Jacksonville Magazine, October 2025

Publisher’s Note

Earlier this month, the state’s division of Arts and Culture released the latest in its series of online musical tours that highlight Florida’s heritage in song and performers. The fourth in the series is called Florida’s Backroad Country, a journey deep into our place in a style of music that shares the words and sounds of influential musicians such as Slim Whitman, Mel Tillis and Billy Dean.

The state’s first three Music Tours were titled “Florida’s Got Blues,” “iLa Sonada Florida!” and “Florida Rocks.” The idea behind them is that they serve as educational, travel and media websites that promote the state’s role in music history and Florida as a destination for music lovers. Each interactive guide takes listeners through eras and across the state to where each style of music originated and where it can be heard today.

The tours span from the early days of the Delta Blues in the Panhandle, to the folk and bluegrass of the north-central Suwanee heartland, and down into the Latin-Caribbean sounds of south Florida. Each collection features a historical overview including significant locations and musicians, as well as places one can visit. Granted, when many think of country music, locations such as Nashville, Laredo and Bakersfield readily spring to mind—not Jacksonville, Tampa or Miami. But don’t discount the Sunshine State’s role in the genre and its massive popularity across the South and points far beyond. “Country music resulted from the blending

of traditions from different cultures, including early European immigrants, black Americans, and indigenous Americans—it is quintessentially American,” said musician Matthew Sabatella at a Florida Folklife Artist-in-Residence concert in late September.

Today, that blending results in the “no shirt, no shoes, no problem” vibe of Kenny Chesney as he sings about cold beer and rednecks along the Florida-Alabama shore, or the many country collaborations of the late, great Jimmy Buffett. So, whether you can’t name a single song by Pam Tillis or Cassadee Pope, Jake Owen or Hoyt Axton, know that Florida ranks high on the charts for musical talent and inspiration.

Fact is, the state and our slice of Northeast Florida embrace the arts in many forms—as evidenced by our annual compilation of upcoming concerts, gallery openings, musicals, dramas and more featured in the issue you now hold. Autumn is the season when the region’s creative community truly springs to life, with hundreds of artistic happenings packing the calendar and filling museums, theaters and schools from Amelia Island to St. Augustine. So, get out there and enjoy it. There’s a new favorite song, play or painting waiting to be discovered. u

Publisher / Editor-in-Chief

DIVORCE FOR WOMEN, BY WOMEN

The team at Florida Women’s Law Group is committed to ensuring women are informed, prepared, and supported to assert their rights, whether it’s regarding nancial support or timesharing arrangements. Through over 40 years of combined legal experience, we’ve recognized common patterns where women, understandably a ected by fear and uncertainty, may sometimes hesitate to begin the process. Once they do take that rst step, there’s a natural inclination to seek a quick resolution, sometimes overlooking their own well-being in the process. Through a combination of empathetic support and robust legal advocacy, we guide our clients through the divorce and family law process, safeguarding their interests and future. Our commitment extends beyond legal representation, aiming to foster relationships and support women not only in winning their legal battles but also winning at life. Contact us at Florida Women’s Law Group today.

Florida Women’s Law Group is the only divorce and family law firm for women in Northeast Florida. Practice Areas:

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As the rest of the country bundles up for winter and as the warm waters of the Gulf cool, hundreds of gentle West Indian manatees return to the constant 72-degree springs of Crystal River and Homosassa.

Known as the “Manatee Capital of the World,” this is the only U.S. destination offering in-water encounters with the marine mammals under the guidance of eco-tour operators.

— Photo by Florida's Nature Coast

CALLING ALL PHOTOGRAPHERS: Do you have an image of Florida you’d like to share with our readers?

Submit your photo and the story behind it to mail@jacksonvillemag.com for the opportunity to be featured on this page.

SMALL TALK

Newsworthy Nuggets from Across Northeast Florida to Ponder on This Month

 Ironman is coming to Jax. Not the Marvel superhero, but the excruciating triathlon. The inaugural Ironman Jacksonville is scheduled for Saturday, May 16 of next year including a swim, bike and run course. Racers start with a 2.4-mile swim in the St. Johns River followed by a 112mile, two-loop bike course that takes riders from Downtown up into Nassau County. Transitioning from bike to running shoes, racers begin a 13.1-mile three-loop course through Downtown and Riverside and over the Main Street Bridge. Makes our legs tired just thinking about it. Registration for the race opened in September.

 Swoop! According to enrollment numbers, this fall saw UNF welcome the largest freshman class in the university’s history with approximately 3,170 new Ospreys landing on the Jax campus. In all, more than 17,600 stu-

dents are enrolled, coming from 41 states and eight countries. Thirty-five percent of students are the first in their families to attend college.

 In 2024, a state board recommended St. Johns County as the preferred location for a Florida Museum of Black History. The nine-member panel recommended St. Augustine because of its 450 years of continuous European occupation and that the area provides a suitable location to explore the steps taken by African Americans over the centuries. In September, the project moved one step closer to realization with the $1 million appropriation for planning and design of the museum, to be administered through the Florida Department of State.

 Do people still go to movie theaters? If they do, Jacksonville is the place to do so in Florida.

A recent survey of movie theater ticket prices found that of the top ten most populated cities in the Sunshine State, Jax was the cheapest date—with two adult tickets on a Saturday evening averaging $29.68. Tampa was a close second at $30. Coming in at most expensive is Miami, where two seats cost nearly $34. Popcorn and Junior Mints are extra.

 If you’ve watched a Jaguars game on TV this season, you have likely seen the commercial for Celsius energy drinks featuring Travis Hunter. Much of the commercial was recorded at Bishop Kenny High School, with Hunter working out on the football field and inside the new Demetree Family Athletic Training Facility. Ironically, energy/caffeine-heavy drinks such as Celsius are not permitted for students while on the BK campus during school. u

Fore Play

A novel concept in the sport of golf is opening a few miles north of Jax, in Callahan to be specific. Pine Royale promises to meld many of the things players love about the game, but without the stuffy country club atmosphere or price. The new golfing center includes a nine-hole par-3 course, driving range, mini-golf course, pro shop, bar, restaurant serving pub grub such as nachos, sandwiches, hot dogs and more. And it’s all illuminated for nighttime play as late as 10 PM. The par-3 course features synthetic grass on holes that range in distance from 61 to 213 yards. Also, plans calls a waterpark to add to the fun. u

Chew on This

What’s new and noteworthy in local Food and drink

 The “Stadium of the Future” is a few years away from completion. But much of the menu at EverBank Stadium is new for this season. Fans can indulge in a dozen new concession eats such as Brisket and Grits and Touchdown Tots with chicken tenders slathered in nacho cheese, bacon, ranch dressing and green onions. Or, try the Sack & Sizzle, a pita pocket stuffed with thinsliced steak cooked in beef tallow, shredded cheese and horseradish dijonnaise and topped with caramelized onions, lettuce and tomatoes. We’re going to need extra napkins for this one.

 Michael’s restaurant, located inside the Hyatt Hotel in Vilano Beach, hosts its next dinner in its twice-annual Rooted in Excellence series on October 24. A collaboration with the Friends of the James Beard House, the event benefits the Pie in the Sky Community Alliance, an organization that helps provide healthy food to low-income seniors in the St. Johns County. 100 seats are offered at $250 apiece.

 Speaking of special events: the fourth annual Under the Harvest Moon Gala, a Catholic Charities fundraiser, is set for November 14 at Tringali Farms. Dinner is provided by Lena

Urban Asado with music by Sidewalk 65. Plus, dancing, auctions and more. Tickets start at $175 per person.

 The construction of a new Publix grocery store Downtown was announced in August. Located at 119 W. Beaver St., the 31,000-squarefoot store will occupy a building that will also include a 15-story residential tower with some 250 apartments and parking for 400 cars. Don’t go looking for a shopping cart just yet. Construction is slated to begin in summer 2026,

 The smoke stopped rising at the three Jenkins Quality Barbecue joints, who closed their doors for good September 30, reportedly due to rising costs of food and labor, shifting consumer trends and supply

chain issues.  “After 68 years of serving our Jacksonville community, we look back, not with heaviness, but with our hearts brimming with gratitude,” read a statement on their website. “From all of us, we thank you, we appreciate your loyalty over the years, and we will miss you!” A sad day in Jax BBQ history, for sure.

 A new Italian restaurant looks to be opening in the San Marco area. In August, the Downtown Investment Authority voted in favor of a $135,000 grant to help with the build out of Tavola Trattoria, owned by Carl and Lindie Garrett. The new, 4,500-square-foot restaurant will be located in the former Reddi-Arts complex

at 1037 Hendricks Avenue, near the Southbank.

 St. Augustine’s popular Odd Birds Cocktail Lounge has a hidden room very few know about. Charlotte 33 is Odd Bird’s speakeasy, a secret tiki

bar-like space that can be reserved for small groups for intimate private events, and featuring a menu inspired by Latin flavors. Psst… It’s behind one of the bookshelves.

 For a limited time, Mellow Mushroom is serving a new menu item, Mellow Rollz. Baked in Mellow’s distinctive dough, the rolls ($9 for 4, $15 for 8) are stuffed with mozzarella, sprinkled with parmesan, and served with choice of dipping sauce including creamy pesto, garlic aioli and vodka. Available only through November 10. u

Eye of the Storm

BY TIM GILMORE

At dawn, the day before his death, Steve Shultz, chief mate on the cargo freighter SS El Faro, watched the sunrise light the horizon ablaze and recalled offhandedly to the captain the ancient adage, “Red sky at morning, sailors take warning.” Mariners have said it for thousands of years. With the longest wavelength of any visible color, red still pierces the particles of dense and distant storm clouds when no other colors make it through.

The crew’s information about the storm into which they’d soon steer directly was inconsistent. They didn’t realize that a clerical error had caused them to receive the same storm report twice. The information was 18 hours old and described a system heading north when in fact Hurricane Joaquin was slowly moving southwest. In reality, Joaquin was a nine miletall storm engine hovering over the fuel of warm waters. The captain was right when he thought the storm seemed to be “festering.”

In recent years, the 40-year-old, 791-footlong cargo ship, which made regular runs between Jacksonville and San Juan, Puerto

Rico, had fallen into disrepair. TOTE Maritime, the company that owned El Faro, regularly chose profit over safety, and Captain Michael Davidson had learned his lesson when he’d altered course to avoid the last storm system, Erika. He’d earned the displeasure of his employers by adding to fuel and port labor costs by increasing the length of the voyage by 160 miles and five hours, all while Erika fizzled. She never even became a hurricane. Davidson wouldn’t make the same mistake twice.

The El Faro Memorial beneath the Dames Point Bridge seems lonely this September morning, a week and a half before the 10th anniversary of one of the worst maritime disasters in U.S. history, the deadliest in decades. El Faro is Spanish for “the lighthouse,” and the memorial makes for odd dimensions and juxtapositions: a 10 foot-tall lighthouse standing beneath the bridge and covered in graffiti. “Jesus saves,” someone scrawled. “Shaun and Jessica,” whoever they are, superimposed their names on the memory of the disaster.

To one side extends a line of 33 memorial markers shaped like dock cleats, each with

a nameplate and a photo, affixed to a small stone, of a sailor lost in the Category 4 hurricane. Some markers are bestrewn with flowers, beads, shells and stickers. The photos look like old sports trading cards. The names blur. Here’s Chief Mate Steve Schulz, while closer to the St. Johns River is Captain Michael C. Davidson.

In Second Mate Danielle Randolph’s photo, she holds a cup of coffee and wears a New England Patriots beanie. All she’d ever wanted to do was work on ships, but toward the end of her life, 34 years old, the worsening disrepair of El Faro, the sexual harassment while trapped on a ship at sea and the decreasing chances for advancement had begun to wear her down.

Danielle got along well with most of her male colleagues, but she’d complained when a previous chief mate had exposed his genitals and at the start of this last voyage, she told another crew member that the captain had accosted her.

She didn’t like how Davidson was talking about this storm either. “He’s saying, ‘It’s nothing, it’s

nothing,” she complained to Third Mate Jeremie Riehm. “He’s trying to save face.” All the while, Davidson kept bragging about storms he’d endured.

We know what crew members said in their final 26 hours because El Faro’s “black box,” its voyage data recorder, picked up their conversations from the ship’s bridge, the main control center.

Though the ship sank on October 1, 2015, it wasn’t until August 10, 2016 that searchers recovered the recorder.

And here’s the marker for Chief Cook LaShawn Rivera, 32 years old, ever grateful to the merchant marines for saving him from Jacksonville’s streets. LaShawn had two children and a fianceé named Vanna who was eight months pregnant. His family moved from Atlanta to Jacksonville when he was a teenager. He got picked on at Raines High School and started selling drugs. He spent a year in a juvenile detention center.

Picture This

When LaShawn found out about the merchant marines, he spent every day down at the Seafarer’s International Union Hall, waiting for an opportunity. When he finally got one, he called his stepdad from London and said, “I’m never coming back.” Through the union, he took classes in cooking, tied back his dreadlocks and made for himself and his young family a life.

Danielle Randolph called El Faro a “rust bucket.” When the news came through to the bridge that Joaquin had become a Category 3 hurricane, with 130 mph winds, she shouted, “Hold on to your ass!” She said she was surprised Davidson wasn’t up here. Frank Hamm, a 49 year old “able seaman” of Jacksonville, predicted, “He’ll play hero tomorrow.” Joaquin would soon be a Category 4. The waves were 40 feet high.

Later, in El Faro’s final moments, the recorder captured the captain shouting, “Bow is down, bow is down!” before ordering everyone into the ship’s outmoded open-top lifeboats. “Ev-

“The history of Jacksonville is so long and complex, it’s difficult to tell it accurately,” says local writer Shelton Hull in the documentary A Short History of Jacksonville, recently released as a collaboration between Visit Jacksonville, Kennetic Productions and the Jacksonville Film & Television Office. The 16-minute documentary features a mix of historical photos, animated graphics and interviews that highlight significant people and moments in Northeast Florida’s past that shaped the city in which we live in today. In addition to Hull, other local voices featured in the film include CEO of the Jacksonville History Center Dr. Alan Bliss, author and American Beach historian Marsha Dean Phelts, and past president of Norman Studios Devan Stuart Lesley. The film, cobbled together much like a Ken Burns documentary with black-and-white photos, background music and interview subjects sharing detailed stories about important happenings, can be viewed at Visit Jacksonville’s website. u

erybody get off the ship!” he shouted. Hamm couldn’t move. “Follow me,” Davidson ordered, but Hamm said, “I can’t! My feet are slipping! I’m going down!” The blackbox recorded his last words: “I’m a goner!”

Families of the 33 sailors, including five Polish repair workers on board because the ship’s owners wouldn’t lose profits by allowing downtime at port, all filed lawsuits against TOTE Maritime, which settled most of them. In 2016, TOTE approached Jacksonville City Council about installing a lighthouse statue and refurbishing bathrooms at the neglected city park beneath the Dames Point Bridge.

NTSB investigations faulted Captain Davidson, TOTE Maritime and the U.S. Coast Guard. El Faro lies about 40 miles from Crooked Island, Bahamas, three miles beneath the surface of the ocean, deeper than the Titanic None of the bodies of the sailors were ever found. Once, back home in Maine, Danielle Randolph told her mother, “If I ever die at sea, that’s where I want to be.” u

Presently on display at MOCA Jacksonville, The Armory South: The 1924 Jacksonville Woman’s Club Exhibition Rediscovered reassembles works from a nearly forgotten but seminal show mounted in the spring of 1924 by the Woman’s Club of Jacksonville and the newly founded Jacksonville Fine Arts Society (now MOCA). The original exhibition included nearly 200 works by more than 80 cutting-edge Modernist artists such as Thomas Hart Benton, Pablo Picasso and Diego Rivera. To mark the museum’s 100-year anniversary, as well as the significance of the exhibitions, a special, in-depth catalog ($50) has been created and will be released this fall. Guest curator and author Dr. P. Scott Brown launches the book with a presentation in the museum’s theater on October 29, 7 PM. A book signing follows the presentation. The Armory South exhibition closes November 23.  u

Number$ Game

What’s been selling lately in northeast florida. And for how much.

e Northeast Florida’s seasoned citizens will soon have a new community in which to reside. Del Webb Flagler Beach has announced plans to begin development of its 55+ active adult community offering 223 homes during initial phase. At buildout, the gated 505-acre property will contain approximately 650 homes ranging in size from 1,300 to 2,800 square feet, as well as five models and ten floor plans. While nearly half the land will be dedicated to wetland preservation, residents can expect a variety of outdoor recreation amenities such as a pool, pickle ball and bocce courts, and a community garden. “With decades of experience creating communities where active adults can truly thrive, we’re excited to deliver a place surrounded by nature, resort-style amenities, and best of coastal Florida living,” says Justin Cook, Pulte Group’s Northeast Florida division president.  u

Tropical Paradise

For many Jaxsons, a visit to Orlando— central Florida’s international tourist mecca—is anything but peaceful. What, with the traffic on I-4, scads of character-free franchise restaurants, and long lines and high ticket prices at the city’s numerous theme parks… why would a North Floridian holiday there? We can think of one, threeword answer. Four Seasons Orlando

Of course, the rooms at the AAA Five Diamond resort are gorgeously appointed and the service outstanding. However, where the Four Seasons Orlando really shines is the property’s overall setting. The hotel tower rises high above a meticulously maintained tropical landscape awash in flowering trees, palms and hedges. The higher one goes in the hotel, the better the views—which include evening fireworks displays presented

at several nearby parks. If your room has a balcony, sit back and enjoy the nightly show. The park-view deluxe suites are 1,000-square-feet of luxury sleeping up to two adults and two kids, as well as a furnished terrace.

The five-acre pool complex is amazing, an aquatic dream for any child (or adult) who wants to splash, float or swim. There’s the adult-only Oasis pool and a huge family pool with an infinity-edge that appears to spill into a picturesque lake. Plus, there are water slides, splash zones and waterfalls along arguably the most serene lazy river in Florida. Pool tables, ping-pong, foosball, basketball hoops and other games are ready and waiting, and there’s no need to dry off before playing. Dive right in and have fun.

There is a two-court tennis center complete with four pickle ball courts and on-site pro offering private lessons. The resort’s Tom Fazion-designed Tranquilo Golf Course and its accompanying 16-acre practice facility are among the most renowned in Orlando. And the property is a Certified Audubon Sanctuary, an amazing designation for an 18-hole track so close to Space Mountain.

High up on the 17th floor is the contemporary Spanish steakhouse Capa, the Four Season’s Michelin-starred restaurant. It’s a sleek space with an open kitchen, wood-burning grill, acclaimed wine list and specialties such as paprika-marinated octopus, Iberico ham, and bone-in cowboy rib-eye steaks. Down on the ground floor is the more family friendly Ravello, serving house-made pastas and wood-fired pizzas nightly, as well as hue-

vos rancheros and acai bowls for breakfast. Speaking of the family: a stop into Lickety Split for gelato, pastries and coffee is a must.

The resort embraces its Disney neighbors but does so subtly and without gift shops in the lobby overflowing with mouse ears and Stitch plush dolls. Instead, near the front desk is a Disney planning station, a onestop hub where questions are answered, transport to the Magic Kingdom scheduled, tickets purchased and even guided VIP tours of the theme parks can be arranged

(including early entry). There’s also a character breakfast at Ravello twice each week where guests can interact with Goofy and pals between bites of waffles and strawberries. Other than that, most of the “hidden” Mickeys are just that—they are they, but you might never notice. And that’s fine. You can visit the parks on your next trip to O-Town. u — Maggie

Look for more of Jax Maggie's travels in upcoming editions of Jacksonville Magazine.

Inn Good Company

The Gasparilla Inn, a historic luxury island retreat at Boca Grande that has welcomed guests with timeless charm and Old Florida elegance since 1913, has reopened after restoring damaged areas and completing beach renourishment following the 2024 hurricane season. Bikes and golf carts are the preferred way to explore the tony west Florida island dotted with chic boutiques, restaurants, galleries and enormous banyan trees. The warm waters and white sandy beaches brush up against the Gasparilla Golf Club, designed by TPC Sawgrass creator Pete Dye. Just a short stroll from the Inn, The Pink Elephant—known by locals as “The Pink”—has been serving up fresh Florida flavors and cocktails for over 60 years. The best views of the blue Gulf waters can be had at the inn’s private Beach Club, serving lunch daily. Fall rates range from $470 for a standard guest room to $3,600 for a four-bedroom beach cottage. u

SEA YOU THERE

Also weathering the storms of 2024 was the South Seas resort on Captive Island. The 330-acre property offers guests more than two miles of unspoiled Gulf Coast shoreline, and only recently reopened 107 guest rooms with more on the way. The resort’s new Beach House with views of the water in a breezy indoor-outdoor setting is slated to open this fall. Also coming soon is a family waterpark with six slides, water cannons and a lazy river, as well as the adults-only Cove oasis. Kayaks, paddle boards, and pontoon boats are available to rent to explore the island’s mangroves and gentle Gulf waters. A complimentary trolly service is offered to whisk guests from one end of the island to the other. Florida resident rates for October start at $249 per night. u

Friends With Benefits

BY KAYLA BIRD

If you’re like me, and the only marathons you have ever participated in are movie marathons with your entire body slumped under a pile of blankets, then the thought of joining a run club that participates in 5Ks for fun is probably intimidating.

For Neptune Run Crew, runs aren’t meant to be an empty form of exercise. They’re a way for people to connect with one another. “I started coming because I didn't have any friends that I knew personally from school that were into running, and running by yourself week after week just gets kind of boring,” Samantha Toledo, a long-time member of the crew, says. “I came by myself and was intimidated at first. But then you learn everybody’s so nice, so friendly. They're open to talk to you. They don't care how fast or how slow you run.”

What started out as a group of friends wanting to share their hobby has turned into a collective of people choosing to show up and meet new people. The first run kicked off on December 9, 2022, with 10 friends. Today, the group numbers some 200 weekly for Friday runs.

The four directors of NRC—Andrew Mogg, Keri Hussey, Kaitlyn Cawley Mogg, and Daniel Riano—have fostered the growth of the group with the mission for friends to run with friends. Rather than running through the streets of Neptune Beach and packing it up upon completion, NRC provides coffee for each runner upon crossing the finish line to help foster communication and connection. Despite the large increase in numbers, postrun refreshments have been an unwavering staple for the Crew.

I showed up to a recent Friday morning 5K and was initially very anxious. The group that gathered in front of Lemon Bar’s mural was comprised of young, athletic runners, each poised in running gear. But this feeling of anxiety is something most people experience before starting out. Finn Carlin, a regular member of the Crew recounts his hesitation in the beginning. “I remember my first time going, I was super intimidated. I didn't want to go because I was afraid I wasn't going to fit into a certain group or be able to mesh into a group or meet anybody. And

now whenever I can't go, I'm super upset because I can't see the friends that I've made since I’ve started coming.”

Eventually, I noticed that the crowd was more than just medal-winning athletes; they were parents getting their small children situated in their strollers, dogs yipping up at their owners with excitement, and friendly faces lighting up to greet their friends. There was no pressure to become an Olympic athlete as everyone around me were normal people looking to start off their day with a runner’s high.

Following a quick introduction and announcements, Mogg asked everyone to introduce themselves to the people around them, a small gesture of inclusivity and friendship from the jump. Then it began. The mob of runners took off down First Street, navigating through the empty streets of the Atlantic Beach town center, and winding into the neighborhoods of Atlantic Beach. I tried to keep a steady pace but soon felt like Simba fighting to avoid the path of stampeding wildebeests. Once I hung back and caught my

breath, it was clear that I was with my people. With groups in front of me and behind alternating between walking and jogging, I knew that I wasn’t alone in what I perceived to be the section of runners who found joy in running but couldn’t sustain it for more than 30 seconds at a time.

One of the most inclusive elements for NRC is the course they choose to take. The path is essentially a figure 8, with the starting point, midway point, and finish line all centered around Southern Grounds. This means that runners with less stamina can head to the coffee shop at any point of the run and still be able to catch up with more experienced runners after. People like me who crawled out of bed begrudgingly still had the opportunity to make genuine connections with runners who had gotten up an hour earlier to get in extra miles.

It's no coincidence that the nonprofit has chosen Southern Grounds as the watering hole for their post-run coffee. “From the start, we’ve partnered with local businesses that

share our values. Some collaborations are tied to special events, like exclusive merch with LaFavre or post-run treats with Whit’s, while others have grown into weekly traditions,” says Mogg. “Partnerships like these are personal, rooted in mutual respect, and built on a shared love for our town.”

With more 13,000 followers on Instagram and up to 1,000 participants at some of their special events, the club has blossomed into something special. “As the crew has grown, it’s expanded into something much bigger, bringing together people of all ages and backgrounds. Some have found their closest friends here, while others have found running partners or workout buddies. Either way, the relationships built through NRC are what keep people coming back,” says Mogg.

