Beautiful weather, great music, outdoor fun and the celebration of our Nation’s fascinating history makes May an excellent time to visit Florida’s Historic Coast. Read on for details about the exciting events taking place this week.
Please check to make sure events are on schedule and the attractions you plan to visit are open and tickets are available before traveling long distances. While participating in events, please be safe and follow CDC guidelines. Wear a face mask in crowded areas, wash your hands frequently and practice safe distancing.
Monday – Sunday, May 9-15
Picturing a Nation: American Art from the Lightner Museum
Picturing a Nation is a major installation of American paintings and sculpture from the Lightner Museum’s permanent collection. From America’s great vistas and natural wonders, to intimate scenes of St. Augustine, Picturing a Nation presents a vibrant vision of America on a local and national scale through late-19th and early 20th century American art. The exhibition runs through September 30, 2022. Lightner Museum is open from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily and tickets are $17 for adults, $14 for seniors and students and $10 ages 12-17, under 11 are free. Lightner Museum, 75 King St., St. Augustine. www.lightnermuseum.org.
Bouke de Vries: War & Pieces at Lightner Museum
This exhibition of London-based Dutch artist Bouke De Vries’ War & Pieces has been described as a “masterwork” by art critics. The monumental artwork, crafted from thousands of fragments of porcelain, reimagines the decorative centerpieces that adorned seventeenth- and eighteenth-century banquet tables. Lightner Museum is open from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily and tickets are $17 for adults, $14 for seniors and students and $10 ages 12-17, under 11 are free. Lightner Museum, 75 King St., St. Augustine. www.lightnermuseum.org.
Dana Hargrove: Iceland Series
Dana Hargrove: Iceland Series offers intimately scaled paintings offer synthesized versions of the natural landscape, where organic forms are tamed and organized to highlight mankind’s ongoing subordination of nature. Lightner Museum is open from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily and tickets are $17 for adults, $14 for seniors and students and $10 ages 12-17, under 11 are free. Lightner Museum, 75 King St., St. Augustine. www.lightnermuseum.org
St. Augustine’s Romanza Festivale of Music & the Arts
St. Augustine’s Romanza Festivale of Music & the Arts is an annual collaboration by dozens of organizations and businesses in St. Augustine through May 15. Spend multiple days, even the whole week enjoying family-friendly and couple-friendly offerings, half of which are free, spread over 10 days, in dozens of diverse and mostly smaller venues. Most events are free. For complete details about all the Romana Festivale events, visit www.romanzastaugustine.org
Monday – Sunday, May 11-15
Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness at World Golf IMAX
See it in IMAX: Dr. Stephen Strange casts a forbidden spell that opens the door to the multiverse, including an alternate version of himself, whose threat to humanity is too great for the combined forces pf Strange, Wong, and Wanda Maximoff. The show runs daily through May 19 at World Golf IMAX. Tickets are $14 Adults; $13 Students/Seniors/Military; and $11 Children 3-12. World Golf Hall of Fame IMAX Theater, One World Golf Place, St. Augustine. www.worldgolfimax.com
Tuesday, May 10
Taco Tuesday Fiesta Tour (Chauffeured)
Elevate your Tuesdays this summer on the ultimate Mexican Street Food Taco Tour. Features Latin inspired dishes, margaritas, sangria and more on a chauffeured tour through the historic streets of St. Augustine. The tour is 1:30-4:30 p.m. Reservations required. Tickets are $125 per person. Tour departs form 24 Cathedral Place, St. Augustine www.thetastingtours.com
Tuesday – Sunday, May 2-8
Miniature Marvels at St. Augustine Art Association
Masterpieces do not always have to be big and grand to make a huge impression! Sometimes it is the smaller things that solicit a closer and more intimate observation from the viewer. Experience a visually enthralling exhibit as you immerse yourself in a world of minuscule sights. The works in this exhibit are no larger than 12 inches and reveal little marvels in a vast range of mediums and subjects. This exhibit will take place at the St. Augustine Art Association located at 22 Marine Street in historic downtown. Gallery Hours are Tuesdays through Sundays 1-4 p.m. The Miniature Marvels exhibit can be viewed in person and online at www.staaa.org.
