Jazz Legends and Citywide St. Patrick’s Celebrations: What’s On Today in Jacksonville

A Landmark Performance at the Florida Theatre

Music enthusiasts have a rare treat tonight as jazz fusion legend Pat Metheny takes the stage at the historic Florida Theatre. Starting at 8:00 PM, Metheny presents his 'Side-Eye III+' project, a performance designed to showcase his iconic compositions alongside a rotating cast of the genre's most promising young talents. This concert offers a sophisticated alternative to the typical holiday festivities, providing a world-class sonic experience in one of the city’s most beautiful venues.

St. Patrick’s Day Festivities Across the City

It wouldn't be March 17 without a sea of green, and Jacksonville is delivering plenty of Irish spirit today. Culhane’s Irish Pub is the center of the action, with day-long celebrations at both its Southside and Atlantic Beach locations. Residents can enjoy traditional Irish cuisine, live Celtic music, and signature entertainment including step dancing and 'potato bowling.'

• Main Event Jacksonville: Hosting a family-friendly St. Patrick’s Day party from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
• Frozen Fusion: The 'Shamrock & Scoops Fest' offers themed treats and activities for all ages from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
• Jax Ale Trail: Local breweries along the trail are offering holiday-themed releases and passport stamps for those celebrating at neighborhood taprooms.

Cultural Highlights and Free Museum Access

Today is the third Tuesday of the month, which means the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens is opening its doors for free to the community from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM. It is a fantastic opportunity to view the 'Touring Eden' landscape exhibition or enjoy a sunset walk through the historic gardens along the St. Johns River.

In the heart of Downtown, James Weldon Johnson Park is featuring its '160 Years of Stories' photo exhibit, a public installation celebrating the park’s long history as a community hub. Additionally, the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) Jacksonville remains open for visitors to explore 'Whitney Oldenburg: Left Behind,' an exhibition that delves into the intersection of personal memory and local art.

Community and Civic Engagement

For those interested in local governance, Jacksonville City Hall is hosting several public sessions today in the Council Chambers. The schedule includes a Finance Committee meeting at 1:00 PM and a Special Investigatory Committee meeting focused on utility matters at 3:00 PM. These meetings are open to the public and offer a direct look at the city's current legislative priorities.