It didn’t matter if I had to wake up at the ungodly hour of 5:30 AM, I was choosing to start the day surrounded by new friends and working towards a hobby that made me feel accomplished upon completing—even with

Happy Anniversary

The St. Johns Riverkeeper, the grassroots organization that advocates for the betterment of Northeast Florida’s waterways and natural spaces, is celebrating its 25th anniversary. To mark the occasion, the group is inviting the community to take part in “25 for the St. Johns,” a challenge designed to combine fitness, fun and fundraising for the health of the river. So, through November 3, participants pledge to travel 25 (or more) miles by paddling, walking, hiking or biking while raising funds to protect and restore the St. Johns.

The overall goal is to raise $10,000 to support the Riverkeeper’s mission. And they are offering prizes! Raise $250 and receive a Riverkeeper hat or shirt. $500 gets you both. $1,000 earns a ticket to organization’s annual oyster roast soiree.

“Every mile brings awareness, and every pledge fuels protection,” says St. Johns Riverkeeper Lisa Rinaman. “This is a unique way for people to enjoy the river while making a tangible impact. Whether you’re walking, padding or biking, this is an opportunity to connect with the river and join us ensuring it’s protected for the next 25 years.” Register at the Riverkeeper’s website. u

no air left in my lungs. Milling around the courtyard of Southern Grounds, I saw people celebrating their runs with swigs of water, cold brews, and even mimosas. Every group I walked up to was friendly and welcoming, willing to let someone who hadn’t been at any prior event infiltrate their ranks.

“Our advice for anyone starting out is to keep things simple: run at a pace that feels comfortable, give yourself time to build up gradually, and don’t underestimate how much the group can make running enjoyable. Most importantly, remember that everyone’s journey looks different,” says Mogg. “For some, it’s about training for a race. For others, it’s about movement, routine, or friendship. All are welcome here.”

With weekly Friday 5Ks and bi-weekly long runs on Saturdays for either 2 or 8 miles, there are plenty of events throughout the month for you to dust off your sneakers and make some new friends. Just don’t forget to stick around for coffee afterwards. u

MIND OVER MATTER

Before surgery, doctors typically order evaluations to identify any health problems that may need to be addressed before the procedure. This usually includes medical histories, laboratory tests and checking blood pressure, heart rate and temperature. However, there’s one vital sign that is often not on the list, but is crucial for older adults: screening for mental and cognitive health.

“There is an overwhelming amount of evidence that pre-surgical brain health predicts complications after surgery,” say Catherine Price, Ph.D., a professor in the University of Florida College of Public Health and the UF College of Medicine Department of Anesthesiology. “For example, individuals with weaknesses in memory and attention and people with neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson’s, have higher rates of confusion and memory complications that affect their recovery from surgery.”

Research by Price and others has shown that a patient’s cognitive, memory and mental health status before surgery is an excellent indicator of whether they will experience cognitive problems such as delirium, a common complications in older adults after surgery. Delirium, characterized by confusion, disorientation and impaired awareness, can lead to longer recovery times, increased dementia risk, higher mortality rates and health care costs. Of the thousands of patients over age 65 who received pre-surgical screening, 23% were found to have issues with their cognitive performance, yet only 2% of the patients screened had a previous note in their medical charts indicating they had a cognitive impairment.

“It’s so important to know when an individual has cognitive complications because that changes their care path,” Price says. “From medication to monitoring, the patient’s care is more complex for the perioperative team and family.” u

First, Taylor Swift gets engaged. Now, she makes an appearance at Potter’s Wax Museum in St. Augustine, the oldest such museum in the country. In September, Potter’s unveiled its likeness of Swift as part of its celebrity collection. What do you think, Swifties… a lifelike representation?

From FOX News host to podcast titan, Megyn Kelly is no stranger to strong opinions and political discourse. She speaks in Jax with fellow conservative talkers Ben Shapiro, Andrew Klavan and Michael Knowles November 6, $42-$232.

This was something of a lost season for WNBA superstar Caitlin Clark. But injuries will not keep her from appearing in Jax on October 29 as part of the Florida Forum speaker series, hosted by the Women’s Board of Wolfson Children’s Hospital.

THIRTY-FIVE YEARS AGO, A CHRISTMAS CLASSIC DEBUTED ON THE SILVER SCREEN. THIS YEAR, HOME ALONE WILL BE SHOWN ON THE BIG SCREEN AT THE FLORIDA THEATER, ON DECEMBER 3, AND KEVIN McCALLISTER HIMSELF, A.K.A. MACAULEY CULKIN, WILL BE PRESENT TO ENJOY THE MOVIE AND TAKE AUDIENCE QUESTIONS.

Remember the Success Kid meme? Believe it or not, Sammy Griner turned 19 in September. He was just 11 months old when his mom Laney took the viral picture of him eating sand at Jax Beach.

Prior to his stand-up comedy show at VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena on September 6, Adam Sandler showed up unannounced at Jacksonville University to play a few games of pickup basketball inside the campus gym. Later that night, he and buddies Kevin James, Rob Schneider, Kevin Nealon and Vanilla Ice dined at River & Post. Great bunch of guys, they tell us.

Do Your Best

Living Your Best Life at Every Stage

BY S. GARY SNODGRASS

As summer has faded and autumn envelopes Northeast Florida, it's a natural time to pause, take stock, and renew one’s commitment to live fully and intentionally.

The change of seasons invites reflection— on where we’ve been, where we’re headed, and how we might embrace the next chapter with greater purpose. Living your best life isn’t reserved for a specific age or milestone—it’s a mindset that can flourish in every season of life. In fact, do this…

In Your 20s, Explore Boldly. This is the time to explore your identity, take chances, and embrace discovery. Mistakes aren't failures, they’re stepping stones to clarity.

In Your 30s, Build Intentionally. Focus shifts to career growth, family, and deeper relationships. Lay the foundation with purpose, knowing that the pace you choose is yours to define.

In Your 40s, Reassess and Recalibrate. With experience comes perspective. This is often a time to reassess what matters most and adjust with newfound wisdom.

In Your 50s, Lead and Let Go. You may find yourself leading others—at work or home—while also releasing what no longer serves you. It's a season of influence and reflection.

In Your 60s, Reinvent and Reignite. Many use this decade to reinvent themselves. Retirement is no longer an ending—it’s a starting line for passion projects, purpose-driven work, and new adventures.

In Your 70s, Share and Shine. Your wisdom is a gift. This is a time to share your story, mentor others, and discover joy in new forms—art, nature, or learning.

In Your 80s, Give and Guide. This is a rich time to pass on lessons and stories. The joy

of legacy becomes more potent than the rush of ambition.

In Your 90s and Beyond, Celebrate Resilience. Reaching this stage is a testament to endurance, spirit, faith, and perspective. It’s time to savor simplicity, reflect with pride, and be honored for a life well lived.

At Every Transition, Embrace Change. Each new decade brings transition, some expected, some surprising. Embracing change with curiosity allows growth to continue no matter the season.

At Every Age, Be Present. No matter what your age, today is the only day you’re guaranteed. Living your best life always begins with being fully present in this moment. Living your best life isn’t about age. It’s about attitude, gratitude, and purpose. Just as the seasons shift, so too can we—growing, letting go, and leaning into what matters most—with courage, gratitude, and clarity. u

For avid snow skiers, filmmaker Warren Miller is an iconic figure, one who for decades captured scenes of deep powder and incredible downhill runs across the globe. In his landmark movie Sno-Ciety , Miller’s cameras followed expert skiers from Mammoth Mountain in California to Tuckerman Ravine in New Hampshire, filming them shredding back bowls and carving powder in stunning alpine locations. Sno-Ciety has never been shown on the big screen in Jax—that is until now. Two showings of the adrenaline-charged film are set for Monday, November 10 (5:30 and 8:30 PM), at the Alhambra Theatre. “As an avid skier raised in New England, I grew up watching Warren Miller films to kick off the ski season,” says movie presenter Mark Berman. “There are a lot of skiers and snow boarders in Jacksonville. We actually have one of the most active ski clubs in the country. Sno-ciety is a rush, and I think our skiers, snowboarders and even skaters and surfers will have a blast.” Tickets are $30 and while no dinner will be served this night at the Alhambra, the bar will be open for libations. u

The baseball season is winding down but one local park built to host America’s Pastime keeps getting bigger and better thanks to more than $1.5 million in improvements. The Field of Dreams Baseball grounds in St. Johns, a disability-friendly ballpark, is welcoming a bevy of upgrades including an expanded parking lot, new concessions building and ADA-accessible restrooms. The Field of Dreams Baseball League is voluntary organization that provides a safe facility where kids of all ages with mental or physical disabilities can catch, throw and hit for free and be an active part of a thriving athletic association. “When we started this league in 2011, we never envisioned what we would build here,” says FOD League co-founder George Vancore. “The [St. Johns County] commissioners have really stepped up and realized what we have built out here and what we’re going to sustain over time.” Registration for the winter/spring 2026 season opens later this year. u

Welcome to one of the last remaining waterfront lots to build your dream home directly on the Intracoastal Waterway in the exclusive, gated enclave of River Landing at Nocatee. This expansive homesite spans .77 acres and o ers an impressive 100 feet of water frontage, providing panoramic views and endless design potential for a luxury custom estate. Tucked away in one of Nocatee’s most prestigious neighborhoods, this prime lot combines privacy, natural beauty, and access to world-class amenities. River Landing is the only neighborhood in Nocatee with direct access to the Intracoastal.

the to-do list

NORTHEAST FLORIDA’S ENTERTAINMENT & CULTURAL AGENDA

FESTIVAL

Sea & Sky Air Show

 The skies and waterways of the First Coast are transformed into the backdrop of the most exciting aerial displays and military demonstrations including an overthe-ocean performance by the U.S. Navy’s Blue Angels October 25 and 26, 11 AM-5 PM, Jacksonville Beach. The event is free but VIP seats are offered featuring shaded tents, restrooms and other amenities, $75.

SPORT

Jacksonville Jaguars

 The Jacksonville Jaguars NFL campaign continues with a very light home schedule this fall. The team does play the Los Angeles Rams at “home” on October 19— with home being Wembley Stadium in London. The Jags return to the River City and EverBank Stadium on November 16, 1 PM, to play another team from L.A., the Los Angeles Chargers. Fans will have to wait until December

7 for the next home game, versus the Indianapolis Colts, $52-$139.

KIDSTUFF Spooktacular

 The 38th annual Halloween celebration offers trick-ortreat stations, carnival games, crafts, DJs, photo ops and for the bravest little ones, the Lost Swamp haunted walk. Taking place October 16-19, 23-26 and 30-31, 5:30-9:30 PM, at the Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens, $25-$40.

MUSIC Civic Orchestra of Jacksonville



The orchestra and conductor Dr. Marguerite Richardson kick off the organization’s tenth anniversary season with two concerts with the theme of Triumph & Flourish October 18, 4 PM, at St. Paul’s by the Sea Episcopal Church, and October 19, 4 PM, at St. Johns Cathedral, free.

DANCE

Circo del Pantano

 An innovative modern dance

circus blends raw physicality of contemporary dance with the daring spectacle of aerial performance. Staged by the Jacksonville Dance Theatre, the audience can enjoy a multi-sensory experience filled with striking visuals and surreal theatricality, October 18, 4 PM, at the Wilson Center for the Arts at FSCJ, $20-$30.

MUSIC

Brandon Lake

 Join Lake with special guests Franni Cash and Pat Barrett for the King of Hearts Tour. Hitting 48 cities into the spring of 2026, the tour will feature many of your favorite songs like “Gratitude,” “Graves Into Gardens” and “Count Em,” as well as new songs from his newly announced album, King of Hearts October 18, 7 PM, VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena, $60-$239.

LECTURE

Debunking the 16th-Century

Debry Images

 Sixteenth-century engraver Theodor de Bry’s landmark illustrations of the Timucuan Indians are questionable. Find out why at a presentation by UNF professors Denise Bossy and Keith Ashley, co-authors of a workin-progress, a book and digital humanities site that examines the deep histories of the Mocamas, Guales, and Yamasses of Northeast Florida, October 23, 5:30 PM, at Old St. Andrew’s Church, 317 A. Philip Randolph Blvd.

ART Andrew Wyeth at Kuerner Farm

 Over more than 60 years, Kuerner Farm in Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania inspired nearly 1,000 artworks in a variety of genres and media by one of the most celebrated artists in American history, Andrew Wyeth. His fondness for the farm, which stands a short walk from the artist’s studio, served as constant inspiration over his long and productive career. “The Eye of the Earth” on display at the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens October 24-February 14.

MUSIC

Earth, Wind & Fire Tribute

 You know the songs… “Shining Star,” “Boogie Wonderland,” “September” and many others. From the funky grooves, to the sophisticated and complex lyrics and orchestrations, the Earth, Wind and Fire Tribute Band continues to keep the music alive so that the songs will live on forever. At least until October 24, 8 PM, at the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, $44-$85.

LECTURE

Sparks, Nitrate and One Big Boom

 Mitch Hemann from the Ritz Theatre and Museum presents a program (The Story of Norman Studios and Jacksonville’s Legacy on the Silver Screen) that explores Jacksonville’s short-lived history as a movie-making center and the story of an unlikely man from Middleburg who became a pioneering filmmaker October 24, 10 AM, at the First Coast Cultural Center, Ponte Vedra Beach.

MUSIC

Bewitched Broadway

 Step into the shadows of Broadway’s most spellbinding shows, from the enchanting melodies of Wicked to the magical allure of The Phantom of the Opera and the cult-classic energy of The Rocky Horror Picture Show, this concert casts a musical spell. With hits from Jekyll & Hyde, Cats and more, the Jacksonville Symphony and guest vocalists conjure up two hauntingly unforgettable nights October 24 and 25, 7:30 PM, at the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, $32-$92.

MUSIC

Tedeschi Trucks Band

 The Grammy Awardwinning band led by the dynamic duo of Susan Tedeschi and Derek Trucks, is set to hit the road on an expansive tour across the country including a stop in the Oldest City. With over 40 shows, ‘Live In 25’ promises an exciting blend of soulful blues, rock, and improvisational brilliance that has cemented First Coast locals Tedeschi and Trucks as premier musicians, October 24 and 25, 7 PM, at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre, $66-$168.

FESTIVAL

St. Benedict

Blues Festival

 This year’s lineup of musicians includes the Ken Jensen Blues Ensemble, Duffy Bishop Band, J.W. Gilmore & the Blues Authority and many more at a fundraising festival featuring barbecue, gumbo, beer, wine and other refreshments October 24-26 at Saint Benedict the Moor Catholic Church, 86 MLK Ave., St. Augustine, $7. Continued on page 35

Seen

“Above and Beyond” was the theme of the evenings of September 12 and 13, when the Jacksonville Symphony presented a pair of free community concerts led by assistant conductor Nathaniel Efthimiou. The concerts were sneak peeks into some of the Classical and Pops favorites that would be played as part of the upcoming 76th season of the Symphony. u

COMING SOON:

• The Child Cancer Fund hosts the Royal Palm Village Wine & Tapas Wine Festival on November 8, 2-5 PM at the Beaches restaurant/wine boutique. Guests will enjoy samples from more than 200 wines, a keepsake wine glass, music, draught beer from local brewers and more, all while helping celebrate Royal Palm’s 14th anniversary.

• The fifth annual Autism in Action Clay Shoot is set for November 6 at Jacksonville Clay Target Sports. Hosted by the Jacksonville School for Autism, the event is open to all levels and following the tournament, participants are asked to stick around for the awards ceremony and dinner.

• Sulzbacher celebrates 30 years of helping end homelessness in Northeast Florida in ’90s Style at the organization’s annual Transformations fundraiser October 30, 6-9 PM, at the Glass Factory. Dress code: if Halloween Eve inspires you to don your best 1990s attire, go for it—like, totally. Otherwise come as you are for an evening of old school house party vibes.

The Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville played host for the 48th annual Arts Awards, honoring a number of local artists and cultural advocates September 5 at the Florida Blue Conference Center. Featuring remarks from Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan, the evening’s theme was Fire & Ice and nearly 400 patrons gathered to celebrate First Coast creativity while enjoying dinner, music and dancing. u

FILM

The Rocky Horror Picture Show

 The ultimate Halloween movie, Rocky Horror is now a cult classic, preserved by the Library of Congress. The 1975 musical is a tribute to the science fiction “B Movies” of the 1940s and ’50s. Its amazing cast included then young actors Tim Curry as mad scientist Dr. Frank N. Furter, Susan Sarandon and Barry Bostwick as our heroine and hero, Meat Loaf, Jonathan Adams, and Charles Gray. Bring your costumes, bring your props (no food, please), and come early for the live music October 25, 8 PM, at the Florida Theatre, $30.

SPORT

Horses & Heroes Rodeo

 A benefit rodeo honoring all those who served and featuring bronc riding, calf roping, team breakaway roping, bull riding and barrel racing October 25 and 26, 7 PM, at the Jacksonville Equestrian Center, $15-$80.

FESTIVAL

Fall Festival of Art

 Head to the country for two days celebrating the season with a family friendly gathering on Main Street in Hastings. The rural St. Johns town hosts its autumn celebration with music, arts and crafts vendors, and locally grown food October 24 and 25, free.

FESTIVAL

Murray Hill-O-Ween

 More than just a Halloween celebration, this neighborhood tradition features activities for all ages including a pumpkin patch, a kids’ zone with inflatables, games, local vendors and the night’s highlight, the Murray Hill-O-Ween Parade October 25, 5-9 PM, along Edgewood Avenue, free.

MUSIC

Peter Frampton

 Frampton’s “Let’s Do It Again!” tour celebrates his Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction and features a mix of his classic hits and newer material. The show includes performances of songs from his iconic “Frampton Comes

Alive!” album, as well as newer songs and covers, October 29, 7 PM, at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre, $67-$208.

COMEDY

Bert Kreischer: Permission to Party

 Why does Bert perform without a shirt? Ask Google and this explanation may appear: The reason is as simple as the explanation for why Kreischer refuses to wear boxer shorts. (There’s another image to burn into your brain.) “The problem is I’m tactile,” he told Jimmy Kimmel. “I’m more comfortable with no shirt, no underwear.” Enough said. Kreischer performs October 30, 7 PM, VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena, $57-$169.

SPORT

Florida-Georgia 2025

 The annual rivalry is an iconic national event that brings the two states together to celebrate college football like no other city in the country. A time-honored tradition since 1933, it has become a showcase for one of the rivalries that make college football great. With 55,000 square feet of video screens inside the stadium, there’s no such thing as a bad seat. The games has had its fair share of star players, from Florida legends Danny Wuerffel, Fred Taylor and Tim Tebow to Georgia greats Herschel Walker, Matthew Stafford and Scott Woerner. Not to mention some of the greatest coaches to walk the sideline, including Vince Dooley and Steve Spurrier. Game kicks off November 1, 3:30 PM, EverBank Stadium. Tailgate City opens days earlier.

MUSIC

Appalachian Spring

 Conductor Case Scaglione leads the Jacksonville Symphony in a program of celebration and inspiration. Copland’s famous Appalachian Spring Suite evokes the simplicity and grandeur of American pioneer life, while Lincoln Portrait sets Abraham Lincoln’s stirring words to music, honoring liberty and unity—perfect for America’s 250th anniversary. November 7 and 8, 7:30 PM, at the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, $33-$99.

SPORT

Jacksonville Icemen

 The pucks drop this fall as the Jax Icemen return to the rink for a home games beginning November 7 versus the Atlanta Gladiators at VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena. More hockey action continues at their home rink November 8, 13, 15, 22, 26 and 29. Most games start at 7 PM; November 13 is 10:30 AM, $40-$107.

FESTIVAL

PorchFEST

 More than 20 musical acts are on the roster for this annual celebration of good music and historic neighborhoods. Plus, food trucks, craft beer, arts vendors and community spirit aplenty. Bring a lawn chair or picnic blanket and settle in to enjoy bands such as Big Sky, Kenzie’s Place, Sauce Pocket, PurpleSpace and others November 8, noon to 8 PM, east of Main Street in Springfield, free.

FESTIVAL

Vets, Pets & Music Fest

 This one-of-a-kind free festival hosted by Foundation of Community Hospice & Pallative Care brings together

musicians, furry friends and supporters of the organization’s mission of enriching the lives of hospice patients and their families November 9, 1-4 PM, at the Green Turtle Tavern in Fernandina Beach.

COMEDY

Gabriel Iglesias

 Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias is one of the world’s most successful stand-up comedians and one of the highest-grossing touring comedians of all time. He is one of the most-watched comedians on YouTube, with over 2 billion views and more than 34 million fans across social media. No doubt, some will be at his show November 14, 8 PM, at VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena, $51-$161.

SPORT

2025 International Open

 As a premier billiards tournament, the International Open draws top players from around the globe to compete for cash prizes in 9-Ball, 10-Ball, Straight Pool and One-Pocket November 14-23 at the Renaissance Resort at World Golf Village. Reserved seating and general admission tickets range from $25 to $50.

MUSIC

Jake Shimabukura

 Over the past two decades, ukulele sensation Jake Shimabukuro has proven there isn’t a style of music he can’t play. While versatility is impressive for any musician, what’s remarkable about Shimabukuro’s transcendent skill is how he explores his seemingly limitless musical vocabulary—whether it’s jazz, rock, blues, bluegrass, folk or even classical—on perhaps the unlikeliest of instruments: the ukulele. He plays November 14, 7:30 PM, at the WJCT Soundstage, $60-$92.

SHOPPING

A1A Super Scenic Garage Sale

 Bargain hunters, start your engines! The 17th annual A1A Super Scenic Garage Sale, a 150-mile shopping extravaganza along some of the prettiest stretches of roads in Northeast Florida returns November 15, 8 AM-2 AM. The sale, including vendors selling everything from vintage clothing to old golf clubs, stretches across four counties from Fernandina Beach south to Ponce Inlet, free.

COMEDY

George Janko



Janko rose to fame as a Vine star but later joined YouTube and is currently one of the most famous YouTubers with millions of viewers. He has worked with famous YouTubers like Logan Paul and Jake Paul. He takes the stage in Jax November 15, 7 PM, at the Florida Theatre, $35-$50.

MUSIC America in Concert: 250 Years of Music & Majesty

 This Jacksonville Symphony production brings together the power of the full Symphony and Chorus, along with a star guest vocalist, color guard, drum line and other surprises to pay tribute to the spirit and resilience of our nation. From the nostalgic beauty of the “Battle Hymn of the Republic” to the power of “The Stars and Stripes Forever,” the concert will soar through beloved patriotic songs, evoking the triumph, sacrifice and pride of our nation’s journey November 16, 3 PM, Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, $49-$120.

SPORT

Jacksonville Hoops Showdown

 The defending National Champion Florida Gators and Miami Hurricanes will renew their long-standing rivalry series this season when the programs face off at the Jacksonville Hoops Showdown November 16, 8:30 PM, at VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena.

THEATER Clue

 Murder and blackmail are on the menu when six mysterious guests assemble at Boddy Manor for a night they’ll never forget. Was it Mrs. Peacock in the study with the knife? Or was it Colonel Mustard in the library with the wrench? Based on the 1985 movie and inspired by the classic Hasbro board game, Clue is a whodunit that will leave patrons dying of laughter and keep them guessing until the final twist. Presented by FSCJ Artist Series for eight shows November 18-23 at the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, $44-$126.

ART

The Wiener Werkstatte

 This fall, explore the world of visionary design at the Lightner Museum in St. Augustine with an exhibition dedicated to the Wiener Werkstatte (Vienna Workshop): Art, Luxury, and Beauty in Modern Vienna, a groundbreaking Austrian design movement of the early 20th century. The exhibition highlights the breadth of the firm’s work across a wide range of media such as furniture, ceramics, jewelry, textiles and graphics. Opening November 19.

MUSIC

Blackberry Smoke

 Throughout their career, Blackberry Smoke have embodied Georgia’s rich musical legacy, honoring the people, places and sounds of their home state. Their latest album, Be Right Here draws inspiration from Southern rock, blues-leaning classic rock and rootsy vintage country and is full of vivid and relatable characters that ensure the songs often resemble rich short stories. Hear them November 19, 8 PM, at the Florida Theatre, $50-$305.

MUSIC

Ritz Chamber Players

 Jacksonville’s premier chamber ensemble dedicated to celebrating diversity and amplifying the work of African-American musicians, the Ritz Chamber Players present “Rising from the Roots,” the first of four concerts at the Friday Musical concert hall November 20, 7:30 PM, 645 Oak St., $10-$20.

COMEDY

Katt Williams

 With a career spanning over 20 years, Katt Williams has earned a worldwide reputation as one of today’s top entertainers, having developed a career seeded with thousands of sold-out arenas, an expansive list of starring roles on the small screen and memorable performances in box office hits. See him November 21, 8 PM, at VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena, $81-$331.

FILM

Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas in Concert

 Based on an original poem and characters created by

Tim Burton, the film was first released in 1993 as The Nightmare Before Christmas. Directed by Henry Selick (James and the Giant Peach), the film follows the earnest but-misguided adventures of Jack Skellington, Halloween Town’s beloved Pumpkin King. Bored with the same old scare-andscream routine of Halloween, Jack longs to try something new. It doesn’t go as planned. Two screenings presented with the Jacksonville Symphony November 21 and 22, 7 PM,

Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, $39-$103.

