GAINESVILLE, Fla. (WCJB) – It wasn\u2019t just people blowing out birthday candles this year; entire counties and cities across North Central Florida were celebrating major milestones.<\/p>\n
From bicentennials to centennials, communities marked their birthdays with parades, galas, and block parties, all while reflecting on the history that shaped them.<\/p>\n
Alachua County kicked off the celebrations by officially turning 200 years old.<\/p>\n
Alachua County Public Information Officer Mark Sexton said, \u201cOne of the county\u2019s most significant historical moments was becoming home to the University of Florida, a decision that forever changed the trajectory of Gainesville and Alachua County.\u201d<\/p>\n
RELATED: Alachua County celebrates 200 years of history<\/a><\/p>\n To honor the milestone, Alachua County hosted a year-long celebration called Discover 200, featuring multiple events highlighting two centuries of growth, culture, and community.<\/p>\n Next on the birthday tour was Keystone Heights, which celebrated its 100th anniversary throughout 2025. Events included a Fourth of July parade, a Roaring \u201920s-themed gala, and other community gatherings.<\/p>\n Mayor Nina Rodenroth said the city\u2019s goal is to encourage growth while preserving its small-town feel.<\/p>\n \u201cWe want people to come visit, enjoy it, spend their money, and help with economic growth,\u201d Rodenroth said. \u201cBut we also want to keep it small and maintain that small-town vibe.\u201d<\/p>\n And while Keystone Heights may be small, the strong turnout at its centennial events proved the community\u2019s spirit is anything but.<\/p>\n Also celebrating a major milestone was Gilchrist County, the youngest county in Florida, which marked 100 years since its founding.<\/p>\n County Administrator Bobby Crosby said many families in Gilchrist County have deep roots that stretch back generations.<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s 100 years of history,\u201d Crosby said. \u201cA lot of people here have families who\u2019ve been here for more than 100 years. They may not remember when it was part of Alachua County, but they\u2019ve been told those stories. It\u2019s exciting to be the youngest county and still be 100 years old.\u201d<\/p>\n Gilchrist County wrapped up its centennial celebrations with a block party in December. <\/p>\n