Jax Beach Summer Fest Returns in 2026 with a Major Stage, More Talent, and Deeper Community Impact JACKSONVILLE BEACH, Fla. — After a one-year hiatus, Jax Beach Summer Fest is set to return August 7–9, 2026, bringing a diverse, locally sourced lineup of DJs, bands, and music acts to one of the most popular entertainment stages in Northeast Florida: Jacksonville Beach’s Seawalk Pavilion. The multi-day event will spotlight area-based music, food, fashion, and small businesses while supporting local students through a community-driven school supply initiative Basic supplies will be collected at THC Chicken 5516 Normandy Blvd from July 1st til August 7th, then given away during Day 2 of Summer Fest (August 8th) at the Seawalk Pavilion. Produced by a collective of entertainment entrepreneurs and media professionals with more than 50 years of combined experience, the festival is led by founder Dez Nado—a Jacksonville-based Caribbean/hip hop artist, songwriter, and television producer known for creating and directing local cable series Life & Grind: Duval and LIVE from New Jax City that aired on WCWJ and WJXT in the late 2010s. Nado’s journey—from college DJ to recording artist to community-focused creative—has shaped the festival’s mission of uplifting local voices and promoting positive change. Joining the production team are industry professionals including Michelle Martin, Jamal Oakes, and Ronald Jones, whose collective experience includes collaborations with major names such as Fantasia, Lil Duval, Trina, and DJ Khaled; additional confirmed entertainment include WJBT 93.3 The Beat’s DJ Koolaid, Duval DJ Bravo and DJ Damage, and DJ Anthony D who will be touring the state from Denver, CO, along with more talent to be announced as event weekend approaches. In addition to entertainment, the festival continues its commitment to community outreach through its annual back-to-school supply drive. New for 2026 is an Educator Appreciation Soiree to honor local teachers and school staff. “This initiative is personal,” said Nado. “The back-to-school drive addresses a real need in our community, and the addition of the Educator Appreciation Soiree makes this year even more meaningful.” Event Highlights Friday, August 7 Educator Appreciation Soiree & Game Night 7–11 p.m. | Serenity Restaurant & Lounge An upscale evening celebrating educators with live entertainment, giveaways, and music. Free RSVP for education employees; ticketed reserved seating available to the public in advance only. Guests are encouraged to bring school supply donations. Saturday, August 8 Beach Mini-Music & Community Fest 12–6 p.m. | Jacksonville Beach Seawalk Pavilion A free, all-ages outdoor festival featuring live performances, fashion showcases, food vendors, family-friendly activities, bounce houses, and appearances by local and regional talent. Limited school supplies will be distributed to families in need. Limited covered seating is available for purchase in advance. Sunday, August 9 Community Worship & Brunch Experience 10 a.m.–2 p.m. | Local venues A closing day of reflection and fellowship, including a Sunday service and brunch at a locally owned restaurant (to be announced). Jax Beach Summer Fest 2026 is presented by VIPSquad Entertainment, Candice Alvita Productions, True Music Talent, RHMG, and Vision Is Power Network. Organizers aim to create a sustainable platform for emerging artists while strengthening community ties through culture, entertainment, and service. Early ticket reservations for select events are recommended due to limited capacity.
— Vision Is Power Network