Sails, Symphonies, and Spectacles: What’s On in Jacksonville Today
Explore the Best of Jacksonville Today
Jacksonville is alive with a vibrant mix of maritime adventures, world-class performance art, and soulful music this Friday, January 23, 2026. Whether you are looking to browse the latest in nautical engineering or lose yourself in the rhythms of a string quartet, the city offers a diverse lineup of events to kick off the weekend.
The 2026 Annual Jacksonville Boat Show
For those drawn to the water, the Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center is the place to be. Opening today at 11:00 AM, the Jacksonville Boat Show is a premier event for boaters and families alike. Sponsored by VyStar Credit Union, the show features an impressive array of cruisers, fishing boats, and personal watercraft. Visitors can also enjoy educational seminars and family-friendly activities, making it an ideal daytime stop for enthusiasts looking to explore the latest trends in the maritime industry.
Unforgettable Evening Performances
The city’s theater district is particularly busy tonight with two major productions taking center stage at 8:00 PM. At the Moran Theater within the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, the Blue Man Group presents their "BLUEVOLUTION WORLD TOUR." This high-energy performance combines their signature percussion and paint-splattered drumming with new technological twists and comedic sketches suitable for all ages.
Simultaneously, the Florida Theatre will host the "Yacht Rock Revue." Known for their impeccable covers of 70s and 80s soft rock hits, this group brings a nostalgic energy to the stage, performing classics from Hall & Oates and Steely Dan. For a more classical experience, the Jacksonville Symphony will perform "Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back in Concert" at 7:00 PM, where the legendary John Williams score is played live alongside a screening of the iconic film.
Comedy and Intimate Concerts
If you prefer a night of laughter, comedian DeRay Davis takes over The Comedy Zone for two shows at 7:15 PM and 9:45 PM. Known for his sharp wit and storytelling, Davis is a staple of the national comedy circuit. For those seeking a quieter, multi-sensory experience, the Candlelight Concert series at Friday Musicale Inc. features a tribute to Vivaldi’s "Four Seasons." The venue will be illuminated by thousands of candles, providing a breathtaking backdrop for the string quartet’s performance.
Museum Exhibits and Outdoor Magic
Round out your day with a visit to the Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens for the "Colors of the Wild" lantern festival. This evening event features an all-new collection of stunning, handcrafted lanterns that illuminate the zoo’s pathways. Additionally, the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) continues its exhibition of "Sebastian Vallejo: Where the Zephyrs Sleep," offering a deep dive into abstract contemporary art that explores heritage and memory.