By Taylor Colby
Jacksonville Beach’s Deck the Chairs was in full swing on Friday, Dec. 5. Visitors walked through a whimsical Christmas wonderland of creatively decorated lifeguard chairs sponsored by local businesses, groups and individuals. Deck the Chairs was founded in 2013 with the mission to “promote children’s arts and art education by showcasing creativity and talent through public and private collaboration.”
In addition to beautiful and creative light displays, Deck the Chairs includes unique events and activities designed to bring the community together. These events include children’s art, dance and music performances. This free six-week holiday exhibit helps boost the local economy as well. A calendar of special performances can be found on the DTC website, including Christmas markets, Worship Nights and a Christmas Eve service on Wednesday, Dec. 24.
Deck the Chairs is handicap accessible and dogs are allowed to join in on the fun. DTC also offers concessions including pizza, snacks, holiday desserts, cocoa, coffee and water. DTC is all about supporting local and encourages visitors to check out restaurants within walking distance of the beach.
Thanks to the hard work of 500-plus volunteers and 120 partnerships, Deck the Chairs averages more than 100,000 visitors each year. It has been recognized by Google, People Magazine, Fox News and Insider on USA Today as one of America’s most unique holiday traditions. It’s the only exhibit of its kind and is a must-see for the holiday season. It runs nightly, 5 p.m. to 1 a.m., from Nov. 26 until Jan. 1.
To learn more, go to https://deckthechairs.org.