Experience history at Fort Mose Historic State Park during the annual Flight to Freedom heritage event.
Published on February 25, 2026 at 7:55 pm
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Downtown Jacksonville’s annual World of Nations festival, a performance of the “Black National Anthem,” and an immersive Underground Railroad reenactment in St. Augustine are What to Do this weekend in the Jacksonville area.
World of Nations Celebration
Saturday-Sunday
Ford on Bay | Downtown Jacksonville
The World of Nations Celebration is easily one of my top five local events. Between the live music, the cultural demonstrations, and the incredible food (OMG THE FOOD!!!), it’s just too good to pass up. The festival acts as a sprawling cultural map where you can explore the traditions and flavors of nearly 30 different nations. The 2026 lineup is impressively broad, featuring a mix of familiar favorites and new participants from across the globe. You can spend the day navigating between the various country tents, where authentic cuisine is served alongside exhibits of traditional artistry and clothing. Grab your friends and neighbors for a weekend of global exploration right here at home.
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Saturday: 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sunday: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. | 288 E. Bay St. | Tickets: $9 + tax and fees in advance or $15 ($13 for children) + tax at the gate | Tickets and more info
Flight to Freedom Reenactment
Thursday-Saturday
Fort Mose Historic State Park | St. Augustine
Experience history at Fort Mose Historic State Park during the annual Flight to Freedom heritage event. This immersive journey invites you to walk the park’s Freedom Trail, retracing the perilous southern route of the Underground Railroad from coastal Carolina to Spanish Florida. Along the wooded path, you will encounter the diverse figures of the era: escaped slaves seeking liberty, helpful allies and the slave catchers trailing behind them. The journey ends at the site of North America’s first legally sanctioned free Black community, brought to life through historical demonstrations and African drumming (goosebumps!). Given the popularity of these guided walks and the limited space on the trail, be sure to secure your reservation in advance to ensure your place in this powerful living-history event.
Tours will leave every 15 min during the following timeframes: 9 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. – 2:45 p.m., Thursday-Saturday | 15 Fort Mose Trail, St. Augustine | The event is free and open to the public, but there is a $2 fee to enter the museum | View the full tour schedule and reserve your spot
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Martin Luther King Jr. ‘Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing’ Concert
Saturday
Hendricks Avenue Baptist Church | San Marco
The Jacksonville Children’s Chorus presents its 17th annual “Lift Ev’ry Voice & Sing” concert, a cornerstone of our city’s Black History Month celebrations. The Children’s Chorus anchors a massive collaborative stage featuring the Florida State College at Jacksonville Combined Choirs, the Edward Waters University Concert Choir, and the Ritz Chamber Players. Be sure to bring tissues. There is something profoundly moving about seeing so many young voices lead an ensemble of collegiate and professional musicians in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This event celebrates the trailblazers of the past while showcasing Jacksonville’s artistic future, making it an essential tradition for anyone looking to be inspired by the ongoing pursuit of equity.
2 p.m. | 4001 Hendricks Ave. | Tickets: $25-$40 | Tickets and more info
