Upcoming North Florida Events . . .

 

NORTH FLORIDA

MENORCAN HERITAGE CELEBRATION — In 1768, more than 1,400 people left the European Mediterranean for the New World — one of the largest single groups of European settlers to immigrate. Eventually, the Menorcans petitioned the governor of St. Augustine for sanctuary. The 250th anniversary celebration of the Menorcan settlement in St. Augustine includes activities like mullet-net making, storytelling, family crests, songs and more.
When: March 3
Where: Llambias House, St. Augustine
Web: menorcansociety.net

30TH ANNUAL FORESTRY CONCLAVE & LUMBERJACK FESTIVAL — Channel your inner Paul Bunyan for competitive fun that includes “everyday” activities like the standing chop, log roll, axe throw, men’s or women’s cross-cut or sawing. If that’s not your thing, at least put on your best plaid flannel for a day of bluegrass music, nature and wildlife exhibits and firefighting demos.
When: March 3
Where: Pensacola State College, Milton Campus
Web: lumberjack.pensacolastate.edu

41ST BATTLE OF NATURAL BRIDGE REENACTMENT — With Civil War battles rarely occurring in Florida, the reenactment of the Battle of Natural Bridge (March 6, 1865) commemorates the successful defense of the Confederate Army’s location along the St. Marks River about 12 miles south of Tallahassee. The annual reenactment will include the skirmish, cavalry demonstrations, artillery shows and historic medical treatment examples.
When: March 3-4
Where: Natural Bridge Battlefield Historic State Park
Web: nbhscso.com

RENAISSANCE FAIRE AND PIRATE FESTIVAL — Leave your smartphones at home and immerse yourself in the days when stories turned into legends through hard-working minstrels -- not because they went viral on social networking sites. This two-day fest features full armor jousting on horseback, gypsy dancers, fire breathers, sword swallowers, Irish dancers and plenty of medieval food, drink and games for all ages.
When: March 3-4
Where: Santa Rosa County Fairgrounds, Milton
Web: gcrf.us

CONCOURS D’ELEGANCE — As car shows go, Amelia Island’s beauty pageant for rare and lovingly-owned automobiles is one of the top five auto shows in the country. On Sunday, get a glimpse of all the hand-polished chrome parked on the Ritz-Carlton’s gorgeous golf course. Friday and Saturday feature smaller functions, which include the Porsche Driving Experience (You don’t have to be a Porsche owner to participate!), test drives, a ticketed roundtable on what’s next for electric cars and an auction by Sotheby’s.
When: March 9-11
Where: Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island
Web: ameliaconcours.org

GATE RIVER RUN — Who doesn’t want to tell their friends and family that they ran in the USA 15K Championship? Yes, you too can actually run the same race on the same day as some of the world’s elite runners. Plus, finishers can claim they conquered “The Green Monster.” Not sure what that is? Don’t worry, any veteran or Jax native will be happy to clue in first-timers. The course winds through downtown over the St. Johns River and through the gorgeous waterfront historic neighborhoods of San Marco and St. Nicholas before finishing back at Everbank Field (home of the AFC South Champion Jaguars). Meanwhile, the racers aren’t the only ones enjoying the Saturday festivities; many locals set up chairs along the route and impromptu morning parties featuring adult beverages (This is the South!) spring up in front lawns.
When: March 10
Where: Jacksonville
Web: 1stplacesports.com/grr

AMALIE MOTOR OIL NHRA GATORNATIONALS — The raceway is considered one of the fastest drag racing tracks on the National Hot Rod Association circuit, and drivers have clocked top speeds of 260 to 300 miles per hour on runs. The annual at Gainesville Raceway has been the opening event for the East coast’s quarter-mile drag racers since 1970.
When: March 15-18
Where: Gainesville Raceway
Web: gainesvilleraceway.com

WEEKEND PARTY IN ST. AUGUSTINE — Shop and dine or vice versa. These two fests will keep you busy in the nation’s oldest city on St. Patrick’s Day weekend.