SPORT

The Jacksonville Classic

 The Jacksonville Classic, an early-season college basketball tournament, is set to return to town and tip off November 23-25. A field of ten Division 1 teams including William & Mary, Georgia Southern and Youngstown State, gather for three days of games at Edward Waters University, $32-$61.

MARKETPLACE

Holiday Shoppes

 The First Coast Cultural Center hosts a weekend holiday marketplace with vendors selling everything from Christmas decor and jewelry to woodwork and sweet treats November 22 and 23, 11 AM-4 PM, in Ponte Vedra Beach. Private preview party is Friday, 5:30-7:30 PM.

FILM

An Evening With Peter Billingsley

 Billingsley began his acting career at the age of three, in some of the ‘70s most memorable television commercials and became a pop-culture icon when he played Ralphie in A Christmas Story . This show will include a full screening of the movie as well as a lively conversation and Q&A with Peter November 28, 7:30 PM, at the Florida Theatre, $50-$120.

MUSIC

Lindsey Stirling

 From YouTuber to international TV personality and

award-winning musician, Lindsey Stirling is an all around entertainer with fans of all ages.  As a singer/songwriter, dancer and electric violinist, Stirling’s gold-selling, self-titled 2012 debut album ignited her quiet rise to the forefront of pop culture. Stirling plays November 29, 6:30 and 8 PM, Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, $59-$500.

ART

MOCA Winter Market

 As part of Shop Small Saturday, the Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville hosts a celebration of local creators who gather to share and sell a variety of unique goods November 29, 11 AM-4 PM, at the Downtown museum, free.

MUSIC

Great Joy! Ritz Voices

 Just in time for the holiday season, the Ritz Theatre and Museum stages a performance by its own chorus November 29, 8 PM, at the Ritz Theatre, $40. u

Riding The Rails

PHOTOS BY JARED ALEXANDER

The railroads have been an important part of Jacksonville since the 1800s. Even when little more than a tiny town along the banks of the St. Johns River, the outpost was a vital hub for transporting people and goods into and out of Florida. A couple miles northwest of Downtown, the rumble of engines and cars is still heard daily at sprawling rail yards operated by CSX, Norfolk Southern, Florida East Coast and even an Amtrak passenger station.

The earliest days of railroads in the region saw mules pulling cars over wooden tracks. Also, it wasn’t uncommon to see groups of men standing on cars using polls to push them along, similar to moving a boat through shallow water. Iron tracks came next and, though sturdier than wood, they weren’t without their problems—namely the heat of summer often caused them to buckle and bend. Other obstacles frequently caused delays for passengers, too. Fast growing weeds, wayward cows and flooding could make the tracks impassable, as did large alligators lying across the railroad bed.

Among the first commercial rail ventures in Northeast Florida was one led by Jacksonville founder Isaiah Hart and an attempt to link the town with Gulf Coast settlements. The first leg would run from Jax to Alligator Town, today known as Lake City. The project had to be abandoned, partially because of attacks by Seminole Indians. Later attempts on the same line were halted because of a Yellow Fever epidemic and the Civil War.

Wood-burning engines eventually replaced the muledrawn trains. Next, coal-fired steam locomotives got cars rolling, only to be replaced by oil and then diesel-electric engines. In the early 1900s, West Jacksonville rail yards and maintenance shops employed more than 1,000 workers. Operations were so large a dedicated streetcar line offered nearly 90 round-trips daily between Downtown and the rail hubs.

Amtrak opened its local station in 1974, replacing the Jacksonville Union Terminal ( now the Prime Osborn Convention Center) near Downtown. When opened, the station received eight north/south passenger trains daily, four in each direction. Today, Amtrak’s Silver Star route travels daily between New York City and Miami with many stops along the East Coast including Philadelphia, Washington D.C., Savannah, Jacksonville and Orlando. u

Cultural ArtsCALENDAR

’Tis the season for more than 250 concerts, comedy shows, theatrical productions, gallery openings, fine art expositions, special events and more—all taking place right here in Northeast Florida!

There is perhaps no better way to welcome the arrival of fall and the coming holiday season than to support the region’s many cultural and artistic institutions. From historic theaters to art museums to grassroots choral groups, the First Coast is blessed to showcase an abundance of highly talented musicians, artists and performers during an annual calendar that kicks into high gear each autumn. On the following pages, Jacksonville Magazine highlights nearly 300 opportunities to experience an amazing collection of concerts, plays, comedy acts and more. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get this show on the road.

GRACIOUSLY SPONSORED BY:

ALHAMBRA THEATRE & DINING

12000 Beach Blvd. | 904-641-1212

AlhambraJax.com

BEACHES FINE ARTS SERIES

1150 5th St. N. Jacksonville Beach | 904-270-1771 beachesfinearts.org

COMMUNITY NUTCRACKER

4446-1A Hendricks Ave., Suite 364 | 904-355-2787 JaxNutcracker.org

CUMMER MUSEUM OF ART & GARDENS 829 Riverside Ave. | 904-356-6867 cummermuseum.org

EMILY CARGILL + DANCERS

683 Selva Lakes Circle, Atlantic Beach | 904-652-3398

EmilyCargillandDancers.org

EPISCOPAL SCHOOL OF JACKSONVILLE 4455 Atlantic Blvd., 904-396-5751 esj.org

FIRST COAST OPERA

P.O Box 2223, St. Augustine, 904-417-5555 firstcoastopera.com

FLORIDA THEATRE

128 E. Forsyth St., 904-355-2787 FloridaTheatre.com

FRIENDS OF JAMES WELDON JOHNSON PARK

214 N. Hogan St., Suite 114, 904-515-5098 jamesweldonjohnsonpark.org

FSCJ ARTIST SERIES

501 W. State St., #109, 904-632-5000 fscjartistseries.org

JACKSONVILLE CHILDREN’S CHORUS 62 N. Main St., 904-353-1639 jaxchildrenschorus.org

JACKSONVILLE SYMPHONY

300 Water St., #200, 904-354-5547 jaxsymphony.org

LIGHTNER MUSEUM

75 King St., St. Augustine, 904-824-2874 lightnermuseum.org

PONTE VEDRA CONCERT HALL

1050 A1A N., Ponte Vedra Beach, 904-209-0399 PVConcertHall.com

ST. AUGUSTINE AMPHITHEATRE

1340C A1A S., St. Augustine, 904-209-0367 theamp.com

ST. AUGUSTINE ART ASSOCIATION

22 Marine St., St. Augustine, 904-824-2310 staaa.org

THRASHER-HORNE CENTER

2900 Thrasher-Horne Ave., Orange Park, 904-276-6815 thcenter.org

THINK TIFTON TOURISM ThinkTifton.com

VISIT COLUMBUS GEORGIA VisitColumbusGA.com

The Mystery of Edwin Drood

October 9-November 16

Based on the unfinished works of Charles Dickens, this hilarious musical whodunit was the first Broadway musical with multiple endings allowing the audience to choose the murderer!

Rocky Horror Show Live Select Dates In October

Join us for our annual showing of the cult classic! Sweethearts Brad and Janet are stuck with a flat tire during a storm. They discover the eerie mansion of Dr. Frank-N-Furter, a transvestite scientist. As their innocence is lost, Brad and Janet meet a houseful of wild characters.

Elf the Musical

November 20-December 24

Buddy, a young orphan and one of Santa elves is raised unaware that he is actually a human. With Santa’s permission, he journeys to New York to find his real father (who is on the naughty list). Buddy is determined to win over his new family and help New York remember the true meaning of Christmas.

Menopause The Musical

January 8-February 15, 2026

The longest running scripted musical in Las Vegas history, this parody set to the music of the 1960s, ‘70s and ‘80s will have you dancing in your seats. Join four women as they make you laugh hard enough to forget about your hot flashes.

Damn Yankees

February 26-April 5, 2026

Joe Boyd’s favorite baseball team isn’t winning. He makes a deal with a mysterious man to become young again and help the Yankees win the pennant. Enter the seductive Lola to throw a curveball into Joe’s chances of winning! Includes the iconic songs, Whatever Lola Wants and (You Gotta Have) Heart.

Morning After Grace

April 9-May 10, 2026

This heartfelt Baby Boomer adult comedy explores love, loss, aging and medical marijuana. The story follows Angus

and Abigail, whose chance encounter sparks the possibility of new love. With quirky neighbor Ollie adding surprises, this Florida retirement community tale offers a charming look at second chances and new beginnings.

1776

May 14– June 14, 2026

This musical is based on the events surrounding the drafting and the signing of the Declaration of Independence, if only our founding fathers can agree to do it! Join the funny, insightful and compelling journey to pass the resolution that frees America from British tyranny.

Shrek the Musical

June 18-August 9, 2026

Join Shrek, Donkey, and Princess Fiona in the DreamWorks classic brought to life on stage. When Lord Farquaad threatens Shrek’s swamp, Shrek and Donkey embark on a fairy tale adventure to rescue Fiona from the dragon’s keep. A family favorite for kids from 4 to 94.

Saturday Night Fever

August 20-September 27, 2026

Dust off your platform shoes and white polyester suit for this ’70s throwback musical. Based on the 1977 hit film, this musical showcases songs like Disco Inferno, Staying Alive, Boogie Shoes and How Deep Is Your Love.

Meet Me In St. Louis

October 1-November 8, 2026

Follow the Smith family from the summer of 1903 to the fall of 1904 as they eagerly await the coming of the World’s Fair. This heartwarming view of early American family life includes songs The Boy Next Door, The Trolly Song and Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas.

Christmas Carole

November 19-December 24, 2026

Based on Charles Dickens’ classic, this Alhambra favorite follows Ebenezer Scrooge on his extraordinary journey. With beloved characters like Marley, Fred, and Tiny Tim, this timeless musical brings literature to life and delights audiences of all ages.

BEACHES FINE ARTS SERIES

Camerata

October 17

Nordica Octet

In its first North American tour, the Swedish ensemble is known for its dynamic energy and shared musical energy. Nominated for three Grammy Awards, the octet consists of principal players from the Camerata Nordica Orchestra and performs standing up, often from memory.

Cultural Crossroad: Dvorak in America

November 9

Ciompi String Quartet: R. Carlos Nakai, flute; Kenneth Kellogg, baritone; Will Clipman, percussion; Pamela FreundStriplen, narrator This program explores how Native American melodies and uplifting African American spirituals influenced the music of beloved Czech composer Antonín Dvořák. “This was one of the absolute best performances I have ever seen,” says Andrea A. Lunsford, Kronos Quartet Board Immediate Past Chair.

Amarcord

December 5

Founded in 1992 by former members of St Thomas’s Boys Choir in Leipzig, Amarcord has since become one of the world’s leading vocal ensembles. The a cappella quintet will perform “An Amarcord Christmas,” with holiday music from around the world.“Exquisite, a musically dazzling union of intelligent emotion, glittering esprit and supple elegance,” says Schwäbische Zeitung.

Colin MacKnight, organ

January 11, 2026

Named a “rising star” and one of the top“20 under 30” organists by The Diapason by American Guild of Organists, Juilliard graduate MacKnight will perform classical to contemporary works.

Avi Avital and Viano String Quartet

February 13, 2026

Viano String Quartet returns to BFAS with famed mandolin artist Avi Avital in a first-

time collaboration. Winner of the Banff International String Quartet Competition in 2019, Viano has never entered a major competition without capturing a top prize. Avital is the major driving force behind the reinvigoration of the mandolin repertory and the first mandolin soloist to be nominated for a classical Grammy.

New York Voices with UNF Jazz Ensemble 1

March 5, 2026

BFAS is thrilled to collaborate with UNF’s Great American Jazz Series to bring this exciting vocal ensemble to the series in their final touring season. “The big band arrangements, raw energy and excitement of New York Voices Live propels this elite group to another level. Of course, that’s not surprising when you combine four superb and talented vocalists with a world-class ensemble, the result should be, and is in this case, a sizzling vocal and instrumental experience,” says All About Jazz.

Goitse

March 22, 2026

The award-winning Goitse is the new generation of traditional Irish ensembles, performing age-old tunes along with their own compositions. “Sprightly instrumentals with exciting and unexpected twists topped off with winsome vocals,” says fRoots Magazine

Evren Ozel

April 24

Winner of the 2025 Cliburn International Piano Competition’s Bronze Medal and recipient of a 2023 Avery Fisher Career Grant, 2022 Salon de Virtuosi Career Grant, and Ambassador Prize Winner of the Concert Artists Guild’s 2021 Victor Elmaleh Competition, 26 year-old piano virtuoso Ozel performs with spontaneity and joy. Recent performances include the Cleveland Orchestra and the Jacksonville Symphony.

Performing since 1992, Community Nutcracker has evolved into a treasured holiday tradition in Northeast Florida. Over 200 local performers are involved to produce an artistic masterpiece that embodies the act of giving during the holidays, while bringing the community together in a whimsical, imaginative Christmas celebration of elegant dance and storytelling.

The story of the beloved ballet is timeless: It is Christmas Eve in the late nineteenth century at the Von Stahlbaum home. Excitement runs high as last minute preparations are made. Grandparents and guests begin to arrive to celebrate the

holiday with Clara, Fritz and their parents. Arriving late in the midst of the celebration is Herr Drosselmeyer, Clara's mysterious godfather. He entertains everyone with magic tricks and mechanical dolls. Clara begs to have one of the dolls for her very own, but Drosselmeyer denies her request. Instead, he presents her with a wooden nutcracker soldier. Fritz feels slighted and becomes angry. He grabs the nutcracker from Clara and in the struggle, the nutcracker is broken. A magical, musical evening ensues.

Three performances: December 12, 7:30 PM; December 13, 1 PM and 7:30 PM, at the Florida Theatre.

CUMMER MUSEUM OF ART & GARDENS

A Special Bequest: Works

from the Helen M. and Edward W. Lane, Jr. Collection

Through January 8

The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens is honored to announce the gift of 18 works of art from the estate of longtime museum supporters and community philanthropists Helen M. and Edward W. Lane, Jr.

Garden Market

October 18

Join us for a delightful day in the gardens! Browse a curated selection of plants from local growers and discover unique handmade goods from talented local makers – all set against the beautiful backdrop of our historic gardens. A perfect fall outing for garden lovers, gift hunters, and anyone who enjoys the charm of outdoor markets. 10 AM-4 PM.

Ghoulish Gallery & Garden Night

October 21

This Halloween, experience the Cummer like never before. Dare to discover the museum’s spine-tingling secrets as you encounter friendly GHosts (Gallery Hosts) dressed as artworks from our collection and offering trunk-or-treat style prizes. Come in your creative costume and enjoy a family friendly drop-in art-making activity. 5-8 PM

Andrew Wyeth at Kuerner Farm: The Eye of the Earth

October 24-February 14, 2026

Andrew Wyeth at Kuerner Farm: The Eye of the Earth brings together over 40 works by Wyeth including some of the artist’s most iconic masterpieces from Kuerner Farm as well as exciting works drawn from Andrew and Betsy Wyeth’s private collection, including works that have never been on public display.

Calida Rawles: Away with the Tides

October 24-March 1, 2026

Calida Rawles envisions water as a space for Black healing and reimagines the African American community beyond the stories we already know as a part of the United States’ collective history. Merging hyperrealism, poetic abstraction, and the cultural and historical symbolisms of water, Rawles creates unique portraits of Black bodies submerged in and interacting with bright and mysterious bodies of water.

Ecologies of Color: Indigo Dye Workshop

October 26 and November 2

Explore the history, culture, and process of indigo dyeing with artist Elsie Lopez. In this three-part workshop, learn to build dye vats and create with indigo, connecting with the themes from the exhibition, Calida Rawles: Away with the Tides. Matetials Included, 12:30-3:30 PM

Yoga for All! with Soluna Yoga + Spa

November 2 and December 7

Unwind and rejuvenate amidst the beauty

of the Cummer Gardens. Yoga for All! With Soluna Yoga + Spa welcomes all ages and skill levels for a mindful movement experience, 11 AM-noon.

The Art of Portrait Drawing with Artist William McMahan

November 2, December 7, January 4, February 1, March 1

Spend a relaxing afternoon immersed in the art of portrait drawing with artist William McMahan. Whether you’re a budding artist or looking to refine your skills, this extended workshop offers a deep dive into technique and style under McMahan’s expert guidance, 12:30-3:30 PM.

Creative Kids Drop-In

November 4, 18, December 2, 16, January 6, 13, February 10, 24, March 10, 24

Children will explore the Museum’s galleries or gardens, engage with unique artworks and spaces, then express their creativity with hands-on projects in the studio, 4-5 PM

Multi-Generational Make & Take: Water Scenes—Slow-Stitched Quilting, with Jacksonville Modern Quilt Guild

November 4, 5 to 7:30 PM

Victoria Wyeth: Unveiling Andrew Wyeth’s World

November 5

Join Victoria Wyeth, acclaimed speaker, writer, teacher, and only grandchild of Andrew Wyeth, for one of two unforgettable experiences celebrating one of America’s most iconic painters and the exhibition, Andrew Wyeth at Kuerner Farm: The Eye of the Earth, 1-7 PM.

Boat Tours with St. Johns Riverkeeper

November 8 & November 13

Set sail on a St. Johns Riverkeeper boat tour that explores Jacksonville’s evolving connection to its waterways, blending environmental insights with reflections on the exhibition, Calida Rawles: Away with the Tides, 1-2 PM.

Botanical Wreath Workshop

November 18

Join us for an exclusive botanical experience with Mary Mantey, Doolittle Family Director of Gardens & Horticulture, and discover the art of creating stunning seasonal wreaths using natural materials, 6-8 PM

Fall Garden Concert

November 15

Get ready for an enchanting evening under the stars at our annual Fall Garden Concert. Enjoy an electrifying blend of rock ’n’ roll, soul, funk, and indie blues in the gardens with Honey Hounds. Bring your own blanket or folding chairs and join us for lively tunes in a stunning setting, 5-9 PM.

CUMMER MUSEUM OF ART & GARDENS

Sensory-Friendly Sunday

November 16

Come for a sensory-friendly experience for people with sensory sensitivities or differing cognitive abilities. Explore the Museum at your own pace and connect with others in a supportive, friendly, and enriching environment. You’re welcome to stay and enjoy the Museum for the remainder of our open hours.

Art & Architecture

November 20

Enjoy a unique mid-morning talk with renowned Jacksonville-based architect Richard Skinner. There will light bites and an engaging presentation as Richard offers a personal retrospective into his remarkable 30-year practice. Highlights from his new book, Going Home–Life, Family & Architecture, will include fascinating stories of his family history in Jacksonville, 10-11:30 AM.

Champagne & Shopping

December 4 and 5

Shop, sip, and support at the Cummer’s signature holiday event. Find special trunk shows, enjoy exclusive offers, and support the programs and mission of the museum with the proceeds from your purchases, 11 AM-7 PM.

Painting Place: Wyeth’s Landscape Style with Artist Paul Ladnier

December 16

Professor Emeritus Paul Ladnier hosts an evening exploring the landscape painting

techniques of Andrew Wyeth. Through an informal talk, conversation, and live artmaking demonstration, Ladnier will share insights into Wyeth’s distinctive approach to place, mood, and people, 6:30-7:30 PM.

Vacation Week Workshop: Snowy Scenes Painting for Kids

December 23

Children will explore the snowy farm scenes from the exhibition, Andrew Wyeth at Kuerner Farm: The Eye of the Earth. Discover how quiet winter landscapes can tell powerful stories, then create your own snow-covered world with paint, 11:15 AM.

Tides of Transformation: Water, Memory, and the Shaping of Jacksonville

January 13

Registration Required Join us for a powerful evening of dialogue inspired by Calida Rawles: Away with the Tides. Local artists, historians, and community leaders will reflect on Jacksonville’s history, drawing parallels between various local narratives and Miami’s displaced Overtown community featured in the exhibition, 6:30-8 PM

Tour With a Curator

January 17

Join Brianna Sharpe, Dr. Johnnetta Betsch Cole Associate Curator, for a tour exploring the cultural migration of American artists to Europe. This unique experience examines works that represent the allure of European

cities, from the Colonial age to the 20th century, and the artistic influences that emerged from their journeys abroad, 2-3 PM.

Museums, Community, and the Work Ahead

February 10

Dr. Russ Wissinton, President of the National Civil Rights Museum, explores how cultural institutions help shape our collective future, 6:30 PM.

Drop-in Tour: Love Hurts

February 14

Not feeling the love this Valentine’s Day season? Not to worry, the Cummer has you covered. Explore the stories of love gone awry, friendships that soured, and feuds between artists throughout the galleries, 2-3 PM.

Mushrooms at the Edge

February 22

Step into the earthy world of fungi with John Ren of Samurai Fungi in this engaging workshop exploring the role of mushrooms in natural ecosystems and artistic inspiration. Drawing connections to the textures and tones of Andrew Wyeth’s depictions of rural life at Kuerner Farm, this introductory session invites participants to consider the hidden layers of the land beneath their feet.

Spring Garden Concert

March 21

Mark your calendars for an unforgettable evening at the annual Spring Garden Concert. LPT brings the heat with their high-energy salsa orchestra. Dance under the stars or unwind on a blanket in the lush gardens, surrounded by artful, blooming beauty.

Spring Bloom: Women Makers Market

March 24

Celebrate the spirit of spring and the power of women’s creativity with this day-long shopping marketplace in the gardens. In honor of Women’s History Month, the Cummer will showcase women makers, designers, and entrepreneurs. Meet, chat, and shop for unique gifts with the women who make these exceptional products, 11 AM-7 PM.

The Passenger

October 21 + 23

Taliaferro Hall / St. John's Cathedral

Emily Cargill + Dancers' immersive dance work, The Passenger, will take audience members on a nostalgic, intimate, visceral journey that captures and reflects upon the fleeting, beautiful, and sometimes forgotten moments that—knowingly and unknowingly— shape our lives. Some moments we wish we could hold onto, grasp tightly and never let go, while others we long to leave behind. As The Passenger unfolds, we come to realize that through the act of simply moving, our journey is defined not by destinations, but by

the fleeting, beautiful, and sometimes painful moments we encounter along the way.

The

4th Annual Women Arts Exchange

March 6 + 7, 2026

Players by the Sea & The Beaches Museum

The Women Arts Exchange is an evening celebrating innovative and bold women in the arts, bringing together visual art, performance art, installation art, and live music. The event happens in two halves; an Art Gallery/Sip n' Stroll followed by a live dance performance that together, make up the evening's full artistic experience.

EPISCOPAL SCHOOL OF JACKSONVILLE

Reset: Fall Gallery

Art Opening

October 30

Berg Gallery, Munnerlyn Center

Urinetown

November 13-15

Upper School Theatre, Deming Theatre

Autumn Leaves: Fall Band Concert

November 20

Deming Theatre

Shout for Joy – Winter Choral Concert

December 6

St. John’s Cathedral

Annie – Middle School Play

January 28-30, 2026

Deming Theatre

Afterglow –Dance Concert

February 19-20, 2026

Deming Theatre

Spring Band Concert

March 19, 2026

Deming Theatre

Spring Choral Concert

April 9, 2026

St. Paul’s by-the-Sea

Episcopal Church, 465 11th Ave. N., Jacksonville Beach

FIRST COAST OPERA

CARMEN

December 31, and January 2 & 4, 2026

Our grandest production in 26 years! A favorite of opera fans worldwide, Carmen features some of opera’s most well-known music and characters. FCO's most ambitious production to date, this company premiere will be led by conductor Curtis Tucker and stage director Mark Freiman. From the fiery rhythms of the "Habanera" to the unforgettable "Toreador Song," experience the music, romance, and raw emotion that have captivated audiences for generations. Lewis Auditorium at Flagler College.

THE MIKADO

March 20 & 21, 2026

"The flowers that bloom in the Spring" in March will bring Gilbert & Sullivan's topsy-turvy operetta, The Mikado. Performed as originally produced, complete with Japanese fans and kimonos, this timeless comedy features Sir William Gilbert's not-so-subtle lyrics and dialogue poking fun at England's politics, while Sir Arthur Sullivan provides one hummable tune after another. Tickets starting at $20, group rates available. Lewis Auditorium at Flagler College.

FLORIDA THEATRE

JOHNNYSWIM

October 21

JOHNNYSWIM, the dynamic duo of Abner and Amanda Ramirez, brings their signature blend of folk, pop, and blues to life through emotionally charged performances and storytelling. Their upcoming album When The War Is Over explores themes of resilience and healing, offering a powerful reflection on personal growth through adversity.

Australia's Thunder From Down Under

October 24

Australia’s Thunder from Down Under returns with their electrifying Temptation Tour 2025, delivering a high-energy, adultsonly male revue packed with sizzling dance routines, interactive entertainment, and irresistible Aussie charm. This 18+ show promises an unforgettable night of excitement and thrill for fans nationwide.

