Cultural Activities

Jacksonville offers a vast collection of cultural venues. Browse the galleries and museums, take in a show, enjoy a classical or rock concert, or attend a dance performance. 

Performing Arts

The Times-Union Center for the Performing Arts attracts thousands of theater and music fans every month.  Located on the St. Johns River, the complex has three halls and is the home of the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra and the Florida Community College at Jacksonville Artist Series.

Famous for its classic architectural design, the Florida Theatre books 200 performances every year including ballet, opera, contemporary pop, jazz, rock, country and blues. The theater opened in 1927 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Ritz Theatre and La Villa Museum is a center of African American culture and heritage. Built in 1929, the renovated theater seats 400 and boasts a large stage for a variety of movie, music, dance and theatrical productions. Next door, the LaVilla Museum features a mix of African and African American cultural exhibits.

The University of North Florida Fine Arts Center brings a wide variety of entertainment to its arena and two stages. Offerings include children’s theater, opera, country western performances, classical concerts and ice shows.

Community theater groups throughout Northeast Florida perform plays and musicals year-round. They include the Alhambra Dinner Theater, Amelia Community Theater, Limelight Theater in St. Augustine, Orange Park Community Theater and Theatre Jacksonville in San Marco, among others.

Nestled on 27 riverfront acres, Jacksonville’s Metropolitan Park serves as a setting for the Starry Night symphony series, Shakespeare at the Met and the annual Jazz Festival.