News Summary

The Jacksonville Funk Fest returned to Metropolitan Park after a seven-year hiatus, celebrating its 25th anniversary with a vibrant lineup of R&B and Hip-Hop artists. Despite brief weather disruptions, attendees enjoyed performances from popular acts like 112, Trey Songz, and Charlie Wilson. The two-day festival aimed to boost tourism and foster community connections, highlighting its cultural significance and legacy in Jacksonville. The event brought together music lovers, local food vendors, and a sense of nostalgia, marking a successful homecoming for the beloved festival.

Jacksonville

The Jacksonville Funk Fest made its much-anticipated return to Metropolitan Park after a seven-year hiatus, celebrating its 25th anniversary on Friday, May 9, 2025. This year’s festival, recognized for its unique blend of R&B and Hip-Hop, was impacted briefly by weather conditions but quickly resumed, offering attendees a lively experience of music and community.

The two-day event features a lineup that includes popular artists such as 112, Trey Songz, Carl Thomas, and Charlie Wilson. As the festival kicked off, attendees expressed their excitement and enjoyment, highlighting the vibrant atmosphere filled with laughter and dancing. Many guests shared their enthusiasm for having the festival return to the city.

Visit Jacksonville, the local tourism bureau, anticipated that the funk fest would draw both new and returning visitors to the downtown area, further boosting the local economy. In line with this expectation, festival owner Lee Bennett emphasized the significance of returning to where the festival began in 2002. After continuous operation until 2018, the festival took a break for six years. Bennett remarked on the warm response the event had received from Jacksonville’s community, emphasizing that coming back felt like a homecoming.

During the festival, guests were treated to a variety of food options, catering to both locals and out-of-town visitors. Popular vendors included Cajun de Creole and other local eateries, ensuring that attendees could enjoy a taste of the region while enjoying the performances. Tickets for this year’s event were available online, making it easy for interested fans to participate.

The revival of Jacksonville Funk Fest is not only a celebration of music but also a significant cultural event for the region. The festival’s past success played a key role in its enduring popularity, with attendance expected to match or surpass previous years due to the exciting lineup and the nostalgia associated with the festival’s long-standing tradition.

For many attendees, the experience of attending the funk fest offered a perfect way to relive cherished memories. Notable attendees included individuals who received tickets as gifts for special occasions, such as Mother’s Day, reflecting the festival’s role in fostering connections and celebrations among friends and families.

The opening day of the event was marked by a strong sense of community as music lovers came together to celebrate the rich heritage of funk and hip-hop music. As attendees moved throughout the park, the air was filled with positive energy, indicating the festival’s successful revitalization after a prolonged absence.

In summary, the Jacksonville Funk Fest’s return after seven years signifies not only a revival of a beloved music festival but also serves as a testament to the city’s commitment to cultural and community-driven events. As the festival continues through its second day, the excitement among attendees is palpable, promising a memorable celebration of music and culture.

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Additional Resources

• News4jax: Funk Fest Returns
• Wikipedia
• Jacksonville.com: Weekend Activities
• Google Search: Jacksonville Funk Fest
• Jacksonville Free Press: Funk Fest
• Encyclopedia Britannica
• 904 Happy Hour: Weekend Guide
• Google News: Jacksonville Events