In the decade I have known Jax, I would say the biggest change from a photography perspective is that Jacksonville has become a city of LIGHT! Between the lighting of the Acosta bridge, the Vystar building, and the sculpture on Water street, I have enjoyed watching the progression over the years. Having the newly renovated Friendship fountain back after many years is, in my opinion, the crown jewel of this new celebration of light in downtown!
It brought so much joy to my heart to see this beautiful symphony of light, water, and sound come to life!!! The performance I caught was paired to two classical songs and a pop song. the entire performance was beautiful, and the only thing in my mind I can compare it to is the Bellagio fountain in Vegas. And I have never seen a crowd like that to enjoy the riverwalk any time there wasnt a major event downtown. It was a great joy to see the riverwalk activated with so many people from all slices of life, including families, enjoying the beautiful evening and show.
While there have been things going on well before the past decade like the light boat parade and of course the original Friendship fountain, I feel that having Friendship fountain back and in all it's glory just truly starts to feel like it is all starting to come together for Jax. what a great feeling!