St. Augustine: The Nation's Oldest City

Nestled along the sun-kissed shores of northeast Florida, St. Augustine stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of American history. Founded in 1565 by Spanish explorer Pedro Menéndez de Avilés, it is recognized as the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the continental United States. This charming city offers a unique blend of historical significance, cultural heritage, and vibrant coastal living.

Historical Significance

St. Augustine’s history is a mosaic of diverse influences, beginning with its establishment as a Spanish colony. The city served as the capital of Spanish Florida for over 200 years, playing a crucial role in numerous conflicts, including the French and Indian War and the American Revolutionary War. Its strategic location made it a focal point for trade and military operations.

Many of the city's structures reflect its Spanish heritage, with coquina buildings, narrow streets, and a distinctive architectural style. The Castillo de San Marcos, a formidable fortress constructed from coquina stone, stands prominently on the waterfront and is a symbol of St. Augustine's historical significance. This National Monument is not only a testament to military engineering but also offers insight into Spanish colonial life.

Cultural Richness

St. Augustine is steeped in traditions that reflect its multicultural heritage. From the vibrant festivals celebrating Spanish and Native American influences to the haunting stories of ghost tours that tread the city’s storied past, the cultural experiences are abundant. The annual Nights of Lights festival, where the city is adorned with millions of tiny white lights, draws visitors from around the globe, transforming downtown into a winter wonderland.

The city is also home to numerous museums, galleries, and performance spaces, including the Lightner Museum, housed in the former Alcazar Hotel, showcasing 19th-century art and artifacts. Visitors can explore the Spanish Quarter, where historic reenactments, local artisans, and flavorful cuisine create an immersive experience.

Modern Appeal

Beyond its historical and cultural riches, St. Augustine boasts beautiful beaches, lush parks, and outdoor recreational activities. The picturesque Anastasia State Park offers opportunities for swimming, hiking, and wildlife observation. The city’s dining scene combines fresh seafood with traditional Spanish and Caribbean flavors, appealing to a wide range of palates.

St. Augustine seamlessly blends its storied past with contemporary charm. Whether wandering the cobblestone streets, visiting historic sites, or enjoying a sunset over the Matanzas River, visitors are continually drawn into the enchanting narrative of America's oldest city.

Conclusion

With its rich history, cultural vibrancy, and coastal beauty, St. Augustine represents a unique chapter in the story of America. It invites exploration and appreciation, making it a must-visit destination for history buffs and casual travelers alike. As the city continues to thrive, it remains a living museum, where the past and present coexist harmoniously. 

Unforgettable Memories Await

Plan Your Visit to St. Augustine Now

With its rich history, vibrant cultural scene, captivating natural beauty, and exquisite cuisine, St. Augustine, Florida, stands out as an unparalleled destination. Immerse yourself in the nation's oldest city and embark on an unforgettable journey through time and culture. Plan your visit to St. Augustine today and experience a place where enchantment and fascination go hand in hand.

Events and Festivals Galore

Year-Round Celebrations

Throughout the year, St. Augustine comes alive with a variety of exciting events and festivals that showcase the city's rich cultural heritage. One of the most anticipated celebrations is the Nights of Lights, when the city sparkles with millions of tiny white lights, creating a magical atmosphere. During the Saint Augustine Music Festival, classical music fills the air as world-renowned musicians perform in stunning venues like the Cathedral Basilica.

Other popular events include the Saint Augustine Film Festival, which screens a diverse selection of independent films, and the Celtic Music & Heritage Festival, where traditional music, dance, and culture take center stage. Whatever your interests, St. Augustine has a year-round lineup of events that ensures there's always something exciting happening. 

http://www.nationsoldestcity.com/

Savor St. Augustine's Flavors

Captivating Culinary Delights

No exploration of St. Augustine would be complete without indulging in its delectable culinary offerings. From fresh seafood to international cuisine and Southern favorites, the city's diverse food scene is sure to tantalize your taste buds. Head to one of the waterfront restaurants and savor locally sourced oysters, shrimp, and fish, prepared with mouthwatering ingredients and served with seaside views.

