Join Us!
Welcome to our Golden Anniversary year. SMPS turns 50 in 2026!
February 12: SMMA + SMPS Mix & Mingle | 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. | European Street Cafe
March 14: Storytime in the Square | 10 a.m. (rescheduled from March 7th due to the Gate River Run)
March 19: SMPS 50th Anniversary of Incorporation (1976)
Save the Date
April 18: Wine Down in the Parks | 5 – 8 p.m. | Balis, Davin & Whatley Parks | BECOME A SPONSOR
October 2: Concert in the Park | 6 – 8 p.m. | Fletcher Park
NOTE: Yoga in the Park is canceled until further notice.
Signature Events
You won’t find a more active and engaged community than you will in historic San Marco.
Our neighborhood plays host to some of the city’s most anticipated events from decadent open-air dining experiences to family-friendly street festivals.
Wine Down in the Parks
April 18, 2026
Enjoy a wine-filled evening of al fresco fun while supporting the continued maintenance, preservation and improvement of San Marco’s historic parks!
Experience the charm of Whatley, Davin, and Balis Parks, three of San Marco’s favorite recreational destinations, on this magical evening filled with live music, tapas, craft beer, wine and cocktails from several of the neighborhood’s best bars and restaurants. Wine Down in the Parks is a Spring tradition that residents and visitors alike look forward to every year.
For details about sponsorship, click here, email us at info@smpsjax.com, or text 904-206-7421.
Happy Hour with SMPS & SMMA
Quarterly
Join us at rotating venues around the neighborhood for our quarterly happy hour.
We look forward to having you join us for drinks, snacks, and good company with neighbors, while supporting local businesses! Locations rotate among local San Marco restaurants and bars, and are often held jointly with the San Marco Merchants Association in an effort to build more neighborly and professional relationships.
We hope to see you there!
SMPS Turns 50!
MARCH 19, 2026 – MARCH 18, 2027
In 1975, local residents and businessmen came together to address the aging of San Marco Square and, more specifically, the aging fountain in the square. The group wanted to anticipate future challenges, and this proactive group led to the formation of the first attempts to fix the fountain and to begin formulating a long-term revitalization plan. By mid-March of 1976, the group was incorporated as a 501(c)(3).
SMPS has remained strong throughout its 50 years working to tighten zoning laws, sponsor beautification projects, coordinate renovation and construction projects, apply for and administer numerous grants from the city and state, and work with the city to enhance its streets and parks while highlighting its many amenities. Watch this page for details about upcoming Golden Anniversary events and projects.
Story Time in the Square
First Saturday of the Month
Join the San Marco Preservation Society and the San Marco Bookstore for the monthly Story Time in the Square, taking place on the first Saturday of each month from 10-11 A.M. in Balis Park.
Kids of all ages are welcome, but stories will be geared towards our littles. Feel free to bring a chair or blanket, but don’t forget your imagination at home!
Seating will be first come, first served, and the event will be held in the gazebo area, rain or shine (major weather systems excluded).
Holiday Luminaria
December 19, 2026
Every year, San Marco lights up for the annual Luminaria celebration. When the sun sets on the Saturday before Christmas, the neighborhood is filled with holiday cheer and neighborly hospitality set to the warm glow of light from luminaria lanterns lining the streets.
Residents are encouraged to purchase Luminaria kits from SMPS to help fund our preservation efforts in the community. Get in the holiday spirit and join the fun with one of the most beautiful traditions in Jacksonville.
Concert in the Park
October 2, 2026
This event is free and open to all ages. It’s designed to gather our community in one of our neighborhood’s showcase parks. Guests are invited to bring their own seating while enjoying local live music and beautiful views of Fletcher Park.
The SMPS partners with several local food trucks and providers to offer food for purchase at the event. Wine and beer will be available for guests 21+ with a suggested donation.
