Coastal Companion

Your ultimate guide to the coast

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/

 

 

Things to Do in South Carolina – August 2011

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It’s been really hot and humid lately, but don’t worry, we have found many cool events in South Carolina for the month of August. The Arts and Craft festival in Myrtle Beach is inside the convention center – which right now doesn’t seem like such a bad. There is also a lot of music events in August. Cool off on the pier in Mount Pleasant while dancing the night away or head to Folly Beach fishing pier for the Moonlight Mixer or Fishing Tournament.

Here are a few ideas for what you can do with the family in South Carolina. 

Escape the heat

 

Craftmen’s Summer Classic Arts & Crafts Festival – Myrtle Beach

This arts and crafts festival at Myrtle Beach convention Center on Aug 5 – 7, 2011,   features original work from over 250 talented artists and crafts people. All juried exhibitors’ work has been handmade by the exhibitors and must be their own original design and creation. Visitors get the opportunity to study the creative process in action.  Many  exhibitors are demonstrating their craft in their booths. A Southeastern Tourism Society “Top 20 Event” and a Sunshine Artist Magazine “100 Best Classic & Contemporary Arts & Crafts Festival” winner. 

Admission: $7/Adult, $1/Child (6-12), Under 6 Free. Click here to get $1 off coupon to use at the door.

Hours: Fri. 10-6, Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5. Call 336-282-5550 for more information.

 

Mt Pleasant, SC
Dance the night away in Mount Plesant, SC

 

Shaggin’ on the Cooper – Mount Pleasant Pier

Dance the night away under the stars at the foot of the scenic Mount Pleasant when Pier 17 South plays beach music on Saturday, August 6 from 7:00 pm. Enjoy a cool ocean breeze and take in the view of Charleston Harbor and the Ravenel Bridge. Beverages will be available for purchase on-site. Only 800 tickets will be sold for this event, advance purchase is recommended.
Saturday, August 6, 2011
7 – 11 p.m. Live music starts at 8.Age: 3 & up. Tickets: $10/$8 CCR Discount/$10 on-site if still available. Visit our special events page for more info.

Reggae Nights at Wannamaker County Park – Charleston, SC

On Saturday, August 6, 2011 from 7:30 – 11 p.m.  the popular band Selah Dubb performs at Wannamaker County Park. Head out to the park with the whole gang to enjoy traditional roots reggae with a new school attitude under the stars. Visit our Reggae Nights page

Wine Stroll

 

Wine Stroll at Middleton Place – Charleston, SC

Every Wednesday in August,  Middleton Place will host wine tastings in a different gardens from 5:30 – 7:00 pm.

Middleton Place is known for having America’s oldest landscaped gardens. Now you can sample a variety of wines while taking an evening stroll in the gardens. Tickets are $15 per adult.

Tickets can be purchased by clicking here.

 

Moonlight Mixer – Folly Beach, SC

Spend time with your special someone and dance the night away at the Folly Beach Fishing Pier. DJ Jim Bowers of 1340 The Boardwalk will play all of the hottest oldies and beach music classics. Friday, August 12, 2011 from 7 – 11 p.m. More information about the Moonlight Mixer here.

Folly Beach Pier

 

Folly Pier Fishing Tournament

Great fishing is always available at the Folly Beach Fishing Pier, the second largest pier on the East Coast. On Saturday, August 20th, it’s time for a special tournament. Online registration is available, but ends Aug 18. Onsite registration is available August 20 beginning at 6:00 a.m. Prizes are awarded for the largest catch in the King Mackerel category and the three largest catches in the Big Fish category.

Saturday, August 20, 2011 from 6 a.m. – 4 p.m.

For details, call the Folly Beach Fishing Pier at (843) 588-3474. Ages 3 & up. Tournament held rain or shine. Fee: $12/$9 CCR Discount and $7 ages 3-12 CCR & NCR; $14/$12 CCR Discount (King Mackerel). More info at www.ccprc.com

Reggae Nights Concert – James Island County Park

The park comes alive when Jah Works brings the sounds of the islands! Bring a chair or blanket and rock the night away. Saturday, August 20, 2011 from 7:30 – 11 p.m.
Click here for more information about Reggae Nights.

