Join us for the JAWS Fest Opening Ceremony with a FREE performance by the Excelsior Band and the JAWS Youth Awards ceremony! The Excelsior Band, founded in 1883 is a cornerstone of Mobile, Alabama Mardi Gras celebrations and they are recognized as ambassadors for the City of Mobile. The Excelsior Band is our featured performer for the JAWS Festival. They celebrated their 140th Anniversary in 2023 and we are pleased to have them as part of our opening ceremony.

Awards will be presented to the winners of the JAWS Youth art contest at this event. Grab your friends and family to join us for the festivities and enjoyment of this special day, as JAWS Youth has an array of kid-friendly activities planned. Strike a pose at the photo booth, challenge your friends to a friendly match of giant Jenga, and embrace the joy and inspiration of this artistic celebration!

The concert and awards ceremony will take place in the Marx Library Auditorium, and the reception will be held upstairs in the Rodning Gallery of Art, located on the 3rd floor of the Marx Library.