The Rocky Horror Picture Show

October 25

A cult classic and Halloween favorite, The Rocky Horror Picture Show is a 1975 musical tribute to sci-fi B-movies, featuring Tim Curry, Susan Sarandon, and Barry Bostwick. Join the fun with costumes and props (no food, please), and come early for live music before the show!

The Science of Magic | Theatreworks

October 27

Illusionist Bill Blagg’s The Science of Magic is a fun, interactive 60-minute show for grades 1–5 that reveals how magicians use scientific principles to create mind-blowing illusions. Through comedy, live experiments, and grandscale tricks, students explore the Scientific Method, reflection, magnetism, and more.

The Florida Ballet "DRACULA"

October 29

The Florida Ballet returns to the Florida Theatre with Roberto Forleo’s hauntingly beautiful Dracula, blending gothic elegance and classical ballet for a spellbinding onenight Halloween performance.

Brian Culbertson

October 31

Brian Culbertson, a genre-defying keyboardist, songwriter, and producer with 40 Billboard #1 singles, brings his eclectic style and dynamic live show to the stage, blending jazz, funk, R&B, and more. His latest work, Day Trip, showcases an artist at the peak of his creativity, inspired by jazz fusion legends and driven by a passion for musical exploration.

Strangelove | The Depeche Mode Experience

November 4

Strangelove - The DEPECHE MODE Experience delivers a pitch-perfect, career-spanning tribute concert that recreates the look, sound, and energy of classic-era Depeche Mode. With detailed staging, costume changes, and over 50 chart-topping hits, this Grammynominated lineup offers an immersive journey through the band’s iconic 40+ year legacy.

Blank Space | The Unofficial Taylor Swift Tribute

November 5

Blank Space is the ultimate Taylor Swift tribute concert, celebrating her iconic career with a night full of music, emotion, and high-energy performances. Whether you're a lifelong Swiftie or a casual fan, get ready to sing, dance, and relive the magic of Taylor’s greatest hits!

Hotel California | A Salute to the Eagles

November 6

Hotel California “A Salute to the Eagles” is the only officially authorized tribute show to perform the Eagles’ catalog, delivering a stunningly accurate and heartfelt concert experience. With world-class musicianship and iconic hits, this legendary group takes fans on a nostalgic journey down a dark desert highway—straight into the heart of classic rock.

Josh Johnson

November 7

Josh Johnson, Emmy-nominated comedian and writer for The Daily Show, brings his sharp wit and high-energy stand-up to the stage as part of his FLOWERS TOUR. With over 340 million views on YouTube and a reputation as “the funniest guy on the internet,” Johnson delivers a night of laughter, insight, and unforgettable comedy.

Stephen Wilson Jr.

November 8

Stephen Wilson Jr., a genre-blending singer/songwriter from Southern Indiana, fuses indie rock, grunge, and country into a raw, emotive sound. With critically acclaimed singles and tours alongside major acts, he’s built a global fanbase drawn to his powerful vocals, storytelling, and guitar-driven performances.

Stardew Valley | Symphony of Seasons

November 9

Symphony of Seasons is a live concert experience featuring a 35-piece orchestra performing beloved music from Stardew Valley, curated by the game’s creator, ConcernedApe. With gameplay footage and exclusive visuals on screen, fans will journey through the valley’s seasons and iconic locations in a celebration of music and storytelling.

NUTCRACKER!

Magical Christmas Ballet

November 13

Celebrate the season with NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet, a dazzling holiday experience featuring an international cast, whimsical puppetry, and stunning European-crafted costumes and sets. Share the joy with loved ones and create cherished memories as Tchaikovsky’s timeless score brings this beloved tradition to life.

Jake Shimabukuro

November 14

Ukulele sensation Jake Shimabukuro has redefined the possibilities of the instrument, blending genres like jazz, rock, blues, and classical with breathtaking skill. Often called “the Jimi Hendrix of the ukulele,” his performances showcase a limitless musical

imagination and unmatched artistry. At WJCT Soundstage.

Gabriel Rutledge

November 14

Gabriel Rutledge, winner of the Seattle International Comedy Competition and The Laughing Skull Comedy Festival, brings sharp wit and heartfelt storytelling to the stage. With millions of views on his specials A Third of the Room and Nectarine, plus TV appearances and a published memoir, he’s a seasoned comic with a unique voice and relatable humor.

An Evening with Emerson, Lake & Palmer

November 14

An Evening with Emerson, Lake & Palmer is a groundbreaking concert experience that reunites Carl Palmer with his late bandmates Keith Emerson and Greg Lake through synchronized video and live performance. Featuring footage from their iconic 1992 Royal Albert Hall show, this immersive production honors the legacy of one of progressive rock’s most influential bands with full cooperation from the Emerson and Lake estates.

George Janko

November 15

George Janko, a former Vine star turned YouTube sensation, has built a massive following through collaborations with creators like Logan and Jake Paul. He’s also an actor with appearances in shows such as Nicky, Ricky, Dicky & Dawn, Andi Mack, and NCIS: Los Angeles.

Trey Kennedy

November 16

Trey Kennedy, a social media star turned comedian, rose to fame on Vine and now entertains millions across Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. He recently wrapped a soldout comedy tour and released his self-produced special Are You For Real?, continuing to share relatable humor through his podcast and online content.

Crystal Gayle

November 18

Crystal Gayle, a country music legend known for her signature hit Don’t It Make My Brown Eyes Blue, has earned over 20 #1 hits and numerous awards throughout her career. Inducted into the Grand Ole Opry in 2017, she continues to captivate audiences with her timeless voice and celebrated legacy. At Ponte Vedra Concert Hall.

The Life & Music of George Michael

November 18

The Life and Music of George Michael is an immersive concert-style show celebrating George Michael’s iconic career, from his Wham! days to solo stardom. Featuring stunning visuals and live performances of hits like “Faith,” “Freedom,” and “Careless Whisper,” the show brings his legendary music and story to life.

FLORIDA THEATRE

Blackberry Smoke

November 19

Blackberry Smoke brings their signature blend of Southern rock, blues, and country to the stage with songs full of vivid storytelling and heartfelt characters. Touring in support of their latest album Be Right Here, the band continues to unite their loyal fanbase with powerful performances and a deep connection to Georgia’s musical roots.

RAIN

| A Beatles Christmas Tribute

November 20

RAIN – A Beatles Christmas Tribute brings the magic of the holidays and the timeless music of The Beatles together in one joyful, family friendly concert. Sing along to festive favorites and iconic hits in a nostalgic celebration perfect for fans of all ages.

Floyd Nation

November 21

Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of Pink Floyd’s Iconic Album Wish You Were Here In 1975, Pink Floyd’s legendary members—Roger Waters, David Gilmour, Rick Wright, and Nick Mason—embarked on a journey to create a follow-up to The Dark Side of the Moon at EMI Studios, now the world-famous Abbey Road Studios. Despite a tumultuous start, what emerged was Wish You Were Here—a 6x Platinum masterpiece that remains one of the greatest rock albums of all time.

Kings of the South | Featuring Paul Wall & Ying Yang Twins

November 22

Paul Wall, known for his chart-topping hit “Grillz” and collaborations with Chamillionaire, brings his Southern rap style to the stage. Joining him are the Ying Yang Twins, the iconic duo behind party anthems like “Salt Shaker” and “Wait (The Whisper Song),” for a high-energy night of hip hop nostalgia.

Michael Blaustein

November 23

Michael Blaustein is a rising star in stand-up comedy, known for viral clips with over 900 million views and a sold-out 2024 tour. He’s also the co-host of the hit podcast Stiff Socks and continues to entertain fans worldwide with sharp humor and relatable content.

Moana Live-to-Film Concert

November 26

Disney’s Moana Live-To-Film Concert is a magical North American tour featuring a full screening of the beloved film with live music performed by top Hollywood musicians and Polynesian rhythm masters. This immersive experience brings Moana’s unforgettable songs and story to life on stage like never before.

An Evening With Peter Billingsley | Following A Screening of A Christmas Story

November 28

Join actor and filmmaker Peter Billingsley for a special screening of A Christmas Story, followed by a live Q&A. Celebrating a career spanning four decades, Billingsley shares behind-the-scenes stories and insights from his iconic role as Ralphie and his work in film and television.

112

November 29

Grammy-winning R&B group 112 returns with their Room112 Tour, joined by fellow '90s hitmakers Total and Case for a night of smooth harmonies and nostalgic chart-toppers. Get ready to sing along to classics like “Cupid,” “Kissin’ You,” and “Touch Me, Tease Me.”

Chris D'Elia

November 30

Chris D'Elia is a comedian known for his hit podcast Congratulations with Chris D'Elia and co-hosting The Golden Hour. He has toured extensively across North America and released multiple stand-up specials on Netflix and Comedy Central, including No Pain, Man on Fire, and Incorrigible.

A Nostalgic Night with Macaulay Culkin | Following a 35th Anniversary Screening of Home Alone

December 3

Celebrate the 35th anniversary of Home Alone with a special screening followed by a live interview with Macaulay Culkin, offering fans a nostalgic journey through behind-the-scenes stories and holiday

memories. VIP tickets include premium seating, exclusive merchandise access, and a post-show Q&A with Culkin himself.

Bill Murray & His Blood Brothers

December 4

Bill Murray, known for his iconic roles in films like Ghostbusters and Lost in Translation, has also made a mark in music through live performances and collaborations, including his 2017 album New Worlds. His recent appearance at the Big Blues Bender showcased his energetic stage presence, blending classic rock with theatrical flair alongside the Blood Brothers and The Bender Brass.

Lady A

December 7

Over the course of their decade-plus career, Lady A has become one of the 21st century’s premier vocal groups, blending deeply felt emotions with classic Country sounds. As a Country-radio staple, the trio has amassed record-breaking success ushering in 10 No. 1 hits with more than 18 million album units and 34 million tracks sold and nearly 5 billion digital streams.

The Community Nutcracker

December 11-13

This highly sophisticated production is built purely upon a passion for art and selfless will for an emotionally stirring result. Every performance exudes imagination and creativity.

Vienna Light Orchestra

December 16

Immerse yourself in the enchantment of Christmas with Vienna Light Orchestra’s Christmas Tour 2025. Celebrated for their captivating performances, this worldrenowned ensemble features the musical brilliance of musicians and stunning sopranos from seven different countries, delivering a breathtaking evening of holiday magic.

Michael W. Smith

December 17

Michael W. Smith has been releasing new music regularly and performing around the

world to sold-out crowds for the last 40+ years. During his storied career, he's written and recorded over 36 No. 1 songs.

Wheel of Fortune Live

December 19

Wheel of Fortune LIVE! brings America’s Game to your hometown! The all-new live stage show with a well-known host is the one-and-only way you can have the chance to spin a replica of the wheel and win prizes outside of Sony Pictures Studios.

Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol

December 21

Bah! Humbug! One of the greatest stories in the history of English literature, Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol has enchanted audiences the world over and become a best beloved Christmas tradition for families everywhere.

Gary Owen

December 27

Gary Owen has been entertaining America for more than a decade with his side-splitting comedy, having performed to sold-out audiences in all the major comedy clubs and theaters across the country.

Brad Williams

December 31

One of the most in-demand comedians working today, Brad has appeared on “The Tonight Show,” “Jimmy Kimmel Live,” and in the films “Little Evil,” “Mascots,” and “Reno 911: It’s A Wonderful Heist.” His first onehour special, “Fun Size,” was the highest rated special on Showtime.

Mania: The ABBA Tribute

January 13

MANIA: The ABBA Tribute is accepted as the world’s number one touring ABBA tribute production. Featuring a special concert presentation, which celebrates the music of ABBA in a respectful and enjoyable way, reviving special memories of when ABBA ruled the airwaves.

Tango After Dark

January 15

International tango Superstar and World Tango Champion German Cornejo, along with a group of 9 world-class tango dancers, dance to the magical music of the one and only composer and bandoneon player, Astor Piazzolla, performed by an internationally renowned tango band in a spectacular live show.

Jesse Cook

January 23

A career spanning over 25 years has brought this Canadian guitarist multiple accolades including a coveted Acoustic Guitar Magazine ‘Player’s Choice Silver Award’, eleven Juno Award nominations (he won for 2001’s ‘Free Fall’), a Gemini Award and ten platinum and gold studio albums. At the WJCT Soundstage.

FLORIDA THEATRE

An Evening With Itzhak Perlman

January 26

This multimedia program, curated by Tonyaward winning director Dan Sullivan and produced by Elliott Forrest, interweaves storytelling by Perlman alongside personal photos, clips pulled from the Grammy nominated Itzhak documentary, and performance by Itzhak Perlman with his pianist and friend of 25 years.

Yellow Brick Road: A Tribute to Elton John

January 30

Brann not only bears an uncanny resemblance to the international superstar—complete with gaptoothed smile and many of his mannerisms—but recreates Elton John's vocals and playing to a tee.

The Radiohead Trip Laser Spectacular

January 31

The Radiohead Trip: Laser Spectacular is a mind-bending, 3D experience fusing psychedelic lasers, immersive visuals, and the hauntingly brilliant music of the English rock band.

The Choir of Man

February 5

Set in the world’s best pub, this uplifting production serves up 90 minutes of nonstop entertainment featuring a cast of extraordinary singers, dancers, musicians, and a charming poet.

A1A Jimmy Buffet Tribute Show

February 6

A1A – The Official and Original Jimmy Buffett Tribute Show was formed in 1991 when lead vocalist and guitarist Jeff Pike invited Scott Nickerson, founder of the first Jimmy Buffett Parrot Head Club, to join his already successful one-man tribute to Jimmy Buffett.

Drew and Ellie Holcomb

February 11

There are no strangers at a Drew Holcomb

show. For nearly two decades, the award-winning songwriter has turned each performance into a celebration of community, collaboration, and contemporary American roots. Strangers No More, the band’s eighth album, captured this spirit and spun the #1 Americana song, “Find Your People.”

Kathy Griffin

February 15

Two-time Emmy and Grammy award-winning comedian Kathy Griffin is a towering figure on television, on tour and in publishing. She breaks through the entertainment clutter with her universally recognized brand of pull no punches comedy.

Blizzard

February 18

Hailing from Québec City, Cirque FLIP Fabrique is an established troupe founded by a group of friends who are at the peak of their talents as professional circus artists. Their shared dream is to create cirque shows that are inspired by artistry, imagery, personality and the human experience.

Tom Papa

February 21

With more than 20 years as a stand-up comedian, Tom Papa is one of the top comedic voices in the country, finding success as an actor, host, and author, in film, TV, radio and podcasts as well as on the live stage.

Chris Botti

February 22

Grammy Award winning Jazz Trumpeter Chris Botti fuses his Jazz roots with a pop music flare. Chris was originally a member of STING’s touring band before he went solo.

The Three Italian Tenors

February 25

The Three Italian Tenors present an extraordinary program of the most famously beloved Italian Opera Arias and Songs,

fusing Italian wit and charm with romanticism, lyricism, dramatic flair and operatic style. This project is the inaugural tour in the United States of this sensational new Italian ensemble.

Pink Martini

February 27

Featuring a dozen musicians, with songs in 25 languages, Pink Martini performs its multilingual repertoire on concert stages on six continents.

MJ Live—Michael Jackson

Tribute Concert

February 28

From iconic dance moves like the moonwalk to timeless hits like “Bad,” “Billie Jean,” and “Beat It,” the spot-on show brings all the Gloved One’s staples to life.

Little River Band

March 7

”Through the ‘70’s and ‘80’s, LRB enjoyed huge chart success with multiplatinum albums and chart topping hits like: “Reminiscing,” “Cool Change,” “Lonesome Loser,” “Lady,” and “The Night Owls.”

Rent in Concert

March 10

An ensemble of stellar vocalists and instrumentalists come together to share the iconic music of RENT like never before. This symphonic take on the Jonathon Larson’s beloved musical includes the full score of the show, including favorites like “Seasons of Love,” “La Vie Bohème,” and “Take Me or Leave Me.”

Whose Live Anyway?

March 19

Cast members Ryan Stiles, Greg Proops, Jeff B. Davis, and Joel Murray will leave you gasping with the very witty scenes they invent before your eyes.

Hannah Berner

March 20

Hannah Berner is one of the buzziest rising comedians of this generation. She has two hit podcasts, Giggly Squad and Berner Phone, which have garnered over 100 million combined downloads.

Masters of Illusion

March 22

Starring the world’s greatest award-winning magicians, this 21st century magic show is unlike anything you have seen before –filled with modern illusions and arts of deception, performed live on stage.

Forever Donna

March 27

An early focus on R&B ballads and an appreciation for the art and craft of the late Donna Summer, Rainere developed and presented a tribute show featuring many of Donna's favorites.

FSCJ ARTIST SERIES

Earth, Wind & Fire Tribute Band

October 24

The Earth, Wind & Fire Tribute Band pay homage to one of the greatest bands of its era and brings to life the magical R&B, funk and jazz sounds of Earth, Wind and Fire’s music. Hear all your favorite hits live including “Got To Get You Into My Live,” “Sing a Song,” “Shining Star,” “Boogie Wonderland,” “Let's Groove,” “That's The Way of the World,” “September,” and many others.

CLUE

November 18-23

Murder and blackmail are on the menu when six mysterious guests assemble at Boddy Manor for a night they’ll never forget! Based on the fan-favorite 1985 Paramount Pictures movie and inspired by the classic Hasbro board game, CLUE is the ultimate whodunit that will leave you dying of laughter and keep you guessing until the final twist.

Cirque Dreams Holidaze

November 30

A breathtaking holiday spectacular for the whole family, this show brings together a world-renowned cast of performer, aerialists and acrobatics in a dazzling celebration of the season. Blending Broadway-style production with contemporary circus artistry, the performance comes alive with holiday favorites sung live, stunning new sets, sparkling scenery and show-stopping costumes.

Carolmania! A Very, Very Kool Christmas

December 5

Join our Christmas Carols...Carol, Carole, and Caroline as they take you through an immersive, fun musical journey and sing all your favorite holiday songs. Take a picture with Santa, join our ugly sweater contest, win lots of prizes, and enjoy the best gift of all—being together with your loved ones in a glorious holiday fest you'll remember forever!

Sarah Brightman: A Winter Symphony

December 6

A magical celebration of the holiday season will return this year as the world’s biggest-selling soprano and legendary GRAMMY® Award-nominated artist Sarah Brightman returns with her new Christmas spectacle ‘A Winter Symphony.’ Accompanied by an orchestra, choir and special guests, this enchanting holiday show will feature Sarah performing many of her holiday classics and greatest hits.

The Kingston Trio

January 13

Celebrating over 60 years of music, the iconic folk group takes the stage with their best-loved songs as part of the Keep The Music Playing national tour. Long recognized as a major influence on artists from Bob Dylan, Crosby, Stills & Nash, The Eagles to comedian/banjo player Steve Martin and to contemporary artists such as Mumford & Sons—The Kingston Trio occu-

pies a unique and preeminent position in American musical history.

Marshall Charloff & The Purple Xperience

January 16

Celebrated Minneapolis All-Star Band, Marshall Charloff & The Purple xPeRIeNCE, is the world's premier tribute to PRINCE. As seen touring globally for over a decade, starring in a Las Vegas residency, headlining Red Rocks Amphitheater, fronting the world’s finest symphonies, and featured on albums with Prince—Marshall has dominated the world stage as the most authentic Prince tribute artist.

Shanghai Circus

January 17

A top performance troupe famous for delivering excellent skills, dare-devil acts and a harmonious combination of various kinds of performing arts. The show begins by honoring the essence of the old historic Shanghai Culture and transports you to current Shanghai through the dynamic artists’ dazzling performances which include mystifying acts of strength, colorful dance, breathtaking acrobatics mixed with many charismatic personalities.

Diane Krall

January 18

World-renowned jazz pianist and singer known for her contralto vocals, with more than 15 million albums worldwide, comes to Jacksonville.

Wild World of Animals

January 21

Wild World of Animals is an exploration into the fascinating world of the wildlife we share with the planet; featuring live animals including some of the most majestic, interesting, bizarre, and critically endangered species in the world.

Blue Man Group

January 22-23

Dive into the thrilling Blue Man Group experience–a blend of captivating music, interactive art and audience engagement. Blue Man Group creates a fun, disruptive and out of the ordinary atmosphere that exhilarates the senses and uplifts spirits for audiences of all ages

Reza Edge of Illusion

January 25

REZA has redefined the art of illusion, bringing his rock concert style magic show to audiences across the globe. Witness grandscale tricks in levitation, a helicopter appear out of thin air, the record-breaking recreation of Houdini’s legendary stunt and more!

Carmen

February 1

Set in 1830s Seville, Georges Bizet’s Carmen tells a fiery tale of love, jealousy, and betrayal, culminating in the tragic death of its bold heroine. Featuring iconic arias and a full-scale production with traditional sets, costumes, and dancers, Teatro Lirico D’Europa brings this timeless masterpiece to life in French with English supertitles.

Riverdance 30—The New Generation

February 5

Riverdance celebrates its 30th anniversary with a special tour, blending its iconic Grammy-winning music and mesmerizing choreography with fresh innovations in dance, design, and technology. Featuring “The New Generation” of performers, the show reimagines the beloved classic for today’s audiences.

Beginnings: A Celebration of the Music Chicago

February 6

This high-energy tribute band recreates the legendary sound, excitement, and

emotion of Chicago’s greatest hits, transporting audiences back to the era of arena rock concerts.

Mrs. Doubtfire

February 10–15

Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts

Based on the beloved film, this heartwarming and hilarious new musical brings everyone’s favorite Scottish nanny to life in a feelgood story about family and togetherness.

The Price is Right Live

February 22

The hit interactive stage show gives lucky audience members the chance to play classic games from television’s most iconic game show and win big prizes.

IL DIVO by Candlelight

February 26

The world-renowned quartet performs two decades of their greatest hits in an intimate, candlelit setting, joined by innovative string trio Simply Three.

Swan Lake Ballet

March 4

This full-scale production of Tchaikovsky’s timeless masterpiece features exquisite choreography, stunning sets, and breathtaking performances that bring the legendary story to life.

Stayin' Alive: One Night of the Bee Gees

March 5

Capturing the look and sound of the Bee Gees, this ultimate tribute concert showcases their greatest disco anthems and heartfelt ballads in an unforgettable night of music.

The Doo Wop Project: Echoes of the Street

March 6

Broadway stars bring the classic street-corner harmonies of Doo Wop to life while reimagining modern hits with a nostalgic twist.

PLAYSTATION The Concert

March 7

Experience iconic video game soundtracks like God of War, The Last of Us, and Horizon reimagined for the stage with live musicians, immersive visuals, and surround sound.

Moulin Rouge! The Musical

March 10–15

Winner of 10 Tony Awards, this spectacular stage adaptation of Baz Luhrmann’s film dazzles with romance, excess, and a mash-up of iconic pop hits.

A Tribute to Pavarotti

March 29

This elegant concert celebrates the legacy of Luciano Pavarotti with powerful performances of his most beloved arias, enhanced by storytelling and stunning visuals.

Puppy Pals Live

April 1

As seen on America’s Got Talent, this action-packed family show features rescued dogs performing hilarious tricks, stunts, and crowd-pleasing feats.

Steve Trash – Science LIVE!

April 12

Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathmagical, musical made fun! In this new LIVE educational show, Steve Trash shares his passion for both magic and science, in what many teachers have called "The Best Show Ever!”

A Beautiful Noise:

The Neil Diamond Musical

April 14–19

Created in collaboration with Neil Diamond himself, A BEAUTIFUL NOISE is the uplifting true story of how a kid from Brooklyn became a chart-busting, show-stopping American rock icon. With 120 million albums sold, a catalogue of classics like "America," "Forever in Blue Jeans," and "Sweet Caroline.”

Taylorville: An Unofficial

Live Tribute Band

April 25

This electrifying tribute show recreates the magic of Taylor Swift’s music with stunning visuals, powerhouse performances, and all your favorite hits.

BEETLEJUICE The Musical

May 12–17

It’s showtime! Based on Tim Burton’s dearly beloved film, this hilarious musical tells the story of Lydia Deetz, a strange and unusual teenager whose whole life changes when she meets a recently deceased couple and a demon with a thing for stripes. With an irreverent book, an astonishing set and a score that’s out of this Netherworld.

FRIENDS OF JAMES WELDON JOHNSON PARK

Eco Disco

October 10

The Volo Foundation & City of Jacksonville presents ECO DISCO, a Silent Disco Party to benefit our planet at James Weldon Johnson Park, 6-9 PM. Featuring Silent Disco by DJ Mas Appeal, plus food trucks, libations & eco-friendly vendors, free.

Jazz in the Park

October 15, 22 and 29

Live music with Joe Watts every Wednesday, 11:30 AM-2 PM.

Brew & BBQ

November 15

Friends of James Weldon Johnson Park joins with two-time event sponsor Visit Jacksonville to present Brew & Barbecue this Fall on Saturday, November 15, 5-10 pm. Your favorite JWJ Park festival is back for year nine and it promises to be better than ever. As always, festival goers can expect plenty of barbecue themed food trucks including a vegan only food option, as well as a wide range of beers, a plethora of vendors and great music. The concert is presented by Friends of James Weldon Johnson Park, family friendly, and free to attend. Limited seating will be available at this event; how-

ever, you are welcome to bring your own chair. Dogs are welcome too!

