Jacksonville continues to grow as one of Florida’s most vibrant destinations for live music, arts, culture, and waterfront experiences. From nationally recognized festivals to exciting downtown redevelopment projects, there’s plenty happening around the city this season.
Whether you’re planning a weekend outing or looking for reasons to explore Downtown Jacksonville more often, here are a few upcoming events and local developments worth keeping on your radar.
Jacksonville Jazz Fest Returns Memorial Day Weekend
One of the city’s most iconic annual traditions is back. The Jacksonville Jazz Festival returns May 21–24, 2026, bringing four days of live music, entertainment, and energy to Downtown Jacksonville. The festival remains one of the largest free jazz festivals in the country and attracts visitors from across the Southeast every year. (jacksonville.gov (opens in a new tab))
This year’s lineup features nationally recognized artists performing throughout the downtown riverfront district, with concerts taking place at Ford on Bay and additional performances happening throughout the city center. Festival attendees can also enjoy food vendors, local art, nightlife, and waterfront views throughout the weekend.
The festivities begin with the Jacksonville Jazz Piano Competition at the historic Florida Theatre before transitioning into multiple days of outdoor performances and community events. New additions this year include “Jazz in the Plaza,” highlighting local Jacksonville musicians and artists at Riverfront Plaza.
Riverfront Plaza Continues Transforming Downtown Jacksonville
Jacksonville’s downtown riverfront is undergoing a major transformation, and Riverfront Plaza is quickly becoming one of the city’s most anticipated public spaces.
Located on the former site of the Jacksonville Landing, the first phase of Riverfront Plaza recently opened, featuring expansive green space, an event lawn, playground areas, improved Riverwalk access, and gathering spaces overlooking the St. Johns River. (dia.jacksonville.gov (opens in a new tab))
Now, attention is turning toward Phase 2 of the project, which is expected to begin construction in 2026. Plans include:
- A new beer garden
- Rain gardens and additional landscaping
- Civic stairs and public art installations
- A new bike and pedestrian connection to the Main Street Bridge
- Expanded riverfront access and gathering areas
City officials anticipate Phase 2 being completed by late 2027 or early 2028 as Jacksonville continues investing heavily in downtown parks and riverfront improvements. (jacksonville.gov (opens in a new tab))
The continued redevelopment of the riverfront is part of a larger vision to create a more walkable, connected, and entertainment-focused downtown experience for residents and visitors alike.
Historic Stanton School Restoration Moves Forward
Jacksonville is also continuing efforts to preserve and celebrate its rich cultural history.
This week, the Jacksonville City Council reauthorized a $143,710 grant to support restoration work on the historic former Stanton School building in LaVilla. Stanton holds deep historical significance as Florida’s first school for African American students and served as the workplace of James Weldon Johnson, who wrote the legendary song “Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing” while serving as principal there.
Plans for the historic property include transforming the building into a cultural center featuring:
- A museum
- Educational spaces
- Entertainment venues
- Community gathering areas
City leaders have expressed interest in securing additional funding to help accelerate construction and restoration efforts for the century-old landmark. (dia.jacksonville.gov (opens in a new tab))
The project represents another important investment in Jacksonville’s arts, history, and cultural preservation efforts as the city continues revitalizing downtown neighborhoods like LaVilla.
Explore Jacksonville This Season
From world-class music festivals to transformative downtown development projects, Jacksonville continues to evolve into one of Florida’s most exciting cities for culture, entertainment, and waterfront living.
At Becovic Management Group, we love helping residents stay connected to everything happening around the city. Whether you’re exploring Downtown Jacksonville, attending local festivals, or discovering new destinations, there’s never been a more exciting time to experience life in Jacksonville.
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