• St. Augustine Lions Seafood Festival (March 16-18, Francis Field): For 37 years, the annual fest has been keeping locals and lucky tourists well fed and entertained. Of course, there’s plenty of local catch to eat as well as kid’s rides, magic shows, a clown adventure and more. Music lineup is jazz on Friday and country and Americana on Saturday and Sunday. (lionsfestival.com)
• St. Augustine Art & Craft Festival (March 17-18, St. Johns County Pier Park): Take home the perfect souvenir to remember your vacation by choosing from dozens of artisans selling handmade jewelry, ceramics, stained glass, photography, soap and more. (tnteventsinc.com)

SUWANNEE VALLEY QUILT FESTIVAL — Celebrate National Quilt Day with inspiration provided by more than 400 intricate fabric works of art created by quilting groups and individuals throughout the state. View these treasures while exploring Trenton’s historic downtown. Quilts will be on display in stores and town buildings, inside and out. Also, make time for sewing demos on paper piecing, embroidery, children’s dresses and needlework.
When: March 17
Where: Trenton
Web: trentonquiltfestival.com

DOWN HOME STREET FESTIVAL — Join the people of Bonifay (population: 4,000) for a relaxed event that mixes community pride with fun and family. Preceding the festival are the Miss Trailblazer Pageant (March 3) and the Trailblazer Trot 5K (March 10). In keeping with the down home theme, there will be games, crafts and family-friendly live entertainment throughout the day, as well as a chance to see the pageant winners and auto show.
When: March 17
Where: Bonifay
Web: downhomestreetfestival.com

WILD AZALEA FESTIVAL — Palatka and Ravines Gardens State Park (Florida Azalea Festival, floridazaleafest.com) is not the only north Florida location to host a party when the spring flowers are in bloom. The gorgeous flowering shrub also is plentiful along the banks of the Suwannee River in White Springs. The annual fest in the historic downtown includes regional food, live music, arts and crafts, walking tours to view the azaleas and an opportunity to purchase your own bushes.
When: March 17
Where: Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park, White Springs
Web: whitesprings.org

8TH ANNUAL OSFR SONGWRITERS CONTEST — The Santa Fe River may not be as well-known as its sister river, the Suwannee, but the nonprofit organization, Our Santa Fe River, is looking to change that perception. For the past seven years, musicians and songwriters have entered the annual contest sharing original songs about the river. The 2018 showcase is on March 25, but a Songwriters’ Reunion featuring previous contestants and winners takes place on March 18. Original songs must be submitted by March 1. These events are part of RiverFest 2018.
When: March 18, 25
Where: High Springs, Fort White
Web: oursantaferiver.org

UNWINED — UNwineD is hitting the ground running for the second annual celebration. The Biscuits and Jam kickoff event, sponsored by Southern Living magazine, will feature traditional southern culinary fare with Middle Eastern and Mediterranean influences by chef Matt Moore paired with Nashville singer Cale Tyson’s soulful take on Americana music. Saturday’s grand tasting includes live music and a global lineup of wine, spirits, craft beer and culinary samples from a lineup of local chefs.
When: March 23-24
Where: Aaron Bessant Park, Panama City Beach
Web: visitpanamacitybeach.com/unwined

CARRABELLE CULTURE CRAWL — Explore the small gulf coast community (pop. 3,000) at the mouth of the Carrabelle River while enjoying its music, history, food and art. More than a dozen local galleries, shops, museums and restaurants will open their doors as official stops on the tour. Also includes complimentary refreshment, food and door prizes.
When: March 24
Where: Carrabelle
Web: bit.ly/2o048Cd

St. Augustine, Florida . . .

A Must See

Whether you're planning a simple day trip, a weekend getaway. or a long adventure, St Augustine has it all - historic sites, fine restaurants, nightlife, hotels, motels, bed & breakfasts, condos and more.

Founded in 1565, St. Augustine is the oldest continuously occupied settlement of European and African-American origin in the United States. Forty-two years before the English colonized Jamestown and fifty-five years before the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth Rock, the Spanish established at St. Augustine this nation's first enduring settlement.

 

The architectural legacy of the city's past is much younger, testimony to the impermanent quality of the earliest structures and to St. Augustine's troubled history. Only the venerable Castillo de San Marcos, completed in the late seventeenth century, survived destruction of the city by invading British forces in 1702.

 

 

To Learn more, visit the offical City of St. Augustine web site

Amelia Island and Fernandina Beach . . .

Fernandina Beach is on Amelia Island at Florida's northeast border. The city hosts the popular Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival and is known for great golf. Downtown Fernandina Beach also offers boutique shopping and a range of scrumptious restaurants. With 13 miles of pristine beaches, abundant wildlife and clear, calm waters, Amelia Island with its quaint charm has been a beloved destination for generations. Its upscale resorts and world-class spas combine with a charming collection of bed and breakfasts, historic sites and captivating festivals for an experience that’s uniquely Floridian. Come experience why Fernandina Beach and Amelia Island have consistently been among Florida’s highest-ranked island destinations.


During certain times throughout the year, visitors to Fernandina Beach and Amelia Island have the opportunity to witness and participate in various events and festivals.

Upcoming events . . .