If you're in the mood for a cultural culinary adventure, don't miss the opportunity to sample authentic Spanish and Latin American dishes. St. Augustine's Hispanic heritage is reflected in its vibrant flavors, with tapas, paella, and empanadas gracing menus throughout the city. Pair your meal with a glass of sangria or a locally brewed beer for the perfect dining experience.

Natural Wonders Await

Exploring Nature's Beauty

Beyond its historical and cultural offerings, St. Augustine boasts breathtaking landscapes and natural wonders. Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime eco-adventure by visiting the nearby Anastasia State Park. This coastal paradise is perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and swimming in crystal-clear waters. Feel the soft sand beneath your feet as you walk along the pristine beaches, or rent a kayak and paddle through the scenic waterways.

For a truly unforgettable experience, hop aboard a boat and set out to sea for a dolphin-watching excursion. Witness these majestic creatures leaping through the waves, an awe-inspiring sight that will stay with you forever. St. Augustine also offers fantastic opportunities for fishing, with experienced guides ready to take you to the best spots where you can cast your line and reel in the catch of the day.

Plan Your Visit to St. Augustine Now

Unforgettable Memories Await

With its rich history, vibrant cultural scene, captivating natural beauty, and exquisite culinary delights, St. Augustine, Florida, stands out as an unparalleled travel destination. Whether you're a history buff, an art enthusiast, a lover of nature, or a culinary connoisseur, St. Augustine offers something truly special for everyone.

Plan your visit to St. Augustine today and embark on an unforgettable journey through time, culture, and natural wonders. Experience a place where enchantment and fascination go hand in hand, leaving you with cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Exploring the Enchanting Charm of the City of St. Augustine, Florida

Unveiling the Historical Splendor and Natural Beauty

Nestled in the heart of the Sunshine State, the City of St. Augustine, Florida, stands as a captivating testament to both history and nature. From its rich heritage to its pristine beaches, this enchanting city offers a unique blend of experiences that cater to all types of travelers. Let's delve into the wonders that await you in this remarkable destination.

A Glimpse into St. Augustine's Past

Drenched in history, St. Augustine proudly holds the title of the oldest city in the United States. Founded in 1565 by Spanish explorer Don Pedro Menéndez de Avilés, the city exudes a sense of timelessness through its well-preserved architecture and cobblestone streets. Wander through the historic district, where colonial-era buildings coexist harmoniously with modern amenities, creating a charming ambiance that is nothing short of magical.

Immersive Historical Attractions

St. Augustine offers a plethora of attractions that transport visitors back in time. The Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th-century fortress built by the Spanish, stands as a symbol of resilience and architectural brilliance. Explore its corridors, envisioning the lives of soldiers who once patrolled its walls. For a glimpse into the opulence of the Gilded Age, a visit to the Lightner Museum is a must. Housed in the former Alcazar Hotel, the museum showcases an exquisite collection of art and artifacts that reflect the city's storied past.

Sun-Kissed Beaches and Natural Escapes

Beyond its historical treasures, St. Augustine boasts a coastline adorned with pristine, sun-kissed beaches. Anastasia State Park offers a serene retreat for beachgoers, where the Atlantic Ocean's gentle waves meet powdery shores. Engage in a plethora of outdoor activities, from swimming and paddleboarding to picnicking amidst the coastal beauty. The park's diverse ecosystems also provide ample opportunities for birdwatching and nature photography.

Culinary Delights and Gastronomic Adventures

No journey is complete without savoring the local flavors, and St. Augustine doesn't disappoint. The city's culinary scene is a vibrant tapestry of tastes and cultures. Explore Aviles Street, lined with charming bistros offering delectable dishes ranging from fresh seafood caught from nearby waters to international cuisines that reflect the city's diverse heritage.

Charming Boutiques and Unique Shopping

For those seeking a touch of retail therapy, St. Augustine's quaint streets are dotted with charming boutiques and shops. Stroll down St. George Street, where you'll discover an array of treasures, from handcrafted jewelry and artwork to antique finds that tell stories of bygone eras. The shopping experience in St. Augustine is as distinct as the city itself, offering a perfect blend of modern trends and vintage allure.

