Weekend Activities Guide: Things to Do in Jacksonville (Dec. 5-10)
Looking for exciting activities to fill your calendar? We’ve curated a comprehensive roundup of must-attend events happening across Jacksonville from Thursday through next Tuesday. Our guide offers something for everyone – no planning required!
December 5, Thursday
First Thursday Yoga @ Friendship Fountain
Photo credit: Downtown Vision
📅 December 5, 2024 (Thursday) | 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
📍 1015 Museum Cir., Jacksonville, FL 32207
🎟️ Free
First Thursday Yoga at Friendship Fountain, a free all-levels yoga class hosted by Downtown Vision and Jax Parks! This monthly event invites you to stretch, breathe, and relax in one of Jacksonville’s most iconic locations. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned yogi, this is a great way to practice self-care while enjoying the beauty of our city. Don’t forget your yoga mat, towel, and water—and stay afterward to catch the stunning Friendship Fountain light show!
The Creative Club Jax
Photo credit: Helena Acosta
📅 December 5, 2024 (Thursday) | 7:00 PM
📍 The Atlantic Theatre
🎟️ $10
Join The Creative Club Jax for a special end-of-year gathering celebrating art, healing, and community! This inclusive, welcoming event is open to everyone, regardless of artistic experience, and focuses on the power of creativity for personal growth and self-expression. The evening will feature Jasmon Lamon, a motivational speaker and poet, who will share her inspiring journey of resilience and creativity. Don’t miss this chance to connect with the local creative community, express yourself authentically, and close out 2024 on a high note. Sign up for the event here.
December 6, Friday
Art after Dark @ The Cummer Museum & Gardens
📅 December 6, 2024 (Friday) | 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
📍 829 Riverside Ave. Jacksonville, FL
🎟️ Members: Free | Adults: $20 | Students (Ages 6-17): $15 | Children (Ages 5 and under): Free
Experience the vibrant energy of Art After Dark at the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens! This monthly event offers a unique opportunity to explore the museum’s galleries and gardens after hours, with live music, art demonstrations, and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for art lovers of all kinds. Whether you’re looking to unwind with a drink in hand, enjoy local performances, or discover new art, Art After Dark is the perfect evening outing.
First Fridays at Friendship Fountain
📅 December 6, 2024 (Friday) | 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM
📍 1015 Museum Cir., Jacksonville, FL 32207
🎟️ Free
First Fridays at the Fountain returns every first Friday of the month from 5:00 to 9:30 PM! Enjoy an evening filled with live music from a DJ, a cash bar, delicious food trucks, local vendors, and lawn games, all set against the backdrop of the beautiful Fountain. Whether you’re looking to shop, eat, or just unwind, First Fridays at the Fountain offers a fun and lively atmosphere to kick off your weekend. Don’t miss out on this monthly celebration of community and entertainment!
Moonlight Movie: The Grinch
📅 December 6, 2024 (Friday) | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
📍 Latham Plaza & Seawalk Pavilion
🎟️ Free
Moonlight Movies: The Grinch is happening at Deck the Chairs! Enjoy a festive evening under the stars at the Seawalk Pavilion as this holiday classic plays on the big screen. Bring your family and friends to experience a cozy and fun night out, all for free. A special thanks to event sponsors PRI, Arlington Toyota, 96.1 WEJZ, and 99.9 Gator Country for bringing this wonderful event to the community. Don’t miss out on this heartwarming holiday movie experience!
Winter Nights Market @ Spruce Jax
📅 December 6, 2024 (Friday) | 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
📍 Spruce Murray Hill, 3644 Post Street, Jacksonville, FL 32205
🎟️ Free
Celebrate the holiday season at Spruce! Enjoy a lively evening with Babe Honey providing live music, a selection of local vendors to explore, and delicious seasonal drinks to enjoy. It’s a great way to get into the holiday spirit and support local businesses. Don’t miss out on this festive event to start your holiday season off right!
