5 - Lauren Alaina - Vystar Arena
5 - Rascal Flatts - Vystar Arena
6 - Marcus King - Florida Theatre
9 - Jagged Edge - Florida Theatre
11 - Cece Winans - Potter’s House
11 - Cecile McLorin Salvant - Ritz Theatre
12 - Orchestra Noir - Florida Theatre
13 - Trapt - Decca Live
13 - Chicago - St Aug Amp
16 - Tab Benoit - Ritz Theatre
16 - Khruangbin + Helado Negro - St Aug Amp
18 - Hip Hop Revival Orchestra performing Outkast - WJCT
25 - Kane Brown + Mitchell Tenpenny - Vystar Arena
26 - Fantasia + Anthony Hamilton - Vystar Arena
30 - Wilco - St Aug Amp
Monthly events at Friendship Fountain
Friendship Fountain will be closed from April 1st through the 14th for maintenance All events are FREE. More info on JaxParks
First Thursday : Free Yoga. 7-8p
First Friday : DJ, bar, vendors, food trucks. 5-9:30p
Second Saturday : Live Jazz. 7-9:30p
Third Thursday : Downtown Jax Sip & Stroll. 6-9p
Last Saturday : Silent Disco w HushHush. 6-9p
Free yoga at Lift Ev’ry Voice & Sing Park every Thursday from 6-7pm
Open Call for Artists : Louder Than Fear at Yellow House
Yellow House is curating a show centering work rooted in resistance, rage, or reflection. Submissions are open to all mediums—zines, prints, sculpture, graphic posters—just keep it under 48” and ready to hang. Work must align with themes of justice or truth-telling, and selected artists get a stipend. Past exhibitions have featured banned book readings, poster-making sessions, and community storytelling. Digital and physical submissions both accepted.
Deadline: Fri, Apr 19
Drop-offs: Apr 16 (12p–7p), Apr 18 (12p–4p), Apr 19 (2p–5p)
Printapalooza at FSCJ South Campus
Printapalooza returns with live t-shirt printing, woodcut demos, and a full artist market on South Campus. FSCJ Art Guild runs the show with students and alumni selling prints, pins, zines, and more. Catch live art in action all day and swing by the Wilson Center Gallery after for the Annual Student Show. It’s hands-on, low-key, and worth a trip to FSCJ!
Khruangbin: A La Sala Tour at The Amp in St Aug
Khruangbin is bringing their genre-bending sound to St. Augustine with the A La Sala Tour. Expect a night of hypnotic grooves, funky basslines, and global vibes. Helado Negro opens the show with his signature dreamy and experimental beats. This is your chance to see two critically acclaimed artists in one unforgettable night. Tickets are limited, so grab yours before they’re gone!
Third Thursday Sip & Stroll in Downtown Jax
Take a sunset stroll along the Southbank Riverwalk while enjoying live music, food trucks, and drinks. DJ Larry Love at Friendship Fountain Who Rescued Who at Riverplace Tower. Grab bites / drinks from local vendors like Honey Dripper House, A Mouthful Jax, Pizza Pitt Stop, Daddy O’s Portable Patio, Brochacho’s Fusion, Sahog, Jazzy Crab, Panache, Windy City Eats, Dagwoods, Jag Boilers, Lazy Days Hotdog Cart, Chop It Charlie’s, Naked Kitchen, Hard-Pressed Burgers, Cosmic Juice, Manifest Distilling, and Brewed Awakening Coffee.
The night doesn’t end there—head to the DoubleTree Deck for a free silent disco with Hush Hush from 7-11P.
If you’re staying in the San Marco area, The Band Be Easy will be at Grape & Grain Exchange starting at 8pm!
Women Empowering Women at Rethreaded
If the daily grind has you wondering what’s the point?, this session of Women Empowering Women is for you. Kristin Keen (Rethreaded) and Patricia McElroy (VyStar Credit Union) are diving into how to find purpose in the everyday—whether at work, in your passions, or just making it through the week. Expect breakout sessions, real talk, and a chance to expand your network with like-minded women. Drinks, snacks, and solid conversations included. Proceeds support Rethreaded’s mission of empowering survivors.