Immerse Yourself in Festivals and Events

Throughout the year, St. Augustine comes alive with a myriad of festivals and events that celebrate its culture and history. The St. Augustine Nights of Lights, a dazzling holiday spectacle, transforms the city into a magical wonderland adorned with millions of twinkling lights. From music and art festivals to historic reenactments, there's always something exciting happening in this vibrant city.

Plan Your Unforgettable Journey to St. Augustine

As you plan your visit to the City of St. Augustine, embrace the opportunity to immerse yourself in a world where history, nature, and culture converge. From its storied past to its sun-soaked beaches, this charming city invites you to explore, discover, and create lasting memories. Embark on a journey that will leave you captivated by the allure of St. Augustine, Florida – a destination that truly has it all.

A Cultural Tapestry

Art, Music, and More

St. Augustine is not only a haven for history enthusiasts but also a vibrant hub for culture and the arts. Immerse yourself in the local creative scene by visiting the city's numerous art galleries and museums. The St. Augustine Art Association showcases an impressive collection of contemporary and traditional artworks, while the Lightner Museum houses a magnificent array of artifacts from the Gilded Age.

Music lovers will be delighted by the eclectic blend of melodies that fill the city's air. Attend live performances at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre, an outdoor venue known for hosting world-class acts and festivals. Alternatively, catch a show at the Limelight Theatre, where talented local actors bring captivating stories to life on stage.

St. Augustine, Florida - Nation's Oldest City

At the heart of the Sunshine State lies a city steeped in history, culture, and charm: St. Augustine, Florida. Founded in 1565 by Spanish explorers, it proudly holds the distinction of being the nation's oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement. With its cobblestone streets, centuries-old architecture, and vibrant atmosphere, St. Augustine offers a unique blend of old-world allure and modern delights.

A Walkthrough History

Discovering St. Augustine's Past

Immerse yourself in an enchanting journey through time as you explore the fascinating historical sites and landmarks that define St. Augustine. Begin your adventure at the Castillo de San Marcos, a remarkable stone fortress that has guarded the city for over three centuries. Marvel at its sturdy walls and intricate design, which stand as a testament to the city's endurance.

Continue your exploration at the heart of St. Augustine's historic district, known as the "Old Town." This pedestrian-friendly area is a treasure trove of architectural gems, including the grand Flagler College, once a luxurious hotel built by railroad magnate Henry Flagler. Stroll along St. George Street, lined with charming shops and restaurants housed in restored colonial buildings. 

http://www.ancientcitytours.net

St. Augustine - Florida

In the land of Florida, on the Atlantic shore,

Lies a city that has seen centuries and more.

Founded by the Spanish, in days of old,

St. Augustine's history is a story to be told.

With cobblestone streets and buildings of stone,

The city's architecture stands proud and alone.

From the Castillo de San Marcos, built to defend,

To the Lightner Museum, with treasures to lend.

St. Augustine has seen battles and strife,

From pirates and wars that threatened its life.

But the city stood strong, through all the fray,

And its story lives on to this very day.

With beaches of white sand and water so blue,

The city's beauty shines bright and true.

From the Bridge of Lions to the Fountain of Youth,

St. Augustine is a treasure, filled with historical truth.

So come visit this city, so full of grace,

And see the beauty of this ancient place.

St. Augustine, oldest city in the land,

Forever will stand, tall and grand.

More about St. Augustine on: http://www.nationsoldestcity.com/

St. Augustine - Florida - A poetic description

As the sun rises over the Matanzas Bay,

St. Augustine awakens to a brand new day.

The streets come alive with the sound of the bell,

As the Cathedral Basilica tolls its knell.

The scent of orange blossoms fills the air,

As people gather, a sense of community to share.

In the Plaza de la Constitucion, a place to meet,

Where locals and tourists come to greet.

Through the city gates, the horse-drawn carriage ride,

A leisurely pace, a journey back in time.

With each passing block, a new story unfolds,

Of the city's past, its legends, and heroes so bold.

From the oldest schoolhouse, to the Oldest House,

The city's history fills each and every nook and cranny of this town.

With every step taken, a new page turns,

As St. Augustine's story is told and learned.

At night, the city comes alive in a different light,

As the Spanish architecture glows bright.

