October 23, 2023
Gainesville is certainly no stranger to vibrant, cultural celebrations, but among its many events stands Fest, an annual underground music festival. Fest is a three-day event that spans over multiple venues around town. This festival has been captivating both locals as well as visitors for 21 years! With its birth in 2002, Fest began as a tribute to No Idea Records, a punk rock record label that was celebrating its ten year milestone. Over the years, Fest has grown into a much larger festival that features not just a handful of bands, but now over 400 acts.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Fest is its widely diverse lineup. From indie and punk rock to folk and hip-hop, this music festival offers a wide range of genres! Fest not only explores many dimensions of music, but it offers a strong sense of community for those who attend. Local businesses, restaurants, and art galleries gather to participate. This festival's unique atmosphere draws in visitors to peruse local craft vendors and local artwork. Fest is also very committed to the idea of accessibility and inclusivity, making it a safe environment for people of all backgrounds to come together to enjoy the power of music and creativity.
Unlike other music festivals with a single venue, Fest is a city-wide event that can be celebrated from multiple locations within Gainesville. Festival-goers have the ability to explore different venues and bars throughout the city! Fest will be taking place again this year from October 27th to October 29th. Whether you're an indie fan, die-hard punk rock fan, or even just someone looking for an exceptional festival experience, Fest has something special to offer.