The Underground Market : After Dark Sip & Shop
After Dark Sip & Shop pops up every third Thursday with curated antiques, vintage finds, and home goods across La Vie En Rose, The Looking Glass, and Cultivate. Complimentary sangria will be served while you shop, and 15+ vendors will be set up along the sidewalk. Food vendors and a bonfire will be going outside. Free to attend.
2nd Annual AP Art Exhibition at Vantage Point Coffee
Global Leadership High School’s top AP art students are showcasing their portfolios in this group exhibition. Featured artists include Joanna Christiansen, Liony Rodriguez, Jonathan Osorto, Anastasiia Zamora, and Noctis Falcon. Expect a mix of compelling student work, live music by student musicians, and plenty of coffee and baked goods from Vantage Point Coffee. Proceeds from coffee sales will support Coffee in Action, a nonprofit providing CPR training and AED access to communities. Swing by, grab a drink, and support the next generation of artists.
Karaoke Kickback at the Purple Mangrove
The Karaoke Kickback is back at The Purple Mangrove with an Aries Season celebration. Dress code is “shades of green” and DJ Abstract will be spinning throughout the night. Hosted by @kamai and @kiayviah, with $5 admission at the door. Two tickets can also be bought in advance for $5 via Cash App.
ARTIVISM : A Community Mutual Aid Fundraising Performance Event at No Bird
Part burlesque show, part activist rally—this event blends performance with direct action, bringing together mutual aid orgs, local leaders, and fiery sets from burlesque, bellydance, drag, and vaudeville artists. Between acts, you’ll find booths from Jax Period Pantry, Food Not Bombs Jax, Cafe Resistance, Equality FL, and Jax Takes Action, where you can donate goods, sign up for protests, or connect with grassroots organizers. Think of it as “Look for the Helpers” but in a Mr. Rogers-meets-political-sideshow way. Entry is a sliding scale—$5 cash, physical donations, or whatever contribution you can make to the booths. 18+ only.
Jax Parks Movie Night – Wicked
Wicked hits the outdoor screen at Riverside Arts Market with free popcorn and open seating. Bring a blanket, pull up, and get ready for a sing-along under the stars. Dessert and food trucks will be on site with the final lineup announced soon. Classic park movie night energy without the ticket price.
Mandarin Art Festival 2025
Since 1968, the Mandarin Art Festival has brought artists, makers, and the community together. This year features 120+ juried artists, a green market, and a food court lined with local vendors. Inside the historic clubhouse, you’ll find a children’s art show, a bake sale, and hands-on activities. Free parking and a shuttle make getting there easy, but rideshares are encouraged. No pets—just art, food, and fresh air.
Spring Mural Jam : PHXJAX x Jax Wall Project
The PHX JAX Spring Mural Jam is back, turning 14th Street Walls into a live painting experience showcasing muralists and street artists from Jacksonville and beyond. This one-day art event brings together a dynamic mix of creatives to transform an emerging district with bold color and new energy. Hosted in the Phoenix Arts & Innovation District, it’s a celebration of culture, community, and large-scale artistry. Expect a vibrant mix of styles as artists add their mark to the evolving outdoor gallery. Applications for artists are open now, but space is limited.
Bookstore Crawl: Join the Snail Trail!
Women Writing for (a) Change is hosting a four-part writing series at local bookstores every Saturday in April. This stop at Cafe Resistance focuses on digging into personal narratives around resilience and growth, led by facilitator Tru Leverette Hall. Attend all four crawls and enter a raffle for a future class. Free to join, just show up and write.
Cannabash 2025: Journey to the Emerald City
Cannabash takes over Emerald Station with cannabis vendors, panels, and live music. Local businesses and speakers will be set up throughout the event. Food, drinks, and free access for AML patients are included. Event is 21+ only.
