Gainesville, Alachua County commission to discuss plans to potentially move Hoggetowne Medieval Faire

GAINESVILLE, Fla. (WCJB) - Alachua County and Gainesville leaders are taking another step toward deciding the future home of the Hoggetowne Medieval Faire.

Officials are receiving an update on Monday on plans to potentially move the event to Gainesville Raceway, where organizers say the faire could expand in the years ahead.

City and county leaders are getting an update on whether the Hoggetowne Medieval Faire could eventually call Gainesville Raceway home.

Staff will present details on the possibility of moving the popular event to the raceway beginning in 2027.

The idea has been under discussion for more than a year, with city and county officials directing staff to explore alternative locations after the faire outgrew previous venues.

According to the presentation, the raceway would provide plenty of space for entertainment, vendors, parking, and a ticketed entrance.

The proposal calls for a two-weekend event in January of 2027.

Staff estimate the raceway site would cost about $80,000 to rent, with total event expenses projected at more than $590,000.

Officials say much of that cost could be offset through ticket sales, vendor fees, sponsorships, and existing city and county contributions.

Monday’s meeting is expected to give leaders a better idea of whether this plan is financially feasible and whether the raceway could become the fair’s long-term home.

Click here to subscribe to our newsletter.