Coastal Companion

Your ultimate guide to the coast

Things to do in Georgia – April 2012

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Festival season is in full swing on the coast and April is one of the busiest months. There is a lot to do in Georgia, here are some of the events and festivals coming up in the month of April.

 

Photo courtesy of SCAD

SCAD International Festival
Saturday April 7, 2012
Travel around the world without leaving Savannah by visiting SCAD’s International Festival. Experience different cultures; music, dance and other performances. You can also taste food from different countries. This is a free event. More information here.

Easter Egg Stroll – Jekyll Island
Saturday April 7, 2012
From 10 am to 2 pm there is a classic Easter Celebration in the historic district on Jekyll Island. The easter bunny will visit and there is an egg stroll for the little ones. For more information call 1-877-4-JEKYLL

Shell-e-brate Earth Day
Saturday April 14, 2012
Jekyll Island is getting an early start with a special Earth Day celebration at the Jekyll Island Sea Turtle Center. Earth-friendly games and crafts, and exhibitor’s venue, demonstrations and stage programs. This is a free event with paid admission to the center.

Blessing of the Fleet, Darien
April 20 – 22, 2012
This is without doubt the biggest event of the year in the small town of Darien. The whole county comes to this festival. The blessing itself takes place on Sunday at the bridge where shrimp boats will gather for a special celebration and kick off of the upcoming season.

Savannah Sidewalk Arts Festival
Saturday April 28, 2012
Every spring talented SCAD students gather in Forsyth Park for the colorful sidewalk arts festival. This is an art contest where students compete in creating beautiful chalk drawings on the sidewalks in the park.

Tybee Art Association Show & Sale
April 13 – 15, 2012
Local artists from Tybee Arts Association have a show and sale at the Firehouse Art Center on Tybee Island. Here you can find paintings,prints, glass art, photography, sculpture, jewelry, fiber art, mosaics, art quilts, notecards, art demonstrations and more. For more information visit www.tybeearts.org

Glynn Art in the Park
April 14 – 15, 2012
Over 80 fine artists and craftsmen gather in Postell Park for the Glynn Art in the Park event. Here you will find paintings, photography, pottery, baskets, woodwork, children’s toys, and much more. This is a free event. This event is sponsored by Glynn Art Association For more information call 912-638-8770 www.glynnart.org

NOGS Tour of Hidden Gardens
April 20 – 21, 2012
This is the 37th year for this popular garden event. Walking tour of 10 private gardens located in the Historic District of Savannah. Gardens are selected for their excellence of design, architectural features, historic interest, and overall beauty. In addition to the garden tour, enjoy an authentic Southern Tea in the double parlors of historic Green Meldrim House where iced tea and tasty savories are served. Tea is held between the hours of 2 and 4 pm, only. Entertainment will be provided. More information at www.gardenclubsavannah.org

Earth Day Festival in Forsyth Park
April 21, 2012
Find out how you can become more earth friendly at this event in Forsyth Park, Savannah. More than 100 exhibitors promoting green living and environmental activism. Tons of fun activites for children and great workshops featuring raising chickens, bees, composting, etc. Call 912.651.6943 for more information.

Fun Things To Do in Savannah in March

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Savannah is an artsy city, with SCAD placed right in the heart of downtown. Art is alive here and March is the month to explore creative expression in the city. There are two free events to get you started in the beginning of the month. Another big theme for March is of course music. First there’s the Stopover festival and then the big Savannah Music Festival. March is also the month when everything turns green, and I’m not talking about spring here – I’m talking about St. Patrick’s Day. Here are some of the events coming to Savannah in March.

telfair museum, savannah, georgiaFree week at Jepson
 Feb 27 – March 4, 2012
Jepson Museum
This week is the best time to take in a little culture at the Jepson Center. The art museum is offering free admission everyday, all day to the public Feb. 27 through March 4. Don’t miss this great opportunity to enjoy one of Savannah’s heralded museums at no cost. View the posted link for details about the different events offered each day during Free Week at Jepson Center. Hours are 12 p.m.-5 p.m. Sunday and Monday, and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. For more information call 912.790.8800.

PULSE 2012
Feb 27 – March 4, 2012
Telfair Museum Explore how art and technology can intersect in Telfair Museums’ Art and Technology Festival will be back in 2012 with a line up of exciting exhibitions, performances, lectures, workshops, and events celebrating technology and creative innovation. These events are free. 