Exhibit Opening: CHAMPLOO at Legacy Studios Warehouse
Support Local Artists presents CHAMPLOO, a group show featuring Victor Ali, John Hawkins, Khiry Hines, and Jarett Walker. The exhibit mixes creative styles across street culture, contemporary art, and personal storytelling. Photography by Kellum Foto will also be part of the show, happening the same day as the Mural Jam. Hosted at Legacy Studios inside Phoenix Arts & Innovation District, free and open to all. — The word Champloo (チャンプルー) is derived from the Okinawan stir-fry dish chanpurū, meaning “something mixed” or “blended together.”
Cover image by @kellumfoto
Bachata Dreams Salsa Night at the Emerald Station
A night for the grown and sexy—strictly 21+! Get ready for non-stop Latin rhythm with @djsebasjaxx spinning the best of Bachata and Salsa, plus a live performance to keep the energy high. Expect surprises all night long to make this an unforgettable vibe. Dress to impress—no sneakers, hats, or athletic wear.
Wake & Bake presented by Jungle Boys at Wildrafters
Wake & Bake kicks off 4/20 at Wildcrafters with coffee cocktails, breakfast munchies by Sétlanic Jax, and a dance party led by DJ GuniTerrow. The event marks the one-year anniversary of Dance Church. Sunrise stretchers, late stoners, and early risers are all welcome. Free to attend.
FOUR 2enty Fest at Wildcrafters
FOUR 2enty Fest continues at Wildcrafters with DJ The Infader, live music by The Collective 904, and food by Feed the Ville. Vendors will be on-site with dispensaries, infused drinks, and more. Drink specials by Flora Botanical Infused Mixology. Free entry, 21+ recommended.
Poetic Therapy at Wildcrafters
Wildcrafters flips into a poetry lounge with RnB vocalists and storytellers taking the mic. Poetic Therapy sets up a chill space to hear romantic poets and motivational voices over kava cocktails. It’s a monthly rotation that keeps the vibes high and the drama low. Donation-based and fully rooted in the art.
46th Historic Springfield Tour of Homes & Gardens
A two-day self-guided tour through eight properties in Springfield, including historic homes, restored bungalows, and garden spaces. The tour starts at the SPAR Building (1321 N Main St) at noon, with live music and refreshments setting the mood. Complimentary shuttles make it easy to explore without breaking a sweat. This is Jacksonville’s oldest neighborhood, and every house has a story. Walk through the past, get inspired, and maybe rethink that DIY renovation project.
River City Dancing With The Stars
Jacksonville’s local leaders team up with ballroom pros to battle it out for the mirror ball trophy. Audience votes ($1 = 1 vote) and judges’ scores decide the winner, with proceeds supporting scholarships for the Jacksonville Children’s Chorus. Produced with All About Ballroom, the event highlights polished routines and a whole lot of personality. Judges will rate performances from 1 to 10 as these “stars” take the stage. The competition is a mix of dance, fun, and community-driven support.
The Main Room at Main St. Pocket Park
Short films, music videos, and a feature flick take over Downtown across three outdoor screens. Chef Onyx will be serving movie snacks with a local twist, and Hush Hush Headphones keep it all dialed in. Bring a blanket and find your spot in this pop-up living room under the stars. Cozy, creative, and built for a night out that still feels like home.
Strides for Pride 5K & 1-Mile Fun Run
JASMYN’s Strides for Pride returns with a 5K run/walk and a 1-mile fun run, raising support for LGBTQIA+ teens and young adults. Registration includes a race shirt, finisher medals, and a limited-edition hat for the first 150 chipped 5K finishers. Awards go to the largest running teams and top fundraisers. The 5K starts at 8a, followed by the 1-mile at 8:10a. Registration is tiered, so the earlier you sign up, the cheaper it is.
April Jax Veg Fest at Myrtle Avenue Brewing
Jax Veg Fest is back with a spring edition celebrating vegan food, crafts, and music. Hosted at Myrtle Avenue Brewing, this family-friendly event features local vendors, live performances, and plenty of plant-based eats. Vendors and performers can sign up at Jaxvegfest.weebly.com or contact jaxvegfest@gmail.com. The festival runs for six hours, making it the perfect Sunday outing for vegans and the veg-curious alike. Admission is free and open to the public.
