352, FL (352today.com) – Get an early start to a vibrant new year and try something new by celebrating local arts, reconnecting and learning more about nature, solving a mystery or listening to a lively tribute band. This weekend has plenty of family-friendly fun to start the year off right with celebrations and education with these events in the 352.

Downtown Winter Market Series

  • What: This weekend, Gainesville is hosting another week of the Downtown Market series with a theme of wellness. Guests can receive quick massages, acupuncture and more as well as participate in a skill share, learning how to DJ. Vendors, art and wellness spaces will fill the area while live music keeps the evening lively. The market series will continue with new themes every weekend with the finale from Jan. 23-25.
  • When: Friday-Saturday, Jan. 9-10 from 4-10 p.m. and Sunday, Jan. 11 from noon-5 p.m. Skill share workshops are Sundays from 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
  • Where: The Streatery, SW 1st St., from S. Main St. to SW 2nd St., Gainesville.
  • Cost: Free to attend.

Learn more here.

First Friday Artwalk

  • What: The inaugural First Friday Artwalk of 2026 is coming this weekend, featuring local artisans with more than 30 art displays, live entertainment, family art activities by local arts organizations, extended shopping hours and live performances. Vendors will take over the square for an evening of artistic creativity and support the local art community.
  • When: Friday, Jan. 9 from 6-9 p.m.
  • Where: Downtown Ocala, 1 SE Broadway St., Ocala.
  • Cost: Free to attend.

Learn more here.

Third Annual Outdoor Expo

  • What: Learn about the outdoor recreational activities Citrus Springs has to offer such as birding, hiking, fishing, camping, paddling and more through live demonstrations and interactive exhibits focused on outdoor health, safety and conservation. The expo will feature vendors, kids’ nature activities and entertainment for a mix of fun educational opportunities.
  • When: Saturday, Jan. 10 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
  • Where: Alice Mary Herden, 1570 W. Citrus Springs Blvd., Citrus Springs.
  • Cost: Free to attend.

Learn more here.

The Dinner Detective True Crime Murder Mystery Dinner Show

  • What: Dinner at the Ocala Golf Club will take a turn when it’s revealed a murderer sits among guests for a true crime murder mystery show. This comedy show combines fine dining and sleuthing for a night of interactive entertainment.
  • When: Saturday, Jan. 10 from 6-9 p.m.
  • Where: Ocala Golf Club, 3130 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala.
  • Cost: $75.67 including taxes and fees.

Learn more here.

2nd Sunday Makers Market

  • What: Join small businesses and local creators at the monthly makers market where visitors can explore vendors selling handcrafted and unique items. The playground, art park and sidewalks canopied by trees will mix a day in the park with supporting local vendors while the nearby Discovery Center Museum remains open for further exploration of the area. Guests can indulge in food trucks around the area or take a walk to Midtown Station for more food options.
  • When: Sunday, Jan. 11 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
  • Where: Heart of the Park in Tuscawilla Park, 516 NE Sanchez Ave., Ocala.
  • Cost: Free to attend.

Learn more here.

Forever Seger

  • What: Forever Seger is a tribute band, keeping the music of Bob Seger alive with authentic rock and roll energy and performance. The band will be playing a variety of Seger classics and anthems that fans can’t get enough of.
  • When: Sunday, Jan. 11 with a performance at 2:30 p.m. and at 7 p.m.
  • Where: Orange Blossom Opry, 16439 SE 138th Tce., Weirsdale.
  • Cost: $52-$78 depending on seating.

Learn more here.