Savannah International Boat Show
March 2 – 4, 2012
Savannah International Trade and Convention Center Set course for the annual Savannah Boat & Outdoor Show. The show attracts thousands of boat owners and outdoor enthusiasts with its extensive displays of the latest in watercraft lines, marine equipment, accessories and services. Live music, fishing clinics and simulations, kids’ activities and great food make this a family-friendly event.

st patrick's day savannah georgiaFirst Saturday on the River
March 3, 2012
Riverfront Arts and crafts, entertainment and fun for the entire family on historic River Street. This is free and open to the public. Fire engines, fireworks, fish and fiestas for First Saturday on the River. More information at www.riverstreetsavannah.com

Savannah Stopover Festival March
March 7 – 10, 2012
Historic downtown Savannah The best up and coming indie bands stop over in Savannah on their way to SXSW in Austin, Texas for 4 nights of music in the the city’s famed historic district.The Festival, founded in 2011, takes places across multiple venues within walking distance of all Savannah has to offer. Over 60 bands will perform. More information at www.savannahstopover.com The Greening of the Fountain March 9, 2012 Forsyth Park The official start of St. Patrick Day Celebration is the greening of the fountain in Forsyth Park. The greening takes place at noon.

Tara Feis
March 10, 2012
Emmet Park
This is the family-friendly version of the St. Patrick’s Day celebration with lots of fun for the whole family. Read more on our special page for Tara Feis.

Tybee Irish Heritage Celebration Parade
March 10, 2012
Tybee Island
Tybee Island outside Savannah has its own parade. Tybee Island’s fun, family-friendly parade to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. Dress in green & join in the fun at 3pm on Saturday. Parade starts at City Hall and proceeds down Butler Avenue to Tybrisa Street. Call (912) 786-5444/(800) 868-2322 or visit tybeevisit.com

Girl Scouts over the Bridge
March 10, 2012
Join the Girl Scouts of Historic Georgia in beautiful Savannah with a Centennial Bridging Ceremony and Party in the Park! Thousands of Girl Scouts will cross over the Savannah Bridge to symbolically cross over to the next century of the Girl Scout movement. Later Participants will gather at Forsyth Park in beautiful Historic Savannah for an afternoon of fun. Call 912.233.4501 or visit http://www.juliettegordonlowbirthplace.org/ for more info.

March of Dimes Shamrock Run
March 11, 2012
The annual March of Dimes 5K Shamrock Run begins and ends in City Market. The race starts at 6 p.m., with a free 1/4 mile Kiddie Fun Run prior to the race start. Call 912.354.5900 or visit www.savannahcitymarket.com for more information.

St Patrick's Day Parade in Savannah, GeorgiaCeltic Cross Ceremony
March 11, 2012
Charles H. Morris Center
The Celtic Cross Ceremony is a time to honor the city’s Irish ancestors and the contributions they made.

St Patrick’s Day on the River
March 16-17, 2012
Come to Riverstreet to wear, drink, eat, and be merry celebrating on historic River Street. The great green St. Patrick’s Day fun for the O’Masses with non-stop live entertainment and more. More information at www.riverstreetsavannah.com

St Patrick’s Day Parade
March 17, 2012
Savannah is famous for it’s St. Patrick’s Day celebration with lots of people and lots of fun. This year it’s the 188th year for the parade. Read all about St. Patrick’s Day parade here.

Savannah Tour of Homes and Gardens
March 22 – 25, 2012
For the past 76 years, Savannah has played host to the Annual Tour of Homes & Gardens, which offers residents and visitors alike a rare opportunity to enter some of the City’s finest private homes. Historic Savannah Foundation partners with the Women of Christ Church to host the Tour, giving participants the chance to admire restored interiors and special furnishings that have been treasured by families for generations. In addition to a variety of walking tours, guests will enjoy seminars, special trolley tours, evening events and some of the best food and hospitality the South has to offer. Call 912.234.8054 or visit Savannah Tour of Homes and Gardens page for more information.

