Signature Events
Throughout the year, Lake City plays host to some of North Florida’s most anticipated events. From rodeos and craft fairs to barbecue competitions and cultural festivals, these signature events bring the town together during every season. Come for the food, the music, the rides—or just a good time with great company. Find your favorite event and make it a tradition!
Upcoming Signature Events
Sweets In The Streets (February)
Indulge your sweet tooth at the Sweets in the Streets extravaganza. Stroll through a sugary wonderland right in the heart of Lake City, Florida. From delectable pastries to delightful candies, this event promises a delightful experience for every dessert enthusiast. This event will coincide with our first Growers and Makers Market of the year. We provide these markets to give our citizens an opportunity to purchase from local bakers in our community. The Market will also have arts and craft vendors, farmers market vendors, and food trucks.
Olustee Festival (February)
The Annual Olustee Festival & Craft Show features over 200 arts and crafts booths from vendors across the country. Enjoy a wide variety of food and family-friendly activities, including face painting, train rides, and bounce houses (some attractions may require a fee).
The Olustee Festival is in beautiful downtown Lake City, FL. For more Information about the festival, contact Faye Bowling Warren at (386) 755-1097 or via email at bowlingwarren@comcast.net.
Florida Gateway Pro Rodeo (March)
Held annually at the Florida Gateway Fairgrounds Rodeo Arena, this PRCA-sanctioned rodeo brings some of the top cowboys and cowgirls in the Southeast to Lake City. Watch all seven classic rodeo events—bareback, steer wrestling, team roping, saddle bronc, barrel racing, tie down roping, and bull riding—as well as mutton bustin’ and breakaway roping! Each performance includes all the events listed, so you won’t miss any of the action, no matter what day you join us.
Downtown Showdown BBQ Cook-Off (April)
Get your appetite ready for the Downtown BBQ Showdown in Lake City! Watch as top pitmasters compete for a title in four different categories—chicken, pork ribs, pork, and beef brisket—in this certified KCBS competition. Sample mouthwatering barbecue, browse local craft vendors, and enjoy delicious food from a variety of food trucks. It’s a full day of flavor, fun, and friendly competition!
Multicultural Spring Market (May)
Celebrate culture from around the world at The City of Lake City Multicultural Spring Market. Watch music and dance performances or explore arts and crafts vendors, homemade desserts, boutiques, children’s activities, and food trucks. The market takes place at the Darby Pavilion in Wilson Park.
Annual Fourth of July Celebration (July)
Each year, the City of Lake City and the Columbia County Board of County Commissioners host a free Fourth of July Celebration at the Florida Gateway Fairgrounds. Enjoy live bands, food vendors, contests, a car show, and of course, one of North Florida’s top fireworks displays! All you need to bring are your chairs and blankets.
Off R’ Rocker Rodeo (September)
Saddle up for two days of high-stakes rodeo action at the Off R’ Rocker B3 Rodeo in Lake City! Held at the Florida Gateway Rodeo Arena, this event brings top pro rodeo athletes from across the country to compete in bull riding, barrel racing, and bronco riding. Enjoy food trucks, vendors, a mechanical bull, live music, and dancing—all with a dose of western hospitality.
Off R’ Rocker proudly supports the next generation of rodeo talent. Bring the whole family, cheer on the riders, and experience a weekend you won’t forget!
Let’s ride. Let’s cheer. Let’s get Off R Rocker!
Florida Gateway Fair (October)
Take part in a Lake City tradition that’s been happening for over 70 years! This classic October fair at the Florida Gateway Fairgrounds features local food vendors, rides, livestock shows, and concerts from rising country stars. Kids will love the livestock barn, where they can see cows, goats, and pigs. Don’t miss your chance to hop on the rides and enjoy the fun!
Christmas in Columbia Holiday Market (December)
The City of Lake City will hold its Annual Christmas in Columbia Holiday Market on Saturday, December 13th, 2025. Shop for the perfect gift while enjoying live music, festive food, and children’s activities. The market spans from Olustee Park to the Darby Pavilion.
Related Articles
Plan on sharing your good times on social media? Here’s a hashtag. Share the love. We’ll do the same!