Jazz in the Park

November 5, 12, 19 and 26

Live music with Joe Watts every Wednesday, 11:30 AM-2 PM.

Christmas Tree Lighting at ArtWalk

December 3

The annual Christmas Tree lighting at ArtWalk in James Weldon Johnson Park promises holiday evening fun for all with music, food and plenty of good cheer.

Beats, Brunch & Bubbly

December 6

DJ Mas Appeal presents Beats, Brunch, & Bubbly in JWJ Park on Saturday, December 6, 1-5 PM. With music, food, holiday crafts, drinks and good vibes. it’s sure tp be fun for the whole family.

Jazz in the Park

December 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31

January 7, 14, 21 and 28

Live music with Joe Watts every Wednesday, 11:30 AM-2 PM.

JACKSONVILLE

CHILDREN'S CHORUS

Cool Side of Yuletide Holiday Concert

December 20

The 17th Annual Cool Side of Yuletide Holiday Concert features various Holiday favorites and sing-alongs performed by the Jacksonville Children’s Chorus and Voices of Jacksonville. Two shows, 2 PM and 5 PM, at Hendricks Avenue Baptist Church.

Lift Ev’ry Voice & Sing Concert

February 28, 2026

Join The JCC and special guests for the 17th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. “Lift Ev’ry Voice & Sing” Concert, an inspiring celebration honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and commemorating Black History Month, 2 PM, at Hendricks Avenue Baptist Church.

Songs of Gratitude

March 28, 2026

This special event honors not only the spirit of giving thanks but also a major milestone: the 20th anniversary of Darren Dailey as the JCC’s President and Artistic Director. The concert will feature Missa Brevis by acclaimed composer Will Todd, as well as the JCC singers, Voices of Jacksonville, and a chamber orchestra, 2 PM, at Hendricks Avenue Church.

River City Dancing With The Stars

April 25, 2026

Local celebrities and community leaders are partnered with professional ballroom instructors to learn to dance and compete to be named River City’s favorite dancer, 6:30 PM, at UNF Lazzara Performance Hall.

Bewitched Broadway: Wicked, Phantom, Little Shop & More

October 24 and 25

Step into the shadows of Broadway’s most spellbinding shows! From the enchanting melodies of Wicked to the magical allure of The Phantom of the Opera and the cult-classic energy of The Rocky Horror Picture Show, this concert casts a musical spell.

Scenes from a Season

October 30 and 31

Experience the musicians of the Jacksonville Symphony as they showcase their artistry with an uplifting blend of classical and pops favorites. From the music of Beethoven to John Williams' Star Wars, this hour-long performance highlights the bold sounds and fresh energy of the year ahead.

Appalachian Spring

November 7 and 8

Conductor Case Scaglione leads a program of

celebration and inspiration. Copland’s famous Appalachian Spring Suite evokes the simplicity and grandeur of American pioneer life, while Lincoln Portrait sets Abraham Lincoln’s stirring words to music, honoring liberty and unity— perfect for America’s 250th anniversary.

America in Concert: 250 Years of Music & Majesty

November 16

Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with an unforgettable evening of music and patriotism. This Jacksonville Symphony production brings together the power of the full Symphony and Symphony Chorus, along with a star guest vocalist, stirring color guard, drum line and other surprises to pay tribute to the spirit and resilience of our nation.

Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas in Concert Live-to-Film

November 21 and 22

Witness the film on the big screen as

Symphony musicians bring the complete score to life.

Holiday Pops

December 4–7

Get ready to sleigh the season with the Jacksonville Symphony’s beloved Holiday Pops! Broadway vocalists Carole Bufford and Campbell Walker Fields return to light up the stage alongside the Symphony Chorus and the full power of the Jacksonville Symphony in an unforgettable festive spectacular.

First Coast Nutcracker

December 12–14

For more than 50 years, this iconic Jacksonville Symphony tradition brings families and communities together to experience holiday enchantment. Tchaikovsky’s timeless melodies come to life as snowflakes dance, slippers sparkle and festive costumes twirl. This heartwarming celebration features

JACKSONVILLE SYMPHONY

live music and over 130 ballet dancers, making it the only local production of its kind.

Handel’s Messiah

December 13 and 14

Join Music Director Courtney Lewis and the Jacksonville Symphony for a breathtaking performance of Handel’s Messiah, featuring brilliant solo vocalists and the full Symphony Chorus. This uplifting and majestic masterpiece radiates with hope, inspiration and pure joy. Its powerful message of faith has captivated audiences since its debut in 1742, leaving listeners in pure awe.

The Nutcracker and Sorcerer’s Apprentice

December 19 and 20

Courtney Lewis leads the Jacksonville Symphony in a program of vivid imagination and timeless beauty with Dukas’ The Sorcerer’s Apprentice, Debussy’s Prelude to the Afternoon of a Faun and La Mer, Ravel’s Shéhérazade and Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker.

Holiday Big Band

December 21

Back by popular demand, the Jacksonville Jazz Collective brings the spirit of the holidays to life with a high-energy big band sound! Get into the groove as festive flair meets bold brass, smooth swing and infectious rhythms.

John Williams' America

January 9 and 10, 2026

From the stirring Olympic Fanfare and Theme to the powerful score of Saving Private Ryan and the adventurous spirit of Indiana Jones, these iconic works capture the courage, determination and spirit of a nation.

Bruckner's Majestic Eighth

January 16 and 17, 2026

Bruckner’s Symphony No. 8 is a monumental journey of grandeur and introspection. From delicate string passages to thunderous brass fanfares, this symphony showcases Bruckner’s mastery of orchestration, capturing a vast emotional spectrum—from vulnerability to triumph.

Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back in Concert

January 23 and 24, 2026

Witness the film on the big screen as Symphony musicians bring the complete score to life.

Silly Love Songs: McCartney, Cher, Whitney & More

January 30 and 31, 2026

The Jacksonville Symphony and a lineup of powerhouse guest vocalists bring you a night of unforgettable No. 1 hits from the past 50 years. Featuring songs made famous by Paul McCartney, Cher, Whitney Houston and more, this concert is a celebration of music that has topped the charts and captured hearts.

Romance in Opera

February 5

Powerhouse tenor Limmie Pulliam joins the Symphony for an evening of some of the most romantic opera arias and symphonic masterpieces including Richard Wagner’s Tristan Prelude and Giacomo Puccini’s iconic “Nessun dorma.”

Romeo and Juliet: Tchaikovsky & Bernstein

February 13 & 14

Perfect for a Valentine’s Day celebration, this passionate program features Tchaikovsky’s Romeo and Juliet OvertureFantasy, Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet, Nino Rota’s Love Theme and Bernstein’s West Side Story.

Rodgers, Hart & Hammerstein

February 20 & 21

The Jacksonville Symphony and guest vocalists perform unforgettable melodies, from the romantic charm of "My Funny Valentine" and "Bewitched" to the sweeping grandeur of "Some Enchanted Evening" and "You’ll Never Walk Alone.”

2026 Symphony Gala

February 28

A spectacular celebration of music, education and community impact.

Mozart & More: Concertos for Two Pianos

March 6 & 7

Husband-and-wife piano duo Alessio Bax and Lucille Chung take center stage for Mozart’s Concerto for Two Pianos. Then, Saint-Saëns’ Carnival of the Animals delights with imagination, while Francis Poulenc’s Concerto for Two Pianos adds wit and rhythmic energy.

Motown Meets Rock

March 13 & 14

Emmy and GRAMMY®-nominated,

award-winning songstress N’Kenge returns to perform the music of Diana Ross and Tina Turner to the hit anthems of Queen with the Jacksonville Symphony.

Percussion Panorama

March 19 & 20

A must-see masterclass in dynamic rhythms and textures with Principal Percussionist Steve Merrill, part of the Symphony in 60 Series and Coffee Series.

Barber & Mendelssohn

March 27 & 28

Guest conductor Giordano Bellincampi leads a program rich in sweeping landscapes and deep emotional resonance with Vaughan Williams’ Toward the Unknown Region, Barber’s Violin Concerto, performed by Concertmaster Adelya Nartadjieva, and Mendelssohn’s Scottish Symphony.

Puccini’s Tosca

April 10 & 12

Acclaimed Metropolitan Opera Stage Director Gregory Keller, Music Director Courtney Lewis and world-class vocalists transform Jacoby Symphony Hall for this powerful production of Tosca, complete with 30-foot-tall projections.

Twist & Shout: The Music of The Beatles

April 17 & 18

A celebration of The Beatles’ journey, beginning with their debut on The Ed Sullivan Show and following their rise across the nation featuring rare photos from the exclusive Beatles Photo Book Archives.

Miles Davis at 100

April 19

The Jacksonville Symphony honors Miles Davis’ 100th birthday in an electrifying trib-

ute featuring the John Lumpkin Trio. This performance also brings Davis’ groundbreaking sound to life with the rich, soulful tones of trumpet and saxophone.

Beethoven’s Fifth

April 24 & 25

Courtney Lewis leads a program blending timeless classics with bold new sounds. Richard Wagner’s grand Meistersinger Prelude sets the tone, followed by two commissions from Anna Clyne and Duke Ellington, before Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 closes the evening.

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone in Concert

May 1 & 2

Greg Zelek in Concert

May 7

Zelek showcases his innovative technique and expressive artistry firsthand in the thrilling finale of the Concert Organ Series.

Chicken-Fried Rock: Brooks, Shania, Chesney & McGraw

May 8 & 9

The hits of icons like Garth Brooks, Shania Twain, Kenny Chesney, Tim McGraw and more, are all brought to life by guest vocalists and the Jacksonville Symphony.

Beethoven’s Triple & Brahms

May 15 & 16

A fresh new group, The Junction Trio with Pianist Conrad Tao, Violinist Stefan Jackiw and Cellist Jay Campbell, make their debut in Jacoby Symphony Hall. The program features Tarik O’Regan’s Trances, Beethoven’s Triple Concerto and Brahms’ Symphony No. 4.

At the Ballet

Thursday, May 21 & 22

This dynamic program with the Symphony, Florida Ballet and Jacksonville Dance Theatre creates a breathtaking

fusion of two artforms that promises to captivate and thrill.

The Music of Elton John Featuring Michael Cavanaugh

May 29 & 30

Fan-favorite Michael Cavanaugh returns to breathe new life into hits like “Tiny Dancer,” “Rocket Man,” and “Candle in the Wind.” Joined by the Jacksonville Symphony, this intimate celebration is a perfect curtain call to a season of pure Pops magic.

Rachmaninoff’s Third

June 5 & 6

For the 2025/26 Season finale, Joyce Yang returns for Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 3, one of the most intricate and demanding works in the repertoire. The program also features Carlos Simon’s Fate Now Conquers and Arnold Schoenberg’s Transfigured Night.

Riding High: Vintage Bicycles from the Keith Pariani Collection

Ongoing

Returning to the Lightner Museum by popular demand, Riding High is a new exhibition of vintage bicycles and cycling memorabilia from the private collection of St. Augustine bicycle aficionado Keith Pariani. Originating in Europe in the eighteenth century, the bicycle underwent decades of engineering improvements and design changes. The first popular models of the bicycle were cumbersome and dangerous for the unskilled rider. With the invention of the "safety bicycle" in the 1880s—a new design that incorporated many features seen in modern bicycles today—cycling became a safer and more accessible mode of transportation and recreation.

The Wiener Werkstätte: Art, Luxury, and Beauty in Modern Vienna

November 20-July 14

The Wiener Werkstätte (Vienna Workshops), founded in 1903 by architect Josef Hoffmann, graphic designer and painter Koloman Moser, and financier Fritz Waerndorfer, was a pioneering collective of artists, designers, and craftspeople based in Vienna, Austria. Emerging from the spirit of the Vienna Secession and closely aligned with the ideals of the British Arts and Crafts Movement, the Wiener Werkstätte endeavored to unite fine and applied arts by bringing outstanding design and meticulous craftsmanship to everyday life.

Matt Keene: Echoes of the Wild

October 3-January 18

Echoes of the Wild is an immersive exhibition that brings together the historic artistry of nineteenth-century wet plate

call for environmental stewardship. Created during backcountry expeditions across the southeastern United States, Matt Keene's unique images offer intimate, often haunting glimpses of landscapes and wildlife under threat from pollution, climate change, and human development.

Yoga in the Garden

October 18, 8:30 AM

Donation based and all-levels welcome in the Radzinski Garden, located at the rear of the museum building. No pre-registration required, just show up.

The Gilded Age: Treasures from the Lightner Museum

Ongoing

A dynamic era that shaped modern America, the Gilded Age witnessed the sudden rise of a new millionaire class whose wealth derived from emerging industries including railroads, oil, and steel manufacturing. These titans of American industry expressed their high status by building stately mansions filled with beautiful objects and substantial art collections.

November 11, 8:30 AM-2:30 PM

Ages 5-10 years. Pre-registration required.

Yoga in the Garden

November 15, 8:30 AM

Donation based and all-levels welcome in the Radzinski Garden, located at the rear of the museum building. No pre-registration required, just show up.

Jazz in the Garden featuring The House Cats

November 13, 8 PM

No pre-registration required, just show up.

Family Program: What’s a Hobby?

November 15, 10:30 AM

Ages 5-10 years. Pre-registration required.

Holiday Market

December 4

The Lightner’s annual Holiday arts, crafts and shopping extravaganza returns for three hours of seasonal fun with dozens of local vendors gathering for an evening good deals and good cheer, 5-8 PM.

PONTE VEDRA

The War & Treaty

October 16

Founded in 2014 by the husband-and-wife duo Michael Trotter Jr. and Tanya Trotter, The War And Treaty has emerged as one of the most electrifying new acts in American music. They were nominated for the Best New Artist and Best American Roots Song at the 2024 Grammy Awards, and have also been nominated for Duo of the Year at the CMA Awards two years in a row.

Trampled by Turtles

October 18

Trampled by Turtles are from Duluth, Minnesota, where frontman Dave Simonett initially formed the group as a side project in 2003. At the time, Simonett had lost most of his music gear, thanks to a group of enterprising car thieves who'd ransacked his vehicle while he played a show with his previous band. Left with nothing more than an acoustic guitar, he began piecing together a new band, this time taking inspiration from bluegrass, folk, and other genres that didn't rely on amplification.

Lecrae

October 23

Four-time Grammy Award-winning artist, author, actor and activist Lecrae has formally announced his headlining tour, ‘Reconstruction World Tour,’ on the heels

of unveiling the release date for his tenth studio album, Reconstruction, released in August.

Pete Correale

October 24

Pete’s love for entertainment started when he went off to college.  During his senior year, Pete took an acting class and knew immediately what he wanted to do - be in show business. This burning desire has evolved for over 20 years to what we know it as today - a reflective comedic take on his life and the experiences he’s been through.

Big Bad Voodoo Daddy

October 29

April, 2025, marks the 32 year anniversary of Big Bad Voodoo Daddy’s remarkable arrival onto the music scene. Since its formation in the early nineties in Ventura, California, the band has toured virtually nonstop, performing on average over 150 shows a year, and has produced a sizable catalog of recorded music, with sales of over 2 million albums to date.

The Record Company

November 7

When The Record Company pick up their instruments, the members—Chris Vos [guitar, lead vocals, harmonica], Alex Stiff

[bass, backing vocals], and Marc Cazorla [drums, backing vocals]—participate in a musical back-and-forth akin to a formative and supportive conversation among siblings. The nuances of their personalities seep through loose, bluesy guitar leads, airtight drum grooves, thick bass, and vividly evocative lyrics.

History That Doesn’t Suck with Professor Greg Jackson

November 8

Adapted from the top-ranked history podcast History That Doesn't Suck, Professor Greg Jackson tells the epic tale of “The Unlikely Union,” weaving defining moments in American history from the revolution through the civil war as a young nation to forms, defines, and reforms itself.  Travel back in time through the first 100 years of US history told in a thrilling 100 minutes and return with real context for today.

The Wallflowers

November 11

For the past 30 years, the Jakob Dylanled act has stood as one of rock’s most dynamic and purposeful bands–a unit dedicated to and continually honing a sound that meshes timeless songwriting and storytelling with a hard-hitting and decidedly modern musical attack.

PONTE VEDRA CONCERT HALL

The

Dirty Dozen Brass Band

November 15

New Orleans-based Dirty Dozen Brass Band has taken the traditional foundation of brass band music and incorporated it into a blend of genres, including bebop jazz, funk and R&B/soul. This unique sound, described by the band as a “musical gumbo,” has allowed the Dirty Dozen to tour across five continents and more than thirty countries.

Del McCoury Band

November 16

From the nascent sound of bluegrass that charmed hardscrabble hillbilly honkytonks, rural schoolhouse stages, and the crowning glory of the Grand Ole Opry to the present-day culture-buzz of viral videos and digital streams, Del is the living link. Now helming the Del McCoury Band, with sons Ronnie and Rob, the ensemble did and continues to represent in a larger, growing musical community a peerless torchbearer for the entire sweep and scope of bluegrass history.

Ben Folds & A Piano Tour

November 22

Ben Folds is widely regarded as one of the major music influencers of our generation. The Emmy-nominated singer-songwriter-composer has created an enormous body of genre-bending music that includes pop albums with Ben Folds Five, multiple solo albums, and numerous collaborative records.

Queensryche

November 28

Queensrÿche first burst onto the music scene in 1982 with the release of their self-titled 4 song EP Queensrÿche. They very quickly gained international recognition and performed to sold out audiences around the world.

The Dip

December 4

The Dip is a Seattle-based Rhythm and Blues band that is known for its poignant

songwriting, detailed arrangements, and vintage sound. Featuring a three-piece horn section, the group’s music harkens back to earlier soul and funk influences while hinting at the jazz foundations that brought the band’s members together.

Kathleen Madigan

December 5 and 6

Comedian Kathleen Madigan's 33-year comedy career is showing no signs of slowing down as she prepares to launch The Day Drinking Tour in 2025. As a premiere stand-up comedian, Madigan sells out marquee theaters across the country, and is one of the few female comedians to tour over 250 days a year.

Shaun Cassidy

December 13

The son of Tony award winning actor Jack Cassidy and Academy award winner Shirley Jones (and half-brother of the late singer/ actor David Cassidy), Shaun grew up in Los Angeles and New York City. While still in high school, he signed a contract with Warner Brothers records. This led to three multi-platinum albums and numerous top ten hits including the number #1 Da Doo Ron Ron, That’s Rock N’ Roll, Hey Deanie, and Do You Believe In Magic.

Los Lobos

January 10

It’s a matter of time. 50 years to be exact. And in that time Los Lobos have created an unprecedented body of work, a legacy of greatness. The numbers are staggering: 100+ gigs a year for five decades running, crossing millions of miles to rock millions of fans.

Judy Collins

January 14

Judy Collins has long inspired audiences with sublime vocals, boldly vulnerable songwriting, personal life triumphs, and a firm commitment to social activism. In the 1960s, she evoked both the idealism and steely determination of a generation united against social and environmental

injustices. Five decades later, her luminescent presence shines brightly as new generations bask in the glow of her iconic 55-album body of work.

Gaelic Storm

January 20

It’s hard to imagine a band just coming into their own after 20 years of success, but that’s exactly what makes a true anomaly. Gaelic Storm, a multi-national, Celtic juggernaut grows stronger with each live performance, and after two decades and over 2000 shows, they are a true force to be reckoned with.

Los Lonely Boys

January 29

Hailing from San Angelo, Texas, the Garza brothers coined their own sound—bluesy “Texican rock & roll”—and turned it into a global sensation. Their breakout came when Willie Nelson’s nephew discovered their demo.

The Outlaws

February 11

For more than 40 years, the Southern Rock legends celebrated triumphs and endured tragedies to remain one of the most influential and best-loved bands of the genre. Today, The Outlaws have returned with new music, new focus, and an uncompromising new mission: It’s about a band of brothers bound together by history, harmony, and the road.

Steve Hackett

February 25

It has been 12 years since STEVE HACKETT brought his classic Genesis Revisited show to us. Back then, in 2013, his Nth American and UK tours culminated in his acclaimed performance at London’s Royal Albert Hall and the following release of the live DVD of that performance. Since then, Steve’s timeless guitar work has been woven throughout the classic Genesis albums of the ‘70s.

John Oates

March 3

John Oates is celebrating 25 years as an accomplished solo recording artist. This year, to celebrate this milestone he will be releasing his newest project the self-titled album “OATES”.  As co-founder of the most successful duo in rock history Hall & Oates, he is a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the American Songwriters Hall of Fame.

Jimmie Vaughn

April 9

When it comes to the blues today, there are a handful of guiding lights to make sure the music stays true to its history. For Jimmie Vaughan, he’s dedicated his life to making sure the blues not only stays alive, but remains full of life and an inspiration to all who listen.

ST. AUGUSTINE AMPHITHEATRE

Ryan Bingham and the Texas Gentlemen

October 18

Known for his raw and emotive music, evocative storytelling, and trademark weather-beaten vocals, Bingham has risen over the years to become one of the most distinctive and authentic voices of his generation.

Black Box Sessions with Ben Sollee

October 21

Blurring the boundaries between folk, classical, and soulful Americana, Kentucky based Ben Sollee has captivated audiences for nearly two decades with his signature cello work and introspective songwriting.

Cole

Swindell

October 26

Swindell, who Rolling Stone has called “a proven hit-maker,” charted three back-to-back, Platinumcertified, multi-week No. 1 hits off his fourth studio album, Stereotype: “Single Saturday Night,” “Never Say Never” (with Lainey Wilson) and the five-week 3x Platinum chart-topper “She Had Me At Heads Carolina” that garnered three ACM Awards for Single of the Year.

John

Legend

October 28

John Legend is an EGOTwinning, critically acclaimed, multiplatinum artist and producer, who has garnered 13 Grammy Awards, an Academy Award, a Golden Globe Award, a Tony Award and three Emmy Awards, among others. Legend is one of only nineteen people in the prestigious EGOT club and has released nine celebrated albums over the course of his career.

Treaty Oak Revival

November 20

Blending the rich traditions of Texas Red Dirt country with influences from punk and southern rock, Treaty Oak Revival delivers a raw, refreshingly unpolished vibe. They draw inspiration from their roots and often

incorporate storytelling into their songs.

Hudson Westbrook

November 21

After an explosive arrival and a series of grassroots hits, River House Artists talent Hudson Westbrook is now taking his place among a new generation of country singer-songwriters. Selftaught and proudly rougharound-the-edges, the rising star debuted with the viral track “Take It Slow” in 2024.

Dark Star Orchestra

December 3

Performing to critical acclaim for nearly 30 years and over 3300 shows, Dark Star Orchestra continues the Grateful Dead live concert experience. The seven-piece band performs shows based on actual Grateful Dead set lists from their 30 years of touring, or creates unique sets from the Dead’s extensive catalog.

Jon Pardi—

The Christmas Show

December 12 and 13

It’s been more than a decade since Capitol Records Nashville artist Jon Pardi began careening down the highway, leading the charge to modernize honky tonk with roaring guitars and a roaring, good-time spirit.

Styx

February 28

Styx draws from over five decades of barn-burning chart hits, joyous singalongs, and hard-driving deep cuts. Like a symphony that builds to a satisfying crescendo, a Styx set covers a wide range of stylistic cornerstones.

Parker McCollum

March 27 and 28

Singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Parker McCollum has reached the ranks of a bona fide country music superstar by connecting with fans and critics alike through his relatable and authentic sound. His 2023 album, Never Enough, is a statement collection of music that cemented his status as one of country music’s strongest new voices.

ST. AUGUSTINE ART ASSOCIATION

Tactile Art Show

October 3-November 2

October is National Sensory Processing Awareness Month, and the STAAA is hosting the Tactile Art Show. Unlike most art exhibits, viewers-blind, visually impaired, or sighted are invited to touch the artwork!

Historic Impressions on a Modern Canvas

October 9-January 12, 2026

Original paintings produced during this year's Plein Air Paint Out events create an irresistible artistic tapestry of the nation's oldest city.

First Friday Art Walk

November 7

Join the St. Augustine Art Association for First Friday Art Walk as we open with the Fantastic Florida exhibit from 5-8 PM. Awards presented at 7 PM.

Fantastic Florida

November 7-December 28

The Sunshine State shines here! This vivid display explores a wide range of artistic interpretations and scenes of Florida, from

the plants and animals to the wilderness and waterways, to the people and places.

Plein Air Nocturne

December 10

Artists are invited to paint a Nights of Lights nocturne in historic St. Augustine, Florida!

Be inspired by the Spanish architecture, coastal environment, small-town streets, and Old-World charm of the nation’s oldest city during the holidays. The works created during this exhibit will be on display at the St. Augustine St. Augustine County Admin Rotunda Gallery exhibit in October 2026.

