Happy Friday everyone! As we get ready to head into the cooler months, there's a lot more going on outside.

If you'd like to get your weekend started with some barbecue, head to Lake City. The Smokin' Pig Barbecue Fest cranks up tonight at the Columbia County Fairgrounds. In addition to the food there'll be live music tonight. Saturday's fun includes games for the kids, bounce houses and a 21 foot water slide. Over $6,000 in prize money is on the line during the competition. You can check it out this evening....with gates opening at 10 am Saturday.  Website

In Gainesville Saturday the 11th Annual Downtown Latino Festival gets underway. The festival takes place every September to celebrate the contributions of the Latino community. At the event there'll be live music and cultural performances....in addition to informational booths and plenty of food. The fun starts at noon and goes until 9 pm at the Bo Diddley Community Plaza on East University Avenue in Gainesville.  Website

In Marion County you can get an early start to your Saturday and raise money for a good cause. The 9th Annual 5K Autumn Run for Autism starts Saturday morning. It benefits the New Horizon Academy for Exceptional Children. There'll be refreshments and all participants get a discounted admission to Silver Springs. Registration starts at 6 am with activities beginning at 7:30 in the Wild Waters Parking Lot in Ocala.  Website

Last weekend it was Ocala's turn. This Saturday the Alzheimer's Association is having it's Walk to End Alzheimer's in Gainesville. The walk helps the organization to support essential Alzheimers programs in our community. Registration starts at 9 am Saturday at the Bo Diddley Community Plaza.  Website

In Gainesville Sunday you can check out the Gainesville Duck Derby at Westside Park. It's a fund raiser for the Children's Home Society and Child Advocacy Center. Five dollars will get you a duck in the race...and a chance to win some great prizes. The event goes from 1 to 4 Sunday.  Website

Enjoy your weekend!