Here & There Art Exhibit at St. Augustine Art Association
Travels here and there, bucket list vacations, weekend getaways and staycations. Hiking in the mountains or climbing Everest, white water rapids or lazy rivers. Iconic landmarks and historical sites. Here & There is on display both in-gallery and online through May 29, 2022. Admission is free. Gallery hours are Tuesdays – Sundays from 1-4 p.m. For more information, visit www.staaa.org
Miniature Marvels at St. Augustine Art Association
Masterpieces do not always have to be big and grand to make a huge impression! Sometimes it is the smaller things that solicit a closer and more intimate observation from the viewer. Experience a visually enthralling exhibit as you immerse yourself in a world of minuscule sights. The works in this exhibit are no larger than 12 inches and reveal little marvels in a vast range of mediums and subjects. This exhibit will take place at the St. Augustine Art Association located at 22 Marine Street in historic downtown. Gallery Hours are Tuesdays through Sundays 1-4 p.m. The Miniature Marvels exhibit can be viewed in person and online at www.staaa.org.
Wednesday, May 11
Wednesday Pier Farmers Market
The Wednesday Pier Farmers Market offers oceanfront shopping at the St. Johns County Ocean Pier Park from 8 a.m.-noon. Approximately 60-80 vendors sell locally grown produce, baked goods, prepared foods, arts, crafts and more. 350 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Augustine 904-315-0952 www.wednesdaypierfarmersmarket.com
River-to-Sea Preserve Trail Walk
The GTM Research Reserve leads a walk on the wooded trail to the Matanzas River at the River-to-Sea Preserve. An interpretive guide will talk about old Florida’s moss-laden trees, seasonal flowering shrubs and Native American lore, including how they used various plants for food, beverage and medicine. The event is free, but online registration is required. 9805 N. Ocean Shore Blvd., Marineland. www.gtmnerr.org
Improv Night @ Colonial Oak Music Park
First Coast Comedy veteran professionals have no plan and willingly dive headfirst into almost any challenge the audience will throw at them, resulting in unforgettably hilarious moments. This show is for everyone so bring the whole family because these improvisers ensure the show is always clean and never mean. Pay what you will, all seating is general admission. 21 St. George St., St. Augustine www.firstcoastcomedy.com
Five for Fighting with String Quartet at Ponte Vedra Concert Hall
Singer-songwriter John Ondrasik has spent the past decade writing deeply personal songs that include social messages, invoke the human spirit and make an emotional connection. Doors open at 7 p.m., show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets are $45.50-$65.50. Ponte Vedra Concert Hall, 1050 A1A North, www.pvconcerthall.com
St. Augustine History Festival Featured Event
6:30- 8 p.m.: Button Discovery: A Trophy of War! – Dr. Paul Johnston of the Smithsonian Institution and Dr. Roger Smith of the St. Augustine Historical Society will lead a discussion. Come see this unique artifact discovered by the Lighthouse Archaeological Maritime Program and find out just how much history you can learn from a single button! St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum, 100 Red Cox Rd., St. Augustine. www.staugustinehistoryfestival.com.
