Boredom Busters

If you are looking for something fun and different to break up summer boredom, check out these free local events. Everything from museum visits, Aikido lessons, catch and release fishing, and hanging out with retired horses. All of the community events are free and open to the public, but some age restrictions might apply.

The library has several programs for various ages to help with that summer rut. Spanning across our 12 branches, we're offering up programs for crafters, artists, budding scientists, gamers, anime lovers, and so much more. Some library events do require registration as seating in our indoor spaces is limited.

Can't make it to any of these events? Make sure to check out our awesome collection of books that will give you lots of ideas for fun things to do at home.

Community Events

The Harn Museum of Art's Museum Nights takes place every second Thursday of the month. This month's event takes place on July 14 at 6 p.m. This free event takes place after hours and is full of activities for all ages. Speakers and artists help visitors connect with art in fun and interesting ways. All ages.

Bo Diddley's Free Friday Concert Series is back. Keep a look out for this great lineup of local and regional bands because it is sure to be fun for all ages. Fridays at 7 p.m. in Downtown Gainesville's Bo Diddley Plaza. All ages.

Aikido of Gainesville is offering free sessions for kids and teens on Saturdays. Aikido teachers will share the Aikido spirit with the community through games, reading, and questions. They will talk about space and science, anatomy and physics, and how the skeleton bones work in the techniques. Free kid's Aikido starts at 9 a.m. and free teen Aikido at 10:30 a.m. Ages 6+.

This month's Family Fishing Day will be held July 16 at 8 a.m. at the UF/IFAS fishing ponds. As always, all family members, including those with disabilities, are encouraged to participate! Loaner poles and bait are available, but everyone is welcome to bring their own equipment and bait. This catch and release event provides families the opportunity to fish together in a safe and fun setting. All ages.

Depot Park Parkrun is a free, fun, and friendly weekly 5k community event. Walk, jog, run, volunteer, or spectate – it's up to you! These events take place every Saturday starting at 7:30 a.m. All participants must pre-register. We all take part for our own enjoyment, join in whatever your pace! All ages.

The Retirement Home for Horses at Mill Creek Farm is a beautiful 335-acre oasis. Bring a bag (or bags) of carrots to feed the horses on Saturdays! The Retirement Home for Horses provides lifetime care to elderly horses seized by law enforcement agencies, rescued by the SPCA or humane societies, as well as horses retired from government service such as police patrol or state and federal parks. All ages.

Haile Equestrian Center Movie Nights takes place on the 2nd Saturday of every month from 6-8 p.m. From classic horse movies to current films, these movie nights are, of course, all about horses. Popcorn and drinks are provided, bring other movie snacks if you wish and a comfy blanket to watch with. All ages.

Library Programs

Story Time on the Green

Baby Time: Tuesday, July 12, 10:30 a.m. at Headquarters Library

Music & Movement:

Melted Crayon Art: Tuesday, July 12, 10:30 a.m. at Tower Road Library

Ocean Tales: Sharks with the Florida Museum of Natural History Tuesday, July 12, 2 p.m. on Zoom or Facebook

Summer STEAM Time Tuesday, July 12, 2:30 p.m. at Headquarters Library

Creativity for Change: DIY Stickers Tuesday, July 12, 3 p.m. at Archer Branch Library

Creative Journaling with the Library Tuesday, July 12, 4 p.m. at Headquarters Library

Rock Painting: Painting Rock Garden Markers Wednesday, July 13, 11 a.m. at Tower Road Library

Crafternooners Knitting & Crocheting Wednesday, July 13, 1 p.m. at High Springs Branch Library

Knitting Circle Wednesday, July 13, 2 p.m. at Millhopper Branch Library

Teen Gaming Wednesday, July 13, 3 p.m. at Archer Branch Library

Ocean of Possibilities: Shark Week Sun Catchers Wednesday, July 13, 3 p.m. at Hawthorne Branch Library

Dungeons & Dragons for Adult Newbies: One Shot Adventure Wednesday, July 13, 3 p.m. at Headquarters Library

Sharkigami Wednesday, July 13, 3:15 p.m. at Newberry Branch Library

Create @ Archer: Watercolor Thursday, July 14, 2 p.m. at Archer Branch Library

Painting with Paper: Watercolor Art Thursday, July 14, 4 p.m. at Millhopper Branch Library

Stitch & Chat Friday, July 15, 2 p.m. at Alachua Branch Library

Anime Club

All you Can Make Craft Buffet Saturday, July 16, 2 p.m. at Archer Branch Library

Colors of the Ocean: Adult Coloring Saturday, July 16, 2 p.m. at Micanopy Branch Library

Boredom Busters

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