Coastal Companion

Your ultimate guide to the coast

Jacksonville in May 2011

by

Summer is almost here and there is no shortage of fun things to do on the coast this month. May is usually an action-packed month. We’ll start out with two popular festival that technically start in April, but I wanted to add them to the list anyway to make sure you don’t forget.

 

World of Nations Celebration
April 28 – May 1, 2011

Jacksonville celebrates its cultural diversity with the World of Nations Celebration in Metropolitan Park every spring. The festival is presented by the City of Jacksonville. Metropolitan Park transforms into a multi-ethnic marketplace of cuisine, crafts and entertainment of people from around the world.
Read more about World of Nations Celebration here.

 

Florida’s Birding and FotoFest
April 28-May 1

This event features professional photographers giving hands-on advice and nature excursions throughout Northeast Florida. Headquartered at Guana Environmental Education Center, attendees can experience a butterfly house, vendors and other family activities. Read more here.

 

Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival
April 28 – May 1

This unique Amelia Island festival combines delicious fresh seafood with a fun, small town celebration complete with parade, pirate invasions, live music, activities, contests and much more. The festival takes place in historic downtown Fernandina Beach. Read more and watch our video from Fernandina Shrimp Festival here.

 

First Wednesday Art Walk
May 4, 2011

Every month downtown Jacksonville comes alive with the art walk. Come participate and take a stroll downtown to explore new art and new experiences. The weather is perfect for an evening walk. Start in Hemming Plaza. More information here.

Movies in the Park
May 6, 2011

Downtown Jacksonville’s series is returning to historic Treaty Oak Park Fridays in the spring. Hosted by Downtown Vision, Inc. and JaxParks, the series features four family-friendly movies shown under the stars, each beginning at dusk (around 8 p.m.)

Pops at the Beach – Mother’s Day Concert
May 8, 2011

This is a great idea for how to celebrate Mother’s Day within your budget. Head to Jacksonville Beach for a free Mother’s Day concert, you can even bring your own picnic dinner. Read more about Pops at the Beach here.

World Golf Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony
May 9, 2011

This year’s ceremony marks the first time this event will be held during THE PLAYERS Championship. The induction class of 2011 will be featured in a new exhibit at the World Golf Hall of Fame Museum. Event takes place on an outdoor stage adjacent to the Hall of Fame and is free and open to the public. Seating is limited. Call (904) 940-4123 or visit www.worldgolfhalloffame.org.

THE PLAYERS Championship
 May 9-15, 2011

It’s one of golf’s biggest events and it’s played annually on the coastline of Northeast Florida at the famed Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra, Florida. The lush, green rolling hills and steep inclines offer spectacular views of each hole. The tournament begins on Monday with practice rounds. Thursday, the competition heats up as Round 1 of tournament play begins, concluding Sunday with fans gathering around the 18th hole to see who will take home the crystal trophy. Visit our special page for THE PLAYERS.

Dancin’ in the Street
May 21, 2011

Atlantic beach block party. Log on to www.jacksonvillebeach.org or call (904) 270-1658 for more information.

starry nightsStarry Nights
May 21, 2011

The City of Jacksonville presents Starry Nights, an event that combines the sounds of the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra with a national performer. Concert is held at Metropolitan Park, along the St. Johns River. www.makeascenedowntown.com

Moonlight Movies
May 20 & 27
Enjoy classic movies under the stars and by the ocean. These events are free to the public and featured movies will be announced a few weeks prior to the first screening. Held over four Friday evenings at 9 p.m.  Visit our Moonlight Movies page for more info.

Jacksonville Jazz Festival
May 26-29, 2011

Held annually over the Memorial Day holiday weekend in the heart of Downtown Jacksonville. Street party atmosphere includes four stages scattered in the city’s Laura Street corridor. Enjoy internationally acclaimed jazz performers, as well as the region’s best musicians during this four-day event. More information about the Jacksonville Jazz Festival here.

Memorial Wall Ceremony
May 31, 2010

Remember wounded and lost soldiers and their families this Memorial Day. Jacksonville honor its military heritage and local heroes with keynote speakers, presentation of colors, family tributes, a wreath presentation, a 21-gun salute, “Taps” and musical tributes. Call (904) 630-3690 or log on to www.makeascenedowntown.com.

Brookgreen Gardens turns 80

by

Brookgreen Gardens Celebrates 80th Anniversary
Brookgreen Gardens in Murrell Inlet, SC, celebrates the 80th anniversary of its founding by adding new special events and a new “walking program” for health conscious visitors. The walking program includes a map and guide with a menu of four walks that range from a quick 15-minute “Zoo Strut” to a 2.7 mile “Beyond the Garden Stroll”. The maps and guides are available in the Welcome Center and are free with garden admission.