Opening of the Beaches Parade
The parade will take place in the heart of Jacksonville Beach. The parade will start at 5th Ave N and 2nd Street. Once started,
the parade will travel north to 11th Avenue North and 2nd Street, then turn East towards the ocean. Once the parade reaches 1st Street, it will turn south and travel all the way to Beach Blvd where it will reach its conclusion.
All City parking lots will be open (paid parking will still be enforced) on Saturday, April 27th. All City lots will be closed at 6:00am on Sunday, April 27th. Paid parking will resume at 4pm following the completion of the parade.
Finger Mullet Film Festival
The Finger Mullet Film Festival is back with a night of experimental and indie short films. The evening kicks off with a reception from 5-6p, followed by a student film showcase at 6p and an artist block at 7p. Expect a mix of regional, national, and international films, plus a special performance by festival co-founder Kevin Mahoney. The festival highlights bold storytelling and emerging voices in the film world. Free and open to the public, with screenings meant to spark conversation and creative collaboration.
Don’t Say Gay Exhibit at Share Art Gallery
Kat Culture and Celeste Burns team up for Don’t Say Gay, a collaborative portrait gallery celebrating queer joy in Florida. Kat’s portraits lean into colorful, campy energy, while Celeste’s work captures softness and strength. The exhibit pushes back against erasure through bold visuals. Opening night is free and open to all. I’ll see you there!
Diana Ross: Live in Concert at the St Aug Amp
Experience the legendary Diana Ross as she graces The Amp stage. Expect timeless hits like "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" and "I'm Coming Out." Her powerful vocals and stage presence promise an unforgettable night. Tickets are selling fast—secure yours now. Don't miss this chance to see a true icon live!
Hope Starts Here 5K
Run through historic Springfield and along the Emerald Trail at the 4th annual Hope Starts Here 5K. Proceeds support Operation New Hope’s programs for workforce training and mental health services. The race starts and ends at the iconic Klutho building with a post-race celebration at Strings Sports Brewery. All participants get a t-shirt, and custom medals go to every finisher.
Jacksonville Jazz Festival 2025 | The Roots, Janelle Monae, +
Memorial Day weekend means four days of live jazz, and this year’s lineup is stacked. Kool & The Gang, Janelle Monáe, The Roots, Trombone Shorty, Maysa, Spyro Gyra, and Tank and the Bangas are all hitting the stage. The Jacksonville Jazz Piano Competition kicks things off on Thursday at Florida Theatre. Whether you’re into smooth sax, funky brass, or experimental fusion, there’s a set for you. Bring a chair, stay a while.
T-Pain at Daily's Place
T-Pain’s heading to Daily’s Place for a night full of hits. From “I’m Sprung” to “Buy U a Drank,” expect to hear those tracks that take you back. It’s going to be a night of energy, auto-tune magic, and some serious vibes. Tickets go on sale March 5 at 10 AM, so mark your calendar.
Art & Technology Round Table feat. Rafael Lozano-Hemmer at MOCA - POSTPONED
POSTPONED | New Date TBA
Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Michael Nardone are breaking down how digital tools are shifting the way artists create. Expect real-world examples, not vague theory. Lozano-Hemmer’s exhibit Spectral Subjects is currently on display at MOCA, making this one of the few chances to hear him discuss it firsthand. Part of MOCA’s Ideas of Our Time lecture series, free to attend.
BRAject: Breasts at Brest Opening Reception
Ordinary bras get turned into statement pieces at this annual breast cancer awareness art event. Created by artists, survivors, and supporters, the exhibit blends advocacy with creativity. The opening night reception gives a first look at this year’s lineup, plus an auction to support Pink Ribbon Jax’s free mammogram and imaging services. The display runs through July 9 with online bidding available. Thoughtful, bold, and definitely not your average art show.