Wednesday & Thursday, May 11&12
Diamonds and Dvorak Presented by St. Augustine Orchestra at Lightner Museum
Enjoy two performances by the St. Augustine Orchestra featuring music from The New World Symphony as well as the World Premier of Diamante, composed by Bob Moore. General Admission: $27.50, 17 and under: $12. Lightner Museum, 75 King St., St. Augustine. www.staugustineorchestra.com
Wednesday-Saturday, May 11-14
Sport Fishing Championship NEFMA Bluewater Tournament
The Sport Fishing Championship (SFC) will celebrate 50 years of the Northeast Florida Marlin Association (NEFMA) Blue Marlin Tournament when Atlantic Division action in St. Augustine, Florida. The SFC is the world’s premier offshore fishing series, consisting of eleven points-based tournaments, culminating in one grand champion angling team. Competitors earn points based on their placement in qualifying events, including St. Augustine’s Blue Marlin Tournament, and additional points for every qualified catch recorded throughout the regular season. The tournament based out of Camachee Cove Marina in St. Augustine. www.sportfishingchampionship.com
Wednesday – Sunday, May 11-15
St. Augustine History Festival
This inaugural festival will showcase every era of St. Augustine’s long and storied past, from the founding in 1565 to the most advanced technology available in 2022 to research and study every year in-between. American history began in St. Augustine, and the multiple programs available at multiple venues throughout the city each day, include the Governor’s House Cultural Center and Museum, Fountain of Youth Archeological Park, St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum, Fort Mose Historic State Park, The Colonial Quarter Museum, The Oldest House Museum Complex and many others. Admission to all programs is free. 48 King St. www.staugustinehistoryfestival.com
Thursday, May 12
Country Music Night at the Colonial Oak Music Park
Watch local and regional country music live at The Colonial Oak. The performance takes place at 7 p.m. at Colonial Oak Music Park, 21 St. George St., St. Augustine. www.thecolonialmusicpark.com/events.
Friday, May 13
St. Augustine History Festival Featured Events
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.: The Vickers Collection is the gift of Samuel H. and Roberta T. Vickers who formed one of the world’s most extensive collections of Florida-themed art, drawing inspiration from Florida’s history, landmarks, and natural attractions. 48 King St., St. Augustine.
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.: Interpretive Panel Unveiling at Fort Mose Historic State Park – Fort Mose Historical Society introduces new interpretive panels into their museum. Great research has gone into these new interpretive panels and you will want to be on-hand to witness this tremendous addition to one of the nation’s most historic sites. Admission is free.15 Fort Mose Trail, St. Augustine.
Noon – 1 p.m.: The First Spanish Residents of St. Augustine – Peña – Peck House docent Marlene Cordero Piriz will present “The First Spanish Residents of St. Augustine”. Marlene is a first-generation American whose parents and grandparents moved to South Florida from Cuba before the Castro Revolution. This presentation will take place at noon in the Peña – Peck House courtyard, 143 St. George St., St. Augustine.
5-7 p.m.: Dr. J. Michael Francis Talk – Dr. Francis explores the early history of colonial St. Augustine, focusing on the rich corpus of baptism, confirmation, marriage, and death records housed in St. Augustine’s Diocesan Archive. He will introduce audience members to a digital archive that provides unparalleled public access to this remarkable collection. Virginia Room at Ringhaver Student Center at Flagler College, 50 Sevilla St., St. Augustine.
www.staugustinehistoryfestival.com
Fins and Freedom Sail
Set sail with Marineland and Schooner Freedom for a one-of-a-kind sailing experience. Come on board, help raise the sails, and then kick back and relax while you learn fascinating new facts about St. Augustine’s local marine life and their habitats. It’s very common to see wild dolphins, turtles, birds, and more, on these trips, so come prepared to ask lots of questions. Complimentary refreshments are provided onboard the boat. Passengers may bring snacks or a picnic. The sail is from 1:15-3:15 p.m. Tickets are $60 adults, and $45 off for children and includes a pass to use for future admission to Marineland. 111 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine www.schoonerfreedom.com