Savannah Music Festival
March 22 – April 7, 2012
various locations
The Savannah Music Festival is a city-wide musical arts event showcasing renowned performers in jazz, classical, Americana and world music against the backdrop of one of America’s most enchanting historic districts from March 22 to April 7. Described by The Times of London as “one of the best events around the world,” the festival features more than 100 productions over 17 days. Highlights include numerous festival debuts and unique collaborations. In addition to a wealth of varied concert programs, SMF gives attendees a chance to hit the dance floor with Cajun, Salsa and Zydeco dance parties, and also presents an unmatched variety of American acoustic music, blues and jazz. More information at savannahmusicfestival.org

Nel Adams at Gallery S.P.A.C.E in Savannah, GAThe Annual Sheep to Shawl Festival
March 24, 2012
Oatland Nature Center
Observe and participate in the magical creation of a shawl from sheep shearing to carding, spinning, dying and weaving the wool. Members of The Fiber Guild of the Savannah’s join Oatland staff and volunteers in making this traditional spring celebration fun for the whole family. Crafts, games, hay rides, pony rides and other children’s activities as well as food concessions will be available. 10 am – 4 pm. For more information call 912.395.1500 or visit oatlandisland.org

Spring Garden Festival
March 24, 2012
Bamboo Farm & Coastal Gardens
Visit the Bamboo Farm and Coastal Gardens’ 18th Annual Spring Garden Festival. This event will help raise funds and will include educational lectures, activities for children, plant vendors, and arts and crafts vendors. Call 912.921.5460

Market at the Lighthouse
March 25, 2012
Tybee Island Lighthouse
“Market at the Lighthouse” on Sunday March 25th from 9 am. To 4 pm. The market features select local dealers selling art, antiques, collectables, jewerly, and photography. The market will take place on the field adjacent to the lighthouse grounds. Admission is free to the market.

Blues on Broad – Charleston, SC

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Gallery Row on Historic Broad Street is gearing up again this year to present “Blues on Broad” on February 3rd from 5 -8PM, with music starting between 5 and 6 pm. During this First Friday on Broad artwalk, join us on Gallery Row for a gumbo of live music & fine art. Galleries will be filled with a mélange of roots music (Blues, Soul, Jazz and Rock n Roll) and artwork inspired from all of these genres.
Hamlet Fine Art Gallery will feature South Carolina blues artist Shrimp City Slim (aka Gary Erwin) (piano/vocals). Erwin was originally from Chicago but has lived in Charleston since the 1980s. He is known as the originator of “Lowcountry blues & original songs”, has released seven CDs to date, and is the producer of the celebrated Lowcountry Blues Bash (festival), which will have its 22nd edition this February 8-21. His various locally-themed tunes such as “Gone With the Wind”, “Phosphate Woman”, “Lowcountry Mama”, “Charleston Strut”, and others have entered into Charleston music history. Expect lowdown blues, crisp coastal shuffles, and plenty of exuberance from this well-known South Carolina blues artist.

Sax at Dusk, 24 x20 Oil on Canvas by Jim Darlington

Edward Dare Gallery will feature Blues inspired works in oil by Jim Darlington and photography by Ron Rocz while visitors are entertained by the guitar duo, Ace and the Sultan. Figures have long been one of the favorite subjects of Darlington, and his blues series continues to be a source of enjoyment for collectors of his work. Stop in to see the musical side of Darlington as he and Minimum Wage band member Brandt Saunders entertain us as the duo, Ace and the Sultan, with their interpretation of blues favorites and other soul shaking, foot tapping musical renditions. This music is the perfect ambiance for Rocz’s Mississippi Delta Blues Collection. These sepia-toned photographs convey a sense of what life was like in the early days of the blues, surrounded by cotton plantation life and work. As he often tells his viewers, “if weren’t for the cotton, there would have been no blues.” His photographs include old share cropper cabins, cotton gins, rural churches, juke joints, get-a-way railways, and local blues players. Rocz’s blues photography collection has been well received at art shows in major cities across the nation.
COCO VIVO Fine Art & Interior Design will present musical guest Tim Church III as a pre-event to Charleston’s 22nd Annual Low Country Blues Bash. COCO VIVO will also host Charleston fashion clothes designer Alena Fede and her new spring collection, Spring Flowers by Alena Fede; the artwork of one of America’s finest designers of natural pearl and hammered silver jewelry, artist Christine Peters Hamilton of Maine; and sculptor Kevin McLean introduces new bronze sculpture, blending classical processes and techniques with a raw and expressive style.