The St. Augustine Lighthouse's beam shines out to sea,

Guiding ships to shore, to this city's rich history.

St. Augustine, the oldest city in the land,

A treasure trove of stories, of myths and legends so grand.

A city of beauty, of history, and of grace,

St. Augustine forever stands, a timeless and wondrous place.

More on St. Augustine, Florida: http://www.nationsoldestcity.com/

Dawes Release Go Back to Their Roots in Nostalgic Track “St. Augustine At Night”

 

Los Angeles-based folk rock band, Dawes, recently released their latest endearingly nostalgic single “St. Augustine At Night” from their forthcoming seventh full-length studio album, Good Luck with Whatever, slated for release on October 2, via Rounder Records. According to a press release, their latest musical offering “…marks Dawes’ first release on their new label, Rounder Records – follows a series of acclaimed self-released albums including 2013’s Stories Don’t End, 2015’s All Your Favorite Bands, 2016’s We’re All Gonna Die, and 2018’s Passwords, all of which reached the top 10 or higher on Billboard’s ‘Top Rock Albums’ and ‘Americana/Folk Albums’ charts.”

From the track’s outset, “St. Augustine At Night” laments on life’s lessons with its soft acoustic strings harrowingly played and equally enthralling lyrics that speak to self reflection and the actions one takes leading a life in their hometown. The lyric video depicts scenes of the song’s setting in the Northeastern costal city of Florida. The song speaks to family, traditions and tough decisions all the while mentioning thematic elements of fishing and drinking beers. It’s an ode to where one may have grown up and where they’re destination lead them in life. To listen to Dawes’ “St. Augustine At Night” stream below, via YouTube.

Dawes initially gained notoriety with their first couple of studio album releases, 2009’s debut album North Hills and 2011’s sophomore follow-up Nothing Is Wrong, via ATO Records. The collective’s current touring lineup is comprised of frontman Taylor Goldsmith (guitar and lead vocals), Griffin Goldsmith (drums), Wylie Gelber (bass) and Lee Pardini (keys). Frontman Taylor Goldsmith recently took part in the virtual benefit concert, “Closer In Crisis,” in which various health organizations hosted the event to support mental health groups in the music community. Other performers included in the aforementioned virtual benefit concert included Foy Vance, Longhorn Slim and Chadwick Stokes of Dispatch among others.

Good Luck with Whatever track listing:

01. Still Feel Like A Kid

02. Good Luck With Whatever

03. Between The Zero and The One

04. None Of My Business

05. St. Augustine At Night

06. Who Do You Think You’re Talking To?

07. Didn’t Fix Me

08. Free As We Want To Be

09. Me Especially

Photo Credit: Mauricio Alvarado

Best Parks in St. Augustine, Florida

1. Castillo De San Marco

This beautiful park is located right by the water in downtown St. Augustine. You can pay to enter the fort and have a nice history lesson or walk around the outside and see one of their many cannon demonstrations for free. Some of my favorite things to do here is pack a picnic and eat it in the field next to the park and let the kids run around or grab a treat from downtown and watch the sunset over the water.

2. S.W.I.N.G. Park (St. Augustine’s Wish for It’s Next Generation)

This park is located by Francis field, across from the historic downtown parking garage. This is a great playground right in downtown St. Augustine. If we are spending a long day walking around the shops we will stop here and let the kids get their energy out before dinner. I love that this playground is wood crafted and feels like a big tree house. I honestly have as much fun as the kids do at this playground.

3. Davenport Park 

Also known as the carousel park or the park right by the library, this park is home to the J&S antique carousel that you can ride for $1. It is located on San Marco Ave right next to the St. Johns County main branch library. It has a full playground, swings, see-saw, and picnic tables. We always make a stop here when we are returning our library books to ride the horses on the carousel. Did you know that the ‘all-horse’ carousel has one camel? Look for it next time you are there!

4. Splash Park at the Pier

If you are looking for the right place to cool off in the Florida heat this is it! Located at the St. Augustine Pier, this park has volleyball, a full kids splash park, and a playground. But the best part is that this park is located right on the beach and the splash park is FREE. We like to get our local produce at the farmer’s market here on Wednesday mornings then cool off in the water and walk on the beach. It also has public beach restrooms and outdoor showers to wash the sand off your feet. If that isn’t enough for you, you can pay to fish off the pier. Truly something for the whole family.

