GREEN COVE SPRINGS – Cities around the world celebrate their artists in their own way. Chicago has the Old Town Art Fair. Miami has the Coconut Grove Art Festival. Closer to home, Green Cove Springs has the CalaVida Music and Arts Festival.

CalaVida, which closely translates to “Cove Life,” is a week-long jubilation of singers, dancers, authors, painters, food truck vendors and more from across Northeast Florida. The festival is eagerly gearing up for its 10th anniversary.

Seriously, you’re not going to want to miss this.

Sanda Royal has been the director for a decade. The retired music teacher has spent the decade planning itineraries and booking spectacular shows for CalaVida. She’s especially excited about what’s in store for this year.

“It’s free and open for everyone. Authors will be signing books. Painters will be selling original artwork. All of the bands have been booked,” Royal said.

Royal said her goal isn’t to make a profit. She said her goal is to give local entertainers and authors a showcase to do what they do. Her mission is to bring a diverse lineup of enriching art to the city in a fun, free, family-friendly event that everyone can enjoy and participate in.

The festival starts with Art Walk on Walnut Street on Monday, April 22, from 6-8 p.m. Various shows and performances will be happening throughout Green Cove Springs as the festival culminates in its full day on Saturday, April 27, from noon to 8 p.m.

Throughout the festival, there will be a wide sampling of multiple music genres: bluegrass, rock and roll, New Orleans jazz, Latin fusion, soul, funk and R&B.

“If you like live music in any form or fashion, there will be something for you,” Royal said.

There will be events throughout the week. Check out the schedule on the CalaVida website.