Literary Indulgence Book Festival
A full-day festival for book lovers, featuring live music, food trucks, vendor shopping, and workshops with authors like Janice Hardy, Lana McAra, Celestial Holmes, and Frank Goodin II. Whether you're into fiction, non-fiction, or children's books, there’s something here for you. The day wraps up with an exclusive Author & Reader Mixer (5p-8p, $25), complete with hors d'oeuvres, music, and bookish conversation. First-time authors can pick up publishing tips, and seasoned writers can fine-tune their craft.
Literary Indulgence 2025 Book Festival
Calling all book lovers! The 2nd Annual Literary Indulgence Book Festival is back with a full day of workshops, author meet-and-greets, vendor shopping, and activities for all ages—including kids' storytelling and crafts. Stick around for the Author & Reader Mixer from 5p-8p to connect with local and regional writers. Don't miss the raffles, giveaways, and free festival gift bags (while supplies last). This is your chance to celebrate books and community in Jacksonville!
Exhibit Opening : Nostalgia: A Solo Show by Myah Freeman
Artist Myah Freeman debuts her first solo show Nostalgia at The Grand Downtown. The exhibit explores family, strength, and generational impact through the lens of old family photos. Myah’s work honors restoration and Black family history. Free to attend and where you’ll find me!
Maxwell at Vystar Arena
Maxwell has artfully managed to transfix music lovers for more than two decades, releasing five studio albums, all in his own time and all duly anointed as classics. The soul singer redefined soul music in April of 1996 when he released his critically acclaimed debut on Columbia, 'Maxwell's Urban Hang Suite.' It earned Grammy nominations, double platinum status and RIAA gold for the single, "Ascension (Don't Ever Wonder)." The platinum albums 'Embrya' (1998) and 'Now' (2001) followed. After eight years, 2009's 'BLACKsummers'night' debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and won two Grammys, including Best R&B Album. To date, Maxwell has achieved 4 platinum album certifications from the RIAA. His last album ‘blackSUMMERS’night,’ the second installment of his musical trilogy, earned Maxwell his third Grammy (Best R&B Song for “Lake By The Ocean”) an NAACP Image Award (Outstanding Male Artist), and a Soul Train Award (Best R&B/Soul Male Artist).
John Legend : Get Lifted 20th Anniversary Tour
John Legend is back at the St Augustine Amp!
John Legend is a Grammy-winning singer, songwriter, and producer known for his soulful hits like "All of Me" and "Ordinary People." He's also famous for his charismatic presence on "The Voice" and his activism, making him a true modern-day legend in both music and social justice
LPT Salsa Sundays at Intuition Ale Works
Kick off the spring season with LPT Salsa Sundays at Intuition Ale Works. This all-ages event celebrates LPT’s 10-year anniversary with an afternoon of high-energy salsa music. Whether you’re dancing or just vibing, the setting is perfect for connecting over great music and local brews.
Final 2 dates of the season : May 4, May 18
Our Sunday Best at Ocean Street Tacos
Grown folks day party with 90’s and 2000’s hip-hop and RnB spun by DJ Dialectable at Ocean Street Tacos. Grab mimosas, tequila, and tacos while you post up in your best Sunday look. The energy’s casual, the food’s solid, and the soundtrack’s built for moving. Hosted by Jacksonville Bestie, so you know it’s locked in.
904 Pop-Up at Seawalk Pavilion
Jacksonville Beach turns into a massive open-air market with over 200 local vendors, 15 food trucks, live music, and a built-in skate session. Whether you’re into handcrafted goods, vintage finds, or just looking for a reason to be outside all day, there’s something worth checking out. The lineup of food trucks covers everything from quick bites to full meals, and live performances keep the energy going throughout the day.
4th Annual Jacksonville Spring Fest on the Northbank Riverwalk
Easter egg hunts are split by age group (12p for 5 & under, 12:30p for 6 & up), and the bunny's pulling double duty for meet-and-greets. There’ll be bounce houses, face painting, food trucks, live music, and a nonprofit spotlight on I See You Nico. Vendors will be posted up for shopping local goods while kids burn off sugar. Free tickets are recommended but not required for the egg hunt. Pet-friendly and family-packed, right on the river.
