QuiltFest returns to the Prime Osborn Convention Center this weekend.
Published on September 17, 2026 at 11:22 am
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QuiltFest, a celebration of fabric artistry, and Jax Book Fest in Downtown Jacksonville, plus a play about survival against the odds in Riverside, are What to Do this weekend.
QuiltFest Jacksonville
Friday and Saturday
Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center | La Villa
I’ve had the chance to attend QuiltFest in years past, and I was seriously impressed by the artistry and level of detail on display. A few looked like oil paintings, and you would have sworn that one was a photograph. This year’s event brings roughly 400 quilts to the Prime Osborn, showcasing everything from intricate, traditional piecing to amazing modern fiber art. This year’s theme is “Give Piece a Chance,” alongside a collection of patriotic quilts in honor of America’s 250th birthday. If you happen to stop by on Friday around 1 p.m., they’re also holding a presentation to honor 12 local veterans. Plus, with more than 50 vendors on site, it’s just fun to browse, shop and spend a few hours taking in all of the beautiful quilts.
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Friday-Saturday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. | 1000 Water St. | Tickets: $17 general; $16 Seniors (60+) & military; Free for children under 12 | Tickets and more info
Jax Book Fest 2026
Saturday
Main Library | Downtown Jacksonville
One of my fav local events is back! The Jacksonville Public Library is hosting its annual Jax Book Fest at the Main Library Downtown, bringing together thousands of local readers for a day of author talks, book signings and literary panels. This year’s lineup includes three #1 New York Times-bestselling authors: John Patrick Green, Jennifer Lynn Barnes and Emma Straub, plus more than 90 local writers manning tables. Beyond the author talks, there’s a vendor market, photo booth, DIY zine station, and family activities like face painting and a scavenger hunt. There’s always a food truck or two nearby as well. Bonus: Street parking Downtown is free on Saturdays.
9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. | 303 N. Laura St. | Free and open to the public | More info
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I Am My Own Wife
All Weekend
BABS’LAB | Riverside
The 5 & Dime theater company is partnering with BABS’LAB to present I Am My Own Wife. Written by Doug Wright, the show tells the fascinating true story of Charlotte von Mahlsdorf, an East German transgender woman who managed to survive both the Nazi and Communist regimes. It’s a remarkable portrait of identity, resilience, and survival against incredible odds. If you attend the Sunday afternoon matinee, they’re also hosting a community conversation right after the show to talk through the story and its themes. We’re fortunate to have a great theatre community here in Northeast Florida. Go see for yourself!
Friday and Saturday: 8 p.m., Sunday: 2 p.m. | 603 King St. | Tickets: $25 online; $30 at the door | Tickets and more info
