Local families invited to shop, save, and celebrate safety at Florida’s largest pop-up sale

Press release from Just Between Friends Gainesville

ALACHUA, Fla. – North Central Florida families are gearing up for the return of the state’s largest pop-up children’s and family marketplace — Just Between Friends Gainesville, happening November 5–9, 2025, at the Legacy Park Multipurpose Center (15400 Peggy Rd, Alachua).

The event offers parents and caregivers a way to shop and save up to 90% off retail on thousands of gently used and new children’s and maternity items — from clothing and toys to strollers, books, baby gear, and holiday gifts. With over 900 local families consigning, the sale continues to grow as one of Alachua County’s most community-focused, family-friendly events of the year.

Event Highlights

• Presale Shopping (November 5): Exclusive early access for consignors, teachers, foster families, first responders, military, and ticket holders.
• Public Shopping (November 6–9): Open to all families Thursday through Sunday, with daily restocks and discount days throughout the weekend.

SAFE KIDS’ DAY — Saturday, November 8 (9 a.m.–1 p.m.) – Quiet Hour for sensitive attendees: 9:00–10:00 a.m.

The weekend’s signature community event, Safe KIDS’ Day, brings together dozens of safety experts, healthcare professionals, and first responders for a free, hands-on family expo focused on child safety, wellness, and fun! Presented in partnership with UF Health Shands and Safe Kids North Central Florida, this year’s event will feature:

• Touch-a-Truck Zone with Alachua Police Department and Sheriff’s Office helicopter
• Special guest appearance by UF mascots Albert & Alberta, meeting families and posing for photos
• Car seat safety checks & installations with certified technicians
• Free activities like face painting, balloon twisting, and games
• Music by Tu Fiesta Entertainment and giveaways from Domino’s Pizza
• Dozens of community partners offering interactive booths and family resources, including
  • Division of Blind Services
  • UF Health
  • FDLRS Springs (Florida Diagnostic & Learning Resources System)
  • UF North Central Early Steps
  • Alachua County Fire Rescue
  • Empower Womens Physical Therapy
  • Fishin For Vision
  • HIPPY Program
  • Palms Medical Group
  • Newberry Parks and Recreation
  • Nest Learning
  • Children’s Trust of Alachua County
  • CDS Family & Behavioral Health Services
  • PediAquatics of Alachua
  • Pigtails & Crewcuts Ocala
  • The Ja’Niyah Irving Youth Foundation
  • Healthy Start of North Central FL Coalition
  • Alachua Police Department
  • GatorCPR
  • Department of Children and Families
  • UF Health
  • UF College of Dentistry
  • Family Network on Disabilities
  • Partnership for Strong Families
  • UF CARD
  • FDLRS- Florida Diagnostic & Learning Resources System
  • Early Learning Coalition (ELC) Alachua
  • WIC Alachua
  • Play and Wellness Center of Gainesville LLC
  • O2B Kids
  • Blossoming Bean Coffee

Additional Special Events

• Teen Thrift Night — Friday, November 7 (6–8 p.m.): Teens take over the sale for a fun, music-filled shopping night featuring trendy thrift finds, pizza, drinks, and door prizes.
• Adaptive Gear Swap — Thursday, November 6 (6–8 p.m.): A welcoming evening for families of children with special needs to exchange adaptive gear and resources in a supportive community setting.
• Community Partner Shopping — Sunday, November 9 (4 p.m.): Local agencies and school representatives are invited to shop free for care closets and family support programs.

Beyond incredible deals, Just Between Friends Gainesville champions local giving. Unsold items and donations support school care closets and nonprofit partners serving families in need across Alachua County and surrounding communities.

“Every sale is about more than shopping — it’s about connection,” said Karen Miner, owner of Just Between Friends Gainesville. “Safe KIDS’ Day has become a cornerstone event where families, first responders, and community organizations come together to make safety education engaging, memorable, and fun for all ages.”

Event Details at a Glance

• Location: Legacy Park Multipurpose Center, 15400 Peggy Rd, Alachua
• Dates: November 5–9, 2025
• Website: https://gainesville.jbfsale.com
• Social: #jbfgainesvillefl