Yappy Hour – James Island County Park

This is a fun event for both dogs and dog owners. Bring best four-legged friend to the park after work! Enjoy live music, beverages and meeting other local dog owners.  Thursday, August 25, 2011from 5 – 8 p.m.Free with regular park gate admission. More information at www.ccprc.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

Things to Do in Georgia – August 2011

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August is the month when kids go back to school and life returns to normal for many parents. But here on the coast Summer is far from over. Actually August is usually one of our hottest months, so there is no surprise that the month offers both cool jazz and and a beach music festival.

Savannah is a special place in the summer with its beautiful squares and gorgeous architecture. In the summer, downtown is usually filled with people from all corners of the world and the city takes on an international atmosphere.  

It’s always a pleasure to visit the riverfront in downtown Savannah, especially in the summer.  Lot’s of people, and lots of fun.  

SAVANNAH

2009 Heirloom Tomatoes

Attack of the Killer Tomatoes!
August 2, 2011
Restaurant Cha-Bella is inviting all tomato-lovers to the 2nd Annual Heirloom Tomato Festival – a special evening of heirloom tomato celebration. This event offers 14 different kinds of organic heirloom tomatoes. A four course killer tomato meal is available for $29.  Email farmboxharvest@cha-bella.c​om to reserve your seat – space is limited and will fill up fast. Call 912.790.7888 for more information.

 

First Friday Oyster Roast & Fireworks
August 5, 2011 at 7:30 pm – 10:30 pm 

Savannah Westin Hotel, GeorgiaThe Westin Savannah Harbor hosts a riverside evening celebration with live music, libations and hot fresh grill items & oysters for the first Friday every month. Call 912.201.2000 for more information or visit www.westinsavannah.com

Cigar Box Guitar Concert
August 6, 2011 at 7:30 pm
Come to a free concert with local blues/slide guitarists Eric Culberson, Georgia Kyle and Roy Swindell at The Ships of the Sea Museum Garden. The musicians will play Museum-model cigar box guitars in advance of the cigar box guitar making workshop on August 20. Video appearances by Richard Leo Johnson and Scott Ainslie. Refreshments available. More information at www.shipsofthesea.org or call 912.232.1511

 

Jazz it Up on the River
August 13, 2011 at 5 pm. 
Jazz – Just Across The River presents, Barbara Rosene In Johnny Mercer Tribute at the Westin Savannah Harbor. 
Barbara Rosene, who is the vocalist with the Harry James Orchestra will perform a tribute to the master of lyric, Johnny Mercer. Recently Ms. Rosene has been touring with The Harry James Big Band led by Fred Radke. They have been visiting cities all over America and Canada including performances at The Montreal Jazz Festival. 

The concert is free for Coastal Jazz Association members and $10 for non-members. For more info call: 912.920.1317

 

Low Country Boil at the Fort
August 27, 2011 from 6 – 9 pm.

This annual event is the only fundraiser for this National Historic Landmark and Georgia’s oldest brick fortification – Old Fort Jackson in Savannah. The event includes a silent auction, live music, a low country boil, and programming for kids and adults. Admission is free. Call 912.232.3945 for more information.

 

Something Old, Something New…
August 28, 2011 from noon  – 4 pm. 
Planning a wedding soon? This event will feature service providers for limousine, photography, music, flowers and rental furniture and equipment. See the very latest in fashions and wedding attire in the fashion show and experience culinary delights created by the Richmond Hill City Center team. The event takes place in Richmond Hill at the Richmond Hill City Center. Call 912.445.0043 for more information. Tickets $5.00 at the door.

ST SIMONS ISLAND

St. Simons is also busy in the summer.  In the evenings, lots of people walk down to the pier to watch the sunset or the fishermen.  If you’re lucky, you might even spot a dolphin or two.