Other 80th Anniversary events this spring include a butterfly talk at 1 p.m., Friday April 1, in the Wall Lowcountry Center and a talk on Saturday, April 2 at 1 p.m. in the Wall Lowcountry Center Auditorium by sculptor-in-residence Greg Wyatt, one of Brookgreen’s 2011 Master Sculptors. On April 16, the sculptor Simon Kogan, who created the 2011 Brookgreen 80th Anniversary Medal, will give a talk at 5:00 in the Wall Lowcountry Center Auditorium. The lectures are free with garden admission.

For a complete listing of the 80th Anniversary special events visit www.brookgreen.org.

Holiday Events – St Augustine

by

There is now better place to celebrate the holiday season than St. Augustine, Florida. The holiday decorated Old City makes it easy to get into the Christmas spirit and make holiday shopping a pleasure. The winter weather is usually very mild, and the old city puts on a great holiday celebration with the Night of Lights festivities, a Winter Wonderland, a Christmas Parade, Regatta and much more.

Here are some of the events:

Nov. 19, 2010 – Jan. 02, 2011

WINTER WONDERLAND

Winter Wonderland comes with lots of activities for both young and old. This is the only place where you can experience snow and ice. Winter Wonderland features a real ice skating rink, ice slide, Elf Express train rides, The Elf Village, sleigh rides and even real SNOW! There are also scheduled visits from Santa.

Admission is free with activity participation fees. Read more about Winter Wonderland here.

Nov. 20, 2010

LIGHT- UP! NIGHT

Past Mayors of the city of St. Augustine meet in the historic Plaza de la Constitucion to “flip the switch” to light up the Nights of Lights. The festivities begin at 4:00 p.m. with spirited holiday performances in the Plaza’s Gazebo. Then at 6:30 p.m., all attending this festive event will be asked to participate in the countdown to the lighting.

Nov. 20, 2010

MAYOR’S HOLIDAY LIGHTING GALA

You can be a part of St. Augustine Mayor, Joe Boles’, Holiday Lighting Gala. The fun begins with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres at the Government House at 5:30pm. At 6:30 p.m., from the King’s Balcony, the Mayor will welcome the crowds in the Plaza de la Constitucion, for the Nights of Lights Lighting Ceremony. Following the Lighting Ceremony, the Mayor and Gala participants will be led by a 1740 Color Guard to the Courtyard of the historic Lightner Museum, located at 78 King Street, for dinner catered by Casa Monica Hotel, dancing to the music of The Committee and a silent auction. Tickets are $150.00 per person. All proceeds benefit the St. Francis House Building Fund. Phone: 904.825.1004

Nov. 20, 2010 – Jan. 30, 2011

HISTORIC WEAPON FIRING DEMONSTRATIONS AT CASTILLO DE SAN MARCOS

Have a blast at St. Augustine’s Castillo de San Marcos when authentically-clad re-enactors demonstrate how Spain’s famed artillerymen fired their cannons in the 1740’s. The cannons will roar at 10:30 & 11:30 a.m., 1:30, 2:30 & 3:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 11:00 a.m., 1:30, 2:30, & 3:30 p.m. on Sundays. Firing times are subject to change depending on weather conditions. Admission is $6; free for children under 16.

Phone: 904.829.6506

Nov. 20, 2010

NIGHTS OF LIGHTS RIVER CRUISE

You can get an absolutely beautiful view of the old city from the water during the Nights of Lights. This special adult-only cruise departs promptly at 5 p.m. from the dock at Cap’s on the Water Restaurant, 4325 Myrtle Street located off A1A approximately 5 miles north of St. Augustine. Tickets go on sale at 4 p.m. and are $20 per person.

Phone: 904.819.8190

Nov. 21, 2010

SUNSET/MOONRISE TOUR

Get the best view of St. Augustine from the top of the lighthouse and enjoy viewing the sunset and moonrise from the most unique perspective in all of St. Augustine! This special event includes a champagne toast, provided by San Sebastian Winery, atop the tower and an informative overview of the history of the St. Augustine Light Station. The tour takes place from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at the St. Augustine Lighthouse located at 81 Lighthouse Ave. in St. Augustine. The fee is $25 for non-museum members and $20 for members. Reservations are required. Phone: 904.829.0745

