The Fort Mose Jazz & Blues Series will return for its fifth year from February 6 to 15, 2026, at Fort Mose Historic State Park in St. Augustine, Florida. The event will feature Grammy-winning artists such as Gary Clark Jr., Don Was and the Pan-Detroit Ensemble, Samara Joy, Robert Cray Band, Ruthie Foster, and Ledisi.
The series aims to honor the legacy of Fort Mose as the first legally sanctioned free African settlement in what is now the United States. Organizers say it offers an experience where history, community, and music come together.
Tickets for the 2026 series will be available starting Friday, November 21 at 10 a.m. through DiscoverFortMose.com. A portion of proceeds from each ticket will go toward supporting the Fort Mose Historical Society’s efforts to promote and preserve the site’s history.
The lineup includes:
– Ledisi on Friday, February 6.
– Gary Clark Jr. on Saturday, February 7.
– Robert Cray Band & Ruthie Foster on Friday, February 13.
– Don Was and the Pan-Detroit Ensemble on Saturday, February 14.
– Samara Joy on Sunday, February 15.
Each performance is scheduled to begin at 7:00 p.m., with gates opening at 6:00 p.m. Ticket prices range from $50.31 to $212.16 depending on the artist and seating options.
Since its start in 2022, the series has focused not only on music but also on raising awareness about Fort Mose’s historical significance and supporting efforts by the Fort Mose Historical Society to reconstruct a representation of the original fort—a goal that was reached in May 2025.
Fort Mose became a home for around one hundred Africans seeking freedom from English enslavement in 1738 during a period of conflict between European powers in North America. The residents developed a unique cultural community influenced by Native American, Spanish, and English traditions. In recognition of its historical importance, Fort Mose was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1994.
The event is produced by SJC Cultural Events, Inc., which manages several entertainment venues and cultural programs in St. Augustine. Supporters include local government bodies such as the St. Johns County Tourist Development Council and City of St. Augustine; organizations like the Fort Mose Historical Society; businesses including Sunbelt Rentals and Jalaram Hotels; and tourism groups such as St. Augustine Distillery and Florida State Parks Foundation.
“More than a concert series, Fort Mose Jazz & Blues Series honors the Fort Mose’s profound legacy as the first legally sanctioned free African settlement in what is now the United States – offering audiences an immersive experience where history, community and music converge.”
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