The event series, presented by Citi, offers free admission, live music on the river and more
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — May 7, 2025 — The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens today announced the return of its annual Summer at the Cummer event series, held on Friday evenings from May 30, 2025 through June 20, 2025.
Presented by Citi, Summer at the Cummer is a free series that activates the Cummer Museum’s campus on Friday evenings from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Each week brings live music by some of the city’s top musicians, dynamic art experiences by Northeast Florida creatives, hands-on art-making fun, playful lawn games and more. Summer at the Cummer provides guests an opportunity to enjoy full access to the museum’s historically significant riverfront gardens and galleries featuring the permanent collection and special exhibitions, including “Knowing the West,” organized by the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art.
“Citi Jacksonville is honored to be this year’s presenting sponsor of Summer at the Cummer. We’re thrilled to continue supporting the Cummer Museum's commitment to providing accessible art, gardens, and learning experiences for the entire community," said Citi Jacksonville Site Head Vickie Behan.
During each Summer at the Cummer event, attendees will be able to order food and beverages from the Cummer Café, including beer, wine and cocktails. Guests will also have the opportunity to pre-order picnic baskets to enjoy the sunset on the river and dine picnic-style in the gardens.
“We are grateful to Citi for their long-standing partnership and for their support this year in providing this wonderful event series that honors our founder Ninah Cummer’s vision to create a center of beauty for all,” said Kimberly Noble, the interim George W. and Kathleen I. Gibbs Director and CEO. “Summer at the Cummer has something for everyone, and this year’s lineup of musicians, artists and activities is going to be fantastic.”
Live music is made possible by the Mildred Shafer Brown Memorial Fund. The current schedule of artists and activities includes:
Friday, May 30:
? 5:30 to 7 p.m.: Visitors can participate in a weaving demonstration with looms and spinning wheels by the Jacksonville Weavers’ Guild in Art Connections.
? 5 to 8 p.m.: Garden activities and lawn games. Live music by musicians Chillakaya and Yale Dray.
Friday, June 6:
? 5 to 8 p.m.: Garden activities and lawn games. A special visit by Jax River City Pride in celebration of Pride Month. Live music by musicians Freddy for Peace and Scott Greenway.
Friday, June 13:
? 5 to 6:30 p.m.: Gullah Geechee storytelling and musical experience with Anastasia Ketchen.
? 5 to 8 p.m.: Garden activities and lawn games. Live music by Akia Uwanda and Jesabel.
Friday, June 20:
? 4 to 9 p.m.: Garden activities, lawn games and live music by The Rip Currents and Arvid Smith.
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About the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens:
The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens stands as a beacon of culture and inspiration in Jacksonville, Florida, proudly showcasing an impressive collection of art and stunning historically significant gardens. Founded in 1958 by the visionary Ninah Cummer, a powerful woman deeply committed to her community, the museum reflects her passion for art, gardens and education. Ninah's dream was to create a space where the beauty of fine art and nature could be appreciated and shared with all, and she succeeded in transforming her family estate into this remarkable institution. The museum boasts an exquisite collection that spans from ancient to contemporary art, including European masterpieces and American works that resonate with the spirit of the region. Complementing the art is a series of beautifully landscaped gardens along the St. Johns River that invite visitors to explore and find tranquility amidst nature’s splendor. This harmonious blend of art and nature not only enhances the visitor experience but also embodies the essence of creativity and serenity that defines the Cummer Museum, making it an essential destination for art lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. As a landmark in Jacksonville, the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens not only honors Ninah Cummer's legacy but also serves as a vital cultural hub for education, creativity, and community engagement. It stands as a testament to the power of one woman's vision and her enduring impact on the arts in the community.