Amelia Island Book Festival. Wordsmiths gather on Amelia Island each year for the Book Festival, featuring author talks, workshops, readings, luncheons and celebrations of the love of books in historic Fernandina Beach. There is also a FEATURED FREE KID’s AREA: Activities for children, readings by authors, geared to kids aged 3-12.  See full details of schedule at the Amelia Island Book Festival’s website.

St. Michael Academy's Spring Carnival March 9th - 12th, 2017
Central Park
www.smacarnival.com

Eight Flags Road Tour Car Display
March 10th
8:30am-2:00pm
Downtown Fernandina Beach along Centre Street
www.ameliaconcours.org/event-schedule.aspx

Relay for Life
May 20th
3:00-9:00pm
Main Beach Park
www.main.acsevents.org/site/TR?pg=entry&fr_id=81667

Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens . . .

Escape to the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens for the only walking safari in Northeast Florida.

 

 

Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens proudly opened its latest exhibit on Saturday, March 8th.

 

Go see tigers like you’ve never seen them before! 

 

Take a walk through Asia and experience wreathed and wrinkled hornbills, Visayan Warty pigs, Babirusa pigs, and Asian-small clawed otters.

 

The centerpiece of this newest addition are three Malayan and two Sumatran tigers that are free to roam through the area via an innovative trail system.

 

Guests will have the ability to potentially see a tiger from almost anywhere in this one of a kind 2.5 acre exhibit.

 

 

Discover the earth’s wildlife through interactive and educational experiences.

A true family adventure, the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is growing and changing daily and is dedicated to consistently improving. 

Beginning in 2004 with Range of the Jaguar and continuing with Giraffe Overlook and Savanna Blooms garden, the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is quickly becoming a world-class establishment. The Zoo has something for everyone with more than 2,000 rare and exotic animals and 1,000 varieties of plants.

Whether you are a visitor to Florida’s First Coast or a lifetime resident, we invite you to experience the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens through interactions with people, wildlife and the environment.

Visit the Jacksonville Zoo

 

North Florida Summer Events . . .

NORTH FLORIDA

BILLY BOWLEGS PIRATE FESTIVAL — Scallywags beware! The dread pirate Billy Bowlegs and his nefarious crew are sailing the Gulf’s emerald waters of the Panhandle looking for the perfect spot to celebrate another successful year at sea. In addition to the pirate ship landing and family festival, other swashbuckling events include a Pirate Pub Crawl, Fireworks and Torchlight Parade.
When: June 4-8
Where: Fort Walton Beach
Web: billybowlegsfestival.com

DIGITAL GRAFFITI — Digital Graffiti is an innovative and dynamic event that explores how art and architecture can intermix. During the three-night event, 27 digital artists from around the world will showcase original works on Alys Beach’s iconic white walls,
When: June 4-6
Where: Alys Beach
Web: digitalgraffiti.com

RENDEZVOUS INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL transforming the typically serene town into a visually stunning and vibrant art space. — Let your creative juices flow during this 9-day fest geared toward budding filmmakers, up-and-coming musicians and gamers. It’s a movie lovers dream: seven films will have red carpet premieres; plus there will be screening 37 animated films, nine feature films, 25 international feature and short films and 10 documentaries.
When: June 5-13
Where: various venues, Amelia Island
Web: rendezvousfestival.org

DRAKE’S RAID — In 1586, the English corsair Sir Francis Drake and his band of raiders invaded the city of St. Augustine and burned the city. The two-day 28th reenactment begins on Friday with news of the arrival of the British marauders and continues on Saturday with a battle between the British and Spanish in the historic district, ending at Plaza de la Constitucion.
When: June 5-6
Where: Fountain of Youth Park, St. Augustine
Web: hfm.club/events/annual/drakesraid

SUN, SAND AND SONGS — Kick off your shoes and get your groove on during these two beachfront music festivals. Perdido Key’s Third Annual Shindig on the Sand features at least 70 musical acts during three days. On the east coast, make your way to Jacksonville Beach for a taste of the Bold City at the Seawalk Music Festival which emphasizes all things local: music, food and culture.
When: June 5-7 (Shindig on the Sand), June 20 (Seawalk Music Festival)
Where: Flora-Bama in Perdido Key and Seawalk Pavilion in Jacksonville Beach, respectively
Web: florabama.com/events/shindig-on-the-sand, communityfirstseawalkmusicfest.com

22ND ANNUAL WELLBORN BLUEBERRY FESTIVAL — Indulge in all things blueberry: from cobblers and pies to ice cream and jellies to syrups and fudge. This year’s theme is “Come Clown Around.” The day includes the crowning the blueberry queen and king, water walkers, ponies, the blueberry parade, the blueberry bake-off and a blueberry pancake breakfast. Blueberry bushes will be for sale.
When: June 6
Where: Andrews Square, Wellborn
Web: wellborncommunityassociation.com/BlueberryFestival

