Upcoming Events
Holiday Window Displays
November 23, 2009 - January 2, 2010
Downtown Jacksonville
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.
» 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.
» Official Website or call (904) 630-3690
Downtown On Tap
Every Thursday in November
5-8 p.m. | Downtown Jacksonville
Stop by your favorite downtown bars for drink specials, giveaways and more!
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.)
First Wednesday Art Walk Holiday Festivities
December 2, 2009
Snyder Memorial Church and surrounding area
Celebrate the holidays during Art Walk with a free feature presentation of Elf starring Will Ferrell in the historic Snyder Memorial Church at 6:30 p.m. Also, enjoy free holiday carriage rides around downtown Jacksonville during Art Walk hours.
See the Elf trailer
» Call (904) 630-3690 for more information.
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.
» Official Website or call (904) 630-3690
Great Joy: A Soulful Holiday Celebration
December 4, 2009 | The Florida Theatre
The Jacksonville Mass Choir will be making a joyful noise at its annual holiday concert on Friday, December 4 at 7:30 p.m at the Florida Theatre. JMAC will perform a range of holiday standards in the gospel, jazz and rhythm & blues traditions. From "Joy to the World" to the Temptations' "Silent Night," the Jacksonville Mass Choir plans to rock the house during this evening of non-stop holiday favorites. Tickets are $10.
» Call (904) 630-3690 for more information.
Ultimate TEALgate Party
December 17, 2009 | 4 p.m.
Outside Jacksonville Municipal Stadium
Celebrate the Jacksonville Jaguars as they play their last home game against the Indianapolis Colts with live entertainment in the streets and surrounding parking lots, interactive activities and more!
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.
» Call (904) 630-3690 for more information.
World of Nations Celebration
April 29-May 2, 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 Website
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