A Celebration of Art & History

November 15-January 5, 2026

For this year's Nights of Lights "Art and History" Exhibition, the Ximenez-Fatio House Museum—in partnership with the St. Augustine Art Association—invites artists to celebrate the Semi-quincentennial (250th) of the American Revolution through a creative fireplace mantel display.

Faces & Figures

January 2-February 1

Expressions of the human form bring person-

ality to this exhibit. Drawing studies, formal portraits, everyday life subjects and other figures are presented in 2D and 3D media.

Veritas School Show

February 6-March 1

The Veritas Classical School is excited to present their Annual Students Show this February.

Out of Place

February 6-March 1

Something doesn’t quite look right…trying to fit in, but just not getting footing, social narratives, seemingly unnatural acts of nature, humorous or serious. A cat at doggy daycare. A fish in the desert. For this exhibit, artists are encouraged to create images that question the normal, that push the boundaries of what “should” be and build a world of acceptance, letting go of apprehension.

Jacksonville Watercolor Society

February 6-March 1

Jacksonville Watercolor Society is excited to present their Annual Members Show this February.

Spring Members Show

March 6-29

This bi-annual exhibit of STAAA members features a variety of works by emerging, seasoned and professional artists. The artworks encompass a variety of styles, mediums and subjects.

Plein Air Weekend

March 20

Artists are invited to paint in this Plein Air weekend event held in historic St. Augustine, Florida! Be inspired by the Spanish architecture, coastal environment, small-town streets, and Old-World charm of the nation's oldest city!

Miniature Marvels

April 3-26

A close look at these marvels reveals a range of subjects, materials, and technical precision. It’s an exhibit of small works (12in or less) that pack a big punch!

Trace Adkins: What Color’s Your Wild Tour

October 17

Adkins has pioneered a mix of classic Country minded traditionalism and adventurous, good-natured showmanship, breaking open new avenues in modern Country through funfilled hits like “Honky Tonk Badonkadonk” and “Hillbilly Bone” with Blake Shelton.

World Ballet Company presents Cinderella

October 21

An enchanting story for all ages with a wonderful dose of humor, majesty of classical ballet and the promise of “happily

ever after.” World Ballet Company’s visually stunning production of Cinderella is performed LIVE by a multinational cast of 40 professional ballet dancers, features over 150 hand-sewn radiant costumes, richly detailed hand-crafted sets and sparkling choreography by Marina Kesler.

Craig Morgan

October 25

Singer, author, actor, and soldier Craig Morgan has made a name for himself as a country music hitmaker who has amassed nearly 2.5 billion career streams and charted over 25 songs on Billboard. With signature hits including “Redneck Yacht Club,” “Almost Home,” “Soldier,” “That’s

What I Love About Sunday,” and his faith-filled tribute, “The Father, My Son and the Holy Ghost,” the multi-faceted entertainer’s music has formed the soundtrack to our lives for over two decades.

The Addams Family: A Musical Comedy

October 30

Wednesday fans rejoice! A comical feast that embraces the wackiness in every family, The Addams Family is the magnificently macabre hit musical featuring everyone’s favorite creepy, kooky characters. A devilishly delightful musical comedy based on the bizarre and beloved characters by legendary cartoonist Charles Addams.

A Charlie Brown Christmas: Live On Stage

November 15

Everyone’s favorite holiday classic comes to life in a spectacular new touring production of A Charlie Brown Christmas: Live on Stage. Join Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus, and the whole Peanuts gang as they sing, dance, and learn the true meaning of Christmas.

A Magical Cirque Christmas

November 20

A Magical Cirque Christmas is a dazzling holiday variety show that captivates audiences of all ages. Bursting with festive charm, laughout-loud comedy, and heartwarming magic, this high-flying spectacle showcases the extraordinary talents of the world’s most elite cirque performers. It’s a spellbinding winter journey through music, movement, and holiday joy—perfect for the whole family.

Sesame Street Live!: Elmo and Friends Say Hello

December 6

Elmo, Abby Cadabby, Cookie Monster, and their friends from Sesame Street are coming to your neighborhood to say hello! At Elmo and Friends Say Hello, you can sing and dance with your favorite furry friends while enjoying fun surprises along the way.

The Florida Ballet presents The Nutcracker

December 13-14

A timeless holiday tradition that captivates audiences of all ages. Featuring The Florida Ballet’s professional company, The Florida Ballet school, and local student dancers, this magical production is sure to delight and inspire audiences of all generations.

Statement of Ownership, Management & Circulation (Required by 39 U.S.C. 3685)

Publication Title: Jacksonville. Publication Number: 74-9870. Filing Date: 9/12/2025. Issue Frequency: Monthly. Number of Issues Published Annually: 8. Annual Subscription Price: $18.95. Complete mailing address of known office of publication: 1650 Margaret St., Suite 302, PMB #379, Jacksonville, FL 32204-3869. Complete mailing address of headquarters or general business office of publisher: Same. Full names and complete mailing addresses of Publisher, Editor-in-Chief, Editor and Owner. Publisher: Joseph White, 1650 Margaret St., Suite 302, PMB #379, Jacksonville, FL  32204-3869; Editor-in-Chief: Joseph White, 1650 Margaret St., Suite 302, PMB #379, Jacksonville, FL  32204-3869; Editor: Joseph White, 1650 Margaret St., Suite 302, PMB #379, Jacksonville, FL  32204-3869; Owner: Joseph White, 1650 Margaret St., Suite 302, PMB #379, Jacksonville, FL  32204-3869. Known Bondholders, Mortgagees, and other security holders owning or holding 1% or more of total amount of bonds, mortgages, or other securities: None. Tax Status: Has Not Changed in preceding 12 months. Issue Date for Circulation Data Below: Aug/Sept 2025. Total no. of copies printed (net press run) 12,625: Average no. copies each issue during preceding 12 months, 12,500. Actual no. of copies of single issue published nearest to filing date, 12,625. Paid and/or requested Circulation: Sales through dealers and carriers, street vendors and counter sales (not mailed). Average no. of copies each issue during preceding 12 months, 848. Actual no. of copies of single issue published nearest to filing date, 850. Paid and/or requested mail subscriptions: Average no. of copies each issue during preceding 12 months, 6,287. Actual no. of copies of single issue published nearest to filing date, 6,238. Total paid and/or requested Circulation: Average no. of copies each issue during preceding 12 months, 7,135. Actual no. of copies of single issue published nearest to filing date, 7,088. Total free distribution: Average no. copies each issue during preceding 12 months, 3,055. Actual no. of copies of single issue published nearest to filing date, 2,980. Total distribution: Average no. copies each issue preceding 12 months, 10,190. Actual no. copies each of single issue published nearest to filing date, 10,068. Copies not distributed (includes estimated returns from news agents, copies for office use, leftovers, spoiled and all other copies not distributed): Average no. copies each issue during preceding 12 months, 2,435. Actual no. copies of single issue published nearest to filing date, 2,432. Total: Average no. copies each issue during preceding 12 months, 12,625. Actual no. copies each single issue closest to filing date, 12,500. Percent paid and/or Requested circulation for each issue during preceding 12 months, 70%. For single issue published nearest to filing date, 71%. I certify that the statements made by me are correct and complete. Jacksonville Magazine’s online editions (posted at JacksonvilleMag.com) average more than 4,200 views per month, for a total of 50,000-plus per year.

JOSEPH O. WHITE, PUBLISHER

Wehner’s School of the Arts presents Christmas in Motion

December 20

Join us as we celebrate the sights and sounds of Christmas in NYC. Inspired by some of our favorite music and dance artists, including NYC’s most iconic kickline, “Christmas in Motion” brings you and your family to a festive night in the city!

Three Dog Night

December 21

Three Dog Night hits weave through the fabric of pop culture today, whether on the radio where they are heard day in and day out, in TV commercials or in major motion pictures—songs like “Mama Told Me (Not To Come)”, “Joy to the World”, “Shambala” and “One” serve to heighten our emotions and crystallize the band’s continuing popularity.

Jump – America’s

Van Halen Experience

February 1, 2026

Featuring a variety of hits and deep cuts off of the first 6 albums, JUMP’s live show includes a selection of skits and one liners portrayed by Van Halen from bootlegs of their live shows between 1978-1984.

Shen

Yun February 10-11, 2026

Every year, Shen Yun unveils an entirely new lineup of dances, musical scores, and songs. At the core of Shen Yun’s performances is a series of short dance numbers, each about five-minutes long. These range in style from classical Chinese dance and story-based dance to China’s diverse ethnic and folk dance forms.

8th Annual Clay Bridal Expo

March 8, 2026

This Bridal show will feature an amazing selection of wedding professionals ready to help you find the perfect gown, wedding decor, photographer, music, menu, and much more. This is your chance to meet with a variety of local wedding vendors in an intimate setting.

Dirty Dancing in Concert

March 13, 2026

Relive the film that stole the hearts of generations with Dirty Dancing in Concert. This unique live-to-film concert event features the original film projected in full, accompanied by a live band and singers performing every unforgettable song from the soundtrack.

TIFTON,

GEORGIA COLUMBUS, GEORGIA

Rutland Farms Corn Maze

Fall fun at Rutland Farms! Join us for unforgettable fall festivals in Tifton, Georgia on October 4, 11, 18 and 25 and November 1. With Georgia’s largest corn maze, live music, pumpkin patch, Flashlight Nights, hayrides and more, it’s a perfect way to enjoy fall—for all ages.

The Book of Mormon, October 7, 7:30 PM

The wildly popular, Tony Awardwinning musical comes to the RiverCenter in Columbus for one night only! From the creators of South Park, the bold and brilliant show is a hilarious, no-holdsbarred hit that’s guaranteed to leave you laughing. Don’t miss the chance to see it live. u

Note: Dates and times of events are subject to change. Please confirm all information before making plans to attend. All phone numbers are in the 904 area code unless otherwise listed.

2025 FACES of Jax

FACES OF HEALTH

Is there anything more personal than one's healthcare? The answer is, no. So, doesn't it pay to "know" one's healthcare providers? Yes, it does.

Meet Our New Cardiovascular Champions

WELCOMING DR. RABIH TABET (LEFT), DR. DEEPAK KUMAR PASUPULA (CENTER) & DR. KELECHUKWU UZOMA OKORO (RIGHT)

First Coast Cardiovascular Institute is proud to welcome three outstanding physicians who bring both advanced expertise and genuine compassion to our patients.

Dr. Rabih Tabet, MD – Dr. Tabet is an accomplished interventional and vascular cardiologist with advanced training at Lenox Hill Hospital and Yale New Haven Hospital. Triple board-certified, he specializes in limb preservation, carotid and renal artery interventions, and comprehensive cardiac care. Fluent in English, French, and Arabic, Dr. Tabet is recognized for his skill, warm bedside manner, and dedication to education and research. Patients appreciate his ability to explain complex procedures with clarity and care.

Dr. Deepak Kumar Pasupula, MD, MPH, FACC, FHRS – Dr. Pasupula joins our growing electrophysiology practice after completing training at MercyOne North Iowa and Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, with additional public health training at Harvard. Board-certified in cardiovascular disease, echocardiography, and nuclear cardiology, he is highly skilled in pulse field ablation, arrhythmia management, and advanced cardiac device procedures. A prolific researcher with more than 45 peer-reviewed publications, he is committed to advancing the field while treating each patient with empathy.

Dr. Kelechukwu Uzoma Okoro, MD – Dr. Okoro recently completed his endovascular fellowship at FCCI and now joins us as a full-time physician. Board certified in internal medicine, cardiovascular disease, and interventional cardiology, he earned his medical degree from St. Matthew’s University before completing residency at Virginia Tech Carilion and fellowships at Marshall University, where he served as Chief Fellow. Known for his skill and compassionate care, Dr. Okoro is a valued addition to our provider team.

Together, Drs. Tabet, Pasupula, and Okoro strengthen FCCI’s tradition of combining innovation with patient-centered care. Their expertise ensures our community has access to world-class cardiovascular treatment close to home.

SOUTHSIDE OFFICE/ OUTPATIENT CATHETERIZATION LAB: 7011 AC Skinner Pkwy, Ste 160 Jacksonville, FL 32256 P: 904.493.3333

JACKSONVILLE BEACH OFFICE: 905 Beach Blvd Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 P: 904.493.3333

UNIVERSITY BLVD OFFICE: 3627 University Blvd S, Suite 435 Jacksonville, FL 32216 P: 904.493.3333

FRUIT COVE OFFICE: 115 Bartram Oaks Walk, Suite 104 Jacksonville, FL 32259 P: 904.493.3333

NORTHSIDE OFFICE: 3890 Dunn Ave, Ste 203 Jacksonville, FL 32218 P: 904.493.3333

WESTSIDE OFFICE: 5851 Timuquana Rd, Ste 204 Jacksonville, FL 32210 P: 904.493.3333

ORANGE PARK OFFICE: (OPENING THIS FALL!) 1465 Kingsley Ave Jacksonville, FL 32073 P: 904.493.3333

PALATKA OFFICE/ OUTPATIENT CATHETERIZATION LAB: 205 Zeagler Dr, Ste 101 Palatka, FL 32177 P: 386.325.2836

SOUTH GEORGIA OFFICE: 501 Riverside Dr Waycross, GA 31501 P: 904.493.3333

Florida Institute for Reproductive Medicine (FIRM)

The Florida Institute For Reproductive Medicine (FIRM) was founded in 1991 and has contributed to the birth of over 20,000 babies in the past 34 years. FIRM is one of the highest-rated infertility practices in the country, having been listed as one of America's Best Fertility Clinics 2023 by Newsweek, and scoring 8.9 out of 10 by FertilitylQ.com, one of the most respected, non-biased rating systems of infertility practices.

FIRM's emphasis on patient care has resulted in some of the highest pregnancy rates in the country. Open seven days a week, its nursing and embryology staff provides year-round IVF care. Doctors Winslow, Erb, Gentry and Sundaram all hold dual board-certifications in both obstetrics and gynecology, as well as reproductive endocrinology and infertility (REI).

Dr. Kevin Winslow is the founder and medical director of FIRM. His infertility fellowship was at the world-renowned Jones Institute in Norfolk, Virginia, which produced the first IVF baby in the United States.

Dr. Teresa Erb completed her REI fellowship at Magee-Women's Hospital of UPMC, during which she performed research in human embryonic stem cell development to trophectoderm (early placenta), for which she holds two patents.

Dr. Adrienne Gentry has been in practice since 2018, having served as an Assistant Professor at Virginia Tech-Carilion School of Medicine after completing her fellowship at the University of Louisville School of Medicine.

Dr. Viji Sundaram completed her fellowship at the University of California, San Francisco, and trained in elective robotic surgery at St. Francis Hospital, San Francisco.

The FIRM has staff members fluent in Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese and French. It has multiple office locations: Baptist downtown, Baptist South, Tallahassee and Daytona. For scheduling, please contact via phone at (904) 399-5620, or web at firmjax.com

G. León-Alvarado,

Florida Retina Institute: Excellence in Personalized Expert Retina Care

INTRODUCING AHMED ALKALIBY, MD, P h D

We are honored to introduce you to Ahmed Alkaliby, MD, PhD, one of the newest members of our Florida Retina Institute team. Beginning in December 2025, Dr. Alkaliby will be seeing patients and contributing his expertise to our mission of compassionate, personalized retina care. His arrival marks an exciting new chapter in our commitment to excellence in vitreo-retinal medicine.

For over 45 years, Florida Retina Institute has been a trusted name in vitreoretinal care and research. With 20 locations across Florida and Georgia, three clinical trials and research departments in Jacksonville, Orlando, and Wildwood, and a team of 17 accomplished and growing specialists, we remain deeply rooted in the communities we serve.

Our physicians are nationally and internationally recognized leaders in retina care, consistently named Castle Connolly Top Doctors. Their advanced training from prestigious institutions—including Bascom Palmer

Eye Institute, Duke Eye Center, Emory University, Cleveland Clinic, and the University of Florida—reflects our standard of clinical excellence and patient-first care. Together, they provide expert treatment for conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, retinal detachments, and pediatric retinal diseases.

Dr. Alkaliby’s addition strengthens our commitment to advancing retinal health through clinical research. Our active participation in groundbreaking studies offers patients early access to emerging therapies for complex retinal conditions, helping shape the future of retina medicine.

Our multicultural and multilingual team proudly offers expert, personalized care that reflects the diversity of our patients. With leading technology, compassionate expertise, and unparalleled access to cutting-edge research, Florida Retina Institute is the practice you tell your family and friends about.

Helping 50+ Clients Age Stronger,

Healthier,

& Happier

MAX STURDIVANT A.K.A. DR. FITNESS

Age Well Fitness clients consistently share how their lives have been transformed. Whether it’s regaining the ability to keep up with grandchildren, finally conquering nagging back pain, or building enough strength and balance to feel confident living independently, each success story is proof that fitness after 50 isn’t just possible, it’s powerful!

Age Well Fitness clients value the personal attention, encouragement, and accountability they receive. They notice real, tangible changes: more energy for everyday life, measurable improvements in mobility, and renewed confidence in their bodies. “I never thought I’d enjoy exercise again, but now I look forward to it,” one client said. Another shared, “My doctor is amazed at how much my numbers have improved.” These are not one-time wins; they’re lasting results that ripple through every area of life.

The programs Age Well Fitness offers to its 50+ demographic are designed to make this kind of progress achievable for anyone, no matter their starting point. From one-on-one coaching to innovative EMS-suit workouts, everything is personalized to meet clients where they are. Support goes beyond the gym, too, with monthly health challenges and nutrition guidance that help make healthier living a lifestyle, not a chore.

Behind it all is Max Sturdivant, better known as Dr. Fitness, an on-air fitness expert for iHeart Radio who shares practical health and wellness tips with Jacksonville listeners on stations like 93.3 The Beat and V101.5. With decades of experience and a passion for helping others, Max leads Age Well Fitness with empathy and expertise, creating a community where every client feels seen, supported, and celebrated.

At Age Well Fitness, it’s not just about exercise. It’s about results clients can see, feel, and live every day.

The Jacksonville Center for Prosthodontics & Implant Dentistry

PROSTHODONTICS & IMPLANT DENTISTRY

As a Prosthodontist, Dr. Rodriguez is uniquely qualified to provide highly skilled, customized, and expert dental restoration services. Prosthodontists are dental specialists who focus on the restoration and replacement of teeth, helping their patients to obtain optimum appearance and function to their smiles. After dental school, Dr Rodriguez received four years of additional specialized training in Advanced Dentistry and Prosthodontics, to focus in major dental problems.

With over 30 years of experience in Prosthodontic Science, The Jacksonville Center for Prosthodontics & Implant Dentistry continues to be the number one option for prosthetic and implant restorations. Dr. Rodriguez and his experienced staff are highly respected members of the dental community. This is why dentists refer their most challenging cases to them.

Being one of the first Prosthodontists in the nation to be trained to use Advanced Dental Imaging Technology at the Naval Postgraduate Dental School in Bethesda, Maryland, Dr. Rodriguez knows how important it is to have the best equipment and technology in his practice. This is why he prepared the Jacksonville Center for Prosthodontics & Implant Dentistry with the best technology to provide advanced services to our patients. The technology at the Jacksonville Center for Prosthodontics & Implant Dentistry is the leading edge in surgical implant placement planning and restorative treatment. Smile Enhancement • Dental Implant Restorations Total Dental Reconstructions • Custom Complete Dentures

SWEET CAROLINA

Last fall, Mother Nature was brutal to many North Carolina towns and cities. Torrential rains from Hurricane Helene overwhelmed rivers that washed away roads, homes and entire downtown commercial districts, particularly in the western part of the state. Scenes of devastation filled news reports for weeks as residents of places such as Asheville, Chimney Rock and Hendersonville had to dig their way through mud and debris, while other parts of the state were literally cut off from the outside world.

Recovery efforts are still underway and lingering flood damage easy to see in many mountain communities. However, the natural beauty of North Carolina is returning, piece by piece. Many Carolina towns and destinations are about a six- or seven-hour drive from Jax, not too far for a weekend getaway, trading Northeast Florida’s flat landscapes for dramatic mountain vistas. Expect cool days and chilly evenings. But that’s what they make fireplaces for, right?

So, this fall, pack your favorite sweaters and pairs of boots, fill the gas tank, maybe stop at Buc-ees for some Beaver Nuggets and jerky, and head north this season. Following are just a few of the places worth the drive and exploration.

BEECH MOUNTAIN

In 2024, fall was cut short on Beech Mountain, the highest town in Eastern America at 5,506 feet. Typically the first area to receive fall colors in the Southeast, the town is bouncing back with its signature slate of outdoor adventure and natural beauty. One of the most popular scenic drives is the famed Blue Ridge Parkway. Those wanting to do more than stretch their legs and leap into an active mountain getaway should exit at milepost 305.1 to experience Beech Mountain.

Hiking trails are nearly too numerous to count in this slice of western North Carolina, lacing through thousands of acres of forest, past hidden waterfalls and stunning mountain lakes. For a fast and more intense thrill, mountain bikers can pedal the seven miles of cross country trails with names like Ruby Slippers and Witch’s Backbone in the Emerald Outback nature park. The area has two lakes popular for kayakers and anglers, Lake Coffey and Buckeye Lake. Fishing licenses are required for anyone over the age of 16 and are available for purchase on Beech Mountain at Fred’s General Mercantile Store, which also has tackle and bait for sale. The Beech Mountain Resort’s chairlift whisk bikers up to the summit during summer and into fall, giving way to skiers when the snow starts to fall. Opening day for the winter season is slated for November 22.

Just a four-mile ride away is the town of Banner Elk, host of the annual Wooly Worm Festival. The two-day event, October 18 and

19, takes place on the town’s downtown green and includes all the things we love about small town fairs—hot foods, arts and crafts vendors, music and kids activities. Plus, making this fest stand apart from the others are the Wolly Worm races. Entry is open to all and worms are available for purchase on site. Also on the local annual calendar is an outdoor Holiday Market on November 29 and the New Year’s Eve celebration with fireworks over the mountain on December 31.

BRYSON CITY

In many parts of the Carolina mountains, autumn unfolds in waves of colors that cascade down ridges and into the valleys throughout the season. In early October, temperatures in the highest elevations start dropping and the foliage transitions from verdant greens to brilliant yellows, reds, oranges and even purples. This visual spectacle continues into the lower elevations as the days and nights grow colder, usually until mid-November. The long leaf-peeping season means several weeks to enjoy the autumnal beauty.

Tucked against an entrance to Great Smokey Mountains National Park is Bryson City, a tiny town that welcomes visitors year-round because of its proximity to outdoor adventures of every kind. Among the leading lures here at this time of year is the Great Smokey Mountains Railroad “Fall Foliage” ride, a leisurely way to soak in beautiful mountain scenery while being transported through valleys painted in brilliant autumn colors. For adult adventures, check out the Carolina Moonshine Experience, Smokey Mountain Beer Run and Uncorked Wine Trains. Passengers savor potent libations and soak in nature’s palette rolling along the tracks, past flowing rivers and rustic outposts.

For some of the region’s most special autumn vistas, head to the Blue Ridge Parkway’s many overlooks including Waterrock Knob and Graveyard Fields. The Oconaluftee Valley Overlook along Newfound Gap Road offers layers of mountain ridges and makes for a great spot for photos at sunrise. If weather permits, hikes through Deep Creek in the national park lead to picturesque streams and waterfalls.

Back in town, a small but tasty craft beer scene compliments the crisp mountain air. For example, Bryson City Brewing pours 14 beers on tap in a family friendly setting with an outdoor space ideal for watching fall football. Mountain Layers Brewing Company rests along the Tuckasegee River offering waterfront and town views from its rooftop deck and serving brews such as Hazel Creek Blonde Ale and Whaddayear Wit made with water that comes directly from the Great Smoky Mountain National Park.

WINSTON-SALEM

Thanks to its Piedmont location, leaf season typically stretches a week or two beyond the mountain peak, making the Winston-Salem region ideal for those who missed the Blue Ridge show but still have a hankerin’ for a fall foliage fix. With a blend of natural beauty, historic charm and quirky Carolina experiences, Winston-Salem is an affordable destination that often doesn’t spring to mind come autumn.

The Old Salem Museums & Gardens is a historic site that tells the stories of people living in the region going back centuries. Kind of like Plymouth or James Town for the Carolinas, the property is a collection of attractions, historical collections, and decorative arts designed to share the diverse cultural history of the early South, with special emphasis on the Moravians in North Carolina, enslaved and free people of African descent, and Indigenous peoples of the Southern Woodland. For example, the Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts (MESDA) houses an enormous collection of decorative arts—furniture, musical instruments, paintings, tools and household items—made throughout the antebellum American South. In addition to the museums, the town lives on with shops like F.L. Horton Bookseller and the 200-year-old Winkler Bakery. Overnight guests can stay at the Brookstown Inn, established in 1837.

