904 Day is a grassroots movement and celebration of the Jacksonville area that started several years ago, inspired by the giant northeast Florida area code, 904, and celebrated on September 4th of every year (get it- 9/04?).
Live like a local (or just keep being you, if you are a local) and leave your worries behind for a day of fun and all things Jacksonville on 904 Day!
The History of 904 Day Jacksonville, FL
The story of 904 Day is tied to Jacksonville’s hometown pride and energy. This local celebration on September 4th brings the city together for various events around the area and gives small businesses an opportunity to shine.
The idea behind 904 Day is to show Jacksonville some love on a date that matches the area code – something that has represented Duval for decades. As time passed, the word spread, and now nearly everyone joins in the fun.
Local businesses get involved with special sales and freebies. Venues remain active with various events and for people of all ages. It has become a city-wide celebration that feels like a celebration of community spirit.
Main Events And Celebrations
Read on as we fill you in on everything related to the events going down around town for 904 Day.
All the popular spots and small businesses are open for business and some offer special events and entertainment for this local celebration.
Silent Disco & Fireworks
Enjoy a special silent disco and fireworks display this 9/04 at the USS Orleck Navy Pier downtown. For just $10, you can dance your heart out with a fun and festive silent disco, or just enjoy the food, entertainment and fireworks down by the pier for free. This event takes place from 5-9:30pm. It’s going to be lit…literally. There will be a cash bar, along with delicious food options.
Evening Market
The Jacksonville Chamber will host an evening market in the parking lot of Bay Street, where you can sip, stroll and enjoy shopping among local vendors and shops. This event is free, bring your spending money to shop for some cool finds!
Art Walk
This year the long tradition of downtown’s first Wednesday Art Walk falls on 9/04! So, enjoy, walk, shop, eat and drink your way through dozens and dozens of incredible vendors and enjoy your 904 Day thoroughly.
Sporting Jax Signing Day Event
Sporting Jax is excited to welcome fans to their 904 Day event! Here members can meet with other fans, have an opportunity for autographs and enjoy food and beverages. Not a member yet? Check them out and join!
Take A Hike With The NE Florida Sierra Club
Celebrate 904 Day with the NE Florida Sierra Club by taking an urban hike in Historic Durkeeville. Participants will meet at 2503 North Myrtle Avenue, Jacksonville. The hike will start with a tour inside the beautiful Mt. Ararat Baptist Church. The semi-gothic architecture is something to marvel at. Mt. Ararat is the only church in Jacksonville visited by Dr. Martin Luther King.
Mural Celebration Of Unity
Join the City of Jacksonville, United Way of Northeast Florida and JEA on 904 Day for the unveiling of Downtown’s latest mural by local artists Christopher Clark and Tatiana Kitchen. This Unity Mural, commissioned as part of MLK Week of Service, symbolizes the importance of unity and understanding following the racially motivated shooting in New Town.
The unveiling will take place on September 4th at 6pm at 8 Independent Drive.
5 Ways To Celebrate 904 Day
Now, let’s explore the best ways to get in the 904 Day spirit and really embrace all that is DUVAL!
Shop Small Businesses
- In Person: Whether it’s your favorite surf shop or local eatery, support small business this 904 Day by popping in and showing your support.
- Online: Can’t make it to your favorite spot this year? Shop a local business online, many businesses have online stores and food delivery, so show your love by browsing and shopping their websites.
- Leave A Review: Better yet, leave a raving review online for a business that you’ve loved (perhaps, like Sublime Rides??), the business is sure to appreciate your kind words, and it will only help their business grow.
Post Pictures
- Feature Local Spots: Support your favorite local spots and businesses by posting pictures of your absolute favorite people, places and things in the 904.
- Change Your Pic: Add to or change your profile and featured pictures to something or somewhere local, to showcase the awesomeness of our city.
- Visit: Go a step further and visit your favorite spots while tagging and promoting their business. They will appreciate it more than you can imagine, and you’ll help our city shine online.
Explore
- Take A Buddy: Find your favorite person and explore a new spot. Whether it’s from a featured 904 event or somewhere you’ve been meaning to check out. And don’t forget to tag them!
- Check Out New Areas: Explore a new area, neighborhood or activity that you’ve been meaning to check out. There is no time like the present! You might find yourself a new favorite.
Donate
- Give Back: Have a favorite charity or nonprofit? Perhaps a local hospital or the Jacksonville Humane Society? They always appreciate support, so why not show them some extra love this 904 Day by donating?
Include The Kiddos
- Family Adventures: Include the whole family by asking them what their favorite spots are and checking out or shouting out to as many as you can. Maybe even create a bucket list of spots you want to support to enjoy this 904 Day. Maybe your own kids will introduce you to something new!
Conclusion
If you want to truly embrace the spirit of 904 Day, we recommend hitting some of these events or your favorite local business and spreading some love around town. It’s a great way to feel connected to the community and appreciate what makes our city so great.
From the local family-run businesses to the talented creatives and gorgeous landscapes, we have a whole lot to celebrate here in Jacksonville, FL. This day is for all the people who contribute to the one-of-a-kind flavor of the 904.