Nov. 22, 2010 – Jan. 31, 2011

HOLLY JOLLY HOLIDAY TROLLEY

Rest your feet and explore the city in the cozy comfort aboard the Holly Jolly Trolleys. Guests will delight at the festive wonderland of the historic area glittering with over 2 million lights. Caroling, hot cider, homemade cookies and complimentary magical viewing glasses, handcrafted by Santa’s elves add to the magic of your evening. The Holly Jolly Trolley departs continuously between 6 and 8 p.m. from the Visitors Information Center, 10 West Castillo Drive. Tickets are $7 for adults and $4 for children 6 – 12. Phone: 904.829.3800

Nov. 24, 2010

FULL MOON RIVER CRUISE

Hop on Board an old fishing boat for a sunset- full moon rise cruise on the Intracoastal Waterway. This one-hour “adults only” cruise departs promptly at 7 p.m. from Cap’s on the Water Restauraunt, located at 4325 Myrtle Street located off A1A approximately 5 miles north of St. Augustine. Tickets are $10 per person and go on sale at 5:30 p.m.

Phone: 904.824.8794

Nov. 26, 2010 – Jan. 02, 2011

SANTA’S BIG RED CHRISTMAS TRAIN TOURS

Enjoy St Augustine’s beautiful Nights of Lights Celebration from Santa’s big red Christmas train! Tickets include FREE admission to a family holiday movie at the San Marco theater, refreshments and a free visit to Santa’s Village at 3 Cordova Street, open December 3&4,10&11 and 17 through 23, from 6 to 9 p.m. Santa’s Big Red Christmas Train operates 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 6 to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Santa’s Big Red Christmas Train does not operate on December 24, 25 and 31. Tickets are $7 for Adults and $3 for children 2-12, children under 2, free. Tours Depart from Ripley’s Believe it or Not Museum and the Sightseeing Train Station at 3 Cordova Street.

Phone: 904.829.6545

Nov. 26, 2010 – Nov. 27, 2010

CANDLE LIGHT TOURS OF VILLA ZORAYDA

Experience the Villa Zorayda Museum, beautifully decorated for the Holidays, during a special “Nights of Lights” Candlelight Tour. Our docent will lead by candlelight as you explore this gilded age house museum built by Franklin Smith in 1883 and view it’s astounding art and antique collection while learning of the Villa’s 127 year history. Refreshments of Christmas cookies & beverages start at 6:30 pm with the Candlelight Tour starting at 7 pm. Tickets are $15.00 for adults, children ages 7 -12 are $7.00. No charge for children ages 4 – 6. Tour is not recommended for children under the age of 3. Reservations suggested. Villa Zorayda Museum is located at 83 King Street.

Phone: 904.829.9887

Nov. 27, 2010

FORT MATANZAS NATURE EXPLORATIONS

Be a part of this National Parks Service Nature Series at Fort Matanzas National Monument. These ranger-led walks are part of a series of excursions, each exploring a different habitat or ecosystem at Fort Matanzas. The tours take place on the last Saturday of each month from 9:30 – 11:30 am. Fort Matanzas National Monument is located on A1A at the south end of Anastasia Island approximately 15 miles south of St. Augustine.

Phone: 904.471.0116

Nov. 27, 2010 – Nov. 28, 2010

44TH ANNUAL FALL ARTS & CRAFTS FESTIVAL

See art created from lace to limestone and crayons to crystal. Enjoy unplugged entertainment, plein air artists at work, and the Kids Art Zone. One of the region’s most prestigious juried art festivals, it takes place at Francis Field behind the St. Augustine Downtown Historic Parking Facility located on West Castillo Drive in St. Augustine. The festival is sponsored by the St. Augustine Art Association and is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is a $1 donation. visit our special page for the Fall Arts & Crafts Festival.

Phone: 904.824.2310

Nov. 27, 2010

UPTOWN SATURDAY NIGHT

Galleries, antique stores and unique shops on St. Augustine’s San Marco Avenue between Ripley’s Museum and the Mission of Nombre de Dios remain open from 5 to 9 p.m. and feature book signings, live music, refreshments and other activities. The Mission of Nombre de Dios provides FREE PARKING.

Phone: 904.823.9263

Nov. 28, 2010

EMMA CONCERT: ST. LAWRENCE STRING QUARTET

Enjoy the spontaneous, passionate and dynamic performance of this renowned world-class ensemble. The performance begins at 2 p.m. in the Flagler College Auditorium, located at 14 Granada Street in St. Augustine. Tickets are $25 per person.

Phone: 904.797.2800

Dec. 01, 2010

LUMINARY NIGHT AT THE ST. AUGUSTINE LIGHTHOUSE

See the lights of old St. Augustine from the top of the tower as well as the twinkling glow of hundreds of luminaries far below! Bring the kids, enjoy holiday music, cider, and even take time out to visit Santa! Luminary night takes place from 6 to 9 p.m. and is free to the public. The St. Augustine Lighthouse and Museum is located at 81 Lighthouse Avenue on Anastasia Island.