Head north out of town to reach the Yadkin Valley, home to nearly 20 wineries, four craft breweries and one distillery—including Angry Troll Brewing, Grassy Creek Vineyard and Mayberry Spirits, a maker of moonshine whiskey which bills itself as the first legal distillery in Mayberry since Prohibition. Speaking of Mayberry, the town of Mount Airy is the birthplace of Andy Griffith and inspired the fictional town and classic TV show. The main attraction here has to be the Andy Griffith Museum, which houses the world’s largest collection of Griffith memorabilia. Most of the items were collected by the late Emmett Forrest, who was a life-long friend of Griffith. The museum has props from the TV show, items from Griffith’s long career in music, TV and film, and personal items donated by actors on the show, including Andy himself.

Completed in 1917, the Reynolda House Museum of American Art was originally the home of Katharine Smith and R.J. Reynolds, founder of the R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company. The more than 34,000-square-foot home was the centerpiece of a 1,067-acre estate and model farm. Now on the National Register of Historic Places, the 64-room historic house stands as one of the few well-preserved, surviving examples of the American Country House movement. Its gardens are peppered with Japanese-style tea houses, pergolas, two fountains, perennial and shrub borders, and specimen trees. The property has a packed calendar of special events, particularly during the holiday season when the grounds host wreath decorating classes, caroling concerts, and more Christmas cheer.

ASHEVILLE

Perhaps no part of the Tar Heel state was hit harder by the storms of last year than Asheville. The flooding was so severe that parts of the city, including the River Arts District and Biltmore Village, were submerged under nearly 25 feet of water. There’s much rebuilding still to be done, but many of the Asheville downtown district’s shops, restaurants and breweries, and the Biltmore Estate, have reopened.

Outdoorsy folks flock to the region’s half-dozen waterfalls, all reachable via marked hiking trails. Trails to three of the most popular waterfalls—Hooker Falls, Triple Falls and High Falls—have all reopened inside the Dupont State Forest. Triple Falls may look familiar. It’s 120foot drop was used for scenes in The Hunger Games and Last of the Mohicans. It’s about 20 miles from downtown Asheville.

Returning to town, RADfest, a two-day celebration of art, music and culture in Asheville’s River Arts District, takes place November 8 and 9. This part of town was especially hard hit during the storm. With a roster of more than 350 artists from across the region, the festival features gallery exhibitions, studio open houses, live music, performance art and special culinary offerings. Restaurants such as The Bull and Beggar have bounced back, as well. Here, diners enjoy an eclectic menu with house favorites such as deviled bone marrow, escargot in their shells and pan-roasted cod. The Radical Asheville hotel has three noteworthy drinking and dining options. There’s After/Glow for coffee and breakfast bites, Golden Hour and its wood-fired grill, and the Arts District’s only rooftop bar, aptly named The Roof.

Set in the Historic Biltmore Village, the Grand Bohemian Lodge Asheville was devastated by flood waters. However, the AAA Four-Diamond boutique hotel is up and welcoming guests. A sister hotel of St. Augustine’s Casa Monica Resort, the hotel is part of the Kessler Collection and features a gorgeous lobby, spa, art gallery and Red Stag Grill serving whole broiled trout and 21-day aged flat iron steaks.

Of course, no visit to this portion of western North Carolina is complete without a few hours inside the 8,000 acres of manicured grounds of the Biltmore Estate. Daily guests are invited to experience America’s largest home, arguably as magnificent today as it was more than a century ago. How big is it? Imagine 175,000 square feet, 250 rooms, 25 bedrooms and 65 fireplaces. Self-guided tours spans three floors and the basement of the family home of George and Edith Vanderbilt. The house really shines come the holidays and its annual Christmas showcase, November 1 through January 4. Tickets come with a Vanderbilt-esque price, ranging from $130 to $155 per day for the House and Grounds tour. $400 gets one a 90-minute private tour of rarely accessed areas of the mansion.

CHARLOTTE

About a two-hour scenic drive east from Ashville is Charlotte, the state’s largest city and home to a collection of unique attractions and neighboring communities. When visiting here, use the Queen City as a home base but be open to traveling outside the urban center. Though, you don’t have to travel far. The Whitewater Center is the largest outdoor facility of its kind in the world. Featuring the globe’s largest manmade whitewater river and more than 1,000 acres of woodlands along the Catawba River, the Center is an outdoor enthusiast’s mecca with 40 miles of trails for mountain biking, whitewater channels for rafting and kayaking, treetop courses for ropes and zips lines, and a 70-acre dog park. There’s even a Treehouse Village with swinging bridges and hammocks. And in winter there are rinks for ice skating and curling.

For arts enthusiasts, there’s the NODA Arts District. An abbreviation of North Davidson Street, the neighborhood’s main drag, this part of town is dotted with murals, unusual shopping finds and eateries like the Artisan’s Palate, a gallery/bar/restaurant combination. Picture bacon-wrapped dates, smoked salmon, grilled shrimp and artichoke salads, pastry empanadas stuffed with chorizo and potato—it’s all good.

Charlotte and NASCAR are a match made in Southern sports heaven. The NASCAR Hall of Fame is one of the city’s signature attractions. Of course, there is a garage-worth’s of race cars on display. But the museum is also packed with interactive exhibits like the Pit Crew Challenge and race simulators—good stuff for kids and adult motorheads. Young minds in particular are the focus at the Discovery Place Kids, a museum that’s full of all sort of hands-on activities, daily dance parties, story time sessions, and things to climb up and slide down.

Standing more than 17 feet tall and adorned with 7,500 pieces of mirrored glass, The Firebird is hard to miss outside of the Bechtler

Museum of Modern Art. The towering sculpture showcases the pioneering imagination and technique that characterize the work of artist Niki de Saint Phalle. It has become the iconic image of Charlotte for locals and visitors alike. The museum building is visually striking, too. In addition to its permanent collection, the Bechtler hosts numerous temporary exhibitions, such as Assembly Lines: Modernism and Machines. Featuring painting, sculpture, printmaking, photography, and generative art, the show presents works by artists including Margaret Bourke-White, Le Corbusier, Ivan Depeña, Kiki Kogelnik and Roy Lichtenstein, October 18 through February 2.

Before leaving Charlotte, you may want to time travel over to the biggest party since Camelot. The Carolina Renaissance Festival in Huntersville (Saturdays and Sundays through November 23) allows visitors to stroll through the village of Fairhaven, where history lives on with jousting knights, friendly dragons, fair maidens and an open-air artisan market. Feast on roast turkey legs, sausages on a stick, chocolate truffles and more. Rides include the “World’s Largest Rocking Horse” and Da Vinci’s Flying Machine, along with a petting zoo, archery ranges, and ax throwing. Gates open at 9:30 AM and sell-outs are routine. u

sunrise serenades & SEASIDE ELEGANCE

A Nantucket-Inspired Retreat in Atlantic Beach Stars in This Year’s Beaches Tour of Homes

With its cedar-shake façade glowing in the morning sun and its sweeping porches kissed by ocean breezes, this 1930s Atlantic Beach retreat is a love letter to coastal living. Rooted in history yet revived with grace, the home channels the refined charm of Nantucket while honoring the relaxed rhythm of seaside life in one of Northeast Florida’s most treasured enclaves.

For the homeowners—who have been drawn to the beaches community for more than 35 years—this property is the fulfillment of a long-cherished dream. They were captivated not only by the shingle cedar shake exterior, but by the spirit of the neighborhood itself: a secret stretch of shoreline where neighbors are friends, where the Beaches Town Center is just a leisurely walk away for dinner at their favorites—Mezza Luna or AB Kitchen, and where the Atlantic itself provides a constant backdrop of serenity.

Stepping inside, the home reveals its timeless soul. Original bead board walls, ceilings, and floors have been lovingly preserved, their patina whispering stories of decades past. Sunlight spills generously through the windows, illuminating elegant woodwork, cozy alcoves, and open spaces designed for effortless gathering. At the heart of the residence lies a spacious, plantation-style gathering room—a breezy, light-filled haven where the homeowners and guests can savor a game of cards or mahjong by the sea, accompanied by the soothing percussion of waves rolling ashore.

The interiors strike a careful balance: sophisticated yet informal, luminous yet serene. It is a home that welcomes both the intimacy of morning coffee at sunrise and the conviviality of evening charcuterie with friends. True to Nantucket tradition, the architecture blends heritage with modern convenience—pitched roofs, cedar shingles, and contextual design are enriched by thoughtful amenities such as a sport courts driveway, a private guest suite above the carport, and seamless spaces tailored to multi-generational living.

Outdoors, the property unfolds into oceanfront grandeur. Sweeping terraces and manicured grounds invite al fresco entertaining, from cocktail hours under a pastel sunset to quiet reflection beneath the starlit sky. Every view celebrates the meeting of land and sea, every moment an invitation to linger in the beauty of coastal life.

For VIP ticket holders to this year’s Beaches Tour of Homes, this residence is more than a house. It is an experience—an elevated retreat where architectural integrity, natural beauty, and community spirit converge. A luminous sanctuary that evokes the discreet elegance of Nantucket yet remains unmistakably Atlantic Beach: timeless, welcoming, and unforgettable. u

This Atlantic Beach home is the VIP featured stop on the eighth annual Beaches Tour of Homes, set for Saturday, November 8 . The fundraising, selfguided tour features more than a dozen gorgeous homes in Atlantic, Neptune and Jacksonville Beach. The official program for the Tour is included in the new edition of Jacksonville Magazine’s Home , a supplement provided with this edition to all current subscribers. Tickets to the Beaches Tour of homes range from $50 to $200 and can be purchased online at 904TIX.com.

This years VIP Home is proudly sponsored by Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty.

hot seats

Jacksonville Magazine offers a select list of area restaurants as a service to its readers. The directory does not include every restaurant in town. It does, however, feature many of the magazine’s Top 50 choices of must-try eateries, as well as a sampling of other notable Northeast Florida dining establishments. Suggestions are welcome. Please contact us at mail@jacksonvillemag.com.

Alhambra Theatre & Dining

Alhambra serves up dinner and a show inside its performance hall. Formerly a buffet service, the Alhambra is becoming known as much for its culinary experience as it is for its Broadway-caliber productions. The nation’s oldest continuously

operating dinner theater showcases famous plays such as The Mystery of Edwin Drood, October 9-November 16, and Elf, November 20-December 24. 12000 Beach Blvd., Southside (641-1212; alhambrajax.com). L, D, SB, $$$.

Al’s Pizza

This home-grown string of pizza joints offers a wide selection of appetizers and New York-style pizza, alongside traditional Italian dishes, Al’s menu includes unexpected items like mussels in wine and garlic butter sauce to satisfy the adventurous foodies out there. They also offer delivery for those in the area of their restaurants. Four locations including 8060 Philips Hwy., Southside (731-4300; alspizza.com), L, D, $.

GUIDE to the GUIDE:

B–Breakfast; L–Lunch; D–Dinner; SB–Sunday Brunch

$–$10 or less; $$–$11 to $20; $$$–$21 to $30; $$$$–$31 or above

These $ categories are based on the average cost of a dinner entrée excluding drinks, desserts and/or gratuities.

NOTE: Some restaurant entrée prices do not include à la carte sides or salad. All phone numbers are in the (904) area code. Cafeterias, fast food joints and primarily take-out restaurants are not eligible for inclusion.

Aqua Grill

Aqua Grill has a contemporary, eclectic menu with a coastal flair made from local ingredients. The Ponte Vedra eatery is known for its top-of-the line service and has been featured on both Jax Mag’s Top 50 Restaurants and Best in Jax lists for many years. 395 Front St., Ponte Vedra Beach (285-3017; aquagrill.net). L, D, $$$.

Argyle

Located inside TPC Sawgrass and adjacent to The Yards pickleball and golf club, the menu features jumbo scallops, 14oz. ribeye and PEI mussels. 254 Alta Mar Dr., Ponte Vedra Beach (3953114; argylepub.com). L, D, SB

bb’s Restaurant & Bar

Bb’s specializes in New American fare and treats, giving comfort food an upscale presentation. Menu items include yellowfin tuna tartare and ancho-spiced rotisserie turkey. They also boast an international cheese selection and top-notch desserts. 1019 Hendricks Ave., San Marco (306-0100; bbsrestaurant.com). L, D, SB, $$.

The Bearded Pig

A pair of casual barbecue spots (complete with an oversized chalkboard wall for kids and plenty of TVs) serves turkey, chicken, brisket, pulled pork and the like, counter-style. Owners Chad Munsey and Michael Schmidt both have fine dining backgrounds, so even the standard fare is a bit more grown up than what you might expect at a “Q” joint. And though it’s a meat-fest, there’s truly something for everyone: all of the sides (slaw, collards, mac-n-cheese) are vegetarian. 1224 Kings Ave., San Marco (619-2247); thebearded pigbbq. com. L, D $$.

Biscottis

This neighborhood landmark for more than two decades specializes in innovative updates on old favorites, like meatloaf served with apricot marinara sauce and duck confit pizza (dinner specials change daily). The dessert case is legendary. Casual. 3556 St. Johns Ave., Avondale (387-2060; biscottis. net). B, L, D, SB, $$.

Blue Bamboo

This restaurant serves hip, Asian cuisine with a wine lounge and patio dining. Menu items include miso-marinated salmon, Cantonese orange duck, Ahi tuna salad and Mandarin orange cake. 10110 San Jose Blvd., Mandarin (6461478; bluebamboojacksonville. com). L, D, $$.

Blue Orchid

Blue Orchid Thai serves authentic Asian fare made with traditional ingredients like Thai basil, palm

sugar, and kaffir lime leaves. Their pad Thai and dynamite chicken are house favorites. 13475 Atlantic Blvd., Jacksonville (723-1300; blueorchid.menu). L, D, $$.

Bono’s Pit Bar-B-Q

Meat is the draw at Bono’s Pit BarB-Q, which has been pit-smoking everything from turkey to pork since 1949. Try the Slawpy Pig, a heaping pile of pulled pork topped with coleslaw and served with sides such as fried corn on the cob, collard greens, or Brunswick stew. Multiple locations (880-8310; bonosbarbq.com). L, D, $.

Caffé Andiamo

A copper pizza oven highlights this stylish eatery specializing in frutti di mare, pollo paisano, vongole Positano, and homemade Italian sausage. Caffe Andiamo complements their Italian fare with a vast wine selection and exudes a modern and relaxing vibe. 225 Village Main St., Ponte Vedra Beach (280-2299; caffeandiamo-pvb.com). L, D, $$.

Casa Reina Taqueria & Tequila

Located just steps from the historic Bridge of Lions in the heart of Downtown St. Augustine, the new upscale Mexican/Florida Coastal eaterie speciallizes in street tacos and enchiladas, as well as short rib, chiles rellenos and tequila lime grouper. Nearly 100 tequilas on offer. 1 Anderson Cir., St. Augustine (295-3847; casareinastaug.com). L, D, $$.

ChopHouse Thirteen

Formerly The Tree Steakhouse, this restaurant offers a sleek, chic dining room. Along with their grilled steaks of 100% Angus beef, they also serve seafood and feature a conditioned wine room with ample variety. 11362 San Jose Blvd., Mandarin (262-0006; chophouse13. com). L,D, $$$.

City Grille & Raw Bar

Welcome arrival to the San Marco area dining scene featuring an upscale setting and a menu laden with seafood, steak and seasonal specialties, as well as an extensive wine list with labels from around the globe. 1314 Prudential Dr., Southbank (398-8989, citygrillerawbar.com). L, D, $$

Coastal Wine & Tapas

Coastal Wine & Tapas has quickly become a standout in Nocatee’s thriving dining scene, winning over locals and visitors alike with its warm, welcoming atmosphere. The space is defined by its signature grapevine chandelier, cozy booths, handcrafted high tops, and a stunning granite bar top that sets the stage for memorable evenings. Guests

can indulge in chef-curated small plates such as Housemade Meatballs Marinara, MarconaCrusted Goat Cheese & Fig, Ahi Tuna Tartare, Drunken Filet Sliders, and more. Reservations are accepted, and the team looks forward to welcoming you into their beautiful new home. 300 Pine Lake Dr., Suite 101, Ponte Vedra (395-3520, coastalwineandtapas.com). D, $$.

Coop 303

Coop 303 is known for its regional cuisine featuring hot honey-glazed salmon, chicken and waffles and pulled pork sliders. But the Beaches Town Center restaurant also features local seafood dishes, and is home to the eight-piece fried chicken basket. Coop also has plenty of spots to hang out and sip their signature cocktails: community tables; alcove booths; a front porch; a rooftop garden; and an upstairs parlor. 303 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach (372-4507; coop303. com). L, D, SB, $$.

Cordova, A Coastal Chophouse & Bar

Situated in the heart of St. Augustine’s historic district, Cordova is the signature restaurant of the Casa Monica Resort and Spa. An extensive menu covers much culinary territory, with an emphasis on seafood and local ingredients. Dinner starters include items such as Florida little neck clams and

Georgia peach salad. Entrées are highlighted by crab-crusted red snapper, grilled beef tenderloin, and peppercorn-crusted short ribs. Save room for the spiced chocolate cake. Be sure to enjoy cocktails in the Cobalt Lounge. Private dining room available. 95 Cordova St., St. Augustine (8196018, KesslerCollection.com/costabrava-restaurant). B, L, D, $$.

Cowford Chophouse

Spread over three levels in a restored building near the foot of the Main Street Bridge, Cowford is an upscale restaurant/rooftop bar combo that specializes in hand-cut steaks and seafood. The menu is flush with items such as tuna tartare, roasted bone marrow and foie gras. A raw bar serves oysters, shrimp cocktail and caviar. For the main course, diners choose between dishes such as bone-in ribeyes and Maine lobster. 101 E. Bay St., Downtown (862-6464). D, $$$$.

Cruisers Grill

For more than 20 years, beachgoers have looked to Cruisers Grill for their signature burger and cheese fries served with ranch dressing. Grilled chicken, country fried steak, turkey and melted Swiss—the sandwich lineup is tops. They offer all the classics, plus newer options like a house-made fried bologna sandwich. 319 23rd Ave. S., Jacksonville Beach (270-0356). L, D, $.

Continued on page 87

WEED EATERS

“Seaweed aquaculture has tripled over the past two decades—with Asia producing nearly all the supply—and it’s one of the fastest-growing commodity sectors globally,” says Angela Collins, a scientist specializing in marine fisheries and shellfish aquaculture in the University of Florida. Collins is part of a team that is studying whether commercial seaweed growing operations are a good fit for Florida. The findings could pave the way for a thriving seaweed farming industry much like it serves as a high-value crop in certain regions of Europe and the Americas.

Presently, seaweed farming in Florida exists at a small scale and only in enclosed tank systems. Before farming can expand into coastal waters, researchers must identify which species naturally occur in Florida waters, evaluate their ability to absorb nutrients, and analyze whether the economics make sense for producers.

“A lot of people think immediately of food when it comes to seaweed farming, but it’s also used in pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals, as well as thickeners and bio packaging, fertilizer and animal feed,” Collins says.

“Also, seaweed acts like a sponge, pulling excess nitrogen out of the water,” Collins continues. “If harvested, it removes that nitrogen completely, which means it could serve as both a product for growers and a tool for improving water quality. Florida’s vibrant shellfish aquaculture and commercial wildcaught seafood industries make it an opportune place to explore seaweed farming, since existing fisheries operations provide a capable workforce and functional working waterfront infrastructure.” u

FARM FRESH

Autumn brings an opportunity to wander through blooming flower fields, explore pumpkin patches, and savor local eats. The St. Johns County Harvest Trail Farm Tour runs through November 22, welcoming visitors to nearly 20 farms—Edwards Family Farm, Bakersville Honey Co., Parker Flower Farms, and others—peppered throughout the county. More than tour, the excursion is a chance to meet the farmers and agricultural partners who nourish Northeast Florida. Learn about their sustainable growing practices and life in the fields and pastures. Plus, download the tour’s passport and collect stamps from each farm visited to earn swag and perhaps win a weekend stay on St. Augustine Beach. Details at HastingsFL.org. u

There’s the old saying that, “membership has its perks.” This certainly is true for members of the Florida Theatre’s recently renamed VIP space, the PNC Lounge

The 3,000 square foot lounge, located on the second floor of the historic concert venue, can accommodate up to 300 people and can be configured to host seated events. Individuals can become members for $250 per year, giving one an exclusive space to enjoy prior to attending a concert, play, movie or other special event at the Florida Theatre. u

Culhane’s Irish Pubs & Restaurants

Straight from Limerick, Ireland, the four sisters who operate the city’s two Culhane’s pubs draw legions of regulars with classics such as Scotch Eggs and Guinness Beef Stew. Bangers N’ Mash, Corned Beef N’ Cabbage, Shepherd’s Pie, Irish Cheese-Crusted Cod—the flavors of the Emerald Isle live here. Full bar. 967 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach (249-9595); 9720 Deer Lake Ct., Southside (619-3177), culhanesirishpub.com. L, D, SB, $$

David's

A fine-dining landmark in Fernandina Beach for some 20 years, this chef-driven eatery features an extensive wine and cocktail list, Wagyu beef, Australian rack of lamb, pan-seared Dover sole and seafood gnocchi bouillabaisse in coconut broth. 802 Ash St., Amelia Island (3106049, ameliaislanddavids.com) D, $$$

Eleven South Bistro

This upscale eatery features an extensive wine list, mesquite wood grill and outdoor patio. Seafood martini, lobster mac and cheese, miso-glazed Chilean sea bass and mesquite-grilled certified Angus beef tenderloin highlight the menu. 216 11th Ave. S., Jacksonville Beach (241-1112;elevensouth.com). L, D, $$$$.

The Fish Company

With a crowded raw bar and a wide variety of locally caught seafood, The Fish Co. offers a little something for everyone. Chef Bill Pinner’s menu combines signature items like fried Mayport shrimp with favorite small plate dishes, changing weekly. The restaurant offers several specials throughout the week. 725-12 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach (2460123; thefish cojax.com). L, D. $$$.

Flying Iguana Taqueria & Tequila Bar

As a tequila bar and grill located in Neptune Beach (and now in Avondale), the Flying Iguana represents one of the liveliest dining options in Duval. Specializing in Latin-American cuisine and expansive cocktail possibilities, the restaurant also hosts live music and has only one rule: Good Vibes Only. 207 Atlantic Blvd., Neptune Beach (853-5680, flyingiguana.com). L, D, SB, $$

Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille

There are a handful of Harry’s peppered around Florida, including a waterfront location in St. Augustine across from the Bridge of Lions. The eatery brings Louisiana flavor

to the regional seafood scene, serving up Cajun and Creole dishes such as French-baked scallops, blackened redfish and crawfish étouffée. 46 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine (824-7765; hookedonharrys.com). L, D, $$.

JJ’s Liberty Bistro

Open since 1994, JJ’s Liberty Bistro is a family-run establishment offering one of the largest selections of wine in Jacksonville. The restaurant hosts frequent wine dinners featuring some of the largest wine producers around the world, including Chateau L’Angelus, Veuve Clicquot, and Plumpjack. You’ll find hundreds of different bottles in the retail store, as well as the finest cheeses, caviars, and homemade desserts. Stop by the ice cream and chocolate/ macaron shop located just next door. 330 A1A N., Suite 209, Ponte Vedra (273-7980; jjbistro.com/ ponte-vedra). L, D, $$$.

Le Petit Paris Café

A little slice of France in the River City, the chef-owned establishment specializes in toasted croissants, quiches and baguette sandwiches. Le Parisien is a classic French hand-held with ham, Swiss and salted butter. The Le Flore salad is a must-try with

smoked salmon, tzatiziki cream, cucumber, sun-dried tomatoes, dill and mixed greens. Sweets include fresh pastries, macarons and pound cakes. Don’t overlook the espresso or cappuccino. Market offers imported foods, condiments and beverages. Pet-friendly patio. 9965 San Jose Blvd., Suite 46, San Jose (512-7777, lepetitparis jax.com). B, L, $.

Matthew’s Restaurant

A fine-dining experience in historic San Marco. The menu is comprised of French and Mediterranean dishes crafted by Chef Alex Yim and also possesses a vast wine selection. Menu items include venison carpaccio, Maine diver scallops, and Osetra caviar. 2107 Hendricks Ave., San Marco (396-9922; matthewsrestaurant. com). D, $$$$.

Restaurant Medure

This restaurant features highend favorites like escargot and caviar, while also making room for classics like meatloaf. Their menu features global cuisine with a local influence, ranging from handcrafted pasta to duck leg confit poutine. 818 A1A N., Ponte Vedra Beach (543-3797; restaurantmedure. com). D, $$$.

Continued on page 95

Brand New Day

BY JEFFREY SPEAR

It seems that every time we turn around, there's a new restaurant opening somewhere around Northeast Florida, especially amidst the booming development taking place in St Johns County. While there's bound to be plenty more in the months ahead, here are a few recent arrivals we felt deserved some attention.

With six restaurants under his belt, and 40 years in the business, Chef Jean Marie Josselin came out of retirement to create Rustica, a recently debuted restaurant in the still emerging SilverLeaf community. Taking reference from his many international experiences, the eclectic menu, full bar, stylish dining room and illuminated airborne fish that swim overhead, makes for an engaging and enjoyable experience. A few dishes not-to-be-missed include poached scallops ravioli ($16) with truffle butter, roasted lobster tail ramen ($37) in a tom yum broth, and Rustica nigiri ($23) with tuna, salmon, hamachi and crispy oysters.