5. Treaty Park

This park literally has everything you could ever wish for in a park. It is located at 1595 Wildwood Dr. It is a 47-acre complex complete with a skate park and dog park. This park has a one mile walking/biking trail, softball fields, two multi-purpose soccer fields, lighted tennis courts, paddle tennis courts, pickle ball courts, racquetball courts, bocce ball courts, basketball courts, a handicap accessible playground, horseshoe courts, a picnic pavilion that you can rent for events, charcoal grills, and a 3 acre lake with a nature trail and a canoe trail. Our favorite thing to do here is feed the many ducks then try to teach the kids how to skateboard like daddy at the Robert-Laryn skate park. These are just a few of the best parks in St. Augustine. They are all worth checking out, especially if you are looking for some free things to do around town. Which St. Augustine park is your favorite?

St. Augustin's founder, Don Pedro Menendez, came ashore on September 8, 1565, and chose to name the settlement after the patron saint whose feast day coincided with the day of landing. Of course, before the Spanish ever set foot on Florida soil, the Timacuan Indians had already been here and they watched Menendez and the roughly 1500 colonists and soldiers settle here. Over the last few centuries the city experienced governments from different countries, including Spain, Britain, and since 1821, the United States.
The real rise of this community came in the late 1800s when Henry Flagler (1830 to 1913) built two hotels and took over a third as part of the Flagler hotel chain. Flagler was the co-founder of Standard Oil, and although not as well known as some of the other early magnates of capitalism, he was one of the wealthiest individuals of his time. Flagler had a major impact on Florida: he founded the Florida East Coast Railway as a means of transporting guests to and from the north to his hotels in St. Augustine, Palm Beach, and Miami. A honeymoon visit to St. Augustine in 1881 with his second wife inspired Flagler's vision to transform this sleepy town into a winter playground for the rich.

Three of Flagler's former St. Augustine hotels are still in use today: Flagler College (the former Hotel Ponce de Leon), the Lightner Building - St. Augustine's City Hall (the former Alcazar) and Casa Monica, redone as a county courthouse in the 1960s, and reopened in 1990 as the restored Casa Monica Hotel. During the late 19th and early 20th century Flagler also developed a residential neighbourhood called the Model Land Company tract.

Within a few short years Flagler's dream of a resort town for northerners faded and he, and the wealthy northern visitors, moved further south. He continued to develop the Florida East Coast Railroad down the peninsula, into and across the Florida Keys, creating hotels and communities along the way.

Nation's oldest city St. Augustine is centered around the Plaza de la Constitucion, which anchors the Lightner Museum / City Hall, Casa Monica and Flagler College, three stunningly beautiful structures. Located in the former Alcazar Hotel, the Lightner Museum houses collections of legendary hobbyist and antiques collector Otis Lightner.


Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth National Archaeological Park exhibits foundations and artifacts of the first St. Augustine mission and colony. It also houses the Landmark Spring, Explorers Globe and Navigators' Planetarium. St. Augustine also houses the Oldest Drug Store and the nation's Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse, built more than 200 years ago while Florida was under Spain's rule.


This city welcomes around 2 million visitors every year who come to discover a unique historic part of America. A settlement with authentic Spanish roots, complete with Castillo and all, is a truly unique sight in the U.S. and it was definitely worth the detour.

The St. Augustine Film Festival

The St. Augustine Film Festival is presented by Flagler College and features three days of 40 films from 20 countries from January 20 through 22, 2017.

Forty films from 20 countries will be screened during this international festival, including A Wing and a Prayer (Israel), Una Noche de Amor (Argentina), Two Lottery Tickets (Romania), and One Wild Moment (France), just to name a few. Visit here for a complete list of films and descriptions.

Films

Films will be screened at three locations downtown: Lewis Auditorium, Gamache-Koger Theater, and Corazon Cinema & Café. See below for addresses for all locations.

Film times run from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Friday, January 20; from 10:00 a.m. until 8:30 p.m. Saturday, January 21, and from 11:15 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Sunday, January 22. For a complete schedule of films and where they are being shown, see below.

