Special Events

City of Jacksonville Office of Special Events

The City of Jacksonville Office of Special Events is proud to offer low- or no-cost entertainment and educational events, especially in these difficult economic times. Many residents, businesses and non-profit organizations (click here for a full listing on non-profit partnerships) are involved in or benefit from these events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, World of Nations Celebration, Jacksonville Light Parade, Jacksonville Sea & Sky Spectacular, Sail Jacksonville, Florida-Georgia Football Classic, Senior events, fireworks shows and many more.

These events are vital to our community, its ability to thrive, and to be seen as an ideal destination for visitors. The economic impact is approximately 200 million annually. The Office of Special Events also serves as a one-stop shop for permitting special events with attendance of more than 500 people or those which affect city streets and property. These include events held at Metropolitan Park and Hemming Plaza. Click here for a complete listing of permitted events.

Upcoming Events

Week of Valor
November 4-11, 2009 | Various Venues

The City of Jacksonville is proud to present the 2009 Week of Valor. The week will begin with the arrival of the Blue Angels on Wednesday, November 4 and conclude with the Veterans Day Parade on Wednesday, November 11. The Week of Valor will highlight the Jacksonville Sea and Sky Spectacular and Veterans Day Parade as well as well as ship tours aboard Navy and U.S. Coast Guard vessels, speakers bureau, featured assets from military branches, military-themed movies, and more.
ť Official Website or call (904) 630-3690

Jacksonville Sea & Sky Spectacular

November 6-8, 2009 | Jacksonville Beach Oceanfront

The Jacksonville Sea and Sky Spectacular has it all! This super event is a collaboration among the City of Jacksonville, Naval Station Mayport, City of Atlantic Beach, City of Neptune Beach and City of Jacksonville Beach. A dynamic over-the-ocean Sky Show with the Blue Angels and other military and civilian flight teams, live entertainment, autograph sessions and interactive activities are just a sampling of what's in store at Jacksonville Beach.
ť Official Website or call (904) 630-3690

Support your team! Show your TEAL!
Show your support for our Jaguars by showing your TEAL every Friday before home games during the football season. Display your flags and banners, wear hats, t-shirts and buttons! Do the TEAL thing and let them know you're saying GO JAGUARS!
ť Official Website or call (904) 630-3690.

MOB Meeting (Mayor's Older Buddies)
November 10, 2009 | Metropolitan Park

Discuss issues pertinent to seniors and listen to special guest speaker Ret. Air Force Master Sergeant Andy Remotnik.
ťOfficial Website or call (904) 630-3690

Veterans Day Parade

November 11, 2009 | Downtown Jacksonville

Join the City of Jacksonville as we honor true American heroes - our veterans and active-duty military. This patriotic parade features active duty and retired military units, veterans groups, local high school marching bands, military organizations, decorative floats, giant balloons, JROTC units and more.
ť Official Website or call (904) 630-3690

Downtown On Tap
Every Thursday in October
5-8 p.m. | Downtown Jacksonville
Stop by your favorite downtown bars for drink specials, giveaways and more!

A. Burrito Gallery
B. Cafe 331
D. The Ivy Ultra Bar
E. London Bridge English Pub & Eatery
F. Mark's Downtown
G. The Tobacco Shop

Free parking during Downtown On Tap!
Both parking areas are just a short walk to Downtown on Tap participating bars and establishments. Metered spaces are free after 6 p.m. Park at the Jax Center Garage after 5 p.m. (corner of Bay St. and Ocean St.) and the Courthouse West Lot after 6 p.m. (behind the courthouse off Liberty St. and Coastline Dr.)

Holiday Window Displays

November 23, 2009 - January 2, 2010 | Downtown Jacksonville

CALLING ALL ARTISTS!
Showcase your talents as part of the holiday window displays! Deadline is November 2.
Holiday Window Display Form (pdf)

Join the City of Jacksonville as holiday-themed windows will be unveiled to make downtown Jacksonville a magical place to explore, shop and dine this holiday season.
Official website or call (904) 630-3690 for more information.

Holiday Tree Lighting & Fireworks

November 27, 2009 | The Jacksonville Landing

Celebrate the holiday season with the annual Tree Lighting ceremony, holiday entertainment and fireworks over the St. Johns River to culminate the beginning of the season.
ť Call (904) 353-1188

Jacksonville Light Parade

November 28, 2009 | Downtown Riverfront

Whether you're a seafarer or landlubber, you are sure to be dazzled by the annual Jacksonville Light Parade. The Light Parade has become a tradition for thousands of families and out-of-town guests who eagerly await the transformation of the St. Johns River. Boats of every shape and size are adorned with decorations that captivate senses and stimulate imaginations. This enchanted night is topped off by a fireworks display like no other, featuring the signature bridge "waterfalls." Admission is free.
ť Official Website or call (904) 630-3690

Mayor's Holiday Festival for Senior Citizens

December 5, 2009 | Prime Osborn Convention Center

Celebrate the holidays in style! Join the City of Jacksonville for dancing, dining and entertainment at the Mayor's Holiday Festival.
ť Call (904) 630-3690

Holiday Movies

December 11 & 18 2009 | Side of the CSX building

Bring your chairs, blankets and picnics for holiday movies shown on the side of the CSX building.
ť Call (904) 630-3690 for more information.

New Year's Eve Celebration Fireworks

December 31, 2009 | Downtown Jacksonville

Ring in the New Year in downtown Jacksonville. Featuring live entertainment, Gator Bowl team pep rallies and more! Fireworks at midnight culminate the celebration as the skies come alive to welcome 2010.
ť Call (904) 630-3690 for more information.

World of Nations Celebration
April 29-31, 2010 | Metropolitan Park

Join your friends and neighbors on an exciting trip around the globe at the 18th annual World of Nations Celebration! Journey with us as we celebrate the rich cultural traditions and unique heritage of people from around the world. As you travel through the World of Nations, experience the cuisine, artistry and customs from lands near and far. Admission is $5 (One Day Ticket to the World) and $7 (Two Day pass). Children ages 3 and under are free. The Friday night International Party is also free. Grab your passport and join us for a great trip!
Official Website or call (904) 630-3690.

Useful Links
Vending Information
Special Events Permitting Information
Metropolitan Park Information

Stay Updated!
Get up-to-date information on activities happening in downtown Jacksonville.

Hart Bridge Repainting and Structural Repair Project

The bridge will be open for Jacksonville Jaguar football game traffic.
Full bridge closings will occur Monday through Thursday nights from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. and on weekends from 7 p.m. on Friday until 6 a.m. on Monday. Single lane closings will occur during non-rush hour times. Northbound lane closings can occur between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. and southbound lane closings can occur between 9 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. This work should be finished in early 2011.

Click here for updated information including alternative routes to the downtown area.

Volunteer Opportunities
Don't sit on the sidelines- volunteer for upcoming city events! Call (904) 630-3690 or e-mail events@coj.net for more information.

Event Hotline
Call the automated hotline (904) 630-3686 for information on upcoming events sponsored and produced by the City of Jacksonville.

Disabled Services
If you are disabled and need an accommodation to attend a special event, call the Disabled Services Division (904) 630-4940 (Voice), (904) 630-4933 (TDD).

City of Jacksonville
Office of Special Events

117 W. Duval St., Suite 280
Jacksonville, Florida 32202
Phone: (904) 630-3690
Fax: (904) 630-3690
E-mail: events@coj.net