For fans of Southeast Asian cuisine, Little Miss Ha brings an exciting selection of Vietnamese flavors to downtown St. Augustine. Located in the newly renovated Granada building, its spacious dining room, adorned with contemporary flourishes, sets the stage for remarkable culinary experiences. While popular dishes such as banh mi, spring rolls and pho (the national dish of Vietnam) are available, the crispy imperial rolls ($14), green curry ($18), and pineapple ginger fish are all highly recommended. An unusual side note—the restaurant shares space with the French Pantry, connected by a cocktail bar that stretches between both restaurants, a connection that makes sense considering the historical ties between France and Vietnam.

Dorothy's Downtown is a relative newcomer to Jax’s urban core. Under the culinary leadership of Louisiana-born Chef Marvin Barnes, Jacksonville diners here can savor authentic Creole cuisine. Exuding a somewhat vintage vibe with a touch of elegance throughout the space, you're going to find flavors and dishes unlike anything you'll find around town. The Voodoo Balls ($10) made with crayfish, crab and rice, accompanied by Thai chili sauce; short rib poutine ($18) with gravy & cheese curds; and fried chicken and gumbo ($28) with andouille sausage and yellow rice; bring the true taste of the Crescent City to the First Coast. Laissez les bon temps rouler

A lthough Jacksonville has its fair share of notable pizza places, Electric Dough Pizza Co. is the latest to join that list. Created by Chef Tom Gray (Prati Italia, Town Hall), and located in the old San Marco Theatre, pizzas crafted here are made using traditional Roman-style dough with the baked, cheesy edge similar to Detroit-style pies. Crispy and airy at the same time, the Mighty Quinn, (cacio e pepe sauce, mushrooms, arugula, fontina, porcini-truffle aioli) and the Godfather II, a meat-lover’s dream, are two menu standouts. Both are $20 for a medium and pair nicely with an Aperol Spritz. A full bar makes Electric Dough a great happy hour destination as well.

If you're looking for authentic Mexican flavors, Ajua (pronounced ah-HOO-ah) in Jacksonville Beach is the place. The deep, rich earth tones that grace the dining room are easy on the eyes, allowing you to focus on the flavors and textures of your meal—everything made in house and from scratch. While their quesabirria tacos ($18) and huitlacoche quesadilla ($17) are top sellers, other more intriguing selections includes the pan de aire nachos ($12)—a puffed air bread stuffed with nacho toppings, and the flavor-forward 32-oz. Tomahawk steak ($96) topped with chipotle/adobo butter. On game days, check out the Mexican - inspired wings and sliders.

Another newcomer to Jax Beach is Izakaya Ko, serving a wide variety of Japanese style tapas in a visually engaging and casual space. Whether your selections are hot, cold, yakitori or sushi, everything is expertly prepared, beautifully presented and full of flavor. Along with an eclectic selection of sakes, beers and wines, you'll be hard pressed to find anything comparable along the coast. Chef Adi Wiriwan recommends the crab fried rice ($14) with blue crab, garlic confit, green onion; Takoyaki ($8) served with Japanese aioli, sweet soy, bonito flakes, kizami nori; and Chirashi ($28) with six pieces of sashimi over sushi rice.

So many choices. So many meals to still to come. u

Draught Days

Whether tailgating in the parking lot, enjoying a pint with friends at a sports bar, or stocking the fridge at home for a Sunday afternoon on the couch, there’s no denying beer and football are a match made in pigskin heaven. However, the price of brewski admission into the NFL pearly gates varies greatly depending on which stadium one enters to watch the game. According to thebeerthrillers.com, the league-wide average for a 16-oz. beer in the NFL is approximately $9.76, based on data gathered from the previous season. In some cities, a beer can be had for less than $7. In others, you’re going to need a crisp Andrew Jackson for that purchase—knowing, of course, the NFL is basically cashless at this point. Jacksonville and the Jaguars fall near the middle of the 32-team pack, with a beer priced in the $11 range at EverBank Field. Topping Beer Thriller’s list are the Washington Commanders and Las Vegas Raiders, $16.49 and $14.99 respectively. At the bottom of the barrel are the Cleveland Browns ($7.15) and Cincinnati Bengals ($6.80). u

JACKSONVILLE BUSINESSES THAT PRIORITIZE CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

For more than a decade Jacksonville Magazine has made it a point to recognize the local companies doing extraordinary work in the community through our Companies With Heart honors and feature article. We continue that effort in 2026, with a focus on four broad categories—Environmental Efforts; Philanthropy; Ethical Labor Practices; Volunteering.

If your company has a robust strategy for sustainable growth and community impact, don't let it be a secret. Let

your employees, clients, corporate partners and consumers know what you are doing to be socially responsible.

If you would like to nominate your business, please complete the form below and submit it to us by MONDAY, DECEMBER 1 Additional materials (photos, articles, company newsletters, etc.) can be sent via mail to:

Jacksonville Magazine, 1650 Margaret St., Suite 302, PMB #379, Jacksonville, FL 32204.

2026 NOMINATION FORM | WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR:

organization

Dinner Dates

One of the Jacksonville Zoo’s signature after-hours events, Brew at the Zoo, poured into the park for a night of craft beer, tasty eats and entertainment, all in support of wildlife conservation. Guests were invited to stroll throughout the zoo while sampling draughts and bites from more than 50 breweries and food vendors the evening of September 12. A few special guests were treated to an exclusive behindthe-scenes guided tour of spaces within the zoo typically off-limits to visitors. u

The cooler weather of autumn signals the return of all sorts of outdoor gatherings to Northeast Florida, including the monthly Third Thursday Sip & Strolls held along the Southbank Riverwalk. Hosted by Downtown Vision, the free events (5-8 PM) feature live music, food trucks, riverside bars and picnic areas stretched between Friendship Fountain and the Chart House restaurant—all set against the St. Johns River and timed perfectly to enjoy the sunset. “This year, we’re excited to elevate the tradition by spotlighting the rich cultural diversity that makes Jacksonville so special,” says Downtown Vision CEO Jake Gordon. Upcoming Sip & Stroll dates for this fall and winter include October 16, November 20, December 18 and January 15. Participants can expect themes such as a winter wonderland in December and the “S’more Sip & Stroll” in January, complete with fireside treats and hot chocolate. u

Jacksonville’s history and heritage were celebrated at the Bold City Ball, held September 19 at the 100-year-old Karpeles Grand in Springfield, and presented in partnership with Historic Eastside CDC, San Marco Preservation Society and the Jacksonville History Center. 350 guests gathered for a night of live jazz, cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and a silent auction, all to recognize the many people who have transformed the city into a vibrant place to live and love. u

Island Getaway

The name Amelia Island Cookout doesn’t quite do the event justice. Sure, there is a luxurious oceanfront cookout at the Ritz-Carlton on Saturday evening. However, the four-day event, October 16-19, also features about a dozen other decadently delicious experiences including a cigars and port social, two kickoff dinners at a pair of the island’s top restaurants, a Beer Hop through downtown Fernandina Beach, Sunset Wine Cruise, cookbook signing and chef conversation, Bourbon Dinner, Backyard BBQ and Oyster Roast, and a mystery lunch where participants only learn of their dining destination 24 hours before the event. Oh, and we didn’t even mention the weekend’s grand finale, the Master Chefs Dinner, an opulent five-course meal at Salt Restaurant at the Ritz-Carlton. So, who’s hungry?

If you could press and squeeze all the funky things we love about St. Augustine into one eatery, what would come out might look something like Bar Citra Cheese plates, craft beers, ciders, natural wines, fresh-baked breads, pastries, live music, shady patio, books and gift items for sale, sleek but warm interior… all this plus cappuccino and Mayday Ice Cream. Located on Ponce De Leon Boulevard north of the touristy historic district, this is a “locals” spot that serves diners morning to night. The sour dough loaves are superb and frequently sell out. u

Don’t let the Harley Davidson’s parked out back dissuade you from entering Lou’s Blues, a ramshackle bar and grill in the oceanside town of Indialantic, just north of Melbourne Beach. It’s a favorite pitstop for bikers motoring along this stretch of Hwy. A1A, and has been for more than 20 years. Ever watched the Patrick Swayze bar-fighting classic Road House? Lou’s would be a fantastic location for another remake—not that barroom brawls are a problem here. The twostory establishment is part restaurant and live music venue. The interior decor is a kaleidoscope of colors and kitsch, beer signs, boar’s heads, and brassieres. Smoked wahoo dip with jalapeños, Philly steak sandwiches, Italian sausages with peppers and onions, fried chicken wings smothered in pineapple teriyaki sauce ($15) chili cheese fries, 12-inch cheese pizza ($14)—the menu has all your bar eats favorites. Plus, being only yards from the beach, Lou’s also serves seafood standards like conch fritters ($12), raw and steamed oysters, and a seafood platter ($43) with snow crab legs, peel-and-eat shrimp, and a crab cake. Don’t judge this book by its cover. u

Mellow Mushroom

With more than 200 locations around the country, Mellow Mushroom has garnered a loyal following for its stone-baked pizza flavor combinations and for offering up craft beer, premium imports and local favorites. Menu features baked chicken wings, spinach artichoke dip and a dozen house speciality pizzas. Multiple area locations: Avondale, Fleming Island, Southside, River City, Jacksonville Beach (mellowmushroom. com). L, D, $$.

Mezza Luna Ristorante

Located in the heart of the Beaches Town Center, this longtime neighborhood favorite offers seating on their covered patio, formal dining room, and lounge that often hosts live music. The lengthy dinner menu includes Mediterranean favorites like linguine and clams, pan-seared bronzino and wood-fired pizzas. 110 1st St., Neptune Beach (2495573; mezzalunajax.com). D, $$$.

Midtown Table

A culinary concept from the Medure Brothers, this Gate Parkway eatery specializes in all-things Italian. That means appetizers run the gamut from seasonal burrata to meatballs with house-made bread. Entrées include fresh pastas, Neapolitan pizza, and heartier fare (like pork marsala and salt-baked zucchini). 5016 Gate Pkwy., Jacksonville (503.4122; midtowntable.medurebrothers. com). L, D, $$.

Mojo Bar-B-Que

This regional chain showcases Southern barbecue styles like Texas and North Carolina, including everything from burnt ends to pulled pork. Their restaurants celebrate blues, with their Avondale location boasting one of the city’s most expansive whiskey selections and their Jacksonville Beach location featuring live music. 1607 University Blvd. W., Lakewood (7327200, mojobbq.com); 1500 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville Beach (2476636); 1810 Town Center Blvd., Fleming Island (264-0636); 3572 St. Johns Ave., Avondale (381-6670); 5 Cordova St., St. Augustine (3425264). L, D, $$.

Mossfire Grill

A fixture near 5 Points for two decades, Mossfire serves Southwestern cuisine with a sophisticated flair. Menu classics include the chicken empanadas, ancho honey glazed salmon, and crab cakes topped with chipotle lime mayo. Try the gouda cheese quesadilla and the Mexican street corn. 1537 Margaret St., Riverside (355-4434; mossfire.com). L, D, $$.

Nineteen

Located inside the clubhouse at TPC Sawgrass, this fine-dining restaurant matches the high quality you would expect for a place that hosts The Players Championship. The menu is dominated by seafood and local fare, like lime pepper-crusted tuna and ribeye steak. The broad back patio overlooks the golf course.

Sawgrass Clubhouse, Ponte Vedra Beach (273-3238; tpcsawgrass. com). B, L, D, $$.

O-Ku Sushi

O-Ku offers upscale Japanese cuisine, a rooftop bar and patio and seafood from fish markets in Tokyo, Hawaii and here locally. Check out the chef specialties and small plates like tuna crudo, Agedashi tofu and O-Ku rock shrimp or just go straight for the rolls including Neptune’s Beard (shrimp tempura, avocado, spicy tuna, salmon, spicy aioli, sweet soy, chive) and the Firecracker (crispy panko fried roll with spicy salmon, avocado, cucumber, goat cheese mousse, sweet soy). 502 1st St. N., Jacksonville Beach (694-2770, o-kusushi.com). D, $$$.

Restaurant Orsay

An upscale French bistro with local, Southern flavor, meals at Restaurant Orsay are the epitome of a high-end dining experience. The chef-owned restaurant offers an extensive drink selection and some of the best oysters in the city, having won Best in Jax multiple times. 3630 Park St., Avondale (381-0909; restaurantorsay.com). D, SB, $$$$.

Philly’s Finest

When you call yourself Philly’s Finest, you better bring the Cheesesteak magic. For the love of Pat’s and Geno’s, they’ve been doing just that for two decades at the Jax Beach sandwich institution. American, mozzarella, and provolone

cheeses, sautéed onions, mushrooms, pickles, sweet peppers, black olives, Cheese Whiz—each order can be customized to one’s liking for about $15. Order a side of the Old Bay fries, too. 1527 3rd St. N., Jacksonville Beach (241-7188, phillys-finest.com). L, D, $$.

Poppy’s Italiano

Family-owned establishment serving Italian comfort foods since 2107, Poppy’s serves lunch and dinner daily featuring toasted cheese ravioli, Caesar salads, baked penne pasta, chicken piccata and seafood risotto. Among its specialty pasta are spaghetti carbonara with prosciutto, peas and onions sautéed and tossed in cream sauce, and linguini primavera with seasonal vegetable. 832 A1A N., Ponte Vedra Beach (904-273-7272); 104 Ashourian Ave., St. Augustine (904-679-3657, poppysitaliano.net). L, D, $$.

Poe’s Tavern

Located at the end of Atlantic Blvd. in the heart of the Beaches lies a gourmet burger joint where you can experience an ample beer selection and the cool breeze of the ocean from their outside seating area. Each menu item is named after one of Edgar Allan Poe’s famous stories, including the Tell-Tale Heart, a half-pound bacon and cheddar burger topped off with a fried egg. 363 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach (241-7637; poestavern. com). L,D, $.

Continued on page 97

As part of the Medure Brothers' culinary concepts, Midtown Table in bustling St. Johns Town Center serves Italian-inspired lunch, dinner and craft cocktails. While the menu changes with the seasons, diners can expect house-made pasta, handtossed pizzas and fresh-milled breads coming from Chef Jovani Quintero’s kitchen. In a slice of town brimming with franchise eateries, locally owned Midtown stands apart with dishes such as duck pappardelle, baked potato pizza and white chocolate bread pudding. Here, chef "Geo" shares a recipe for an autumn comfort food gem.

Butternut Squash Risotto

BY CHEF JOVANI QUINTERO, MIDTOWN TABLE | PHOTOS BY ANDY VARNES

Risotto

INGREDIENTS

Olive oil

1 yellow onion, chopped

½ tsp. salt (adjust to taste)

Ground black pepper, to taste

1 tsp minced rosemary and sage

1 cup Arborio rice

½ cup dry white wine

4 cups chicken or vegetable stock (reserve a little for finishing)

2 cups butternut squash, cubed

2 garlic cloves

½ cup freshly grated pecorino cheese

Parsley, for garnish

Butternut Squash Purée

INGREDIENTS

2 cups butternut squash

1 apple, diced

½ Tbls. honey

½ tsp. cinnamon

Pinch of nutmeg

Pinch of allspice

½ tsp. brown sugar

1 garlic clove

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Start the Risotto. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and Arborio rice. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring, until lightly toasted. Deglaze with white wine and allow it to reduce.

2. Cook the Squash Purée. In another pan, add cubed butternut squash, diced apple, garlic, honey, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. Cook until everything is soft. Purée in a blender or with an immersion blender, adding a little stock to smooth.

3. Build the Risotto. Once the wine has reduced in the rice, begin adding stock one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Allow each addition to absorb before adding more. Continue for about 20 minutes.

4. Add Squash and Purée. Stir the butternut squash purée and cubed squash into the risotto. Continue cooking, stirring every 2 minutes, until the rice and squash are tender. Add more stock as needed to reach creamy consistency.

5. Finish the Dish. Remove from heat and stir a knob of butter with pecorino cheese and minced rosemary-sage. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Garnish and Serve. Spoon into bowls, garnish with parsley, and finish with fried sage leaves in browned butter for extra flavor. Serves 4.

Rooftop bars are popping up all over Northeast Florida. Arguably one of the best can be enjoyed at River & Post. The restaurant specializes in upscale American fare—seared hanger steak, shrimp and grits, grilled salmon almondine. Small plates, charcuterie, sushi rolls and flatbreads are available on the rooftop. 1000 Riverside Ave., Riverside (575-2366; riverandpostjax.com). L, D, SB, $$$.

RP’s Fine Food & Drink

RP’s serves local fish and fresh produce inside a casual beach setting. The menu features items such as conch fritters, a crab cake BLT, and Shrimp 308—sautéed local shrimp doused in spicy Cajun butter over rice with hushpuppies. 1183 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville Beach (853-5094; rpsjaxbeach.com). B, L, D, SB, $$.

Rue Saint-Marc

Led by executive chef Scott Alters, Rue Saint-Marc strikes a balance between sophistication and comfort by serving decadent menu items like halibut meunière while maintaining exceptional service and a quaint atmosphere, all just steps from the heart of San Marco Square. 2103 San Marco Blvd., San Marco (619-0861; ruesaintmarc.com). B, L, D, SB, $$.

Safe Harbor Seafood

Fresh, locally caught seafood is the calling card for Safe Harbor. That’s not surprising, as customers can practically see the shrimp boats of Mayport from the restaurant’s front door. It’s easy to see why hungry diners have been drifting here for years. Sure, the menu is laden with clams, oysters, crab cakes and other seafood standards, but sometimes a basket of fried shrimp, slaw, fries and hush puppies is a little slice of heaven. 4378 Ocean St., Mayport (246 4911, safeharbor-seafood.com). L, D, $$.

Salento Colombian Steakhouse

Open since 2014, this familyoperated dining spot specializes

ribeye steaks, burgers and more. Also serving fried green plantains, arepas, corn cakes, rice and beans—all with a Latin American flair. 11018 Old St. Augustine Rd., Mandarin (374-5882); 60 Silver Forest Dr., St. Augustine (342-7557, salentosteakhouse.com)

Salt Life Food Shack

“Salt Life” is a ubiquitous phrase in Northeast Florida, and for many represents a lifestyle of relaxing fun and, above all, love for our adjacent ocean. This restaurant channels that vibe in a dining experience and a seafood-heavy menu designed to appeal to all locals and beach-lovers who enter, ranging from tuna poke bowls to Boca-style grouper. 1018 3rd St. N., Jacksonville Beach (372-4456; saltlifefoodshack.com); 321 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Augustine Beach. L, D, $$.

Sliders Oyster Bar

With its open-air bar and broad covered patio, Sliders oozes beaches vibes and charm. A sister restaurant of Safe Harbor Seafood, diners rest assured the fish, shrimp, and shellfish are going to be the freshest around. The raw bar serves all the seafood staples like steamed clams, peel-and-eat shrimp and oysters on the half-shell. The oysters Rockefeller is baked with spinach, parmesan, provolone and breadcrumbs. The oysters “Godzilla” are served raw with seaweed salad, cucumber wasabi and the house “pirate” sauce. 218 1st St., Neptune Beach (246-0881, slidersoysterbar. com). L, D, $$.

Surfwiches

One of Northeast Florida’s original cheesesteak and hoagie stops, Surfwiches has been a top Beaches sandwich and full-service ice cream shop since 2013. Cheesesteaks range from sliced ribeye steak to grilled buffalo chicken. Classic hoagies include the Italian with Genoa salami, spicy capitol, prosciutto and

roast beef, ham and cheese, and corned beef. The Outrageous BLT comes with a mountain of applewood-cured bacon. Plus, hot dogs, burgers, patty melts, chocolate sundaes, and more. Dine in, carryout and delivery through Uber Eats. 1537 Penman Rd., Jacksonville Beach (904241-6996, surfwiches.com) B, L, $$

TacoLu

In a style described as Baja Mexicana, this "uber" popular restaurant serves nachos, quesadillas, enchiladas, and about any kind of taco you desire, with fish tacos being their specialty. TacoLu fulfills their niche well, and it’s what earned them the designation of “Best Tacos” in the city in our Best In Jax reader’s poll. Oh, and they have over 100 types of tequila and mezcal. 1712 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville Beach (249-TACO; tacolu.com). L, D, SB, $.

Taqueria Cinco

Located in funky Five Points, this restaurant focuses on providing top-notch hospitality while serving authentic Mexican eats. If you come on a Friday or Saturday, be sure to try their Al Pastor. Happy hour food and drink specials available Mon.-Fri. from 3-6:30. Closed Sundays. 809 Lomax St., Riverside (312-9113; taqueria5points.com). L, D, $$.

Taverna

Taverna offers authentic Italian dishes with a modern twist. Its focused menu brings out the best in Mediterranean flavors, producing dishes like antipasto and orecchiette. All of their pasta and mozzarella are house-made, and the pizzas are cooked in a wood oven at the back of the dining room. 1986 San Marco Blvd., San Marco (398-3005; taverna. restaurant). L, D, SB, $$.

Taverna Oceana

The recently opened next door neighbor to sister eatery Taverna, Sam and Kiley Efron’s latest spe-

bar serves classics like oysters on the half-shell, shrimp cocktail and caviar. Dinner features lobster thermador, hot-smoked salmon and pasta primavera. 1988 San Marco Blvd., San Marco (398-3005; oceana. restaurant). L, D, $$

Town Hall

Sourcing produce from local farms, Town Hall brings American fare with a West Coast influence to Florida. They encourage a sense of community in their dining experience, emphasized by comfy couches, warmly hued artwork, and thoughtful design touches such as outlets in the bar area. 2012 San Marco Blvd., San Marco (398-0726; townhalljax. com). D, SB, $$$.

Vernon’s First Coast Kitchen & Bar

Located at the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa, this restaurant uses fresh, local ingredients and seafood, and provides an exceptional wine list. Sunday brunch features farm-to-table classics like chicken and waffles and biscuits with gravy. 1000 PGA Tour Blvd., Ponte Vedra Beach (285-7777). B, D, $$$.

Whitey’s Fish Camp

Not many restaurants double as an RV park. That hospitality, combined with homespun ultra casual décor produces a Southern atmosphere at Whitey’s Fish Camp that is, above all, authentic. The seafood is fresh and specialities include beer-battered fried grouper, North-of-theborder steamed snow crab legs, a shrimp boil, and all-you-can-eat catfish. Check out the deck, tiki bar and dock, where you can even arrive by boat. 2032 C.R. 220, Orange Park (269-4198; whiteysfish-camp. com). L, D, $$. u

Send food and restaurant news, ideas or questions to mail@jacksonvillemag.com.

Only in Florida

Strange But True Stories from Across the Sunshine State

Apparently, being married to three women at the same time in Florida is illegal. So discovered Henry Betsey, who was convicted in July and sentenced to two years probation. He pleaded guilty to felony bigamy in May, a court date at which his new girlfriend—but none of his wives—was in attendance. Quite active on various dating sites, it was reported one of his profiles read: “Looking for a beautiful woman who understands the up and downs of life, is trustworthy and no games.” Betsey married his first wife, Tonya, in November 2020 at the Jacksonville courthouse after meeting her on Tinder. He married Brandy in February 2022 after meeting on Stir. Next was Michelle, who he wed in November of 2022, three weeks after they met via Match.com.

In July, Ronal Rivas Sanchez, 25, was arrested for possession of illegal drugs. Pretty common for Florida, right? Not so fast. Following what was a routine traffic stop on US 1 in the Florida Keys, a search of his vehicle yielded an array of contraband, reportedly 1.7 grams of a cocaine/fentanyl mixture, 8.4 grams of marijuana, a THC vape pen and assorted drug paraphernalia. In addition, authorities discovered six lobsters, all of which were out of season and five that were undersized, violations of Florida’s strict fishing regulations.

According to a police report, Matthew Day, 30, “entered the rooftop

bar, pulled his penis out of his shorts, and urinated from the balcony onto the sidewalk,” adding that “several passersby were struck with urine.” Day, a New York-based advertising executive, allegedly relieved himself at the rooftop bar of the downtown St. Petersburg nightspot, The Landing. A late-July criminal complaint noted that Day showed an “indication of alcohol influence.” He was arrested and charged with disorderly conduct, a misdemeanor, and was released from county jail on $500 bond.

In June, a Jacksonville resident woke up hungry one day. So, he did what so many of us routinely do—he went to Chick-fil-A. To do so, William, age 5, first needed to squeeze through the bars of the locked gates outside the family home. Then he walked a couple of blocks to the fast food favorite. Here, concerned Chick-fil-A staff contacted the Sheriff’s Office regarding the tot, who did receive a bite to eat while he waited for police to arrive. William didn’t know his home address but he did know the street and that the house has a white fence out front. Quickly finding the home and then hopping the fence, police knocked on the front door to let his parents know of his adventure. “I know he knows how to get to Chick-fil-A because we walk there,” said mother Victoria. “I would’ve never expected him to come down here on his own in the morning before anybody else in the house was up.” u