Phone: 904.829.0745

Dec. 03, 2010

FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK

Enjoy the latest exhibits, music, entertainment and refreshments at over 20 participating galleries – plus, great food courtesy of the St. Augustine Independent Restaurant Association. Galleries are open from 5 to 9 p.m. Tours begin at Rembrandtz American Craft Gallery, 131 King Street. St. Augustine Sightseeing Trains and Old Town Trolleys offer attendees a complimentary shuttle service to most of the galleries. Shuttles run on a continuous loop every 30 minutes.

Phone: 904.829.0065

Dec. 03, 2010

BRITISH NIGHT WATCH OPENING EVENTS

Get immersed in St. Augustine’s British history when at 4 p.m. three captured signers of the Declaration of Independence arrive to be imprisoned. It’s a raucous occasion until order is restored at the City Gate, Plaza de la Constitucion and Government House.

Phone: 904.819.2629

Dec. 03, 2010 – Dec. 04, 2010

SANTA’S FAMILY FUN HOLIDAY VILLAGE

Visit Santa’s Village and Toy Workshop for holiday family fun in St. Augustine. Children will get to make his /her own ornament, enjoy holiday treats and visit with the jolly old elf himself – Santa! Fun for kids of all ages, admission is $3 per person or free with the purchase of a Red Sightseeing Nights of Lights Train ticket. Santa’s Village takes place from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Sightseeing Trains Depot on the corner of Orange Street and Cordova Street.

Phone: 904.829.6545

Dec. 04, 2010 – Dec. 12, 2010

ST JOHNS COUNTY FESTIVAL OF TREES AT WORLD GOLF VILLAGE

The sixth-annual Festival of Trees will take place at the St. Johns County Convention Center adjacent to the Renaissance Resort at World Golf Village. The event, free and open to the public, will open Friday, Dec. 3 at 6 p.m., showcasing trees and wreaths decorated by businesses, organizations, families and friends from the community. The event will be open daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the final day, Sunday, Dec. 12. Trees will be part of a silent auction and visitors will also be encouraged to fill out a ballot indicating the number of votes (in minimum $1 bids) they would like to cast for their favorite trees. All proceeds raised during the event will go directly to two St. Johns County-based charities, The St. Augustine Record’s Empty Stocking Fund and the United Way of St. Johns County.

Phone: 904.940.4015

Dec. 04, 2010

ST. AUGUSTINE BEACH SURF ILLUMINATION

Light up your evening at St. Augustine Beach’s Surf Illumination. This sparkling event includes the ceremonial lighting of the seasonal tree, city buildings and the park facilities with nautical-themed displays. Food and beverages are available and local arts and crafts vendors provide convenient shopping for the holiday season. It all takes place at the St. Augustine Beach Pier and Pavilion on A1A.

Phone: 904.347.8007

Dec. 04, 2010

56TH ANNUAL ST. AUGUSTINE CHRISTMAS PARADE

The 56th Annual Christmas Parade has grown to be one of the largest parades in north Florida and includes floats, marching bands, cars, horses, and the arrival of Santa. The parade will start promptly at 10 a.m. at the Mission Nombre de Dios; continue through the downtown streets of historic St. Augustine and end behind the Visitors Center on West Castillo Dr.

Phone: 904.824.4997

Dec. 04, 2010

ST. AUGUSTINE COMMUNITY CONCERT ORCHESTRA WITH CHORUS HOLIDAY CONCERT

St. Augustine Community Orchestra features a guest Chorus and offers holiday season classics amid the historical and artistic beauty of Lightner Museum. The performance takes place at 8 p.m. in Lightner Museum, 75 King Street in St. Augustine. Admission is $10 for adults and children are free.

Phone: 904.825.1766

Dec. 05, 2010

36th ANNUAL BRITISH ENCAMPMENT AND GRANDE ILLUMINATION

Experience life in St. Augustine during the 1763-1784 British occupation of the old city. The British encampment, located at the Colonial Spanish Quarter at 29 St. George Street, is open 9 a.m. to dusk. Activities include Fife and Drum Corps, authentic 18th century British soldiers, musket competitions and more. At 8 p.m., the Grande Illumination and British Night Watch Parade, an impressive pageantry of color and light that reflects the customs of St. Augustine’s 18th Century British occupants, begins at the Government House on the Plaza de la Constitucion. Following the parade, the British Governor’s holiday proclamation is read and soldiers fire their muskets in a Volley of Joy to salute the season! Free admission.

