Looking to enjoy fall locally? Check out these events happening around Gainesville throughout the months of October and November.
WHAT: SOULFEST
WHEN: Oct. 21, 7-10 p.m.
WHERE: Reitz Union Colonnade and Amphitheater
Check out this outdoor multicultural extravaganza, featuring a variety of music, dance and art from individuals and student organizations. This year’s theme is “The Untold Story of a Timeless SOUL,” and will showcase colorful cultural attire, international food and talented performances. The winner of the talent contest will have the opportunity to perform at Gator Growl 2011.
WHAT:Thriller Night
WHEN: Oct. 25, 8-9:30 p.m.
WHERE: SWRC Basketball Courts
Learn the steps from Michael Jackson’s classic song and music video “Thriller” just in time for Halloween! Participants at SWRC will be taught the routine in addition to other spooky dances. Though the video is famous for its zombie moves and attire, any Halloween costumes are welcome.
WHAT: Swamp Symphony
WHEN: Oct. 27, 6-8 p.m.
WHERE: Flavet Field
Presented by the UF College of Fine Arts, this 1st annual event will showcase musical talents in a range of forms, including an orchestra, drum line, glee club, and symphony. Several Gator-themed songs will be performed in spirit of Homecoming, including the Alma Mater and “We Are the Boys.”
WHAT:Men’s Basketball Season Opener
WHEN:Oct. 31, 6 p.m.
WHERE:Steven C. O’Connell Center
Come cheer on the Gators in their first game against Catholic University at the O’ Dome. Rowdy Reptile registration for the first nine games opens on October 24 at 6 p.m. Dress in orange and blue, make a poster, practice your chants and get ready for a great season!
WHAT:Homecoming Parade/ Gator Growl 2011
WHEN: Nov. 4 at noon and 7 p.m.
WHERE: University Avenue/Ben Hill Griffin Stadium
What better to do on a Friday free of classes than support your favorite team? Line the sides of University Avenue for a spectacular parade filled with floats, music and prizes. Then take the afternoon off before convening at the Swamp for the nation’s largest-run student pep rally. This year’s Gator Growl will feature music from the Goo Goo Dolls and stand-up from comedian Joel McHale (of NBC’s Community).
WHAT:RecSports Gator Max Challenge
WHEN: Nov. 12, 11 a.m.- 1 p.m.
WHERE: SWRC Basketball Courts
Do you have what it takes? Challenge yourself with a series of fitness tests, including balance, speed, agility and performance. Prizes will be awarded to top competitors in both male and female categories. If you’re up for the challenge, you can register online at https://rsconnect.recsports.ufl.edu/Course/Search.aspx?categoryId=1ed10d86-ac96-49b3-86e5-426158853f49.
WHAT:Downtown Festival and Art Show
WHEN: Nov. 12, 7 p.m.- 10 p.m. and Nov. 13, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
WHERE: Downtown Gainesville
The 30th annual Downtown Festival will feature more than 250 of the nation’s most talented artists, with works ranging from watercolors and acrylics to jewelry, ceramics and photography. The event will also include live entertainment on three stages, including local bands, musicians and dance companies. During the festival you can also enjoy delicious treats like homemade ice cream and authentic barbecue.
WHAT:Haunted Corn Maze
WHEN:Friday and Saturday nights until Nov. 13, 8 p.m. – midnight
WHERE:Rogers’ Farm, Gainesville
Find your way through this elaborate 10-acre corn maze, full of tricky turns and hidden goblins. (For extra scares, try navigating without a flashlight!) If you just want to enjoy the farm without all the scare zones, the maze is not haunted before 8 p.m. and there are plenty of fall decorations and treats to enjoy. A large pumpkin patch is also available to explore, so pick up a few to carve for jack-o-lanterns.