9 Best Things To Do in Jacksonville This Labor Day Weekend 2025
JACKSONVILLE, Florida — Labor Day weekend in Jacksonville brings a mix of music festivals, riverfront fireworks, sports, and family events. With its beaches, cultural spots, and vibrant downtown, Jacksonville is a perfect place to celebrate summer’s last big holiday. Here are nine of the top events happening across the First Coast.
1. Jacksonville Jazz Festival
One of the city’s signature cultural events, the Jacksonville Jazz Festival takes over downtown with performances from national and local jazz artists. Expect multiple stages, food trucks, and riverside views filled with music.
- Highlight: Late-night jam sessions that keep the festival energy going.
2. Jacksonville Beach Fireworks & Concerts
Head to the coast for fireworks over Jacksonville Beach on Sept. 1, paired with live music on the Seawalk Pavilion stage. Families often set up early with blankets and chairs for a full evening of entertainment.
- Tip: Parking fills quickly near the oceanfront — use shuttles when available.
3. Labor Day Weekend River Cruise
Celebrate on the St. Johns River with a Labor Day dinner or sunset cruise. Packages include buffets, cocktails, and live entertainment as you take in views of Jacksonville’s skyline.
4. Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp Baseball
The city’s beloved minor league team, the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp, hosts a Labor Day weekend homestand at 121 Financial Ballpark. Expect family promotions, post-game fireworks, and kids’ activities.
5. Riverside Arts Market – Labor Day Edition
On Saturday, the Riverside Arts Market showcases local artists, craft vendors, live performances, and food along the river. A great way to spend the day before heading to evening concerts.
6. Jacksonville Caribbean Carnival
Celebrate island culture with the Caribbean Carnival parade, filled with costumed dancers, steel drum bands, and authentic food vendors. The festival ends with a big concert downtown featuring soca and reggae artists.
7. Family Day at Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens
Families can spend Labor Day exploring the Jacksonville Zoo, which offers special discounts and themed programs for the holiday. Highlights include the jaguar exhibit, splash play areas, and lush botanical gardens.
8. Memorial Park Labor Day Picnic
Locals often gather at Memorial Park for an old-fashioned community-style picnic. Bring your own food or buy from local vendors, enjoy lawn games, and relax along the riverbank.
9. Downtown Nightlife & Rooftop Parties
Jacksonville’s bar scene stays lively all weekend, with rooftop parties, live DJs, and drink specials in popular spots like the Elbow District and San Marco. Perfect for those who want to dance the holiday night away.
Why Jacksonville Shines on Labor Day
Jacksonville combines big-city events with small-town community charm. From jazz downtown to fireworks on the beach and family fun at the zoo, the city offers something for everyone. With the St. Johns River and Atlantic Ocean as a backdrop, the long weekend here feels both festive and relaxing.
Jacksonville’s Labor Day weekend 2025 is packed with experiences — whether you’re watching fireworks at the beach, cruising the river, or enjoying live jazz downtown.
Stay with ChicagoMusicGuide.com for more holiday event guides and cultural coverage across Florida.