Phone: 904.829.5318

Dec. 05, 2010

42nd ANNUAL GARDEN CLUB CHRISTMAS TOUR OF HOMES

Enjoy the St. Augustine Garden Club’s annual tour showcasing eight private homes along the city’s southern Bayfront. These beautifully-decorated historic Florida style homes give participants a taste of nostalgia in the colorful floral decorations and arrangements composed of natural materials designed and hand crafted by members of The Garden Club of St. Augustine. Tickets include admission to a Tea and Boutique held in the Trinity Episcopal Church Hall on Artillery Lane. The Red Train will provide complimentary transport for visitors between homes and the Downtown Historic Parking Facility. The tour takes place from noon to 5 p.m. The Tea and Boutique starts at 1 p.m. Admission is $20 in advance and $25 day of tour.

Phone: 904.826.0024

Dec. 05, 2010

ST. AUGUSTINE COMMUNITY CONCERT ORCHESTRA WITH CHORUS HOLIDAY CONCERT

St. Augustine Community Orchestra with a guest Chorus offers holiday season classics at 3 p.m. at Switzerland Community Church, 2179 State Road 13, Switzerland, Florida. Admission is $10 for adults and children are admitted free.

Phone: 904.825.1766

Dec. 10, 2010 – Jan. 09, 2011

G.I. HOLIDAY JUKEBOX AT LIMELIGHT THEATRE

Set during Christmas in World War II, four fictitious Hollywood stars put together a string of 1940s hits to entertain the boys at the front. The show takes place at Limelight Theatre, 11 Old Mission Avenue in St. Augustine. Show times are Tuesday through Saturday, 7:30 p.m and Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets are $25 for adults, $22 for seniors and $20 for students and military.

Phone: 904.825.1164

Dec. 10, 2010 – Dec. 11, 2010

SANTA’S FAMILY FUN HOLIDAY VILLAGE

Visit Santa’s Village and Toy Workshop for holiday family fun in St. Augustine. Children will get to make his /her own ornament, enjoy holiday treats and visit with the jolly old elf himself – Santa! Fun for kids of all ages, admission is $3 per person or free with the purchase of a Red Sightseeing Nights of Lights Train ticket. Santa’s Village takes place from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Sightseeing Trains Depot on the corner of Orange Street and Cordova Street.

Phone: 904.829.6545

Dec. 11, 2010

REGATTA OF LIGHTS RIVER CRUISE

Be a part of the Regatta of lights when you hop on board a vessel at Cap’s on the Water. The vessel will depart promptly at 5 p.m. from the docks at Cap’s on the Water, 4325 Myrtle Street located off A1A approximately 5 miles north of St. Augustine. To be a part of the lit up boat parade on Matanzas Bay. Tickets for this “adults only” cruise are $20 per person and must be pre-paid with reservations in advance.

Phone: 904.824.8794

Dec. 11, 2010

REGATTA OF LIGHTS

Beginning at 6 p.m., a holiday parade of boats including sailboats, trawlers, shrimp boats, and many other vessels featuring brilliant lighted displays ranging from patriotic to whimsical will light up St. Augustine’s Matanzas Bay between the Bridge of Lions and Castillo de San Marcos. Awards will be made for the best theme, most colorful, best in class, and best overall. The Regatta of Lights is sponsored by the St. Augustine Yacht Club.

Phone: 904.824.9725

Dec. 11, 2010 – Dec. 12, 2010

17 TH ANNUAL HOLIDAY TOUR OF BED AND BREAKFAST INNS

Tour St. Augustine’s historic Bed and Breakfast Inns, all decorated in Holiday finery. In addition to enjoying each Inn’s dazzling Christmas season displays, tour participants will enjoy taste treats provided by St. Augustine’s leading restaurants. The tour takes place from 2 to 5 p.m. each day; half of the inns welcome visitors on Saturday, and half on Sunday. Tickets are $25 in advance and $35 each after November 20. Proceeds from the Holiday Tour will go to local charities.

Phone: 904.829.0079

Dec. 11, 2010

SUNSET- FULLMOON RIVERCRUISE

Enjoy an amazing sunset on the Intracoastal Waterway while cruising aboard an old fishing boat. And, the cruise will be part of the St. Augustine Regatta of Lights. This adult-only cruise departs promptly at 7 p.m. from the dock at Cap’s on the Water Restaurant, located at 4325 Myrtle Street located off A1A approximately 5 miles north of St. Augustine. Tickets go on sale at 5:30 p.m. and are $10 per person.

Phone: 904.819.8190

Dec. 11, 2010 – Dec. 12, 2010

HANDEL’S MESSIAH AND OTHER SEASONAL MUSIC

The St. Augustine Community Choir presents its annual holiday performance of excerpts from Handel’s Messiah and other seasonal music. The concerts, conducted by Ted Mathews, take place at 8 p.m. on Saturday and 2 p.m. on Sunday at the Cathedral Basilica located 38 Cathedral Place in St. Augustine. Admission is $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Students with I.D. and children 12 and under are $5.

