Holiday Fun in Gainesville and Alachua County

Gainesville and Alachua County are buzzing with holiday excitement this December. The Dance Alive National Ballet is bringing "The Nutcracker" to life, with performances in Gainesville and Ocala. The show includes special events like "Magic of Nutcracker" for children with special needs and "Class With Clara" for young dancers. Tickets can be bought online or at the box office. The Alachua Christmas Tree Walk is another festive spot, featuring 20 decorated trees by local families and businesses. It's a great place to take holiday photos and enjoy the season's spirit. Art lovers can check out "French Moderns: Monet to Matisse, 1850–1950" at the Harn Museum of Art. This exhibition showcases over 55 works from the Brooklyn Museum's collection, covering major art movements from Realism to Surrealism. Admission is free, making it a perfect cultural outing. For a cozy night out, the Acrosstown Repertory Theatre is presenting "The Holiday Channel Christmas Movie Wonderthon. " This parody of holiday rom-coms is sure to bring laughs and cheer. Tickets are available online. Families can enjoy Winter Fest at Amber Brooke Farms, with Santa visits, crafts, and seasonal treats. The event runs through December 24, offering a magical holiday experience. The High Springs Playhouse is hosting "Old Time Christmas Radio Shows, " bringing back the charm of 1940s radio storytelling. The double feature includes a wartime Christmas broadcast and a heartwarming comedy about a small-town radio play. For a unique holiday activity, the Historic Haile Homestead offers "Vintage Holidays" guided tours. Visitors can explore the historic home's "talking walls" and festive decorations. The Hippodrome Theatre's "A Christmas Carol" is back for another holiday run, bringing Dickens' classic tale to life with festive staging and rich storytelling. The Gainesville Fine Arts Association Gallery is hosting its "Winter Showcase 2025" exhibit, featuring local artists' work. The gallery is open through December 19. The city of Newberry is lighting up for the holidays with the Light Up Newberry competition. Residents can vote for their favorite light displays using the Christmas Prism app. The Danscompany of Gainesville is performing "Cinderella, " a magical ballet about hope and transformation. Performances are scheduled for December 12 and 13. The Gainesville Community Playhouse is presenting "James and the Giant Peach, " a fun adventure about a boy and his giant peach. The play runs from December 12 to 14. The Melrose Bay Art Gallery is hosting its annual holiday invitational, featuring works from local artists. The gallery is open through December 28. The city of Alachua is hosting its annual Christmas Parade, with floats, entertainers, and local school organizations. The parade is scheduled for December 13. Butler Town Center is hosting "Christmas at Butler, " with live performances and family-friendly fun. The event is free and open to the public. Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens is hosting "Christmas in the Quarry, " a light show featuring billions of lights and family-friendly activities. The event runs through December 23. Celebration Pointe is hosting "Jazz on the Green, " with live music, food, and drinks. The event is scheduled for December 13. Bo Diddley Plaza is hosting a free outdoor screening of "Elf, " a fun holiday movie. The event is scheduled for December 13. Blackadder Brewing Company is hosting a Christmas Cookie Contest, where visitors can sample seasonal brews and vote on local bakeries' creations. The event is scheduled for December 14. Holy Trinity Episcopal Church is hosting the Festival of Advent Lessons and Music, featuring the "Magnificat (BWV 243)" of J. S. Bach. The service is scheduled for December 14. The Matheson History Museum is hosting "Dancing Through the Snow, " an enchanting handbell performance by Hoggtowne Bronze. The event is free and open to the public. The Downtown High Springs Artwalk is featuring a holiday theme, with local artists and makers, as well as specials from downtown businesses. The event is scheduled for December 15. Bryan Bielanski is performing at the University Club, bringing his unique style of acoustic rock 'n' roll to the stage. The event is scheduled for December 15. Camp Kulaqua in High Springs is hosting "Road to Bethlehem, " an immersive holiday experience featuring live animals, merchant scenes, and festive crafts. The event runs from December 16 to 17.

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