Northeast Florida is living its finest cultural moment. From historic theaters to an amphitheater recognized around the world, these are the stages to keep on your radar this fall and winter.
Florida Theatre: Living history in the heart of Jacksonville
Opened in 1927, this Mediterranean-style theater is one of downtown’s great treasures and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Its walls hold legendary stories, like the night in 1956 when a judge warned a young Elvis Presley not to swivel his hips on stage. Today, with 1,865 seats, it remains one of the most beloved venues in the country.
Leslie Odom Jr. (Broadway and jazz): Sunday, December 13, 2026.
The Allman Betts Band (Southern rock): Thursday, December 17, 2026.
Straight No Chaser (holiday a cappella): Wednesday, December 30, 2026.
VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena: The big shows
This is Jacksonville’s main stage for concerts and large-scale shows. In December, its calendar offers two perfect plans to close the year with family or friends.
Trans-Siberian Orchestra (holiday symphonic rock): Thursday, December 17, 2026.
Jim Gaffigan (comedy): Sunday, December 27, 2026.
Ponte Vedra Concert Hall: Music steps from the sea
Between Jacksonville and St. Augustine, this intimate hall lets you experience every concert up close, with a closeness to the artists that is hard to find at larger venues. Its lineup spans very different genres and always has something special.
Bruce Cockburn (folk): Friday, November 6, 2026.
Paula Cole (pop): Thursday, November 12, 2026.
Buena Vista Orchestra (Cuban son): Wednesday, November 18, 2026.
St. Augustine Amphitheatre: Number one in the country
Surrounded by greenery and minutes from the historic district, “The Amp” was named in 2026 the number one amphitheater in the United States and number two in the world for ticket sales, according to Pollstar’s mid-year report. Seeing a concert here, under the stars, is an experience in itself.
O.A.R., with Gavin DeGraw and KT Tunstall (pop rock): Saturday, November 14, 2026.
The Revivalists (alternative rock): Saturday, November 21, 2026.
St. Johns Town Center: Where the season comes alive
For those who love the holiday atmosphere among shops, restaurants and lights, St. Johns Town Center transforms every year. The traditional Christmas tree lighting is coming soon, a truly special day that marks the start of the season and one you won’t want to miss.
Fogo de Chão: A celebration with Brazilian flair
At St. Johns Town Center, Fogo de Chão offers a Brazilian vibe and a high-end atmosphere that always feels festive, ideal for celebrating Thanksgiving, Christmas or New Year’s. Its wine wall, open-fire grill and attentive, unhurried service turn every dinner into a special occasion. It’s the kind of place where the holidays feel even more special with family.
Travel notes
Don’t miss: Nights of Lights in St. Augustine, from November 21, 2026, to January 18, 2027. More than three million white lights illuminate the historic district, and admission is free.
If you’re planning your next Florida getaway and would like to organize it with someone who knows the destination up close, book a Trip Planning Session with E Weekly News.
Discover more stories on travel, entertainment and wellbeing at E Weekly News.
About the author: Patty Kralj has dedicated twenty years to what she loves most: writing about lifestyle. Having lived between Mexico and the United States, with a deep European sensibility, she created E Weekly News to inspire more people to go beyond, feel alive and create memories. Say hello here.