MARJORIE KINNAN RAWLINGS AND WORLD WAR II: AN AUTHOR’S EXPERIENCE— Learn the role that The Yearling author played during World War II as recounted through her books and through the letters of her wartime correspondence with servicemen and women. Park Manager Valeri Rivers will lead the discussion that is part of a Victory Florida program for the 70-year anniversary of V-Day.
When: June 6
Where: Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park, Hawthorn
Web: floridastateparks.org/park/Marjorie-Kinnan-Rawlings

SEED SPITTIN’ SHINDIGS — Mark Twain said, “When one has tasted a watermelon he knows what angels eat.” True or not, get ready to indulge in the juicy fruit at one of these annual fests: the Watermelon Festival in Chiefland, the Jefferson County Watermelon Festival and the 59h Annual Panhandle Watermelon Festival. All include parades, live music, running (5K or 10K) and, of course, a seed-spitting contest.
When: June 6 (Watermelon Festival); June 19-20 (Jefferson County Watermelon Festival);  June 26-27 (Panhandle Watermelon Festival)
Where: Chiefland, Monticello and Chipley, respectively
Web: chieflandchamber.com/watermelon, monticellojeffersonfl.com/event/watermelon-festival, panhandlewatermelon.com

18TH ANNUAL FLORIDA AFRICAN DANCE FESTIVAL — Kick off your shoes and let the frenetic beat consume you during one of the dance or drum workshops at this annual event sponsored by the African Caribbean Dance Theatre. Workshops include traditional dance styles from the Congo, Senegal and Guinea taught by renowned instructors. Also includes children’s workshops and story hours, a wheelchair dance class and evening performance concerts.
When: June 11-13
Where: Tallahassee Community College
Web: fadf.org

PLEIN AIR, PAPER & POTTERY — Experience St. Augustine’s breathtaking beachfront and salt marshes through the eyes of artist Matthew J. Cutter. Cutter’s new exhibit features a body of work created “en plein air,” or painted on location outdoors and onsite. Talk with him about artistic inspiration and painting techniques at the two-day opening of the exhibit.
When: June 12-13
Where: Cutter & Cutter Fine Art Galleries
Web: cutterandcutter.com

LATIN SALSA FESTIVAL — Play a friendly game of dominoes or work on your hot salsa moves at this annual fete geared to the Puerto Rican and Caribbean lifestyle. DJs will spin merengue and reggae tunes, the Tallahassee Salsa Dancers will perform as will other well-known Latin-American acts. Also includes Caribbean food and a kids’ zone.
When: June 13
Where: Fort Walton Landing Park
Web: boricuasausentes.org

WILD BLACKBERRY FESTIVAL — Spend the weekend in the heart of the Suwannee River Valley in beautiful Jasper, just south of the Florida/Georgia state line in Hamilton County. Explore three of the state’s meandering rivers — the Suwannee, Withlacoochee and Alapaha — either on foot or by boat, then head to downtown Jasper for the town’s sixth annual festival featuring blackberry pancakes, cobblers, jams and jellies, as well as live music, family activities and craft vendors.
When: June 13
Where: downtown Jasper
Web: facebook.com/pages/Wild-Blackberry-Festival

FLORIDA COUNTRY SUPERFEST — The men of country rule at this year’s two-day extravaganza. The king of all things honkytonk, Kenny Chesney, headlines that second annual event that brought thousands of cowboy-hat wearing fans to jam along the St. Johns River. The killer lineup also includes the Zac Brown Band, Keith Urban, Brantley Gilbert, Cole Swindell, Tyler Farr, David Nail, Colt Ford, Danielle Bradberry and the Swon Brothers.
When: June 13-14
Where: Everbank Field, Jacksonville
Web: floridacountrysuperfest.com

VETTES AT THE VILLAGE — Treat your dad to a pre-Father’s Day trip to admire the sleek lines and natty details of more than 100 late-model and custom Corvettes. Cast your vote for the People’s Choice winner and then enjoy lunch at Murray Bros. Caddy Shack.
When: June 20
Where: World Golf Village, St. Augustine
Web: nfca.net

DODGE BRAWL — Remember of the 5 Ds of dodgeball, at least according to movie Dodgeball’sPatches O’Houlihan — “Dodge, Duck, Dip, Dive and Dodge” — while competing in this 64-team, double-elimination tournament. Assemble the perfect six to 10-person team, coordinate your uniform (think matching old-school sweatbands and striped tube socks) and get ready to rock the court. The top three teams receive medals and a monetary award for the charity of their choice.
When: June 27
Where: Pensacola Bay Center
Web: pensacolabaycenter.com/events/detail/dodgebrawl

