Patience, planning urged for downtown event-goers

Daily's Place opening, Jazz Fest highlight Memorial Day weekend downtown

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Memorial Day Weekend offers a host of activities including the opening of a new amphitheater and the annual Jacksonville Jazz Fest.

The Daily's Place amphitheater connected to EverBank Field is set to open Saturday night and thousands are expected to turn out for the last few days of the Jacksonville Jazz Festival.

Police are urging event attendees to have patience.

VIEW: Full Daily's Place concert schedule 

They will be out and about making sure things are running smoothly. Police said they will check bags and may ask people not to gather in certain  areas. They say this isn't meant to be disruptive, it's important for safety.

The Tedeschi Trucks Band is ready to take the stage Saturday night for the first concert at the Daily's Place amphitheater. There's also a convenience store where concert-goers can buy drinks and snacks.

The third day of the Jacksonville Jazz Festival opens Saturday at 2 p.m in several locations: Main Street, Hemming park, the Jacksonville Landing, and the Ritz Theatre and Museum.

WATCH: Downtown traffic report |
VIEW: 2017 Jazz Fest: What you need to know 

On Sunday, the festival will expand to include the Omni Hotel, plus the corner of Monroe and Laura streets.

The bridges will be open, so if you are going to the Jazz Fest use the Main Street and Acosta bridges. If you are going to the amphitheater try the Hart Bridge.  

Police also want to remind people to be safe and aware of their surroundings.

"Anybody that sees anything that looks suspicious, that looks creepy, doesn't look right, you

tell somebody and we will check it out," said Chief Leonard Propper of the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office.

With so many people and cars expected downtown this weekend, you need to remember to follow directions, pay attention, and drive safely.


About the Authors:

Ashley Harding joined the Channel 4 news team in March 2013. She reports for and anchors The Morning Show.

Jim Piggott is the reporter to count on when it comes to city government and how it will affect the community.