The city of Jacksonville unveiled big plans Thursday to celebrate its 200th anniversary this summer.
Mayor Lenny Curry along with Dr. Alan Bliss, CEO of the Jacksonville Historical Society, and Dave Chauncey, chair of the Jacksonville Historical Society Board, announced the bicentennial events set for June 11.
“As we celebrate this milestone birthday, I encourage everyone to look around and admire where we are today," Curry said. "I along with everyone here are filled with confidence about Jacksonville’s future and excited to see what’s next for our beloved all new city of the south.”
“This is a moment to look back, yes — but it’s also a moment for us to think about the city’s next 200 years,” Bliss commented. “It’s been gratifying to see how many Jacksonville groups, institutions, firms, neighborhood associations, want to be present.”
The schedule for June 11 includes:
- Noon-3 p.m. — arts market and historical exhibits.
- 3-4 p.m. — Jacksonville Bicentennial Program.
- 4-5 p.m. — “Honoring Where We’ve Been, Where We Are and Where We Are Going” March.
- 5-10 p.m. — Bicentennial Celebration Concert.
- 10-10:30 p.m. — fireworks show.
The events will take place on Laura Street, James Weldon Johnson Park and Riverfront Plaza. All events are free to the public.
A number of events are set up to take place around town before the June 11 celebration. You can find more information here.
