Soul singer Otis Redding sang "You don't miss your water till your well runs dry." And even though you, seniors, may be ready to get out of this place, take advantage of what North Florida has to offer during your last month in the area. Spring is here, and there are plenty of festivals and fairs where you can catch some sun and take in some of what local communities have to offer.
Clay County Agricultural Fair
Paul Bunyan Lumberjack shows! Lawn Mower Racing! Pig Racing!
Pack the friends in a car and head out about an hour northeast of Gainesville for the Clay County Agricultural Fair. The fair starts today and runs through April 9. There will be live music daily.
Advance discount tickets are $5 for adults or $8 at the door. Ride armbands vary by day but range from $12 to $20. Attendees can pay for reserved seats at concerts, but stadium seating is free with the price of admission.
High Springs Pioneer Days Celebration
High Springs, about 30 minutes outside of Gainesville, was incorporated in 1892. The High Springs Pioneer Days Celebration, hosted by the High Springs Chamber of Commerce, will honor those pioneers and their descendants with a day of old-time fun. The celebration, in downtown High Springs, is on April 2 and 3 and begins at 10 a.m. each day.
Check out Heritage Village and see blacksmith and yarn-weaving demonstrations. Pig out of some festival food and pick up a souvenir from fine art and craft vendors.
Alachua Spring Festival
Who doesn't love a good petting zoo? Pet animals, and more, at the Alachua Spring Festival, which takes place 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 10, on Main Street in downtown Alachua. Also, pick up some local produce at the Farmers Market and hear live music from two stages in the afternoon. There will also be giant pinball, pony rides and plenty of food.