JACKSONVILLE BEACH, Fla. — While the lifeguard season has concluded, the iconic chairs that keep watch over the shores will take on a new role this holiday season. Instead of standing guard, they will be festooned with lights and decorations, inviting the community to admire and vote on their favorite designs.

Now in its 13th year, the beloved Deck the Chairs event will illuminate Jacksonville Beach with a spectacle of creativity and festivity. Commencing on Wednesday, November 26, attendees will be treated to much more than a mesmerizing light show at Latham Plaza and the Seawalk Pavilion.

This year’s lineup promises a magical performance of The Nutcracker, two vibrant Christmas arts markets featuring local vendors, a Christmas Eve service, and a spirited pep rally leading up to the Gator Bowl. At its heart, Deck the Chairs is dedicated to championing children’s arts through its nonprofit mission.

The event will proudly spotlight the talents of local students, offering nearly 50 stage performances that highlight the creativity of over 1,000 young artists from the area. It’s a celebration of community and creativity that ensures a festive season filled with art and joy for all ages.

Local students will get their time to shine and show off their creativity in nearly 50 stage performances. Deck the Chairs says it showcases more than 1000 young performers from around the area each year.

“This beloved holiday tradition continues to bring joy and inspiration for our residents and visitors,” shared Deck The Chairs Founder and Executive Director Kurtis Loftus. “In addition to the student decorations, community chairs, and our fabulous holiday tree with musical light show, there’s now more student stage programming and arts activities happening multiple weekday and weekend afternoons.” 

Four designated Arts in the Park days will provide opportunities for children to come and make their own art:

• Deckin’ The Lights Show
  • Opening day: Wednesday, Nov. 26
  • 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
  • Kids invited to decorate for the DTC Musical Light Show.
• Deckin’ Duuuval With The Jags
  • Sunday, Nov. 30
  • 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
  • Kids invited to paint Duuuval banners for public display
• Deckin’ with Scotie Cousin
  • 2 p.m. – 4 p.m.
  • Paint and decorate beach critters with local artist Scotie Cousin
• Deckin’ With Santa Workshop
  • 2 p.m. – 5 p.m.
  • Ornament and coloring workshop with Santa

The lights will shine each night from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. until the event comes to a close on New Year’s Day.

For a full list of events and times, visit the Deck the Chairs website.