Downtown Alachua Selected for Prestigious National Music Series Grant

ALACHUA – Downtown Alachua has officially been selected as one of only 26 communities nationwide to receive a prestigious multi-year Levitt Foundation grant, bringing 10 free, family-friendly outdoor concerts to the city each year for the next three years.

The award comes through the Mortimer & Mimi Levitt Foundation’s competitive Levitt AMP program. This year’s grant cycle drew more than 300 proposals from across the United States. Alachua’s application — submitted by Josh’s Place, a local 501(c)(3) — was selected following a national public voting period and subsequent foundation review.

Under the award, Alachua will receive up to $40,000 per year in matching funds from 2026 through 2028 to produce the Levitt AMP Alachua Music Series. The series will showcase diverse artists and a wide range of musical genres, all with the goal of bringing people together, strengthening community ties, and supporting local businesses in the downtown district.

City officials celebrated the announcement immediately. In a public statement posted by the City of Alachua, officials said, “We are thrilled that Alachua has officially been selected.” The City also thanked residents for turning out in strong support during the public voting phase — a key milestone in advancing to the finalist round.

Organizers emphasize that this investment is more than a concert series; it is a multi-year catalyst for downtown revitalization. Consistent foot traffic, expanded evening activity, and a strengthened Main Street economy are all anticipated benefits.

“This is a milestone moment for Alachua. This is a win for our community vision. And this is the start of something big,” project partners said in their announcement, citing the role of residents, small businesses, and volunteers in pushing the effort across the finish line.

Josh’s Place will serve as the lead grantee and fiscal agent for the series. The Alachua Business League (ABL) will coordinate artists, vendors, and promotional efforts, while the City of Alachua Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) will provide venue support, infrastructure assistance, and match funding.

The three-year series is expected to launch in spring 2026. Organizers say additional updates — including official concert dates, lineup announcements, and kickoff celebrations — will be released as planning advances.

For now, they say the community has reason to take pride.

“Out of more than 300 proposals nationwide, only 26 communities were chosen, and Alachua made the cut,” the announcement reads. “This is a huge win for our city, our small businesses, our families, and everyone who’s been working so hard to bring more life, music, and culture to Main Street.”

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