Art for Impact: Celebrating Creativity & Community
An elegant evening where community, cuisine, and charity come together to support the Children’s Home Society of Florida. Expect a vibrant mix of art, meaningful connections, and a showcase of local artists and students. Guests can also explore interactive exhibits highlighting CHS’s impact and hear firsthand from those making a difference. A portion of art sales will support CHS programs.
Grand Opening Party at The Circuit Arcade Bar
The Circuit Arcade Bar is celebrating its grand opening downtown with DJ Kano, free pinball, and drink specials. Expect $1 PBR, $3 Rumpies, $5 Tito’s, and full access to craft beer, cocktails, air hockey, and more. No cover charge and open to all ages. Arcade games and food available all night.
Shannon & The Clams at WJCT
Shannon and the Clams headline WJCT Soundstage with support from Austin’s Being Dead and local shoegaze band Siichaq. Expect a night of garage rock, RnB, and retro goodness with tracks off Shannon’s new album The Moon is in the Wrong Place. Being Dead brings freak folk energy from their new album EELS, while Siichaq opens with songs from My Dog Ate My Patriotism.
Platform 9 3/4 Wizarding Market 2025 at River City Railway
Hall of Heroes and Max Michaels pull off a full day of wizardry at River City Railway. Shop nerdy art vendors, meet special guests, and explore the train cars turned into mini shops. It’s a family-friendly blowout across outdoor and covered platform spaces. Cosplay optional, but highly encouraged.
Bookstore Crawl: Join the Snail Trail! – Chamblin’s Uptown
This one’s part three of a month-long Saturday crawl hosted by Women Writing for (a) Change. The theme’s Leaving a Trail, and facilitator Juli Williams is guiding a writing session on legacy, memory, and the marks we leave behind. Everyone’s welcome—no writing experience needed. Expect a cozy, quiet reset in the middle of the city.
OysterFest 2025 at Riverview Park
Oysters, live music, and sustainability talks take over Riverview Park for OysterFest 2025. Kick off the day with yoga by DJ Larry Love, then catch Councilman Reggie Gaffney Jr. at the community meet-up. Kids’ activities, shucking contests, craft stations, and storytelling sessions run all afternoon. Local seafood and a Wealth-Building Workshop round it out.
Dino Egg Hunt at PHXJAX with ScienceSis
Families and dinosaur fans are invited to Phoenix Arts & Innovation District for a Dino Egg Hunt with SCESIS. Hidden dinosaur eggs will be scattered throughout the space, filled with surprises. The event is free and open to the public. Bring friends, family, and get ready to explore.
Autism Month & Book Launch Party at Doughfee
This is where you’ll find me!
Come out to Doughfee for a fun-filled event celebrating Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month, plus the launch of Bayani and the ABCs of Me, a book about an autistic Filipino boy. The event will have interactive activities, special giveaways, and a chance to meet the authors. Whether you're part of the autism community or just want to learn more, this is an open space for everyone. Want to reserve a copy of the book before the event? Email titaandkuya@gmail.com.
Vintage Day at Atlantic Beach Arts Market
Atlantic Beach Arts Market and Tim Bullard Pottery team up for a full day of vintage finds and antique scores. Shop vinyl, old cameras, nautical antiques, toys, and more across vendors inside and out. Their art studio adds even more one-off pieces you won’t see anywhere else. Good hunting for the collectors and the curious.
Think Bold Festival & Conference 2025
A full day of panels, performances, and networking with names like Fawn Weaver, Pinky Cole Hayes, Lil Duval, and Mark Lamping in the speaker lineup. Focused on entrepreneurship, workforce innovation, and creative industries, with separate lounges for networking and exhibits. Entry gets you into all sessions, fireside chats, and the Curators & Creators showcases. Presented by VyStar and set on the river at the Hyatt. Definitely more suits and strategy than your average Saturday event.
