Celebrate the holidays with upcoming events and special discounts
Throughout the months of November and December, the UF community can enjoy a variety of festive events to get into the spirit of the holiday season. Check out the following upcoming events and promotions right in our backyard — and don’t forget about UF’s GatorPerks discount program as you plan your holiday shopping, travel and entertainment.
- The UF Wind Symphony will perform its second concert of the fall season, Beyond the Mountains, on Nov. 3 at 7:20 p.m. at the University Auditorium. The concert is free and open to the public and will showcase several premiere works of Joseph Schwantner, Leonard Bernstein and more.
- Light Up Ocala is celebrating its 39th anniversary on Nov. 18 with over 100 craft, art and food vendors. Keep the whole family entertained with live music, the Junior Sunshine Holiday Parade, and an interactive kids zone – all culminating in the lighting of downtown Ocala.
- The Roberts Group will be presenting A Magical Cirque Christmas at the Phillips Center on Nov. 19. Get your tickets today.
- Make the holidays swing with Big Band Holidays, a celebrated tradition under the music direction of Wynton Marsalis and featuring vocalist Ashley Pezzotti – Nov. 29 at 7:30 p.m.
- The City of Gainesville Holiday Parade will take place Dec. 2, leading into a holiday dance party and lights celebration.
- This year’s expanded Light Up Tioga event will be held Dec. 2 from 5-8 p.m., featuring a live Santa, tree lighting, live performances, food trucks, festive activities, arts and crafts, local vendors, and fun for the whole family.
- The Craft Festival is back at the O’Connell Center Dec. 2-3. The event showcases authentically made crafts by talented artisans and crafters, providing an excellent opportunity to shop for unique merchandise and gifts for the holidays.
- From Dec. 7-8, the UF Environmental Horticulture Club will be hosting their 27th annual poinsettia sale, the largest student-run poinsettia sale in the country featuring a selection of 5,000 plants and over 50 unique varieties. Dec. 7 shopping is by appointment only — Book yours today!
- Dance Alive National Ballet will be presenting The Nutcracker at the Phillips Center Dec. 15-17. A special Class with Clara, a princess-style ballet class, will be held on Dec. 16 and 17 onstage before the show.
- Join the A. Quinn Jones Museum & Cultural Center for a History of Kwanzaa featuring music, dance and food tasting.