The Alachua County Board of County Commissioners recently declared 2025 as “Discover 200 Year” to mark the county’s 200^th anniversary.

Alachua County, founded on Dec. 29, 1824, will spend 2025 celebrating its bicentennial by honoring the people, places and events that have shaped the county and community.

According to a county press release, the first event, entitled “Discover 200—A Bicentennial Celebration,” will be held from 1 to 10 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 11, at Depot Park (874 SE 4^th St.) and Heartwood Soundstage (619 S. Main St.) in Gainesville. The free, family-friendly event will feature entertainment, music, food and activities.

“The Alachua County bicentennial anniversary is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to reflect on our shared history and celebrate the community we’ve built together,” said County Manager Michele Lieberman in the release. “We encourage everyone to join us for this special kickoff event as we honor our past and look forward to the future.”

The Jan. 11 event will feature musical performances from:

• Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, Grammy Award-winning blues sensation
• Chuck Ragan & The Camaraderie, Gainesville’s own Key to the City honoree
• Little Jake & The Soul Searchers, legendary soul icons
• Cliff Dorsey, local country music favorite

Local and regional artists, including Nancy Luca, Dikembe, The Savants of Soul, Kristen Warren, Lowly Worm, Noah Moses & The Flood, and Purple Kloud, are also performing.

Activities attendees can enjoy including balloon animals, face painting and magicians. More than 25 food trucks will be on hand, along with appearances by UF mascots, Albert and Alberta. There will also be resource tables and interactive exhibits highlighting Alachua County’s history and service.

The Jan. 11 Bicentennial Celebration is the first in a series of activities and events throughout 2025 that will connect residents and visitors to Alachua County’s legacy of culture, nature and community, according to the county.

For more information about the Bicentennial Celebration and a full schedule of events, visit Alachua200.com.

Alachua County is inviting businesses and local organizations interested in partnering for “Discover 200” events to email Discover200@alachuacounty.us.