Dec. 11, 2010 – Nov. 11, 2010

FRIENDS OF WASHINGTON OAKS SECOND SATURDAY PLANT SALE

Come explore Washington Oaks State Park and shop for feature plants that are unusual and hard to find. Many of the plants were propagated and grown in the park by volunteers. All proceeds benefit the park for enhancement of current and new facilities. The sale takes place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Washington Oaks Gardens State Park is located at 6400 N. Oceanshore Blvd. in Palm Coast. Admission to the park is $5.00 per vehicle and $2.00 for pedestrians and bicyclists.

Phone: 386.446.6783

Dec. 11, 2010

HISTORIC WEAPONS FIRING DEMONSTRATION

Take the National Park Service’s ferry to Rattlesnake Island and experience daily military life at Fort Matanzas – the 18th century Spanish fort that guarded the southern approach to St. Augustine. From 10:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m., authentically clad re-enactors will demonstrate Spanish muskets and cannons at the fort. Admission is free. Fort Matanzas National Monument is located on A1A at the south end of Anastasia Island approximately 15 miles south of St. Augustine.

Phone: 904.471.0116

Dec. 12, 2010

BEACHES UNPLUGGED CONCERTS – CULTURAL CENTER AT PONTE VEDRA BEACH

Enjoy local musicians performing a variety of music live on stage at this program that is part of a series of free community concerts in Ponte Vedra. The concert takes place from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Cultural Center at Ponte Vedra Beach, 50 Executive Way.

Phone: 904.280.0614

Dec. 12, 2010

LIVING HISTORY DAY AT FORT MATANZAS

Soldiers re-enact cannon and/or musket firing along with daily life at this Spanish outpost. Cannon demonstrations will take place during the regularly scheduled tours except for the 9:30 am and the 4:40 pm tours. Fort Matanzas is located about 15 miles south of the historic district of St. Augustine, Florida. St. Augustine.

Phone: 904-471-0116

Dec. 17, 2010 – Dec. 23, 2010

SANTA’S FAMILY FUN HOLIDAY VILLAGE

Visit Santa’s Village and Toy Workshop for holiday family fun in St. Augustine. Children will get to visit Santa’s workshop to make his / her own ornament, enjoy holiday treats and visit with the jolly old elf himself – Santa! Fun for kids of all ages, admission is $3 per or free with the purchase of a Red Sightseeing Nights of Lights Train ticket. Santa’s Village takes place from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Sightseeing Trains Depot on the corner of Orange Ave, and Cordova Street.

Phone: 904.829.6545

Dec. 17, 2010 – Dec. 19, 2010

ST. AUGUSTINE COMMUNITY BALLET PRESENTS THE NUTCRACKER

Enjoy a holiday classic filled with spectacular scenery, beautiful Sugar Plum Fairies, falling snow, dancing mice, fighting soldiers and of course, the Nutcracker. The performance takes place at 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday at the Flagler College Auditorium, 14 Granada Street, St. Augustine. Tickets are $25 for general admission and $30 for preferred seating.

Phone: 904.810.5670

Dec. 18, 2010

CANDLE LIGHT TOURS OF VILLA ZORAYDA

Experience the Villa Zorayda Museum, beautifully decorated for the Holidays, during a special “Nights of Lights” Candlelight Tour. Our docent will lead by candlelight as you explore this gilded age house museum built by Franklin Smith in 1883 and view it’s astounding art and antique collection while learning of the Villa’s 127 year history. Refreshments of Christmas cookies & beverages start at 6:30 pm with the Candlelight Tour starting at 7 pm. Tickets are $15.00 for adults, children ages 7 -12 are $7.00. No charge for children ages 4 – 6. Tour is not recommended for children under the age of 3. Reservations suggested. Villa Zorayda Museum is located at 83 King Street. For more information visit www.villazorayda.com or phone 904-829-9887.

Dec. 18, 2010

FORT MATANZAS NATURE EXPLORATIONS

Be a part of this National Parks Service Nature Series at Fort Matanzas National Monument. These ranger-led walks are part of a series of excursions, each exploring a different habitat or ecosystem at Fort Matanzas. The tours take place on the last Saturday of each month from 9:30 – 11:30 am. Fort Matanzas National Monument is located on A1A at the south end of Anastasia Island approximately 15 miles south of St. Augustine.

