:00 PM – Hotel Transylvania (PG): Kick off the evening with laughs and spooky fun for the whole family.
7:00 PM – Blended (PG-13): Filmed right here in Gainesville, this heartwarming comedy is the perfect way to wind down your night.

Vendors:

PawPaw’s Peanuts – festival style snacks
Johnny’s Pizza – pizza and popcorn
La Lichoacana Es Natural – popsicles and fruit juices
Decoy – Beer and wine

COOLbus Shuttle Service:

COOLbus Service Times – 4:30-9:15pm
Pick up at Main Street Parking Deck (301 Main St SW)
Drop-off near Amphitheatre on Grove Street

Bring your blankets, chairs, and the whole crew for a night of film, food, and fall fun!

Hall About Health Expo - Gainesville Times
2025-10-15 09:00 - 13:00 | Frances Meadows Aquatic Center, 1545 Community Way NE, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
Join Us for the Hall Health Expo!
October 15th
Frances Meadows Aquatic Center
9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
FREE & Open to All!
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

Georgia Film Festival - University of North Georgia
2025-10-16 - 2025-10-18 | University of North Georgia – GVL Campus, 3820 Mundy Mill Rd, Oakwood, GA, 30566, United States
Hosted annually by the University of North Georgia on its Gainesville campus, the Georgia Film Festival (GFF) is a three-day celebration of storytelling through film. Screenings take place in the university’s state-of-the-art Hawk Cinema, offering audiences a chance to experience compelling work created right here in Georgia and across the Southeast.
More than just a festival, GFF is a platform for filmmakers to share their vision, connect with peers, and build lasting relationships within the creative community. It’s also a hands-on learning opportunity for UNG students, who help organize and host the event, gaining leadership and professional skills that extend far beyond the classroom.
By spotlighting Georgia’s vibrant film industry and the voices shaping its future, the Georgia Film Festival raises the visibility of the University of North Georgia, the School of Communication, Film & Theatre, and the broader Georgia film community—while inviting audiences to be inspired, entertained, and engaged.

October Homeschool Day: Communication Through the Ages - NEGA History Center
2025-10-16 10:00 - 13:00 | NEGA History Center, 322 Academy St NE, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
From tin-can telephones to texting! Join us for our October Homeschool Day: Communication Through the Ages and explore how people stayed connected long before smartphones.
CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS

Charles Esten - Boot Barn Hall
2025-10-16 19:30 | Boot Barn Hall, 312 Jesse Jewell Pkwy, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
Doors 6:00 PM | Show 7:30 PM
Ages 14+
Multi-talent Charles Esten is a global entertainer. Best known for his roles as “Deacon Claybourne” in ABC/CMT’s “NASHVILLE” and “Ward Cameron” on the Netflix hit show “OUTER BANKS.” The artist-songwriter delivered his independent debut album, “Love Ain’t Pretty” in
January 2024, co-writing all 14 songs with acoustic guitar credits. Garnering over 26 MILLION streams to date, Esten is a 2018 Guinness World Records title holder for the “Most consecutive weeks to release an original digital single by a music act” after delivering 54 original songs once a week for 54 straight weeks. He’s made over 180 appearances at Nashville’s iconic Grand Ole Opry and performed multiple headline tours in the U.S., UK, and Europe, playing such famed venues as the Royal Albert Hall. In addition, Esten serves as the National Honorary Spokesperson for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s annual Light The Night Walk, and is a board member and volunteer for Musicians On Call.

Iam Tongi - Boot Barn Hall
2025-10-17 19:30 | Boot Barn Hall, 312 Jesse Jewell Pkwy, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
Doors 6:00 PM | Show 7:30 PM
Ages 14+

For Iam Tongi, music has always been about transformation. The Hawaiian-born singer-songwriter and American Idol Season 21 winner first picked up a ukulele in fifth grade and quickly found his voice in the traditional music of his Pacific Island roots. Encouraged by his father, Tongi grew up singing on the porch in Kahuku, Oahu, with family harmonies guiding his journey. After his family moved to Seattle and he tragically lost his father, Tongi nearly gave up music—until his mother secretly signed him up for American Idol. His deeply emotional audition of “Monsters” went viral, capturing the hearts of millions and ultimately making him the first Pacific Islander to win the competition.
Now 20, Tongi is entering a new chapter—blending his island soul, country heart, and laid-back charisma into a sound that’s entirely his own. Working alongside acclaimed producer Johnny Reid, Tongi’s new music radiates growth, gratitude, and the uplifting spirit that first connected him to fans. With heartfelt songs like “Road to Hana,” he leans into his roots while honoring his late father’s legacy—reminding us all to live in the moment, stay positive, and never take life for granted.

Halloween Horticulture - Atlanta Botanical Garden Gainesville
2025-10-18 10:00 - 12:00 | Atlanta Botanical Garden – Gainesville, 1911 Sweetbay Drive, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
Celebrate the spooky season by crafting your very own Halloween planter. With advice and guidance from our garden horticulturists, choose from a selection of cool-weather annuals and take home your creation to enjoy all fall long!
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Living Heritage Day - NEGA History Center
2025-10-18 10:00 - 13:00 | NEGA History Center, 322 Academy St NE, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
Step back in time and experience traditions come alive at Living Heritage Day!
Bring the whole family for a day of storytelling, crafting, and celebrating the skills and creativity of the past. No registration needed! Admission included with regular entry — don’t miss this chance to make history come alive!
Adults: $8
Seniors/Military: $7
Students (inc College students w/ an ID): $6
Children Age 5 and Under: FREE
Members: FREE

