Author: Kayla Baker, Downtown Vision Marketing Intern
If your New Year’s resolution was to save money, Downtown Jacksonville has you covered! With new and exciting businesses popping up all around Jacksonville, the list of fun things to do continues to grow. Here is a comprehensive list that will take you from Monday to Sunday every week without breaking the bank!
Monday
Dart Tournament at Sherwood’s Bar
Need to blow off some steam after work? Start your week off right with the weekly dart tournament held at Sherwood’s Bar every Monday. Sherwood’s was voted Folio’s Best Dive Bar of 2023 and this friendly, relaxed space does not disappoint. Try a signature cocktail or a late night bite option that caters to carnivores and vegetarians alike. This late night event is free, but don’t forget to tip your wait staff!
Tuesday
Free Tuesday’s at The Cummer Museum
Unleash your creative side on Tuesdays! Find inspiration at the Cummer Museum by spending your evening catching the sunset in the gardens or gazing at fine art. This versatile venue on the St. Johns makes it the perfect spot for date night or a family outing. Enjoy free admission every second and third Tuesday of the month from 4 to 9 p.m. Stick around for dinner and make plans to visit the museum’s cafe from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. The cheese board featuring local honey and seasonal fruit is sure to be a crowd pleaser.
Wednesday
First Wednesday Art Walk
First Wednesdays of the month are a #DTJax tradition! Looking to explore Downtown’s arts and culture scene? First Wednesday Art Walk is one of the best ways! This free event from 4 to 9 p.m. is perfect for all ages. Grab a cocktail in James Weldon Johnson Park or catch one of the many performances on the main stage. Explore the Northbank on foot, while meeting artists in the community, window shopping and exploring the best that Downtown has to offer.
Thursday
Trivia at Burrito Gallery
From movies to music, pop culture trivia will cover it all! Join Burrito Gallery every Thursday at 7:30 p.m. to see who will win. Knowledge will be tested while devouring their signature tex-mex cuisine and mango margaritas! Bring a team to Brooklyn to see who will reign supreme.
Friday
Live Music at Element Bistro
TGIF– let’s celebrate! What better way to begin the weekend than with live music? Element Bistro offers free live music every Friday, as well as a terrific happy hour from 6 to 9 p.m. If you’re looking for something more exciting, pop over to their other venue Myth Nightclub for Fusion Fridays, free with a current college ID.
Saturday
The Riverside Arts Market
Connect with your community under the Fuller Warren Bridge at the Riverside Arts Market. This event has everything you need from free yoga classes to fresh produce. While this event is free, you can grab a bite from one of the many vendors, make your own bouquet or get your weekly grocery list completed at an affordable price! The stage is brimming with life from full choirs to acoustic performances. Every Saturday starts off right with the free arts market held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., rain or shine.
Sunday
Swing Dancing at The Volstead
Dance off the Sunday scaries with free swing dancing lessons at the Volstead! This event is held every other Sunday in a mysterious speakeasy that transports you to another time period. Don’t pass on a cocktail from some of the best mixologists in Jacksonville while learning the art of swing dancing, the GOAT cocktail is a must. Feel free to come alone and meet new people in an exciting environment, or grab a friend and have them tag along!
Have a wonderful week #DTJax! We hope you enjoy all of the free and inexpensive activities Downtown has to offer!