One of downtown Pensacola’s most recognizable and shared public art experiences is making a return.

Downtown Pensacola is preparing to launch a new umbrella-themed public art installation, inspired by the beloved Umbrella Sky Project that first transformed downtown in 2017 and quickly became a social media sensation and community favorite.

The new installation is planned for Jefferson Alley, the pedestrian corridor running the length of the Jefferson Street Garage and behind several Palafox Street businesses, including The Dog House, Wine Bar, Wild Greg’s and Jeweler’s Trade Shop. Alleyway maintenance and installation work are already underway, with framework expected to begin going up in the coming week. The colorful umbrellas are currently on order and anticipated to arrive within the next two to three weeks, barring freight delays.

The original Umbrella Sky Project became one of downtown Pensacola’s most photographed and widely shared attractions, drawing visitors into downtown while creating a vibrant backdrop for locals and tourists alike. According to the Downtown Improvement Board (DIB), requests for another installation have continued every year since.

“We’ve probably been asked about bringing Umbrella Sky back more than any other project downtown,” said Walker Wilson, executive director of the Downtown Improvement Board. “People connected with it because it created energy, excitement and a reason to explore downtown Pensacola. We felt like now was the right time to bring that feeling back.”

The new installation is a collaborative effort between the DIB, downtown property owners, and the City of Pensacola. The goal is to create a vibrant gathering space and visual focal point for downtown visitors, residents and employees to enjoy year-round.

Wilson said the project is designed to do more than create colorful photo opportunities. The goal is to support locally owned businesses, increase foot traffic and continue activating overlooked public spaces throughout downtown.

“This project is fun and visually exciting, but the real impact is what it does for our local businesses,” Wilson said. “When you create places people want to walk through, photograph and spend time in, that directly benefits the restaurants, shops and small businesses that make downtown Pensacola special.”

The new installation is a collaborative effort between the DIB, downtown property owners and the City of Pensacola.

Wilson said the long-term vision is to continue transforming underutilized spaces into memorable downtown destinations that encourage residents and visitors to experience more of the urban core.

“Downtown Pensacola has incredible momentum right now,” Wilson said. “Projects like this help create the kind of atmosphere people remember and talk about long after they leave. Pensacola asked for it back, and we’re excited to deliver in a big way.”

Nathan Holler, owner of Dog House and new downtown restaurant SalTerra, and vice chair of the DIB Board, said the return of the installation will further strengthen the alleyway as a destination space downtown.

“We’re excited to hear that Pensacola will be bringing back the Umbrella Sky art exhibit — and even more excited that the foundation of this project is being made permanent, allowing these types of art installations to continue throughout the year.”

“This is a great example of how public and private investment can work together to transform underutilized spaces into celebrated community destinations,” Holler added, “And I’m extremely excited to see this project come to fruition.”

Additional details, including an official unveiling date, will be announced in the coming weeks.