352, FL (352today.com) – There are multiple celebrations taking place this weekend along with the first round of America 250 events marking the nation’s semiquincentennial. Florida’s Emancipation Day took place on May 20, marking the day the Emancipation Proclamation was read in Tallahassee. Multiple celebrations and festivals will be taking over the Ocala and Gainesville areas with plenty to offer the community. Here is a look at the festivals, historical celebrations and live performances taking place in the 352, and don’t forget to check out our special rundown of official Memorial Day-centered events!
Florida’s Eve of Emancipation
- What: Enjoy an observation of Florida’s Emancipation Day, going through the history of slavery in the Sunshine State. Charles Eady will be showcasing his new painting in honor of the adoption of the Emancipation Proclamation. Celebrate, remember and learn more about this important day at Fort King.
- When: Friday, May 22 from 6:30-8 p.m.
- Where: Fort King National Historical Landmark, 3925 East Fort King St., Ocala.
- Cost: Free to attend.
Learn more here.
Opening Weekend of “Our Town”
- What: Enjoy an award-winning play by Thornton Wilder, in a production dedicated to following his vision. The play takes place in Grover’s Corners and confronts the theme of life and death with two families. Showings will take place through June 7 following the opening weekend.
- When: Friday and Saturday, May 22-23 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, May at 2 p.m.
- Where: Gainesville Community Playhouse, 4039 NW 16th Blvd., Gainesville.
- Cost: $25 for adults, $20 for students and seniors and $15 for children aged 12 and under.
Learn more here.
Pucker Toe Moccasin Class
- What: Participate in the chance to learn something new (to you) about Creek and Seminole craftsmanship. Fort King invites adults 18 and older to make pucker toe moccasins at this unique class. Learn more about the history and traditions behind these garments while hearing the stories of their cultural significance.
- When: Saturday, May 23 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
- Where: Fort King National Historical Landmark, 3925 East Fort King St., Ocala.
- Cost: $70
Learn more here.
Florida Emancipation Day Festival
- What: Enjoy this free festival celebrating the day enslavement was emancipated in Florida as a part of Gainesville’s “Journey to Juneteenth” series. Guests can enjoy shopping various vendors, watching performances and learn more through educational opportunities and activities.
- When: Saturday, May 23 from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
- Where: Cotton Club Museum and Cultural Center, 837 SE 7th Ave., Gainesville.
- Cost: Free to attend.
Learn more here.
Sweet Corn Festival
- What: Enjoy the Sweet Corn Festival at Cannon Farms where locals can enjoy shopping through a farmer’s market of fresh produce, including sweet corn. There will also be a variety of activities to enjoy including perusing vendors, a kids’ play area, walking through fields of flowers, petting zoos and more.
- When: Saturday, May 23 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
- Where: Cannon Farms, 11801 SW 80th Ave., Dunnellon.
- Cost: Free to shop in the farmer’s market, $5 to enter the festival and additional packages for extra activities.
Learn more here.
Pofahl Studios 70th Annual Recital
- What: Pofahl Studios is hosting a dance recital to celebrate its 70th anniversary of dance. The theme of this recital is “Celebrating the Past, Present and Future.”
- When: Sunday, May 24 starting at 2 p.m.
- Where: Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 1325 NW 2nd St., Gainesville.
- Cost: $29 per adults, $19 per child aged three-18 and free for ages two and under.
Learn more here.