Today marks the observance of the annual World AIDS Day. Several events were held in Gainesville to honor the day. The 16th annual World AIDS Day community luncheon took place this afternoon. Community members and the family of people living with HIV and AIDS gathered to make and keep their promise. That promise is to get tested and encourage others to get educated about HIV and AIDS.

The City of Gainesville observed the day by participating in "Day With(out) Art." The solar walk sculptures on 8th avenue were covered in black bags to symbolize a world without art. "Day With(out) Art" is a national event that takes place alongside World AIDS day every year to express the impact of AIDS within the art world, while promoting general AIDS awareness and prevention.

More then 13,000 people in Alachua County are living with HIV/AIDS. The state of Florida ranks third in the nation for HIV cases and second in the nation for children with HIV.