7 Annual Events in Jacksonville You Don't Want to Miss
Published on MARCH 22, 2023 by ROB HASTINGS
CATEGORIES: Things to Do in Jacksonville
If you're looking for exciting and unforgettable events in Jacksonville, Florida, you're in luck. Our city has some of the best annual events in the country.
From holiday lights to thrilling football games, Jacksonville has so much fun to offer.
In this article, we'll explore the top annual events in and around Jacksonville that you simply can't miss.
1. St. Augustine Nights of Lights
Kicking off the holiday season, the St. Augustine Nights of Lights is a stunning event that illuminates the nation's oldest city.
With over three million lights throughout the historic district, this display is a must-see for visitors and locals alike. National Geographic Traveler ranked St. Augustine’s Night of Lights as one of the "10 Best Holiday Lighting Displays in the World."
One of the best ways to see St. Augustine's Nights of Lights is on a tour from Old Town Trolley Tours. Be sure get your free magical viewing glasses, sugar cookies, and warm apple cider on the tour for the full experience!
Take a walk or a trolley ride to explore the beautiful streets and enjoy live music, holiday treats, and even a visit from Santa Claus.
Next Upcoming Event Dates: November 18, 2023 to January 31, 2024
2. Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance
If you're a car enthusiast, you won't want to miss the Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance.
Founded in 1996, this annual event is widely considered the premiere car event in the United States and is held on beautiful Amelia Island at the Ritz Carlton Resort. It’s regularly attended each year by over 20,000 people.
The show features two main events: Cars and Caffeine and the Concours d’Elegance.
Cars and Caffeine is a show on Saturday of the event that curates 350 cars from around the country. From 1963 Split Window Corvettes to rare Shelby Mach 1s to the newest McLarens, this event sports cars for every enthusiast’s taste.
The Concours d’Elegance is held on Sunday of the event and includes approximately 250 of the world's most stunning and rare cars.
The Cars and Caffeine Car Show on Saturday is one of the best "regular guy or gal" car shows you'll ever see. It's held right on the lush fairways of the golf course at the Ritz Carlton Resort in Amelia Island.
From classic to contemporary, you'll be in awe of the vehicles on display. The event also includes a silent auction, car parade, and seminars by automotive experts.
Next Upcoming Event Dates: February 29, 2024 to March 3, 2024
3. Blue Angels Air Show
The Blue Angels are a world-renowned aerial demonstration team and a Jacksonville tradition anchored in the city’s strong Navy community.
Alternating every year, the team performs thrilling shows at the Naval Air Station Jacksonville and at Jacksonville Beach.
The Blue Angels are the U.S. Navy's aerial demonstration team and are recognized as putting on one of the best air shows in the world. Fortunately for Jacksonville, we are on their regular schedule each year!
Watch as these talented pilots fly in formation, perform stunning maneuvers, and conduct low-level flyovers.
Next Upcoming Event Dates: October 21-22, 2023 at Jacksonville's Beaches
4. Gate River Run
The Gate River Run is an annual 15K race that attracts over 20,000 participants from around the world, including Olympians and the sport’s top athletes.
The race, which was first held in 1978, takes runners through the beautiful streets of downtown Jacksonville, across the Main Street Bridge, over the Big Green Monster (the Hart Bridge) and finishes at the TIAA Bank Field (home of the Jacksonville Jaguars).
Whether you're a seasoned runner or a beginner, this race is a great way to challenge yourself and experience the city of Jacksonville.
Next Upcoming Event Dates: TBD
5. Atlantic Beach Dancing in the Streets
Since 1986, this free outdoor concert series takes place in the town center of Atlantic Beach and features live music, food trucks, and fun for the whole family.
Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy the sounds of local bands and musicians while dancing under the stars.
This event is a great way to experience the vibrant and laid-back beach culture of Atlantic Beach.
Next Upcoming Event Dates: May 20, 2023
6. The Players Championship at TPC Sawgrass
The Players Championship is a prestigious golf tournament that takes place annually at world-renowned TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach.
This tournament features the world's best golfers on the TPC’s Stadium Course which showcases a stunning backdrop of water and greenery, especially around the famous island green at the course’s 17th hole.
Known as golf's "fifth major," The Players Championship, held in Ponte Vedra Beach on TPC Sawgrass' Stadium Course, attracts golf's most elite competitors.
In addition to the golf, the event includes food, drinks, and family activities.
A popular event is Military Appreciation Night Concert which is held on Tuesday of the tournament week. Past performers have included Kelsea Ballerini, Riley Green, and Luke Combs.
Next Upcoming Event Dates: March 12-17, 2024
7. Georgia Florida Football
The Georgia Florida football game, also known as the "World's Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party," is a beloved tradition in Jacksonville.
Held at the TIAA Bank Field, this game brings together fans from both teams for a day of tailgating, camaraderie, and exciting football.
Whether you're a fan of the Bulldogs or the Gators or simply want to enjoy an amazing college football atmosphere, this game is a must-see.
Next Upcoming Event Dates: October 28, 2023
Bottom Line
From holiday lights to thrilling sports events, Jacksonville has something for everyone. Whether you're a resident, just visiting our amazing city, or considering moving to Jacksonville, be sure to check out these annual events for unforgettable experiences.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Rob Hastings is a top-producing real estate agent in Jacksonville, Florida and helps buyers, sellers, and investors of homes and property throughout all of Northeast Florida. He works with his wife Nancy as a husband-and wife-team with Keller Williams Realty Atlantic Partners. When not helping his clients navigate the real estate process, Rob enjoys working on old Corvettes and playing music (guitar and piano). A U.S. Naval Academy graduate and former Naval Officer, he also loves boating and simply spending time on the water.