There will be some special Preview Showings for All Access Pass holders on Thursday, January 19, 2017, from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Parties

On Friday, January 20, 2017, the Film Festival begins with the Opening Night Cocktail Party, with drinks and hors d'oeuvres served beginning 6:00 p.m. at the Lightner Museum. Later that evening, at 8:45 p.m., the Opening Night Gala will take place in the Lightner Museum Ballroom.

The St. Augustine Film Festival Opening Night Gala is held at the Lightner Museum.

The Centerpiece Party takes place on Saturday night at 8:00 p.m. at St. Augustine's newest luxury resort, The Collector Luxury Inn & Gardens.

The Closing Night Party will take place at the Flagler College Solarium, at the top of Ponce Hall.

Admission: Tickets for individual films are sold on an "as available" basis ten minutes before each film for $11 each ($8 for seniors, $7 for students and military with ID). Tickets that offer access to events and films over the three-day weekend are also available. The All Access Pass to all films is $95, and the Lewis Auditorium Pass, which includes only the films showing at Lewis Auditorium is $55. 

Party passes are $20 for Friday night's Opening Night Cocktail Party, $45 for the Opening Night Gala, $35 for the Centerpiece Party on Saturday, and $40 for the Closing Night Party on Sunday. An All Party Pass is $110.

To purchase tickets, visit here.

When: The 2017 Festival will take place Friday through Sunday, January 20 through 22, 2017, with a special Preview Night on Thursday, January 19, for All Access Pass holders only. Films will be shown from 5 to 10 p.m. on Friday, and from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Special parties and galas will be held on all three nights of the festival.

Where: Films will be shown at these three downtown venues: The Corazón Cinema and Cafe (36 Granada St.), Flagler College's Gamache-Koger Theater (50 Sevilla St.), and Lewis Auditorium (14 Granada St.). Other events and parties will be held at the Lightner Museum (75 King St.), The Collector Luxury Inn & Gardens (149 Cordova), and the Solarium at Flagler College (74 King St.).

Read more: https://www.visitstaugustine.com/event/st-augustine-film-festival

St. Augustine Film Festival

ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. – St. Augustine Film Festival have announced the selections for 2017. They will be screened from Jan. 19 through Jan. 22. The venues involved are the Lewis Auditorium, Gamache-Koger Theater, Corazon Cinema and Café, The Lightner Museum and Flagler College.

On Jan. 19, films at St. Augustine Film Festival consist of:  “A Wing & A Prayer”, “A Hell of a Mess”, “Loro Chi?”, “California”, “One Wild Moment”, “Family Film”, “Le Confessioni”, “Kiki, Love to Love”, “Mirage D’Amour” and “Human”.

​

For Jan. 20, motions pictures being shown at St. Augustine Film Festival are:  “Caprice”, “A Hell of A Mess”, “Family Film”, “Our Mother”, “The Great Walk”, “Le Confessioni”, “A Royal Night Out”, “Two Lottery Tickets”, “What Could Possibly Go Wrong”, “Women Who Kill”, “El Soñador”, “One Wild Moment” and more to be announced.

“Demimonde”, “A Royal Night Out”, “Family Film”, “Datuna:  Portrait of America”, “Le Confessioni”,”The Scent of Mandarin”, FSU Shorts, “In Greed We Trust”, “Klandestine Man”, “Dreamland”, “Loro Chi”, “Born to Dance”, “Mirage D’Amour”, “Mimosas”, “FunkyTown”, “El Soñador”, “Kiki, Love to Love”, “What Could Possibly Go Wrong” and “Dreamland” will be shown on Jan. 21 at St. Augustine Film Festival.

Two screenings of “Bulgarian Rhapsody”, “In Greed We Trust”, “Mimosas”, “The Scent of Mandarin”, “Foster Shock”, “A Wing & A Prayer”, “Caprice”, “Death by a Thousand Cuts”, “Tomorrow Ever After”, “Our Mother”, “California”, “Una Noche De Amor”, “Demimonde”, “Women Who Kill”, “Two Lottery Tickets” and two films to be determined will be viewable on Jan. 22 at St. Augustine Film Festival.

