As spring unfurls its warm embrace, Jacksonville Beach gears up for its annual Opening of the Beaches Parade, marking a time-honored celebration of sandy shores and coastal living. Set to take place in the heart of the popular waterfront destination, the parade promises a lively cavalcade starting from 5th Ave N and 2nd Street. Revelers can expect the procession to head north up to 11th Avenue North and 2nd Street, before making an eastward turn towards the Atlantic's breezy front. As per the official announcement, it will then pivot south down 1st Street, eventually drawing to a close at Beach Blvd.
Those planning to join the festivities by car yesterday found all city parking lots open, though regular paid parking rules remained in effect. Starting today, parking lots will close promptly at 6:00 a.m. and will resume paid service at 4:00 p.m. following the parade's conclusion. Additionally, streets from Beach Blvd to 5th Avenue N, including 1st and 2nd streets, were closed by police at 9:30 a.m. for parade preparations, requiring businesses to plan deliveries around a restricted schedule. Once the area was closed, access to the mentioned lots and streets was limited to emergency use only.
Jacksonville Beach's local businesses and residents prepare for the annual influx of parade-goers while managing road closures and parking restrictions. "Deliveries for business should try and avoid Sunday at all costs," reads the city announcement, highlighting the event's effect on weekend commercial activity. The temporary disruptions make way for the celebration of community and the start of the beach season, as both locals and visitors take part in the parade.
The Opening of the Beaches Parade marks the beginning of the beach season for the community. To ensure a smooth experience for all, city officials encourage the public to be aware of logistical details, including street closures and parking arrangements. Event information, updates, and guidelines are available on the city's website for those planning to attend.