An Evening of True Crime in St. Augustine
Participate in an Evening of True Crime at The Odd Macabre. From 5:30 – 7 p.m., meet Elizabeth Randall author of Murder in St. Augustine: The Mysterious Death of Athalia Ponsell Lindsley. She will discuss the book and sign copies of this and her other books; Haunted St. Augustine and St. Johns County and Women in White. Then at 7:30 p.m. meet Jason Griffith will lead a tour about crime and murder locations in St. Augustine’s historic district. It all starts at The Old Macabre, 76 Spanish St., St. Augustine. The talks are free. The tour is $30 per person. www.anightamongghosts.com
One Good Ring at the Colonial Oak Music Park
From 7-10 p.m., enjoy a live performance by One Good Ring under the shade of a 300 year old oak tree right in the heart of historic St. Augustine. The pet and family friendly Colonial Oak Music Park is adjacent to the St. Augustine Seafood Company. Admission is free. 21 St. George St. www.thecolonialoakmusicpark.com
Friday & Saturday, May 13&14
Drake’s Raid
This historic reenactment commemorates the attack of the land and naval forces of Sir Francis Drake against Spanish San Agustín in 1586. The encampment takes place at the Oldest House Museum Complex beginning Friday. Drills, demonstrations, and 16th century living history interpretations will be presented from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Saturday. A battle between Spanish town’s brave defenders and the English privateers and brigands of Sir Francis Drake will be reenacted beginning at 7 p.m. The battle will commence at the Santo Domingo Redoubt near the City Gate and proceed down St. George Street, concluding at the Governor’s House Cultural Center and Museum at the Plaza de la Constitución. Oldest House Museum Complex, 14 St. Francis St. hfm.club/about/drakes-raid-for-visitors
Friday & Sunday, May 13&15
Moultrie Creek Kayak Trips
Join a beautiful paddle of the marsh along Moultrie Creek. During the paddle, participants will learn about the marsh ecosystem, the animals that call it home, and the history of the area. Costs are $20 per person for SJC resident providing their own boat; $30 per person for non-SJC resident providing their own boat; $40 per person for SJC resident renting a county boat; and $50 per person for non-SJC resident renting a county boat. The tour is from 10a.m.-1p.m. on Friday and noon-3 p.m. on Sunday. The tours depart from Shore Drive Park, 4805 Shore Dr. in St. Augustine South. Click here to register. For more info, contact Kelly Ussia at kussia@sjcfl.us or 904-209-0335.
Friday – Sunday, May 13-15
A Classic Theatre presents “The Immigrant”
Immigration is the story of America. The setting is rural Texas in 1909 when Haskell Harelik, a nineteen year-old Russian emigre, arrives at the port of Galveston. Far from his native land and struggling with an alien language, Haskell becomes a penny-a-piece fruit peddler in and around the small town of Hamilton and eventually attains success as a merchant and community leader. Tickets to the performances are $22 and available online. Showtimes are Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. at the Historic Waterworks Building, 184 San Marco Ave., St. Augustine. www.aclassictheatre.org
Saturday, May 14
St. Augustine Amphitheatre Farmers Market
From 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. shoppers stroll up and down the vendor-lined pathways of the St. Augustine Amphitheatre Farmers Market, browsing more than 100 tents loaded with local produce, flowers, baked goods, handmade arts and crafts and more. Admission into the market is free. 1340 A1A South, St. Augustine 904-315-9252 www.theamp.com/community/farmers-market
Shriner’s Day Barrel Jackpot
Hosted by the Shriner’s Club and St. Johns County Cattlemen’s Association. Watch horse games such as barrel racing and pole bending – $1000 barrel jackpot added! BBQ lunch served at 11 a.m. for $10. Be sure to check out the vendors, arts and crafts and kids activities. Free for spectators, horse games start at $5. St. Johns County Fairgrounds, 5840 S.R. 207, Elkton. Click here for more details.
