As April draws to a close, the Jacksonville area is gearing up for an exciting weekend filled with a variety of events that cater to diverse interests. Whether you're a fan of country music, a lover of the arts, or someone who enjoys local festivals, this weekend offers something for everyone.
Kicking off the festivities is country music star Kane Brown, who will perform at the VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena on Friday, April 25, 2025, at 7 p.m. Tickets for the concert range from $49 to $475. Known for blending country and hip-hop, Brown will be joined by opening acts Mitchell Tenpenny and Ashley Cooke. This concert promises to be a highlight for country music fans in the area.
Simultaneously, the acclaimed musical 'MJ The Musical' will be staged at the Moran Theater, also on Friday at 8 p.m. The show will continue with performances on Saturday, April 26, at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m., and on Sunday, April 27, at 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Ticket prices range from $71.50 to $184.50. 'MJ The Musical' showcases 30 of Michael Jackson's greatest hits and has garnered four Tony Awards, making it a must-see for theater enthusiasts.
Saturday, April 26, marks Celebrate Trails Day, which will take place at the LaVilla Link Butterfly Garden starting at 10 a.m. This free event celebrates the new Emerald Trail, which will eventually span 30 miles through Jacksonville. Attendees can enjoy storytelling, chalk art, music, walking tours, nature talks, yoga, and even a butterfly release. It's a perfect opportunity to connect with nature and learn about the city’s environmental initiatives.
In addition to these major events, several local festivals will be taking place this weekend. The Bostick Blueberry Festival, held on Saturday in the small town off U.S. 17 between Green Cove Springs and Palatka, will feature live music, blueberry ice cream, and a Miss Blueberry Festival contest, alongside activities for children. This festival is a celebration of the blueberry harvest and is sure to draw in families and food lovers alike.
Also on Saturday, the Roscolusa Songwriters Festival will kick off at 5 p.m. at Nocatee Festival Field. With ticket prices ranging from $30 to $105, the festival will feature renowned songwriters performing hits that many will recognize. This event promises to be an intimate celebration of music and creativity.
The Cabbage, Potato and Bacon Festival will take place at The Venue in Hastings over the weekend, offering a unique combination of lawnmower races, pig racing, cooking demonstrations, live music, and a kids’ zone. This festival is a fun-filled event for all ages and is sure to be a hit.
Food lovers should not miss the Taste of St. Augustine, happening on Saturday at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre. For just $5, attendees can sample dishes from local restaurants, making it an affordable way to explore the culinary offerings of the region.
Rounding out the weekend is the Opening of the Beaches Parade, scheduled for Sunday, April 27, at 2 p.m. in Jacksonville Beach. This free event celebrates the beach culture of Florida, and although the beaches never truly close, the parade signifies the start of the summer season.
Meanwhile, in Central Florida, several other exciting events are taking place. The St. Johns River Festival of the Arts will be held in downtown Sanford on April 26-27, featuring over 120 artists showcasing their work. Visitors can expect live entertainment and the chance to win part of $15,000 in prizes awarded to top artists. The festival is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday, with free admission and parking.
In Lake County, the Mount Dora Blueberry Festival will celebrate the peak of blueberry season with events including a pancake breakfast, blueberry beer, and a pie-eating contest. This free festival runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on April 26-27, allowing families to enjoy a day of fun and delicious treats.
On the same day, the Florida Puerto Rican Parade & Festival will take place in downtown Orlando from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. This vibrant celebration will promote Puerto Rican culture and heritage, featuring live music performances and over 100 exhibitors showcasing food and crafts.
Additionally, the Winter Park Paint Out will conclude its week of plein air painting with 22 artists showcasing their work at the Polasek Museum and around Winter Park. The museum will be open from 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Friday and 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, allowing visitors to appreciate the artistic talents on display.
For those looking for a lively atmosphere, the Boxi Park Reggae Fest will feature live performances and tropical drinks from April 24-27, while Earth Fest 2025 in Casselberry will celebrate Earth Day with nearly 75 vendors and family-friendly activities on April 26.
Finally, the Hubble Space Telescope 35th Anniversary Celebration at the Kennedy Space Center will offer family-friendly activities and presentations from April 25-27, marking a significant milestone in space exploration.
With so many events happening this weekend, Jacksonville and the surrounding areas are set for a lively celebration of arts, culture, food, and music. Whether you're attending a concert, enjoying a festival, or celebrating the environment, there's no shortage of activities to enjoy as April comes to a close.