Events taking place at St. Augustine Film Festival includes food, drinks and parties. On Jan. 20, opening drinks and hors d’oeuvres will be served at The Lightner Museum for $20 per person. The opening night party at The Lightner Museum Ballroom for $45 each will also take place, on Jan. 20. The Centerpiece Party takes place at The Collector Luxury Inn & Gardens on Jan. 21 and tickets are $35. The Wrap Party is scheduled to take place at The Solarium atop Ponce Hall on Jan. 22 and is free to attend. The Great Walk and FunkyTown Electric Zumba (free) will both take place at Lewis Auditorium.

Read more: http://www.aqdpi.com/st-augustine-film-festival-2017-selections.html

One of the Best Places In Florida To Visit On Labor Day Weekend

As the symbolic end of the summer, Labor Day in Florida is a holiday celebrated with barbecues, fireworks, parades, and picnics. Plan one last summer getaway to soak in the sunshine before fall is here at one of best places in the Sunshine State to visit Labor Day weekend.

America’s oldest city and one of Florida’s most charming destinations, St. Augustine is a family-friendly area with historical authenticity. Explore the colonial-era Castillo de San Marcos fort, watch re-enactments at the Colonial Quarter, or soak in the sunshine at the peaceful Crescent Beach. Labor Day activities include music concerts in the Plaza de la Constitucion, hair-raising ghost tours of the Old Jail, and a fun-filled Art Walk with live music and entertainment.

St. Augustine, Florida - http://www.nationsoldestcity.com

22 TH ANNUAL NIGHTS OF LIGHTS IN ST. AUGUSTINE FLORIDA

Every Night from Nov. 21, 2015 to Jan. 31, 2016

ST. AUGUSTINE’S NIGHTS OF LIGHTS 2014 RETURNS TO FLORIDA’S HISTORIC COAST WITH SURF ILLUMINATION, WINTER WONDERLAND AND FESTIVAL OF TREES.

St. Augustine’s holiday season will sparkle to life November 22 with the beginning of the famedNights of Lights holiday festival. The illumination of millions of white lights throughout the historic district of the nation’s oldest city draws tens of thousands of visitors and holiday revelers each year.

The 22th Annual Nights of Lights celebration runs from November 21, 2015, through January 31, 2016, in St. Augustine, Fla. The festival starts with a countdown with Light Up! Night on November 21, 2015, at 6:30 p.m. in the Plaza de la Constitucion. Holiday music and the lighting of the city’s Christmas tree add to the splendor of one of the world’s greatest holiday light displays.

Nights of Lights can be enjoyed on foot or aboard one of the trains, trolleys, carriages or vintage cars that run every evening from November 21 through end of January.

Nights of Lights continues to gather praise from travel leaders worldwide:

•     For the last two consecutive years, National Geographic Traveler declared St. Augustine one of the Top 10 Places in the World to view holiday lights
•     In 2011, the American Bus Association named the annual spectacle one of the Top 100 Events in the U.S.
•     In 2009, AAA called St. Augustine one of the 12 best places in the U.S. and Canada to experience holiday cheer

Many historic landmarks and locations are beautifully illuminated during Nights of Lights. The waters of Matanzas bay glow from the nightly reflections of lights along the bay walk and the Bridge of Lions. The Plaza de la Constitucion shines from the top of trees and throughout the famous center of St. Augustine’s historic district. The 125-year-old Hotel Ponce de Leon, now the campus of Flagler College, is outlined in lights. And the Lightner Museum, once a resort hotel also built by Flagler, is lit so brilliantly it is a favorite among visitors.

Nights of Lights is inspired by the tradition of marking the holiday season with a single white candle burning in a window at each home during the nearly 250 years when St. Augustine served as the capital of Spanish La Florida. Today, Nights of Lights continues that tradition in a grand style reflecting the city’s 448 years of history. Visitors and residents can also enjoy a wide range of memorable holiday events and activities during Nights of Lights.

Check out these local tours during Nights of Lights.

