JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - With the chance of severe weather possibly threatening to put a damper on the highly anticipated Jazz Festival, organizers say not to worry; plans are moving ahead as scheduled.
The City of Jacksonville took over the Jazz Festival in 2003. Ever since then, it’s not unusual for crowds to reach the 100,000 mark over the Memorial Day weekend event.
Unlike past events, this year, the festival will take place on the Duval County Courthouse lawn, according to organizer, Brent Fine. He said crews are working hard to make sure the stage is set for the start of Jazz Festival Friday evening.
This is the third year Fine has played a role in setting up and coordinating the event. During that time, he's seen the event grow sometimes up to a 100,000 people.
“These are our VIP seats, but everyone else is free," he said.
While you should keep a careful watch on the weather, events are still on as scheduled.
"This is an outdoor festival, rain or shine," he said.
Now, there are some covered areas for a charge in the VIP Area, otherwise, you need to come prepared everywhere else.
"Bring out your umbrella's, your rain boots, anything that you may need to stay protected from the rain," he said.
You should also expect to see a lot of detours and plan to travel on foot.
This year’s three stages spans nearly 20 blocks, with the main stage near the courthouse on Forsyth and Clay Streets, which is likely the place to park early.
"Bring out a lawn chair and it's going to be a great time," he said.