Record Store Day at Tiger Records
To my record collecting friends in Jax - most of you are aware of how popular “Records Store Day” has become over the years, and it’s back on 4/12 this year! Select participating record shops put in their orders for records - either being exclusively released for RSD, limited reissues of old pressings, new box sets, etc. - and come Saturday morning, expect to find lines outside of the stores participating.
Swamp Party | Doechii Night at Hardwicks
Swamp Party takes over Hardwicks celebrating THE IT girl of the year, Grammy winner Doechii! You’ll be treated to a drag showcase and live DJ set by 93Teez. Drag performances by Teyonna Cliché, Skii Hernandez, Susu Serenity, and Remini Mogul. $5 cover at the door, 21+ only. Expect a packed night.
Paint & Sip in Support of the Sanctuary
A relaxing night of painting, wine, and local eats in support of the Sanctuary on 8th Street. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, an instructor will guide you through a painting themed around "growth." All supplies are included, and proceeds go toward the Weekend Nutrition Bags of Hope Program. Grab some friends and get creative for a great cause!
Khmer New Year 2025
Wat Kanteyaram’s Cambodian New Year festival runs all weekend with live outdoor performances by Soriya Band from South Carolina. Expect traditional dances, cultural showcases, food vendors, and family games. It’s one of the city’s most vibrant Southeast Asian cultural gatherings. Free parking and plenty of room to dance - open to all! This is a cash only event
You should already be following : @adventuresofthea, but if not - this is your cue. She has more information on this event on her page!
Big: Culture & Arts Festival (Gainesville - 2-days)
Dion Dia and How Bazar are back with Big, a two-day festival fusing live music, art, fashion, and underground culture in the heart of Gainesville. Expect performances from The Alchemist, MIKE, Navy Blue, Annabelle Klein, Elijah Fox, Pink Siifu, Pearl & the Oysters, and more, plus DJ sets from Kaelin Ellis, Mr. Floyd Larry, They Hate Change, Rugh, DAY/DEM, and Kill Zach. The fest brings a circus-meets-street-culture energy with aerialists, fire breathers, and a skatepark built for the weekend. Dion Dia, a movement-turned-record label, and How Bazar, a hybrid creative hub/nightlife spot, have spent years curating spaces where artists thrive—this festival is their biggest yet. General admission starts at $35, with VIP access (including a private lounge, AC, and exclusive performances) at $100.
Spring Exhibitions Opening – The Armory South & Jax Contemporary at MOCA
This will be one of the largest artist reunions in the city in quite some time, as MOCA opens its newest exhibitions ‘The Armory South’ (2nd floor) & ‘Jax Contemporary’ (3rd floor).
Jax Contemporary is the new triennial exhibition celebrating artistic voices representing this moment in Jax history. MOCA received nearly 500 applications & selected 64 artists working in a variety of media. Majority of the artists will be present - with exhibiting artists including Erin Kendrick (left image), Mark Creegan, Amer Kobaslija, Hiromi Moneyhun, & Michael Rakim.
Armory South brings back a 100 year old exhibit, reassembling rare Modernist works from the 1924 Jacksonville Woman’s Club Exhibition. Nearly 200 pieces from names like Wood Gaylor, Yasuo Kuniyoshi, Katherine Schmidt, Walt Kuhn, & even early Picasso.
Open to MOCA members at 7pm & general public at 8pm (free)
Duval Spring Fest 2025 - 4 days
Four days of live music, fashion, and performances, all leading up to a $2,000 artist tournament. Indie musicians, DJs, and designers take over the city with showcases, block parties, and pop-ups. Friday night throws it back to the ’80s with a full fashion show. Sunday’s lineup includes performances from past fest winners and surprise guests. Paid tickets include raffle entries, but plenty is happening for free.
Jacksonville Science Festival 2025 (3-days)
The annual fest blends student-led STEAM projects with local mentorship, focusing on equitable access for all learners—including gifted, differently-abled, and non-traditional students. Thursday and Friday (9a–2p) are hosted at FSCJ South Campus, with Saturday’s public-facing day (10a–3p) landing at Friendship Fountain. Expect interactive exhibits, performances, and kids walking you through some of the wildest science fair-level builds you'll see all year.