December 7, Saturday
Art in the Park
📅 December 7, 2024 (Saturday) | 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
📍 505 Alfred Dupont Place, Jacksonville, FL 32202
🎟️ Free
Experience a free art class along the beautiful Riverwalk in Downtown Jacksonville! In partnership with the Jacksonville Artist Guild, Downtown Vision offers four art classes each month, designed to introduce participants of all ages to different artistic techniques and mediums. Each month features classes for Youth, Teens, Adults, and Seniors, held on Saturdays from 10-11 AM. The location rotates monthly to various riverfront parks in downtown, offering a fresh setting for each session. All art supplies are provided, making it easy for everyone to explore their creativity in a vibrant outdoor setting.
Citi Free First Saturday @ The Cummer Museum
Photo credit: The Cummer Museum
📅 December 7, 2024 (Saturday) | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
📍 829 Riverside Ave. Jacksonville, FL
🎟️ Members: Free | Adults: $20 | Students (Ages 6-17): $15 | Children (Ages 5 and under): Free
Immerse yourself in world-class art without spending a dime. Sponsored by Citi, this monthly event offers complimentary museum admission from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the first Saturday of every month. Explore stunning collections, rotating exhibitions, and beautiful gardens at no cost—a perfect cultural experience for art lovers and families alike.
MOCA Mini Market
📅 December 7, 2024 (Saturday) | 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
📍 333 N Laura St Jacksonville, FL 32202
🎟️ Free
The MOCA Mini Market is a two-day artist market at the Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville. The event features a variety of talented artists and creators showcasing their work, perfect for holiday gift shopping. In addition to unique, handmade items, visitors can enjoy Jazz in the Afternoon on Sunday, December 8 in the MOCA Theater, adding a lively musical touch to this festive market experience. Don’t miss this chance to support local artists and find one-of-a-kind gifts!
Holiday Gift Marketplace Open House
📅 December 7, 2024 (Saturday) | 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
📍 320 E Adams St., Jacksonville, FL 32202
🎟️ Free
The Jacksonville Holiday Gift Market Open House offers a fantastic opportunity to shop local for unique, one-of-a-kind gifts from over 25 local artists featuring handcrafted items perfect for holiday giving. Guests can explore a variety of creations from crafters, artisans, and more while enjoying food, drinks, music, and a fun kids’ craft activity. The Holiday Gift Marketplace will remain open until Christmas, providing plenty of time to find special gifts and support local talent.
Ship Fest
📅 December 7, 2024 (Saturday) | 8:00 PM – 11:30 PM
📍 610 East Bay Street Jacksonville, FL 32202
🎟️ $10 – $100
Ship Fest Christmas aboard the USS Orleck is back! Hosted by Danielle Dallas & Cassidy Shepherd, this annual Christmas Sweater Party promises an unforgettable holiday experience aboard the retired naval ship in Downtown Jacksonville, Florida. Guests are encouraged to get festive and dress up for the occasion. Upon arrival, enter through the vendor village, featuring local shops, snacks, and a full bar. This 18+ event offers access to the shipyard and the ship itself, with three stages and multiple levels to explore. Don’t miss out on this unique holiday celebration aboard the USS Orleck!
Tickets can be booked here.
December 8, Sunday
MOCA Mini Market
📅 December 8, 2024 (Sunday) | 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
📍 333 N Laura St Jacksonville, FL 32202
🎟️ Free
The MOCA Mini Market is a two-day artist market at the Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville. The event features a variety of talented artists and creators showcasing their work, perfect for holiday gift shopping. In addition to unique, handmade items, visitors can enjoy Jazz in the Afternoon on Sunday, December 8 in the MOCA Theater, adding a lively musical touch to this festive market experience. Don’t miss this chance to support local artists and find one-of-a-kind gifts!
Sunday Service at Tiki Java Jax
📅 December 8, 2024 (Sunday) | 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
📍 5711 Bowden Rd unit 5, Jacksonville, FL 32216
🎟️ Free
Experience the ultimate Sunday vibe at Sunday Service at Tiki Java Jax! Enjoy the perfect mix of great coffee, tasty treats, and a live DJ spinning the best tracks, creating a laid-back, lively atmosphere. Whether you’re sipping on your favorite coffee, catching up with friends, or just enjoying the beats, Tiki Java Jax offers the ideal setting to relax and unwind. Join the fun and make Sunday your favorite day of the week!