AMERICA ON TAP: Sips and samples will be plentiful at America On Tap’s ode to craft beer. The three-hour event will feature more than 100 releases from some of the country’s best craft breweries paired with live music and food. Breweries set to tap new releases include favorites like Abita, Bell’s and Brooklyn Brewery. More obscure labels include Guns & Oil Brewing Co. (Texas), Lucky Bucket Brewing Company (New England) and Radiant Pig (New York).
When: June 27
Where: Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center, Jacksonville
Web: americaontap.com

Original Sourse

Dunlawton Sugar Mill . . .

If and when you find yourself in the beautiful Daytona area, be sure to visit the Dunlawton Sugar Mill Ruins for a stroll through the extensive Botanical Gardens, home of stunning ancient trees, shrubs, exotic plants and flowers.

 

 More information here

Summer in North Florida: 2014 . . .

Whatever your passion, North Florida has it. Here are just some of the major events scheduled this month in the Sunshine State:

 

NORTH FLORIDA

 

5TH ANNUAL TASTE OF GAINESVILLE — When the students flee the University of Florida for the summer, the locals reclaim their now-sleepy college town and turn out to dine on signature dishes from 30 local restaurants spotlighting different regional flavors. Not to miss: the always-popular local Iron Chef competition featuring cheftestants Ray Leung (Dragonfly Sushi), Taylor Dukes (Great Outdoors Restaurant) and Valero Alises (Sabore).
When:  June 1
Where:  UF Hilton Conference Center, Gainesville
Web:  tasteofgainesville.com

BILLY BOWLEGS PIRATE FESTIVAL — As the website advises, “Keep Calm and Party with Pirates” when Billy Bowlegs and his band of swashbuckling scallywags storm the Fort Walton Beach coast for three days of parties, floats, parades, skirmishes, live music and fireworks.
When:  June 5-7
Where:  Fort Walton Landing, Fort Walton Beach
Web:  http://www.billybowlegsfestival.com/schedule.php

DRAKE’S RAID — In 1586, the English corsair Sir Francis Drake and his band of raiders sacked the city of St. Augustine, driving Spanish forces from their encampment, before they burned the city. The two-day reenactment begins on Friday with news of the arrival of the British marauders and continues on Saturday with a battle between the British and Spanish throughout the historic district of the city, ending at Plaza de al Constitucion.
When:  June 6-7
Where:  historic downtown St. Augustine
Web:  http://www.DrakesRaid.com

USA VS. NIGERIA: 2014 FIFA WORLD CUP SEND-OFF SERIES — Send the U.S. Men’s National Soccer Team to Brazil with chants of “U-S-A” while waving the stars and stripes during their last match on home soil. The men will face off against Nigeria, the only team that they will play during their Send-Off Series of matches that also has qualified for the FIFA World Cup.
When:  June 7
Where:  Everbank Field, Jacksonville
Web:  ussoccer.com

PANAMA CITY BEACH BEER FESTIVAL — With Florida’s devotion to the craft beer craze an unstoppable force in the beer brewing movement, these festivals are a great way to sample dozens of brews from beloved brands like Cigar City, 7venth Sun, New Belgium, Founders Brewing and Ommegang. As for people watching, don’t miss the T-shirts — beer geeks will be breaking out their favorites. There’s bound to be at least one featuring a bear with deer antlers above the word “Beer.” Really.
When:  June 7
Where:  Fishale Gastro Pub
Web:  http://www.pcbbeerfestival.com

60TH ANNUAL CHIEFLAND WATERMELON FESTIVAL — Indulge in ice-cold watermelon, participate in the seed-spitting contest and cheer on the newly-crowned Watermelon Queen at the annual festival which features a community parade and arts and crafts festival.
When: June 7
Where: Chiefland Train Depot
Web: http://chieflandwomansclub.org/

21ST ANNUAL WELLBORN BLUEBERRY FESTIVAL — Indulge in all things blueberry: from cobblers and pies to ice cream and jellies to syrups and fudge. The highlights of the annual festival: crowning the blueberry queen, the blueberry parade, the blueberry bake-off and the famous blueberry pancake breakfast.
When:  June 7
Where:  Andrews Square, Wellborn
Web:  http://www.wellborncommunityassociation.com

