Good morning, Gainesville.

The Collier Companies sponsored the Salvation Army’s Angel Tree Program on December 24 in Gainesville, providing holiday gifts to 50 children.

Team Members also helped Two Men and a Truck load and organize gifts (with support from local partners).

Elmo Shropshire, who created the hit 'Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer,' spent formative years in Ocala (and Gainesville) which helped shape his holiday music style.

His local roots influenced the creation of this festive tune.

A University of Florida alumnus has been appointed to a collegiate board in the Tampa Bay area — his new role will begin soon.

Gainesville Mayor Harvey Ward released his Christmas message on Dec.

24, urging neighbors to share grace and kindness this holiday season — a call for community support and understanding.

Santa visited the NICU at HCA Florida North Florida Hospital on Christmas Eve, bringing warmth to babies experiencing their first Christmas.

The hospital staff said the visit provided comfort to families during the holiday season.

Florida officials have offered condolences to former UF president and ex-US Senator Ben Sasse as he battles cancer today; they expressed support for his ongoing treatment.

Florida Gators coaches share food stories that shape their routines — men’s tennis coach Adam Steinberg keeps a gluten-free acai bowl ritual, women's lacrosse coach Amanda O’Leary credits ice cream superstition, men’s golf coach J.C.

Deacon recalls championship pizza, while women’s golf coach Emily Glaser cherishes home-cooked meals amid travel.

Paige’s Kitchen shares a bourbon beef recipe that marinates flank steak in bourbon, brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, and ginger before grilling to a tender finish — a simple method perfect for holiday dinner.

Follow the clear steps to add a local twist to your meal.

Dartmouth Big Green vs. Florida Gators Basketball

6-7:30 p.m. — Stephen C. O'Connell Center — Admission varies — Watch the Gators take on Dartmouth in an exciting basketball showdown, followed by postgame layups!

Family New Year’s Eve Bash

4-8 p.m. — Dave & Buster's Gainesville — Tickets required — Celebrate 2026 early with food, games, and family-friendly countdown fun.

Meet and Greet Social

6-8 p.m. — Northwest Grille — $36 annual fee — Enjoy good conversation and a casual evening with fellow adventurers in Gainesville.

The FTC Mary Andrews Marathon

1-7 p.m. — Gainesville Hawthorne Trail — Registration fees apply — Participate in this Boston Qualifier marathon, half-marathon, or a fun relay team event on a scenic course.

Race for Rehab: Recovery Remix 5K

1-4 p.m. — 1104 Gale Lemerand Dr, Gainesville, FL — Registration fees support community outreach — Dash towards health in a fun, throwback-themed run for recovery.