Dance Love Jax: Dancing Through the Decades
Jacksonville Dance Theatre’s annual fundraiser brings a century of music to the dance floor. A live DJ will spin hits from the 1920s through today, setting the stage for an all-night groove session. Guests can enter prize drawings, enjoy food from Vucca Street Food, and grab a drink from Ruby Beach Brewing’s cash bar. Dressing in era-inspired attire is encouraged, with a best-dressed contest for those who go all out. Every ticket includes entertainment, food, and a donation to support JDT’s mission in Jacksonville.
Jagged Edge at Florida Theatre
Jagged Edge’s sophomore album, JE Heartbreak, is celebrating its 25th anniversary. To celebrate, The Grammy Award-winning group is not only releasing new music, but is also going on a special anniversary tour. JE Heartbreak gave the world unforgettable hits like "Let’s Get Married," "Promise," and "He Can’t Love You." It catapulted their career, earning them a Grammy nomination and a Soul Train Music Award for Best R&B/Soul Album.
Silent Open Mic @ Secret Space
The Hush-Hush Silent Open Mic is every 2nd Wednesday of the month! First one of the year at the new downtown site, featuring @whoiismerci! Open to all ages, identities, and skill levels, but only original music performed over recorded tracks (no covers or live instruments). One song per signup, audience votes with silent disco headsets and the top 3 win cash + free entry to the next round ($100, $25, and free ticket respectively). Doors at 8p, featured set at 8:30p, and open mic kicks off by 9p. Bonus: if you're performing, you can get a custom flyer made by @zine dream machine to help pull your crowd.
Twelfth Night at Douglas Anderson Black Box Theatre
Douglas Anderson School of the Arts reimagines Twelfth Night with a nautical twist, setting Shakespeare’s classic comedy in 1900s Nantucket. This adaptation blends mistaken identities, unrequited love, and whimsy with live folk music, composed by Casey Carroll. Under the direction of Laura Frye and music direction by Joshua Cook, the show intertwines dance, adventure, and Shakespearean wit into an immersive experience. As the final production of DA’s theatre season, it promises vibrant performances and fresh perspectives on a timeless favorite. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to Shakespeare, this adaptation brings a unique energy to one of his most beloved comedies.
bb’s 25th Anniversary Celebration
bb’s is marking 25 years with a five-course dinner, wine pairings, and passed appetizers. The night closes down Hendricks Ave for a community celebration, with 100% of proceeds benefiting Nemours Children’s Health. Your ticket includes gratuity, and Nemours will provide tax-deductible donation forms for those who need them. Reservations are required
Psych-Sunday at Wildcrafters
Wildcrafters is hosting a chill Sunday session built around psych-d*lic storytelling, deep questions, and themed trivia—minus any actual substances. It's a space to ask, listen, reflect, and integrate with a community that’s into mind-expansion without the fluff. Think meaningful convo over mocktails, not passive mingling. No sign-up, no tab—just show up ready to engage.
Sip-In San Marco
San Marco’s bar hop is back, this time with a brunch twist. Expect drink deals, exclusive tastings, and specialty cocktails at participating spots like Posting House, Fore Score, and Beer:30. Retail shops like Bitty & Beau’s Coffee and Foxtail Coffee are also in the mix. Each ticket includes a custom event wristband, complimentary sips, and a few extra surprises. Check-in starts at 11a at Fore Score
3rd Annual Railyard BBQ Challenge & Beer Fest
This backyard-vs-semi-pro BBQ face-off is part cookout, part block party. You’ll be bouncing between Myrtle Avenue Brewing and The Glass Factory, sampling ribs while listening to Pink Paisleys and Lifted Riffs live. Vendors and food trucks fill out the courtyard. This is year three and it’s only gotten rowdier. Hosted by The Empowered Kitchen.
More info | $25