24TH ANNUAL PENSACOLA VILLAGE OPEN HOUSE — Get a glimpse into Pensacola’s varied history with free tours of the Charles Lavalle House (a French Creole home from 1805), the Clara Barkley Dorr House (post-Civil War construction from 1871) and the Lear-Rocheblave House (Victorian middle-class family home from the 1890s). Tours will last about 20 minutes and free kids activities through the day include candle dipping, making calling cards and a photo booth.
When:  June 7
Where:  Historic Pensacola Village
Web:  http://www.historicpensacola.org

TALLAHASSEE LATIN DANCE FESTIVAL— Shake your moneymaker with workshops, evening parties and a performance showcase all dedicated to the salsa, mambo, tango, bachata, kizomba and cha cha cha for a wannabe or established dancer. Dance the night away to live music or DJs spinning Latin beats or watch an awe-inspiring performance by Colombian dancers Adrianita & Jefferson, the 2013 Salsa gold medalists at the World DanceSport Games.
When:  June 13-16
Where:  Hotel Duval, Tallahassee
Web:  http://tallylatindancefest.com

FLORIDA COUNTRY SUPERFEST — Required for the two-day country music event: cowboy hats and boots, a ready-to-rock persona and the ability to sing all the words to Mama’s Broken Heart. Country superstars Miranda Lambert, Luke Bryan, Jason Aldean, Eric Church, Florida Georgia Line, Little Big Town, Big & Rich, Eastin Corbin, Colt Ford and Joe Nichols will bring the epicenter of country music to Jacksonville for the weekend. The Superfest will also feature a Fan Fest and Tailgate Party outside the stadium.
When:  June 14-15
Where:  Everbank Field, Jacksonville
Web:  www.FloridaCountrySuperfest.com

WILD BLACKBERRY FESTIVAL — Do visions of blackberry pancakes, jellies and syrup make you hungry? They do, right? So load the family in the car and roadtrip to Jasper, located along the Florida/Georgia state line. The city is the heart of Hamilton County, the Wild Blackberry Capital of Florida. Festival fun also includes a classic car show, Miss Wild Blackberry Pageant and live music. Don’t forget to bring a piece of Hamilton County home with you when you purchase your own blackberry plant.
When:  June 14
Where:  downtown Jasper
Web:  https://www.facebook.com/pages/Wild-Blackberry-Festival/166354076751929

ST. GEORGE ISLAND MULLET TOSS — Start warming up your throwing arm. $25 gets you an event T-shirt and two mullet ($20 for children) to toss across the beach at this annual event. The winner in each category (You didn’t think the men and women competed against each other, did you?) gets bragging rights and some kind of prize. All proceeds go to charity.
When:  June 14
Where:  On the beach in front of the Blue Parrot Oceanfront Cafe, St. George Island
Web:  http://www.blueparrotsgi.com/calendar/mullet_toss.htm

ST. AUGUSTINE MUSIC FESTIVAL — Take a break from the seasonal deluge of jazz, funk, blues and country music fests to salute the world’s greatest composers — Beethoven, Brahms, Saint-Saëns, Vivaldi, Mozart and Mendelssohn —  at this eighth annual tribute. Featured international musicians like the Diaz Trio, pianist Eugenio Urrutia-Borlando and violinist Elissa Lee Koljonen will be joined by members of the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra. Can’t make it in person? All six concerts will be streamed live over the internet.
When:  June 19-21, 26-28
Where:  Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine
Web:  http://www.staugustinemusicfestival.org

COMMUNITY FIRST SEAWALK MUSIC FESTIVAL — Sun, sand, sea breeze and surf -- what better way to enjoy music in Florida than barefoot with the gentle waves of the Atlantic Ocean providing its own soundtrack during this beachfront music fest. The free, one-day event is a platform for local musicians such as the Ivey West Band, the Corbitt Brother Band and Be Easy. Also enjoy local eats and art.
When: June 21
Where:  Seawalk Pavilion, Jacksonville Beach
Web:  http://www.communityfirstseawalkfest.com

BATTLE OF BLOODY MOSE — Attend the 6th annual reenactment of this 1764 battle between James Oglethorpe’s British forces and a Spanish militia comprised of freed former British slaves. The battle reenactment will happen twice on both days, as will scenes from one of Spain’s oldest plays, “Nuevo Mundo” by Lope de Vega and performed by Florida’s Living History with a Mission.
When: June 21-22
Where: Fort Mose, St. Augustine
Web: http://www.floridastateparks.org/fortmose

 

Original Source

 

 

Nation's Oldest City . . .

 

 

 

Founded in 1565, St. Augustine is the oldest continuously occupied settlement of European and African-American origin in the United States. Forty-two years before the English colonized Jamestown and fifty-five years before the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth Rock, the Spanish established at St. Augustine this nation's first enduring settlement.