Phone: 904.461.0116

Dec. 27, 2010 – Dec. 30, 2010

CANDLE LIGHT TOURS OF VILLA ZORAYDA

Explore the beautiful Villa Zorayda, decorated for the Holiday season, featuring a live Christmas tree in the “Court of Lions”, decorated in the Villa’s traditional Red and Gold Colors and a beautiful crèche nativity scene that that has been a Villa tradition since the 1930s. Starting at 6:30 p.m., enjoy refreshments of cookies and punch. Then the guided candlelight tour begins at 7 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults and $7 for children 7 -12, children 4 -6 are free (not recommended for children under 3). Villa Zorayda is located at 83 King Street in St. Augustine. Reservations are suggested.

Phone: 904.829.9887

www.villaZoryada.com

Dec. 31, 2010

BEACH BLAST OFF 2011

Kick off 2011 in seaside style at this special St. Augustine Beach event! Enjoy a blast of flavor, icy sculptures, and fireworks when several of St. Augustine’s favorite restaurants serve up chili for tasting and judging at the Fire and Ice Chili Cook-off from 4 to 8 p.m. After things cool off from the chili – the Fireworks begin at 8:30 p.m. This display will delight visitors and help usher in the New Year! Admission is free. The Beach Blast takes place at the St. Johns County Fishing Pier and Pavilion, 350 A1A Beach Boulevard in St. Augustine Beach.

Phone: 904.982.2210

MOSH Jacksonville Planetarium Opens Veterans Day Weekend

by

The Bryan-Gooding Planetarium at MOSH (the Museum of Science and History) in Jacksonville, Florida, is re-opening after the renovation.

The wait is almost over! The Grand Opening Celebration of the Bryan-Gooding Planetarium is scheduled for November 11th through 14th. The opening will begin a new chapter in the Museum of Science & History’s 59-year history of space science programming.

The new Bryan-Gooding Planetarium will offer visitors total-immersion entertainment in a 360-degree theater at super-resolution four times better than the best HDTV. The new full-dome digital system is the latest in planetarium technology and is the only system of its kind in Florida. Expanded programming will take guests into the body of an astronaut to experience a shuttle launch or to the far edges of the universe to explore the mysteries of black holes. The debut schedule rotation, which includes programming suitable for all age groups, includes:

Black Holes: No longer the stuff of science fiction, the discovery of the black hole is a triumph of modern science. Explore the fascinating world of black holes in this program narrated by Academy Award nominated actor Liam Neeson. (Recommended for adults and children in grades 6 or higher.)

Astronaut: The exploration of space is humankind’s greatest endeavor. Go on an incredible voyage to discover what it takes to be an astronaut as you experience a rocket launch from inside the body of “Chad,” our test astronaut. (Recommended for adults and children in grades 4 or higher.)

Sesame Street’s One World, One Sky: Elmo and Big Bird meet a new friend – Hu Hu Zhu – who lives far, far away in China. The friends soon discover that despite the distance, they still see the same stars in the night sky! (Recommended for children in grades Pre-K through K.)

Zula Patrol: Down to Earth: While on a routine fossil hunting expedition, the Zula Patrol discover that someone’s been dumping trash in Earth’s prehistoric past! On their mission to catch the culprit, they learn all about the formation and development of Earth and its inhabitants. (Recommended for children in grades Pre-K through 4.)

In addition to planetarium programs every hour on the hour, extended hours, guest lecturers and rooftop stargazing, highlights of the Opening Celebration include:

– FREE Admission for Active & Retired Military – In observance of Veterans Day, all active and retired military will receive free admission to MOSH. In addition, from November 11 to November 24, veterans will receive $10 off the purchase of a MOSH Membership. Visitors can enjoy exhibits like Prehistoric Predators, which features 16 animatronic dinosaurs, or take in a show in the new state-of-the-art Bryan-Gooding Planetarium. Museum admission is $10 for adults, $8 for children 3-12, and free for children 2 and under and members. Planetarium programs are $5 per person, per show.

Friday, November 12
Cosmic Concert Preview Party
Experience total-sensory entertainment as laser lights, high-def images and digital sound collide to create a Cosmic Concert! The Cosmic Concert Preview Party is from 8 p.m. to midnight. Cost is $20 for non-members/$15 for members and includes one drink ticket, one cosmic concert, live music by The Druids, rooftop stargazing and access to museum exhibits. Additional drinks are available for purchase. Led Zeppelin will show at 9 p.m. followed by Pink Floyd: Dark Side of the Moon at 10 and Pink Floyd: Best of The Wall at 11. Purchase tickets online at www.themosh.org or call 396.MOSH, ext. 240.

