If you know anything about Gainesville, then you know that here, football is more than just a sport — it’s a culture, a way of life that ignites a fervor in the hearts of Gator fans near and far. No football culture is complete without the electrifying atmosphere of a pregame celebration. So, if you are looking for Gator events in Gainesville today, and it’s football season, then you absolutely need to know about Chomp the Block, which is held at Celebration Pointe on Friday evenings before most Gators football home games.
Since Celebration Pointe announced its official partnership with the Florida Gators in 2018, we have enjoyed finding fun ways to unite the Gator Nation, not just in camaraderie and spirit, but also in anticipation for events and games. One way that we have done so is through our annual Chomp the Block series, which has now grown into an eagerly anticipated gathering Fridays of home football weekends.
Held between 6 and 10 p.m. on select Fridays before Gator football home games, here is a quick list of what you can expect at each Chomp the Block party:
As you can see, Chomp the Block is so much more than just a pregame rally! Designed as a place for Gator fans to gather, socialize and ramp up their excitement for the game in a festive atmosphere, you will find food and drinks from Celebration Pointe’s top-notch restaurants, including Spurrier’s Gridiron Grille (of course!), MidiCi, The Keys Grill and Piano Bar and many more of the best restaurants in Gainesville. You can also feast on favorites from Gainesville-based food trucks, which helps round out a wide array of culinary delights for attendees. From local favorites to international cuisine, the food scene at Chomp the Block caters to all tastes and preferences so that every Gator fan can find something they love.
The party doesn’t stop with food! Chomp the Block knows how to keep the vibes flowing with live music at each block party. From homegrown bands making the local scene come alive to electrifying artists lighting up the stage, there’s always a beat to get you moving. Past performances have included crowd-pleasers like Whiskey Jones, Benny and the Band, Heavy Petty, Jamie Davis and even the Gainesville Retro Society. These rockin’ rhythms paint the air with an orange and blue melody of excitement that is perfect for pumping up fans for the big game.
Parents hold onto your Gator hats, because there’s a whole world of fun just for the kiddos at Chomp the Block! If you’re looking for family-friendly Gator events in Gainesville today, then you’ll love the Kids’ Zone. It’s a fan-favorite spot that proves Gator spirit isn’t just for grown-ups. From a bounce house to face painting and balloon animals, Chomp the Block brings it all and is truly fun for all ages.
As the sun sets and the party’s energy escalates, special appearances by mascots Albert, Alberta, or the Gators’ Spirit Team further amplify the excitement. Their infectious enthusiasm and impressive routines make this block party an unforgettable experience, creating a cherished tradition-in-the-making for all who bleed orange and blue. So, whether you’re a die-hard football fan, a food enthusiast, or looking for a fun family outing, make sure to mark your calendar for the next Chomp the Block party to experience the magic of the game before it even starts!
Whether you are looking for Gator events in Gainesville today or marking your calendar in advance, you don’t want to miss this incredible lineup of Chomp the Block parties for the 2023 Gator football season!
The dates above are a quick list of dates for the 2023 Chomp the Block parties. You can find the full schedule for 2023 Florida Gators football games here.
As the official sponsor of the Florida Gators, Celebration Pointe plays an integral part in supporting our Gator Nation, contributing to the vibrant atmosphere that brings together fans, families and foodies alike. This connection between Celebration Pointe and the Florida Gators exemplifies the power of community partnerships, showing how sport and local businesses can come together to create a dynamic atmosphere for all to enjoy. If you’re a local business looking for retail space and want to join the incredible Celebration Pointe community, click here to learn more about retail leasing here.
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