 

 

 

The architectural legacy of the city's past is much younger, testimony to the impermanent quality of the earliest structures and to St. Augustine's troubled history. Only the venerable Castillo de San Marcos, completed in the late seventeenth century, survived destruction of the city by invading British forces in 1702.

 

 

Vestiges of the First Spanish Colonial Period (1565-1764) remain today in St. Augustine in the form of the town plan originally laid out by Governor Gonzalo Méndez de Canzo in the late sixteenth century and in the narrow streets and balconied houses that are identified with the architecture introduced by settlers from Spain. Throughout the modern city and within its Historic Colonial District, there remain thirty-six buildings of colonial origin and another forty that are reconstructed models of colonial buildings.

 

 



St. Augustine can boast that it contains the only urban nucleus in the United States whose street pattern and architectural ambiance reflect Spanish origins.

 

 

 

Historians credit Juan Ponce de Leon, the first governor of the Island of Puerto Rico, with the discovery of Florida in 1513. While on an exploratory trip in search of the fabled Bimini he sighted the eastern coast of Florida on Easter Sunday, which fell on March 27 that year. Ponce de Leon claimed Florida for the Spanish Crown and named it Florida after the Easter season, known in Spanish as PASCUA FLORIDA. This newly claimed territory extended north and west to encompass most of the known lands of the North American continent that had not been claimed by the Spanish in New Spain (Mexico and the Southwest).

 

 

In the following half century, the government of Spain launched no less than six expeditions attempting to settle Florida; all failed. In 1564 French Huguenots (Protestants) succeeded in establishing a fort and colony near the mouth of the St. Johns River at what is today Jacksonville. This settlement posed a threat to the Spanish fleets that sailed the Gulf Stream beside the east coast of Florida, carrying treasure from Central and South America to Spain. As Don Pedro Menéndez de Avilés was assembling a fleet for an expedition to Florida, the French intrusion upon lands claimed by Spain was discovered. King Philip II instructed Menéndez, Spain's most capable admiral, to remove the French menace to Spain's interests.

 

 

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Gainesville Florida . . .

 

 

Gainesville is the largest city and county seat of Alachua County. It serves as the cultural, educational and commercial center for the north central Florida region. The city provides a full range of municipal services, including police and fire protection; comprehensive land use planning and zoning services; code enforcement and neighborhood improvement; streets and drainage construction and maintenance; traffic engineering services; refuse and recycling services through a franchised operator; recreation and parks; cultural and nature services; and necessary administrative services to support these activities. Additionally, the city owns a regional transit system, a municipal airport, a 72-par championship golf course and a utility.


Gainesville is home to Florida's largest and oldest university, and is one of the state's centers of education, medicine, cultural events and athletics. The University of Florida and Shands Hospital at UF are the leading employers in Gainesville and provide jobs for many residents of surrounding counties. Known for its preservation of historic buildings and the beauty of its natural surroundings, Gainesville's numerous parks, museums and lakes provide entertainment to thousands of visitors. Because of its beautiful landscape and urban "forest," Gainesville is one of the most attractive cities in Florida.

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Castaway Island Preserve . . .

Protecting more than 300 acres of coastal habitats along the meandering, estuarine San Pablo River, Castaway Island Preserve is a breezy spot to get away from the city neighborhoods and enjoy a breath of fresh air outdoors.

 A peninsula on the edge of suburbia, it’s its own world once you pass through the gates. Ibis and wood storks comb through the shallow marsh edges. Gopher tortoises lumber through the protected pine flatwoods of the island, which is surrounded by the estuary.

This is a gentle mile-long walk for all ages, well-interpreted and fun to follow – especially for kids – with plenty of benches and overlooks along the way.

 

 

For more information, visit Florida Hikes

Jacksonville Florida Beach Activities . . .

 

Immerse yourself in Jacksonville’s 21 miles of wide, uncrowded beaches. Visitors will find plenty to do, with diverse activities, family fun, restaurants and nightlife, souvenir shops and oceanfront hotels blending into the scene without crowding views of the shoreline.

Start your exploration of the beaches with a refreshing walk along the wide, paved boardwalk or take to the sea on foot. The Jacksonville Beach Fishing Pier launches out nearly a quarter of a mile into the Atlantic Ocean and offers great views of the coastline. Admission is only $1 for pedestrians, fishermen are $4.

Explore the beach’s colorful history with a stop at the Beaches Museum & History Center in Jacksonville Beach. With its replica boardwalk filled with photos and displays, visitors will be whisked back in time to an era when Jacksonville's beaches were the playground of politicians, celebrities, gangsters and socialites. The museum is also home to one of four Visit Jacksonville Visitor Centers.