Luminaria Festival
📅 December 8, 2024 (Sunday) | 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM
📍 2623 Herschel St., Jacksonville, FL 32204
🎟️ Free (Kits and merch range from $3 – $35)
The 40th Annual Luminaria returns to the Riverside and Avondale communities on December 8, 2024, celebrating a cherished tradition that has illuminated the sidewalks since 1984. This beloved event invites friends and neighbors to come together to light up the streets, creating a festive and welcoming atmosphere for all. Luminaria is a wonderful opportunity to socialize, celebrate the season, and enjoy the beauty of glowing candles lining the paths. Luminaria kits and other special items will be available for purchase soon, and by buying a kit through Riverside Avondale Preservation (RAP), attendees help ensure that parks and churches in the area are adorned with luminaries at no cost to them.
Kits and merch can be purchased here.
Live Jazz and $3 Mimosas at Casbah
📅 December 8, 2024 (Sunday) | 9:00 PM – 12:00 AM
📍 3628 St. Johns Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32205
🎟️ Free
Enjoy a night of smooth live jazz and refreshing $3 mimosas at Casbah! Every week, this lively venue sets the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable evening of great music and even better drinks. Whether you’re unwinding after a long day or looking to start your weekend off right, Casbah offers the perfect mix of live entertainment and affordable mimosas.
December 9, Monday
Poi Workshop
Photo credit: Downtown Vision
📅 December 9, 2024 (Monday) | 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
📍 729 Riverside Ave. Jacksonville, FL 32204
🎟️ Free
Discover the art of Poi spinning and its connection to mindfulness in this exciting Poi Workshop hosted by Jax Parks! In this free one-hour session, you’ll explore how Poi can improve balance, coordination, and mental focus while promoting overall well-being. Sign up today to secure your spot in this engaging and therapeutic experience! More details can be found here.
Jacksonville Symphony Youth Orchestras (JSYO) Concert
Photo credit: Downtown Vision
📅 December 9, 2024 (Monday) | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
📍 300 Water St #200 Jacksonville, FL 32202
🎟️ Children: $5 | Adults: $10
Join the Jacksonville Symphony Youth Orchestras (JSYO) this December for a special concert showcasing the talent of young musicians from Northeast Florida. With performances from various ensembles, including full orchestras and string groups, this concert will highlight the hard work and dedication of the students throughout the season.
Tickets can be purchased here.
December 10, Tuesday
Art after Dark @ The Cummer Museum & Gardens
📅 December 10, 2024 (Tuesday) | 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
📍 829 Riverside Ave. Jacksonville, FL
🎟️ Members: Free | Adults: $20 | Students (Ages 6-17): $15 | Children (Ages 5 and under): Free
Experience the vibrant energy of Art After Dark at the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens! This monthly event offers a unique opportunity to explore the museum’s galleries and gardens after hours, with live music, art demonstrations, and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for art lovers of all kinds. Whether you’re looking to unwind with a drink in hand, enjoy local performances, or discover new art, Art After Dark is the perfect evening outing.
Tuesday Night Yoga Class with Yoga 4 Change
📅 December 10, 2024 (Tuesday) | 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
📍 715 Riverside Ave. Jacksonville, 32204
🎟️ Free
Join Yoga 4 Change for Tuesday night yoga underneath the Fuller Warren Bridge. This weekly class offers a peaceful environment to unwind, stretch, and recharge, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced yogi. Enjoy a relaxing and restorative session that focuses on mindfulness, flexibility, and strength.
Free Zumba
Photo credit: Downtown Vision
📅 December 10, 2024 (Tuesday) | 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
📍 505 Alfred dupont Place Jacksonville, FL 32202
🎟️ Free
Get moving with free Zumba every Tuesday! Whether you’re a Zumba pro or just looking to try something new, this high-energy class is a fun way to get active and enjoy the outdoors. Dance to upbeat music, burn calories, and meet new people!