Live Therapeutic Music Concert - Brenau University
2025-10-18 19:00 - 20:30 | Brenau University’s Pearce Auditorium, 202 Boulevard NE, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
The Brenau Department of Music is excited to host another Live Therapeutic Music concert! Brenau Music Professor, Dr. Barbara Steinhaus, along with a group of musicians, will offer musical selections used at the bedside to help encourage patients and lift their spirits. Music can help aid in a patient’s recovery, and this concert highlights some of the ways music is used to improve patients’ wellbeing. This event will feature both Certified Therapeutic Musicians and students studying Therapeutic Music.
Dr. Steinhaus (soprano) is joined by Lori Hamrick (pianist and soprano), Live Therapeutic Music Program Coordinator in the Northeast Georgia Health system. Other musicians include Gabriela Stevens (violin), Camille Faye Jennings (piano), as well as students Mary Elizabeth Kidd (harp) and Meredith Rosbach (piano/ukulele/vocals).
This concert is free and open to the public, so come join these musicians for an evening of music as they prove why music is good for the soul!

Camp Elachee for Adults - Elachee Nature Science Center
2025-10-23 17:30 - 20:30 | Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville, GA, 30504, United States
Join us for Elachee’s annual grown-up camp experience! Whether you’re an active outdoor enthusiast or a laid-back nature lover, we have something for everyone. Test your skills with archery, challenge your friends to yard game contests, view the awe-inspiring raptor demonstrations, or unwind on our patio with delicious food, live music, and refreshing drinks.

Event Details:
Date: October 23, 2025
Time: 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Location: Elachee Nature Science Center
Admission:

$25: Non-Member
$20: Elachee Member

Thanks to our generous sponsors, we are able to provide these event tickets at a reduced rate for 2025! All ticket purchases are non-refundable.
Schedule:

Arrive early to make the most of all the fun! Park outside the park and enjoy a nostalgic bus ride to camp—buses run throughout the evening, so feel free to stay as long as you like.
A variety of exciting activities will be available during the event, including:

Archery
Georgia Mountain Falconry – live demonstrations!
Night Hike
Discovery Dome presentations
Live Music
Food and Drink Trucks

Other Things to Know:

Bring your sense of adventure!
Wear comfortable clothes (leave the fancy gala attire at home).
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to have a blast while supporting a great cause! All proceeds benefit our children’s programs and annual summer camp. We can’t wait to see you there!

Find out more info about sponsorship opportunities here: https://www.elachee.org/adult-camp/

GlowBand: Tribute to The Heroes of Southern Rock - Boot Barn Hall
2025-10-23 19:30 | Boot Barn Hall, 312 Jesse Jewell Pkwy, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
Doors 6 PM | Show 7:30 PM
Ages 14+
This concert will include songs from iconic bands like Lynyrd Skynyrd, 38 Special, The Outlaws, Allman Brothers, Elvin Bishop, Charlie Daniels Band, ZZ Top, and many more.
The “FLYTE of the FreeByrd” show features Southern Rock Hits performed by the sensational Glowband. These hits are more than just music – they are a captivating journey through the soulful sounds of the Southlands.
Each note played is a testament to the band’s passion for their craft and their dedication to delivering an unforgettable experience to their audience. With their electrifying energy and undeniable talent, Glowband ignites a spark in the hearts of all who have the pleasure of listening, leaving a lasting impression that resonates long after the final chord fades away.
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GlowBand (formally named GLOW) is a high-performance musical group specializing in exceptional vocals, brilliant harmony and note-perfect music. Based out of Atlanta, GA, the group has a long list of extremely satisfied, high profile clients.
Very professional, GlowBand has been together for 11 years. With much thanks to a large and dedicated following, the band consistently breaks attendance records and sells-out most every public appearance. GlowBand has performed at just about every concert space and event facility in the Southeast. Performers are charismatic, engaging and fun. They LOVE entertaining and putting smiles on faces.

Art Expression for Grief and Loss - Quinlan Visual Arts Center
2025-10-24 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.

TOAST: The Ultimate Bread Experience! - Boot Barn Hall
2025-10-24 20:30 | Boot Barn Hall, 312 Jesse Jewell Pkwy, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
LATE SHOW ON OCTOBER 24
Doors 8 PM | Show 8:30 PM
Ages 14+
TOAST is the No. 1 Tribute in the world to the 70’s hit band, BREAD!
With a surprising fidelity rarely heard from a live tribute band, their sound is often described as “spot on” to the original recordings. Audiences everywhere rave about closely their live performances sound like the cherished records they listened to back in the day.
“BREAD VIRTUALLY INVENTED soft rock in the early Seventies, and the group’s biggest hits — ‘Make It With You,’ ‘If,’ ‘Baby I’m-a Want You’ and ‘Everything I Own’ — remain staples on lite-rock radio.”
– Rolling Stone
Over their career, Bread scored 13 hits on Billboard’s Top 100!! The two surviving members of Bread (David Gates & Robb Royer) are happily retired and enjoying their time with family and the fruits of their musical careers. Enter TOAST – The Ultimate Bread Experience who does everything possible to keep the legacy of Bread alive.
TOAST presents a “feel-good” show that includes all of Bread’s top hits and brings all the memories flooding back quickly which makes their concert truly “rise” to the top as one of the favorite concerts of audiences everywhere!

Fall Fly-In - Lee Gilmer Memorial Airport
2025-10-25 09:00 - 15:00 | Lee Gilmer Memorial Airport, 1137 Aviation Way, Gainesville, GA, 30501, United States
Join us at Lee Gilmer Memorial Airport for the 3rd annual EAA Chapter 611 Fall Fly-In!
This event is open to the public! Come and enjoy:

Pancake Breakfast
Food Trucks
Live Music
And Airplanes!

For more information, please contact Airport Manager Lisa Poole: 770-538-2470