If you prefer water immersion to dry land, take a surf lesson from a local surf shop like Aqua East or search the ocean for dolphins and sand bars that come and go with the tide. Kayak Amelia offers family-friendly guided excursions, including the Shell Hunter and Island Hopper tour where paddlers discover what the tide leaves behind on sand bars – sharks’ teeth, shells, crabs and more. Or head out to sea on the Dutton Island Dolphin Adventure. You'll not only catch glimpses of dolphin, but also Florida’s birds and manatees.

 Learn more about our beach activities

Scenic North Florida Drives . . .

Driving through northeastern Florida and the Panhandle provides a perfect balance between wild nature and human influence. When you think Florida you usually think of all the built-up areas in southern and central Florida. However, if you skip the northern parts of the state you'll miss these excellent scenic drives:

Scenic Drives from Jacksonville

If you're planning a trip down to central and southern Florida's attractions but you want to see some beautiful nature and old-time towns and attractions on your way south, you can take a detour between Jacksonville and Flagler Beach (north of Daytona Beach) on the coast. From I-95 on the eastern side of Jacksonville take Route 202 to Jacksonville Beach. You'll find yourself on historic Route 1, the first highway to travel from all-the-way north - Fort Kent, Maine to all-the-way south - Key West -. On this stretch of the highway, you'll pass through St. Augustine, lots of excellent beaches on the barrier island, and will end up in Flagler Beach, which boasts old Victorian-style buildings right off the highway.

Northeast Florida Scenic Drives

In the Gainesville area, toward the center of the region, you can take the Old Florida Heritage Highway. This 48-mile drive, which starts in Gainesville, takes Route 441, and goes through the historic towns of Micanopy, Rochelle, Evinston, and Cross Creek. Micanopy claims to be the oldest mainland settlement in Florida, with the first post office opening up in 1826. Old and respectful Victorian houses and buildings line the streets of these cities, with Southern charm dripping from the deciduous trees. It was the setting for the Michael J. Fox movie “Doc Hollywood,” where on his way to some great position in California he crashes his Porsche in … well, Grady, South Carolina. But it was filmed in Micanopy!

Florida Panhandle Scenic Drives

Around the city of Tallahassee are the “Canopy Roads,” so-called for the lush Spanish Moss overhanging. Many of these roads feature fancy and tasteful residences that add to the overall beauty of the scenery. For emphasis on archaeology and 19th-century houses, and the Spanish missions that rose up in the 17th centuries, drive the Native Trail. If you want to see the area's old cotton plantations, drive the Cotton Trail Loop. For a calm, enjoyable drive through a dense pine forest, take the Quail Trail. Give yourself time to take in the scenery on these loop drives, as, at a leisurely pace, each one can take up to two hours to complete. A Canopy Roads map will likely help you navigate the area better.

Pensacola Scenic Drives

In Pensacola, one great drive is to travel the length of Escambia Bay, where the river bluffs overlooking the bay provide an excellent view of the surroundings. You can reach Route 10A, which stretches from one end of the bay to the other, from I-10, the highway that leads from Jacksonville all the way to Pensacola. Lining the bay's beach are large bluffs of red clay, which play off the color of water to provide excellent views for miles. From where 10A meets the water to where it leaves off is approximately six miles.

Original Source 

 

Paynes Praire . . .

Paynes Prairie

This beautiful central Florida preserve was the first in the state and is known for its diverse community of plants and animals.

William Bartram the great American explorer and naturalist called Paynes Prairie "The great Alachua Savannah" when he first wrote about it in 1774. With over 20 distinct biological communities, over 270 bird species and home to wild bison and Spanish horse and cattle, Paynes Prairie is certainly one of the top places to view wildlife in Florida.

More information about Paynes Praire 

North Florida State Parks . . .

Florida is home to some of the best state parks in the south. Hiking, camping, fishing - you can do it all.



 



 

 

 

Visit Florida State Parks for more information

A Day at the Beach . . .

Found along northeast Florida’s "First Coast," Jacksonville Beach offers vast stretches of gorgeous beach, a newly redesigned golf course, a famous fishing pier and boatloads of water activities.

 

Beach volleyball, surfing, fishing and a wide variety of eateries – Jacksonville Beach has it all.

Visitors and natives alike are delighted by dolphins rolling just outside the surf line. Surfers are drawn to the area by some of the best waves in the region. Devoting some time to Jacksonville Beach and its surrounding attractions unearths a unique combination of history, leisure and recreational activities.

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