Visit Jacksonville Beaches Deck the Chairs

Visit Jacksonville Beaches Deck the Chairs

 

Looking for that “only-in-Jax” holiday tradition? Deck the Chairs (DTC) turns Jacksonville Beach into a glowing playground of art, music, and community. Built around our iconic red lifeguard chairs. It’s free, family-friendly, and a perfect reason to bundle up and stroll the Seawalk.

Quick Facts for 2025 Season

  • Dates: November 26, 2025 – January 1, 2026 (lights nightly).
  • Hours: Lights run 5:00 PM–1:00 AM.
  • Cost: Free and open to the public. Donations are welcome on-site.
  • Where: Latham Plaza & Seawalk Pavilion, 11 1st St N, Jacksonville Beach. 
  • Accessibility & Pets: Handicap accessible; dogs allowed.

What Exactly Is Deck the Chairs?

Founded in 2013, Deck the Chairs is a six-week public art and light exhibit where local organizations, schools, and sponsors transform lifeguard chairs into illuminated sculptures. It’s designed to promote children’s arts and arts education, and there’s truly nothing else like it anywhere. 

Expect dozens of glowing chair installations, interactive displays, kid-centric performances, and weekend programming that keeps the park lively all season long. Annual highlights often include dance and music showcases, Tuba Christmas, a Christmas Eve service, and the TaxSlayer Gator Bowl Pep Rally. 

2025 Schedule Highlights

The official calendar posts rolling updates each fall. As of now, the preliminary 2025 schedule is live; check back as acts and weekend activities are added. 

Don’t miss:

  • Opening week performances and student showcases (DTC frequently partners with youth arts programs).
  • Weekend concessions & merch (typically staffed 5–9 PM on weekends and select weeknights). 

For the most current lineup, visit the Schedule of Events page. 

Why Locals (and Visitors) Love It

  • It’s free & walkable. The exhibit spans just a few blocks; easy for strollers, wheelchairs, and big family groups.
  • It’s uniquely Jax. Lifeguard chairs as art? Only here.
  • It gives back. Chair sponsorships and on-site purchases support children’s arts education and seasonal programming. 

Planning Your Visit

Best Time to Go

  • Weeknights after 7 PM = fewer crowds and easier parking.
  • Golden hour to twilight is ideal for photos, then watch it glow as the lights come on.

Parking & Getting Around

  • You’ll find nearby public beach parking and walkable access around the Seawalk. (Arrive a bit early on weekends.)

Accessibility & Pets

  • The venue is handicap accessible with paved walkways, and dogs are welcome (leashed).

Food, Drinks, and Souvenirs

  • Concessions/merch are commonly available on weekends 5–9 PM and select evenings; proceeds help fund the exhibit.

For Families & Schools

DTC’s mission centers on youth arts. From stage performances to exhibits featuring student work at Jax Beach and the Jacksonville Zoo. Schools apply in advance; keep an eye out for calls for entries and cool initiatives like Deck the Bins, where student designs decorate wooden trash bins across the beach. 

Nearby Things to Do

  • Jacksonville Beach Pier & boardwalk for ocean views.
  • Local restaurants along 1st St N and Beach Blvd; easy walk from Seawalk Pavilion.
  • Grab a hot cocoa and stroll the public art murals and holiday storefronts.

Tips from the Pros

  • Layer up. Ocean breezes can be chilly after dark.
  • Photo ops: Shoot wide angles to capture chair groupings; return on another night to find details you missed.
  • Bring small bills for concessions and consider a donation; it keeps this free tradition thriving. 

Frequently Asked

Is it really free?
 Yes, free and open nightly for the duration of the season. 

Are there restrooms?
 Public facilities are available around the Seawalk area (check on-site signage).

Can I bring my dog?
 Yes. Dogs are allowed. Keep them leashed and be mindful of crowds. 

Will there be performances?
 Yes, weekend programs and special events are scheduled throughout the run. Check the official schedule for dates and times. 

Key Links

 

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