The Ellis-Nicholson Gallery entertainment will be provided by the homegrown Charleston talent of young singer/songwriter Irene Rose. Her music is a soundtrack of the south as she wistfully sings about family, small towns, sweet tea, grits and God. “I like to sing the songs that make people smile and nod because they know exactly what I’m talking about.” Irene Rose and her sister Lydia went on a music tour to Nashville where she was invited to sing in multiple honky tonks on Broadway. She has celebrated two album releases, “Irene Rose” and “How it Ought to Be”. In January Irene Rose was chosen to be played over 30 radio stations in South Carolina in the Discover and Uncover New Artists Series sponsored by IheartRadio.

The Ella Walton Richardson Gallery will feature their newest Dutch paintings. Contemporary artists highlighted include Simon Balyon, Johannes Eerdmans, Frits Goosen, Rene Jansen, Niek van der Plas, and Frans van der Wal. The variety of subjects include still life works, architectural scenes of Charleston, and Dutch landscapes.

Mary Martin Gallery will feature musical guest Don Olson who will perform Appalachian songs on Viola for the evening at their new beautiful location at 103 Broad Street. Spencer Fine ArtI, II and now III (!) will also have entertainment and a wonderful variety of soulful art for art lovers and collectors.
For more information on the artists featured during Gallery Row’s Blues on Broad event, visit www.charlestongalleryrow.com and click on your favorite gallery or phone 843-722-1944.

Things to do in Florida October

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Trick or Treat?

October is a month filled with festivals and happenings — and it’s usually one of the best times of the year to spend time outdoors. There is a lot more happening in October than just Halloween and Oktoberfests. Just take a look at some of our suggestions below.

First Friday Artwalk – St Augustine, Florida

October 7, 2011
The art walk in St. Augustine is a social affair with lots of people mingling in the streets outside the many quaint shops, galleries and other venues participating. Read more – First Friday Artwalk St Augustine, Florida

Datil Pepper Festival – St. Augustine, Florida

October 1 – 2, 2011
Spice things up with the datil pepper at this festival. The datil pepper is celebrated at this festival in St. Augustine every year. More details here – Datil Pepper Festival.

Les deMerle

 

Amelia Island Jazz Festival – Fernandina, Florida

October 2 – 9, 2011
The well-known jazz musician Les deMerle has been the driving force behind this popular jazz festival for many years and created an exciting program. Read more here – Amelia Island Jazz Festival

First Wednesday Art Walk – Jacksonville, Fl

October 5, 2011
This is a monthly event in downtown Jacksonville. This month the theme for the event is “Hispanic Heritage” Find out more on the page for First Wednesday Art Walk

Greek Festival

 

Greek Festival – St Augustine

October 7 – 9, 2011
Experience food and culture from Greece, without leaving your own backyard – just come to this festival in October. Read all about it here – Greek Festival in St. Augustine


Jacksonville Film Festival

October 13 – 16, 2011
The film festival seems to becoming more popular every year. The opening night always takes place at the San Marco Theatre in downtown Jacksonville. Get more details on our page for Jacksonville Film Festival

 

 

Daytona Blues Festival – Daytona Beach, Fl

October 7 – 9, 2011

 This festival features the best in Blues music at the most beautiful time of year at Jackie Robinson Memorial Stadium in Downtown Daytona Beach.

Biketoberfest – Daytona Beach, Florida

October 13 -16, 2011
Motorcyclists from near and far will converge in Daytona for the special Biketoberfest. Biketoberfest® is an international award-winning motorcycle festival offering a getaway weekend filled with bikes, sun, beaches and most importantly – lots of fun. During this event, traditionally scheduled on the third weekend in October, you can enjoy delicious food, live music and lots of people-watching.Read more on our event page for Biketoberfest.

Spooktacular at the Jacksonville Zoo

 

October 20-23, 2011 & October 27-31, 2011

Come to Jacksonville Zoo for the spooktacular Halloween celebration – safe for children. Pirates cove, Pumpking Patch, Enchanted Forest and much more.  6:30 pm – 9:00 pm. Click here for more information. 

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Daytona Beach Dream Cruise

 Southern Women’s Show

Oct 20 – 23, 2011

The Southern Women’s Show returns to Prime Osborne Convention Center. This year it’s the 24th annual show.

women can shop for beautiful jewelry and hip handbags, watch fabulous fashion shows, attend cooking demonstrations and sample gourmet foods, treat themselves to makeovers, and meet celebrity guests! Visit their website for more info.

