A Rare Blood Moon and Local Arts: What’s On in Jacksonville Today

A Celestial Start: The 2026 Blood Moon

Jacksonville residents are encouraged to look to the skies early this morning, Tuesday, March 3, 2026, for a rare astronomical event. A total lunar eclipse, often referred to as a “Blood Moon,” is visible across Northeast Florida. The peak of this celestial display occurs between 6:04 a.m. and 7:02 a.m., just as the sun begins to rise. Because of the timing, local skywatchers may witness a “selenelion,” a rare phenomenon where both the eclipsed moon and the rising sun are visible simultaneously due to atmospheric refraction. This is the only total lunar eclipse scheduled for 2026, making it a must-see for early morning commuters and photography enthusiasts alike.

Morning Theater at the Florida Theatre

For families and those seeking a morning cultural outing, the historic Florida Theatre is hosting a special production of The Rainbow Thief at 10:30 a.m. This performance is specifically designed as an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) friendly show. The production features modified sound levels, consistent lighting, and a relaxed atmosphere to ensure a comfortable and inclusive experience for guests with sensory sensitivities. It is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy professional live theater in one of the city's most iconic downtown venues.

Afternoon Community Meetups at the Library

The Jacksonville Public Library system continues its community engagement programs today with “Books with Billy!” taking place at the Highlands Regional Branch. Starting at 3:30 p.m., children and families can participate in therapy dog-assisted reading sessions. This program allows young readers to practice their literacy skills by reading aloud to a calm, non-judgmental canine companion. It is a beloved local meetup that helps build confidence in student readers while fostering a love for animals.

Evening Art and Culinary Craft

The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens offers a sophisticated evening with its “Palette & Plate” event. This edition of the artful dining series is Ramadan-inspired and invites guests to explore the intersections of tradition and culinary craft. In addition to the dining experience, the museum’s galleries are open for viewing several major exhibitions, including:

• Touring the Landscape: An exploration of how American identity was shaped through 19th and 20th-century landscape paintings.
• Revisiting Christian Iconography: A look at the evolution of traditional religious artwork across different eras.
• Impressions of Place: Featuring the photography and installation work of Jacksonville native Doug Eng.

Whether you are starting your day with a telescope or ending it with a fine meal, Jacksonville offers a diverse array of community and cultural events this Tuesday.