Tom Petty Birthday Bash, A Celebration of Music, Gainesville, October 19&20, 2019

Posted on by Tommy Thompson

Gainesville is the largest city in our Natural North Florida region, and with its lively population of young people, it’s always been “musically inclined”.  And one of the city’s most famous musicians was Tom Petty.  Tom grew up in Gainesville, attended Gainesville High School and then went on to perform on stages worldwide.    And after his untimely death in 2017, the citizens of Gainesville banded together to dedicate Tom Petty Park and celebrate his birthday with an annual “Birthday Bash”, held each October.

The 2019 Birthday Bash will be held at Depot Park in downtown Gainesville.  Headlining the event, spread out over the weekend, will be musicians performing Tom Petty covers, as well as their unique creations.  Expect to hear from Heavy Petty, Tristen and High Dive.   You can preview the groups online at the Birthday Bash Lineups Page.  

The weekend-long celebration will be based at Depot Park in downtown Gainesville (200 Depot Avenue SE). Expect plenty of food trucks for your enjoyment.  Parking may be scarce, and attendees are encourage to walk, cycle, or ride share to the venue. Many of the events are free, and there are a few that charge admission.   In either case, plan to have a fun time!