Daytona Beach Dream Cruise – Daytona, Fl

October 21 – 23, 2011
This is a car show and event for car enthusiasts from the region with lots of events around Daytona Beach, Florida. Read more on our special page for Daytona Beach Dream Cruise


St Augustine, Florida

 

Uptown Saturday Night – St Augustine

Every month antique dealers and art galleries in the Old City’s San Marco District hold the popular event Uptown Saturday Night. This monthly art event combines a festive party atmosphere with hospitality and special deals. Find out more here – Uptown Saturday Night

 

Pirate Gathering – St. Augustine, Fl

October 28 – 30, 2011

Ahoy, it’s time again for the pirates to gather in the old city for the old tradition of the pirate gathering. This is a popular event in St. Augustine with lots of fun for the whole family. Go find your eye patch, your lassie, parrot and peg leg and head to the old city for a boat load of fun. Read more about the pirate gathering here.

Georgia vs. Florida Football Classic – Jacksonville, Fl

October 27 – 31, 2010
The football fans from both universities will gather in Jacksonville for the annual battle between the two giants. Lots of events and happenings around town. Read more here Georgia vs. Florida Football Classic

 

Labor Day Weekend in Northeast Florida

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Summer is winding down and the stores are advertising for Fall Fashion and Back To School Specials, but we are not ready for Summer in Florida to be over.  We’re just not ready to give up on the beach, outdoor concerts and fun in the sun.  Luckily, Labor Day weekend is here to remind us about having outdoor fun with both family and friends. 

Here are some ideas for fun things to do for Labor Day. 

 

Sounds on Centre – Fernandina Beach, Amelia Island


Come to historic downtown Fernandina Beach for a free outdoor concert — and don’t forget your dancing shoes! This is a great way for the whole family to spend an evening enjoying live music in the quaint downtown district of Fernandina.  A perfect way to start your Labor Day Weekend.

 

Fernandina Farmer’s Market – Amelia Island, Florida

Every Saturday this popular market opens in downtown Fernandina. Here you will find fresh produce, vegetables, fruit, lots of plants and garden supplies, arts and craft items and much more. 

 

Union Garrison at Fort Clinch – Amelia Island, Florida

This is one of those great Living history events. The Union Garrison event recreate life at Fort Clinch during the War between the States.  Visitors can see how soldiers lived during the Civil War at Fort Clinch on  Saturday, September 3 and  Sunday, September 4, 2011. Get a glimpse into garrison life, by taking up duty in the laundry, infirmary, barracks and kitchen. The schedule varies, but the program may include powder artillery demonstrations, medical demonstrations and soldier drills.This event is held on the first weekend of every month.   Saturday events are held from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m., and Sunday events are offered from 9 a.m. until noon. Fort Clinch State Park 904-277-7274.

 

First Friday Art Walk – St Augustine

On Friday September 2, 2011 it’s time for another First Friday Art Walk in St. Augustine. This is alwyas a fun event with lots of people mingling, checking out local arts. You can read more about on our special events page.

 

St. Augustine Labor Day Concerts in the Plaza

Bring your chair and enjoy an evening cocert featuring the St. Augustine Jazz Society in St. Augustine’s Plaza de la Constitucion while enjoying the cool breezes under a canopy of live oaks as you enjoy the final concert of the season featuring the St. Augustine Jazz Society.

Concerts in the Plaza takes place at Plaza de la Constitucion in Historic St.augustine across from the Cathedral. From 1 to 5 p.m. This is a free concert.

 Market at the Jacksonville Landing

The Jacksonville Landing Market takes place on Friday, September 2, 2011 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., rain or shine! Don’t miss dozens of vendors as they set up throughout The Landing selling locally-grown produce, baked goods, plants, pottery, arts and crafts and much more.

Meet the Big Cats at CattyShack Sanctuary

Enjoy a leisurely stroll of the sanctuary with a guided tour and meet all the residents (Siberian tigers, lions, cougars, spotted and black leopards, a serval, two coatimundis, a European wild cat and two arctic foxes) and experience the night time feeding time! 
Gates open at 6pm – 8:30 pm. Feeding starts approx 7:45pm. More information, visit http://www.cattyshack.org/

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