• Holly Jolly Nights of Lights Trolley
• Ripley’s Red Train Nights of Lights
• Nights of Lights Lovers’ Carriage Tour

Read more: 

http://www.nationsoldestcity.com/2015/11/nights-of-lights-in-st-augustine-fl/

Easter Promenade & Easter Parade 2015 in St. Augustine, FL

St. Augustine’s 57th Annual Easter Promenade – Beginning at 12:30 p.m. the St. Augustine Easter Festival will host the 57th Annual Easter Promenade. Wear your best Easter bonnets and boutonnieres to participate.

Prizes will be awarded for the Most Creative Hat, Prettiest Hat, Best Dressed woman, man, boy, girl and pet as well as the largest family and the family from the farthest away. Registration begins at noon.

Easter Parade of the Horse Carriages & Hats – This is a decades old parade of horse carriages and hats on Easter Sunday.  Included this year is the Adjutant General of the Florida National Guard riding in a Humvee.  Features marching bands, floats, drill teams, clowns, the Easter Bunny, and the Royal Family. The parade begins at 3 p.m. at the Old Jail to the Castillo de San Marcos and continues through downtown streets of St. Augustine.   The parade lasts approximately 1.5 hours. 

Trophies will be presented in four categories.

Attractions You Probably Didn’t Know Existed in St. Augustine

St. Augustine, FL is a major US tourist attraction, appealing to travelers all over the world who come to fall in love with its historical character and romantic charm. As America’s oldest town, a wealth of well-preserved buildings provide a glimpse of life in the 18th century, and spectacular white sand beaches stretch for miles, contributing to some of the most pristine coastline Florida has to offer.

Castillo de San Marcos is an impressive Spanish Fort which has stood for the past 500 years, and pedestrians enjoy St George Street which is the focus of the historic district, with heritage museums, shopping galore and an authentic Old Jail.

It’s likely you already knew about highly publicized St. Augustine attractions such as the Colonial Spanish Quarter and the Fountain of Youth. But to limit your visit to only these attractions would be a shame, as St. Augustine has so much more to offer.

Here are the top attractions you probably didn’t know existed in St. Augustine, and note that if you’re looking for ways to get a cheap hotel in St Augustine, go to Hipmunk’s St Augustine Hotels guide page.  There you’ll find out what the average price per hotel is during the season, and whether or not you should tempt fate with lodging at a hostel.

Drive onto St. Augustine Beach

A town boasting a world-class coastline, St. Augustine Beach on Anastasia Island is one of the main tourist attractions in the area. But what many people don’t know is that you can actually drive onto the beach.

Drive onto the beach.

Surprisingly fun, and not as irresponsible as it sounds, beach goers can turn their day into a 4WD adventure and access more exclusive sections of the beach that would otherwise require a decent hike. Vehicle day access is seven dollars per day.

St. Augustine Pirate and Treasure Museum

While the majority of visitors to St. Augustine take in the Old Florida Museum and Old Jail, the Pirate and Treasure Museum also deserves a visit.

Providing a detailed history of piracy through the ages in St. Augustine, the museum boasts the world’s largest exhibition of authentic pirate artifacts. Touch a 400-year-old pirate chest used for the transportation of gold, fire a cannon, or hold actual gold pieces recovered from lost Spanish loot.

Mission of Nombre de Dios

This religious site is the spot that saw the first religious ceremonies after the arrival of the Spanish to St. Augustine.

The Gregorian chapel is quiet and peaceful, and it is completely covered in vivid green moss and vines.

Fragile graves are located onsite, many of which are dedicated to Confederate and Union soldiers.

It forms part of a cemetery full of fragile graves, many of which are dedicated to Confederate and Union soldiers from the Civil War.

Fort Matanzas

Visitors to St. Augustine flock to the gates of Castillo de San Marcos, but did you know that the city plays host to another must-see fort?

Fort Matanzas is a national monument that lies just 15 minutes south of St. Augustine. It boasts an incredible history that is just as fascinating as that of Castillo de San Marcos.

Fort Matanzas. Photo CC by Eccentric Scholar

While it was never used in battle, it was built as a Spanish outpost to guard the inlet from British enemies attacking from the South. It was also the site of a French massacre almost 500 years ago.

Note that your ticket to Castillo de San Marcos will allow you entry to Fort Matanzas, so why not combine both?

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