Family Seining at the GTM Research Reserve
Hosted by the GTM Research Reserve, you’re invited to join docents from 9-11 a.m. to learn how to pull a seine net. Participants will collect fish and crabs as well as learn about their habitats and role in the environment. Waders and boots provided. The program is included with regular admission to the reserve and takes place in the Environmental Education Center. 505 Guana River Rd., Ponte Vedra Beach 904-823-4500 www.gtmnerr.org
St. Augustine History Festival Featured Events
11 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.: A Duel on Aviles Street! – Enjoy the fun as The Spanish Military Hospital Museum joins the First Annual St Augustine History Festival with “A Duel on Aviles Street! The Hospital’s very own Jose will be dueling for possession of the beloved Aviles Street. Watch the brave men of San Augustin duel with their muskets. Admission is free. 3 Aviles St., St. Augustine
2:30 – 5 p.m.: Crossing at St. Augustine Screening- Join Governor’s House Library and the Lincolnville Museum and Cultural Center for a screening of the documentary Crossing in St. Augustine. A St. Augustine History Festival event, the screening begins at 2:30 p.m. and will be followed by a discussion with the audience on the legacy of the Civil Rights Movement in St. Augustine. Admission is free, advanced registration is suggested. Lincolnville Museum and Cultural Center, 102 M.L. King Blvd., St. Augustine
www.staugustinehistoryfestival.com
Groove in the Grove
Join the nature-first community of TrailMark from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. for music and fun at Groove in the Grove – a family-friendly, pet-friendly, and free music festival. Features the Cumberland Band from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., The Band Be Easy from 2-4 p.m., and the Honey Hounds from 4:30-6:30 p.m. There will be food trucks, a beer and wine tent as well as a variety of beverages for purchase. A family fun zone and the Adventure Trail and playground are open to all. 805 TrailMark Dr., St. Augustine. www.facebook.com/trailmarkliving
Yacht Rock Review at The AMP
Doors open at 7 p.m., performance begins at 8 p.m. Tickets are $40-$70. The AMP is located at 1340 A1A South, St. Augustine. www.theamp.com
Sunday, May 15
Game On! St. Augustine Triathlon
Game On! Ponte Vedra Triathlon will take place at Vilano Beach Oceanfront Park and will include an Olympic distance Triathlon, Duathlon and Aquabike as well as the Sprint Triathlon and Sprint Duathlon. The race begins at 6:30 a.m. and the cost to participate is $89-$169 (varies depending on the race). The race takes place at Vilano Beach Oceanfront Park, 2750 Anahma Dr., Vilano Beach. www.gameonraceevents.com
Faith in Spring at St. Augustine Art Association
Join the St. Augustine Art Association for an afternoon of poetry made into music. This afternoon recital take place from 3-4:45 p.m. and features Abigail Dyer, accompanied by Curtis Powell on piano, will bring to life Beethoven’s To the Distant Beloved (An die fern Geliebte) and the beloved Schubert songs The Trout (Die Forelle), The Elf King (Der Erklönig) and Faith in Spring (Frühlingsglaube). Tickets to are $20 each. 22 Marine St., St. Augustine www.staaa.org/faith-in-spring
Beaches: A Celebration of the Arts
The First Coast Cultural Center presents a new celebration of artists, individuals, and organizations who have shaped and enhanced the art-filled beaches community. This fun and formal affair will take place from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at The Surf Club at the Ponte Vedra Inn & Club. There will be winners in five categories announced at this black-tie event. Tickets are $250. 200 Ponte Vedra Blvd., Ponte Vedra Beach www.firstcoastculturalcenter.org
Let’s Ride Brass Band at the Colonial Oak Music Park
Enjoy a concert by Let’s Ride Brass Band under the shade of a 300 year old oak tree right in the heart at the Colonial Oak Music Park from 7-10 p.m. The Concert is family and pet friendly, and admission is free. The Colonial Oak Music Park is conveniently located in the backyard of the St. Augustine Seafood Company, 21 St. George St., St. Augustine www.thecolonialoakmusicpark.com
Tommy Emmanuel at Ponte Vedra Concert Hall
Doors open at 6:30 p.m., show starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $44.50-$69.50. Ponte Vedra Concert Hall, 1050 A1A North, Ponte Vedra Beach. www.pvconcerthall.com.
Full Moon Sail
Enjoy a moonlit evening aboard the Schooner Freedom as it sails through St. Augustine’s Matanzas Bay. This sailing excursion departs at varying times from the St. Augustine Municipal Marina, visit the website for departure times. Complimentary beer, soda and wine are included in the $55 ticket. The sail departs at 8:45 p.m. – Check in is 20 minutes prior. Call for reservations. 111 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine 904-810-1010 www.schoonerfreedom.com
For more information and accompanying images contact:
Barbara Golden 904-669-8142
