Author: Alexandra LaRocque, Downtown Vision Marketing and Events Assistant
February 26th, 2021 | 4-8 p.m.
Southbank Riverwalk
It just so happens to be that time of the year again and oh man are we excited! Yes, of course, because the #DTJax Gala never disappoints, but also because this year we are switching things up. Get ready our trusty Gala goers, because the 2021 #DTJax Gala is going to be GOOD! There was no way we could consider throwing the same Gala that everyone knows and loves — because well, COVID-19. As per usual our main focus is the health and wellness of our beloved Downtowners, thus we have adapted. We present to you the 2021 #DTJax Gala — Sip and Stroll!
What is a Sip and Stroll you may ask? Well, it’s just that, you sip on some delicious drinks and stroll down the Riverwalk. It is an evening to soak in some wonderful tunes, eat some yummy food and sip sip sip. We will have a total of four dedicated stops along your stroll.
Attire:
I wanted to start with the fun stuff first, because why not? First up, we are going to talk about what to wear. Think date night at Cowford Chophouse aka a romantic date night with your special someone. Put on your cutest dress and most comfortable heels, or break out your favorite dress shirt and slacks. Take a look below for some inspiration.
COVID-19 Safety:
As previously mentioned, we will have a total of four dedicated stops along the Riverwalk. We decided on a sip and stroll to allow for ample amounts of space to socially distance while enjoying your evening. Wearing masks if/when social distancing is not possible is highly recommended. Those who feel more comfortable keeping their masks on, please do so. Hand sanitizer will be provided and easily accessible for all guests.
Parking:
Complimentary valet parking will be stationed at Chart House. Once you park, you will find the check-in table on the Riverwalk next to the restaurant. When you’re ready to head home for the evening, take the St. Johns River Taxi back to the valet stand for free.
Sip & Stroll Map:
There will be four VIP stops along the Riverwalk: Peninsula Plaza, Lone Sailor Statue, Riverplace Tower, and Friendship Fountain. You can find a map with all of the stops on your beverage cup for the evening.
Music, Food & Drink:
Lets Ride Brass Band is coming to play music all night long at each of our dedicated spots. Enjoy the bold brass music along the river.
We couldn’t have a successful gala without some delectable light bites. Local Downtown dining favorites including Bellwether, The Bread & Board, Jumpin’ Jax House of Food and Village Bread Cafe will be the ones providing those bites. Intuition Ale Works, Manifest Distilling and Bold City Brewery are bringing the booze and lots of it!
Post-Gala Plans:
The Southbank Hotel has been generous enough to extend their happy hour for our guests to visit after the stroll. Not only an extended happy hour but they also are offering discounted hotel stays for our Gala guests.
Public Freebies:
Not buying a ticket for the gala or maybe you stroll the Riverwalk on your own each Friday evening? Well, you’re in luck, we have some freebies for you! We will have a beautifully planned photo booth for you to strike a pose in front of to make the perfect Instagram post under the Main Street Bridge! In addition, we will be giving out free hotdogs while supplies last at Friendship Fountain and free sweet treats at Riverplace Tower. Finally, the public will have access to free river taxi rides by St. Johns River Taxi and we hope to see some of you out there!