Saturday, November 13


 NASA Guest Speaker
NASA Aerospace Technology Engineer Antonio Pego will present “NASA’s Role in Astronomy” at 2 p.m. in the Bryan-Gooding Planetarium. Pego’s appearance is part of the Grand Opening Celebration of the Bryan-Gooding Planetarium at MOSH taking place November 11 through 14. Tickets to the lecture are free with paid museum admission and will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Museum admission is $10 for adults; $8.50 for military; $8 for children 3-12; and free for children 2 and under and members.

Sunday, November 14
Hubble’s Greatest
The Hubble Space Telescope has unlocked numerous mysteries of the Universe as well as added many new questions. The best – and in some cases – strangest of Hubble discoveries will be examined in “Hubble’s Greatest,” a presentation led by Mike Reynolds, Ph.D., Dean of Liberal Arts, Florida State College of Jacksonville, inside the planetarium at 2 p.m. Tickets to the lecture are free with paid museum admission and will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Museum admission is $10 for adults; $8.50 for military; $8 for children 3-12; and free for children 2 and under and members.
* Dr. Reynolds will be available for interviews immediately following the presentation until 4 p.m.

Thursday, November 18
 Music Under the Stars
Learn about the stars that shine over Jacksonville and then enjoy a live musical performance under the stars of the Bryan-Gooding Planetarium. Event is from 6 to 10 p.m.; presentation begins at 7 p.m. Admission, which includes museum access, one drink, music presentation, star show, and rooftop stargazing, is $10. Musicians courtesy of Friday Musicale. Call 396.MOSH (6674), ext. 230 for tickets.

Visitors will be able to purchase tickets, preview program trailers and see a complete schedule of events on the new website www.moshplanetarium launching prior to the November 11 opening.

The Museum of Science & History (MOSH) is located at 1025 Museum Circle near Friendship Fountain Park. MOSH, first chartered in 1941, stimulates the joy of learning for visitors of all ages in science, astronomy and the history of the region. Museum hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday – Thursday; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday; and 1 to 6 p.m. Sunday. Museum admission is $10 for adults, $8.50 for military and senior citizens, $8 for children 3-12, and free for children 2 and under and members. There is no admission fee for children 2 and under or Museum members. Admission is $5 on Fridays. Admission to the Bryan Gooding Planetarium is an additional $5 per person for the first show and $1 for each additional show.

MOSH Planetarium Jacksonville Florida

Things to do in Georgia – October 2010

by

When it’s October, fall festival season is in full swing and this is the month before the holidays take over. It’s time for Oktober Festivals, football and to top it off with Halloween.

Pirate Fest, Tybee Island, GA

Oktoberfest on the River – Savannah, GA

October 1 – 3, 2010
Savannah has a wonderful Oktoberfest on Riverstreet. This festival has everything you expect from beer garden, to Oompah band and Wienerdog race. Visit our special events page for Oktoberfest on the River

Tybee Island Pirate Fest -Tybee Island, GA

October 8 – 9, 2010
Quickly change from lederhosen to peg leg and eye patch because as soon as the Oompah band stops playing, the pirates take over the whole island of Tybee. It’s time for the popular Pirate Fest on October 8 – 9, 2010. Check out our special events page for Tybee Island Pirate Fest.

Georgia Colonial Coast Birding & Nature Festival – Jekyll Island, GA

October 7 – 10, 2010
In October Georgia is hosting the greatest diversity of bird species. Jekyll Island celebrates with a special festival where you can learn more about our birds and nature. Check out the special page for Georgia Colonial Coast Birding & Nature Festival on Jekyll Island, GA

The Great Ogechee Seafood Festival – Richmond Hill, GA

October 15-17, 2010
There’s another seafood festival in Georgia in October. This time, head to Richmond Hill outside Savannah for lots of fun for the whole family. Find out more here – The Great Ogechee Seafood Festival.

Shalom Y'All Jewish Food Festival

Tybee Island Festival of the Arts

October 16 – 17, 2010
Tybee Island goes straight from pirates to the arts, and why not. This is a great arts festival with lots of artists from the region. Read more on our page for Tybee Island Festival of the Arts

Shalom Y’all – Jewish Food Festival – Savannah, GA

October 31, 2010
There is another food festival in Georgia this month. This festival takes place in Forsyth Park. Come explore Jewish food. Find out more on our special page for Shalom Y’all – Jewish Food Festival – Savannah

Savannah Film Festival

October 31 – November 6, 2010
This festival is getting bigger and bigger every year. The festival kicks off at the end of October, check out our special events page for Savannah Film Festival.

Wait… There is more to read…
Kingsland Catfish Festival Video
Right Whale Festival – Jacksonville, Fl
Pirate Gathering – St Augustine, Fl
Taste of Charleston