By Brynna Wilson
There is something special about our downtown Jacksonville bars. Though we have plenty to choose from, they are all unique. Each bar has its own special offerings that make them fun to patronize.
Sure, a person can go to the bar and have a drink to unwind after work or meet a few friends to enjoy a night out — but with our downtown bars, a person can also race crabs, test their knowledge of music in a form of bingo, try and guess where the queen or king may be to win cash, play poker, win some amazing prizes and so much more.
Crab Races
Think you can outrun a crab? Do not worry, you do not actually have to run. Crab racing at Don’s Place began almost 39 years ago. In January of 1986, former bar owner Dan Kindred and his former partner Bob Underbrink came up with the idea when Underbrink moved to Colorado and saw “crab racing” in action at the bars there. Underbrink suggested to Kindred that, “It would be a unique and exciting opportunity to bring to Jacksonville.”
And so, it began. The pair chose to begin holding the races on Thursday nights to make an otherwise slower night pick up. The two did not know then that 38 years later, it would still be one of the most popular things to do on a Thursday night in Jacksonville. Patrons can begin choosing their well-cared-for competitor crabs at 8 p.m. before the racing begins at 8:30 that evening. All individuals over the age of 21 are welcome and it’s free to participate. Winners receive a free, exclusive winner’s circle championship T-shirt.
Crab racing is an activity that generations have come to love. For many, it is the destination they choose to celebrate their 21st birthday. Look for details for the Don’s Place 39th Year Crab Race Celebration in January 2025. All participants will receive a tee-shirt.
Singo
Another fun bar activity is to test one’s musical knowledge with “SINGO” at GoodTime Doc’s every Friday night at 8 p.m. Owner Randy Springer began offering SINGO at Doc’s about three years ago. “It’s like BINGO, only instead of letters we play 20-second song clips” says Springer. Prizes include free slot play, and a 3-night stay at 4-star resorts. SINGO is free to play, and patrons will have nothing to lose! This is a fun opportunity for music lovers of all genres.
And More!
There are so many offerings at the downtown bars in Jacksonville. There is the Queen of Hearts drawing every Wednesday at the AmVets Post 100, poker at GoodTime Doc’s on Tuesdays, plus “Kash Is King” at the AmVets Post 100, Bill’s West State or Guse’s Pub & Eatery every Sunday. Enjoy tacos at Bill’s West State on Wednesdays or all day on Thursdays at Bahan’s Tavern. Plus, there is axe-throwing inside of The Vault. Moreover, every place, including Lahey’s Lounge, is available for someone to relax and have a beer with a friend.
Check out the holiday decorations downtown, including the great Christmas lights at KJB’s (enjoy a burrito bowl while there). For those who have not seen these beautiful, festive bars — do it!
The different bars also offer live music. Check out each of their Facebook pages for information on what musicians will be where and when. A person does not need to leave town to enjoy a night on the town!
