Yacht Rock & Soul with Jimmy Williamson

Yacht Rock concert Sanibel fans, this is your night. Yacht Rock & Soul with Jimmy Williamson lands at BIG ARTS on Saturday, January 17, 2026 at 7:30 PM. Expect a feel-good blend of classic R&B, soft rock, and soul. This is the kind of show that turns into a singalong fast. It also feels tailor-made for a Sanibel date night.

The six-piece touring band is known for polished musicianship and big harmonies. Frontman Jimmy Williamson contributed vocals on the 1976 hit “Play That Funky Music.” He has also shared the stage with Grammy-winning artists and members of major touring acts. Come for the yacht rock nostalgia. Stay for the soul.

Yacht Rock concert Sanibel: Yacht Rock & Soul at BIG ARTS

If you love smooth grooves and sharp musicians, you will feel at home here. The setlist energy is upbeat, but never loud for the sake of loud. Instead, it is tight, clean, and fun. In other words, it is the perfect “night out” show on the islands.

This performance is hosted at BIG ARTS, Sanibel’s year-round home for concerts and culture. It is an easy win for visitors who want something memorable after a beach day. Plus, it works well for locals who want a Saturday night plan that feels special.

Yacht Rock concert Sanibel event details

Date: Saturday, January 17, 2026
Time: 7:30 PM
Venue: BIG ARTS
Address: 900 Dunlop Road, Sanibel, FL 33957

Plan to arrive early. That gives you time to park, get settled, and enjoy the venue without rushing. Also, if you want a pre-show drink, you will be glad you built in a buffer.

How to get to BIG ARTS on Sanibel

BIG ARTS is located at 900 Dunlop Road on Sanibel. If you are coming from off-island, you will cross the Sanibel Causeway to reach Sanibel Island. From there, follow local signs and GPS to Dunlop Road and the BIG ARTS campus.

On event nights, give yourself extra time. Seasonal traffic can change quickly. Additionally, parking flow is smoother when you arrive earlier.

Yacht Rock concert Sanibel things to know before you go

Parking is free at BIG ARTS. The main lot is shared with the Sanibel Historical Village & Museum. During museum hours, avoid museum-designated spaces. Overflow parking is available at City Hall and the library, and the pathways are lighted. Parking in fire lanes, on grass, or on roads is not allowed.

For Performing Arts events, BIG ARTS also offers free valet service. That is a nice perk if you prefer a simple arrival.

Doors and arrival timing matter, too. The box office opens one hour before the event start. The performance hall opens 30 minutes prior to curtain. If you arrive late, check in at the box office first. Late seating is handled at management’s discretion. For sold-out events, unclaimed seats may be resold at curtain time.

One more pro tip: the performance hall can feel chilly. Bring a light layer. You will thank yourself later.

Yacht Rock concert Sanibel insider tips

Make your night smoother with a few local-style moves. First, treat this as an “arrive early” event. Then you can park once and relax. Next, consider a quick pre-show beverage. The BIG ARTS bar is open one hour prior to Performing Arts events and stays open through intermission.

The bar offers a full bar plus wine, beer, soft drinks, and packaged snacks. You can bring beverages and snacks into the performance hall. There is also a “Grab and Go” option, which helps you avoid intermission lines.

Finally, keep your phone dark. Photography and recording are not permitted during performance hall events. So, snap your pre-show photo outside. Then enjoy the music without distractions.

Turn the Yacht Rock concert Sanibel into a Kingfisher Vacations stay

This is the easiest way to turn one great night into a true island reset. Book a Sanibel or Captiva vacation rental and make the show part of your itinerary. You can do sunset, dinner, and live music, all in one day. Then you wake up on island time.

Kingfisher Vacations is locally owned and operated with an island-based team and over 100 years of combined experience. That matters when you want a stay that feels easy, cared for, and well-supported. Choose a condo close to your favorite beaches, or a home with room to spread out. Either way, you get the space and comfort that hotels cannot match.

FAQs

What time does Yacht Rock & Soul start at BIG ARTS?

The show starts at 7:30 PM on Saturday, January 17, 2026. Plan to arrive early for parking and entry.

Is parking free at BIG ARTS for this Yacht Rock concert Sanibel event?

Yes. Parking is free. Use the main lot and follow on-site guidance for overflow options.

Can I buy drinks before the performance?

Yes. The BIG ARTS bar opens one hour before Performing Arts events and stays open through intermission.