Datil Fest 2026 Live Music Lineup

The Palatka Jelly Rollers bring the timeless sounds of pre-war blues, early jazz, and old-time folk to life with an energetic, foot-stomping performance that's impossible to resist. This Putnam County string band blends rich harmonies with guitar, banjo, mandolin, upright bass, harmonica, and washboard percussion to create an authentic front-porch sound inspired by America's musical roots. Whether you're dancing, clapping along, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, the Jelly Rollers deliver a lively show full of hometown charm, vintage spirit, and unforgettable entertainment.

WHO WANTS DATIL GUMBO?

12:30 PM - 1:30 PM

Get ready for one of the most unforgettable performances of Datil Fest! The Sauce Boss & Extra Sauce aren't just a band—they're a full-blown experience that blends electrifying blues, Southern rock, comedy, storytelling, and live cooking into a show unlike anything you've ever seen. Fronted by legendary musician Bill Wharton—the inspiration behind Jimmy Buffett's iconic I Will Play for Gumbo—The Sauce Boss has entertained audiences across the country with his signature slide guitar, larger-than-life personality, and infectious energy.

As the music heats up, so does the kitchen. During the performance, The Sauce Boss cooks a giant pot of his famous seafood gumbo right on stage, singing the recipe while the aroma fills the air. Then, when the final song ends, the gumbo is shared with the crowd, turning thousands of festivalgoers into one big family gathered around great food and incredible music.

Backed by the powerhouse musicians of Extra Sauce, this high-octane performance delivers blazing guitar solos, driving rhythms, and nonstop entertainment from start to finish. It's no surprise The Sauce Boss has been featured in Living Blues, GQ, and Gourmet magazines and continues to earn rave reviews nationwide. Don't miss this one-of-a-kind musical and culinary spectacle—it's the perfect way to spice up Florida's largest celebration of the legendary Datil Pepper!

3:30 PM - 5:30 PM

2 PM - 3 PM

Duet Again

Get ready for an unforgettable afternoon with Jeff Howell, a Louisiana-born entertainer who seamlessly blends folk, funk, blues, rock, and Americana into a high-energy performance that's as funny as it is musical. More than just a singer-songwriter, Jeff is a natural storyteller whose quick wit, spontaneous humor, and audience interaction make every show unique. One minute he'll have you tapping your feet to a soulful original, and the next he'll have the crowd laughing with hilarious stories and off-the-cuff observations that feel like you're spending time with an old friend.

Whether he's delivering heartfelt ballads, funky grooves, or blues-infused favorites, Jeff's warm personality and comedic timing create an experience that keeps audiences smiling from start to finish. It's live music with personality, laughter, and plenty of Southern charm—the perfect recipe for a Datil Fest afternoon.

Performing Live Music in the Jacksonville area for many years, is now Singing and playing acoustic guitar as a solo act but is frequently joined by talented Friend to perform a verity of music genres, including: Rock, Pop, Country, Blues, Rock-n-Roll and Island Music. Curtis began his Music carrier four decades ago opening shows for major headliners with The Curtis Willis Band. Curtis Performs a verity of Classic Hits ranging form the late fifty’s to the ninety’s with a level of energy not seen with the average acoustic act. Sit back and relax or hit the dance floor to shake a leg, Ether way you’ll enjoy your time with Curtis Wills/Curtis Willis and Friend’s

Palatka's Jelly Rollers

10 AM - 11:00 AM

Margie Nelson and Lorri Gill

IMPORTANT NOTE: We encourage guests to bring a lawn chair for comfortable seating throughout the day. We'll have a limited number of chairs available, but not enough for everyone.

Curtis Willis & Friend's

Dazzling Diva Duo…three words that accurately describes Duet Again. Experienced performers, Margie Nelson and Lorri Gill offer a blend of voices that is very easy on the ears. This terrific twosome performs with pre-recorded tracks which allows them to present a variety of tunes spanning decades of music and genres. It’s an afternoon of music, fun and memories. Great tunes from the 50’s to the 70’s. You’ll want to dance and sing along because they sing the music of your life!

11:15 AM - 12:15 PM