Jacksonville Bead Show! August 21-22, 2026 (FRI/SAT)

Beads, Baubles, and Endless Creativity at UNF This August

The Jacksonville Bead Show returns to the University of North Florida campus for a two-day weekend event starting Friday, August 21st at 10:00 AM. This gathering draws jewelry makers, crafters, and bead enthusiasts from across Northeast Florida to explore vendor tables packed with gemstones, findings, tools, and inspiration. The campus setting at 12000 Alumni Drive provides ample space for browsing, with the Friday morning start giving serious collectors first crack at rare pieces before the weekend crowd arrives.

What to Expect:
Rows of vendor tables showcase everything from Czech glass and freshwater pearls to sterling silver findings and specialty stringing materials. The atmosphere balances serious shopping with casual browsing—experienced artisans hunting specific components share space with beginners discovering their first project materials. Demonstrations and informal conversations with vendors add educational value beyond just purchasing supplies, making this more than a typical craft fair.

Insider Tips:
- Friday morning draws smaller crowds than Saturday, ideal for unhurried conversations with vendors about techniques and sourcing
- Bring a rolling cart or sturdy tote—bead purchases add up quickly in weight, especially when buying stone strands
- Cash moves faster at some vendor booths, though most accept cards
- Wear comfortable shoes for standing and walking between tables across the venue space
- Take photos of interesting pieces early, as popular items sell out by late Saturday afternoon
- Ask vendors about bulk pricing if planning larger projects—many offer discounts on multiple strand purchases

Getting There:
The venue sits on the UNF campus off Alumni Drive, accessible from J. Turner Butler Boulevard (State Road 202). UNF Lot 15 and Lot 16 provide the closest surface parking to the event space, both located right along UNF Drive within a few hundred feet of the venue. The Fine Arts Parking Garage and its addition offer covered parking about a quarter-mile walk away, useful during August afternoon thunderstorms. Arena Parking Garage sits further back on campus but provides another covered option. The campus layout makes navigation straightforward, with clear signage directing visitors from parking areas to the main event location. J. Turner Butler Boulevard serves as the primary east-west route, connecting to I-95 and Atlantic Boulevard for those coming from downtown Jacksonville or the beaches.

Local Scene:
The UNF campus location keeps dining options convenient and casual. Pita Pit sits just across campus for quick lunch wraps between browsing sessions. Chick-fil-A and Panda Express offer familiar fast options within walking distance when hunger strikes mid-show. Einstein Bros. Bagels makes a solid Friday morning stop for coffee and breakfast before the 10 AM opening. For those looking to extend the weekend beyond beads, Topgolf sits about a mile away on Brightman Boulevard, providing entertainment for non-crafting companions or a post-show activity. The campus area lacks late-night spots, but the bead show 2026 schedule wraps early enough to head toward Town Center or the beaches for evening plans.