Jazz in the Park
August 28, 2011 

The Jazz in the park series at the lawn of St. Simons Lighthouse has become a favorite summer event in the Golden Isles area. This month the concert takes place on Sunday, August 28 when  Just Jazz Quintet is performing. Read more about the event on our page for Jazz in the Park

JEKYLL ISLAND

Beach Music Festival on Jekyll Island, GA
August 12 – 13, 2011  

To me nothing says summer more than beach music.   The Jekyll Island Beach Music festival is held in Great Dunes Park which is the new park that was built on Jekyll Island. Everyone’s favorite beach music band “The Swingin’ Medallions” is performing again this year.  

Check out our video from the event on the special page for Beach Music Festival on Jekyll Island.


 

Things to do in South Carolina in July

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There are lot of events and fun happenings in coastal South Carolina during the month of July 2011. One of our favorite cities to visit is Charleston, SC, and there is never a shortage of things to see in Charleston. Here are a few of the events.

 

CHARLESTON

Shaggin’ on the Cooper

July 9, 2011
Shem Creek Boogie Band is performing at the  Mount Pleasant Pier during the Shaggin’ on the Cooper

Reggae Nights

July 9, 2011
Mystic Vibrations is playing in Wannamaker Park. Click here to read more about Reggae Nights.

Palette and Palate Stroll

July 15, 2011
Fine art and food connoisseurs will gather in Charleston to stroll through the historic downtown area, tasting food from twelve of the finest local restaurants inside twelve prestigious galleries.  More details available on our page for Palette and Palate Stroll in Charleston, SC.

Moonlight Mixer

July 15, 2011
Come to Folly Beach Pier where Jim Bowers of 1340 The Boardwalk will be spinning the hottest oldies and beach music. Read more about Moonlight Mixers here.

Reggae Nights

July 16, 2011
Da Gullah Rootz – James Island Country Park. Read more about Reggae Nights in Charleston.

HILTON HEAD ISLAND

HarbourFest Hilton Head Island

One of the best way to spend a summer evening is at HarbourFest. This event has become a signature event during the warmer season at Shelter Cove Harbour. HarbourFest offers live entertainment every night of the week, and there’s even fireworks. All events at HarbourFest are free and open to the public. HarourFest takes place from April through September. Click here to read more.

MYRTLE BEACH

Hot Summer Nights Myrtle Beach

Spend an evening or two on the Boardwalk in downtown Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. There is live music, entertainment and much more — even fireworks. Read more about Hot Summer Nights here.

BEAUFORT

Beaufort Waterfestival

July 15 – 24, 2011

The festival has a little bit of everything from Water Craft Sports, and fishing events, to air show, arts & crafts, pageant, Blessing of the fleet, lots of sports events, live music and more. Just take a look at the massive schedule of events – click here for more about Beaufort Water Festival.

 

In August

Hootie and the Blowfish Concert

 

July in Florida

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Many of my friends schedule their vacation time in July.  For us here in Florida, July usually means heat Summer. But many are just like us forced to stay at home to work in July. Actually July can be one of the best times on the coast of Northeast Florida. There is always a lot to do, and it’s always an nice to spend time outdoors during our Florida Summer evenings. 

 

JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA

 

First Wednesday Art Walk

The Art Walk in Jacksonville takes place on Wednesday July 6, 2011. The focus this month is dance with “Art Shook Up”as the theme. There are lots of interesting activities going on downtown.

Here are a few highlights:

Zumba is a growning workout trend, and if you are curious here is your chance to try it out for yourself during the Art Walk this month. Positively Fit is having a big Zumba Party at Hemming Plaza from 5.30 pm to 7 pm. I talked to Vickie at Positively Fit, and she said it is going to be a lot of fun. They will have a mini-stage and several instructors ready to go, so come downtown and join the fun! The Zumba party is open to everyone, even the complete newbie!

Mark’s Downtown is hosting free Tango, Salsa, and Swing group classes hosted by A Social Affair Dance Studios.

MOCA Jacksonville & Café NOLA – Presents “Deformance” by Liz Gibson at 7 p.m. 111 E. Bay St. Studios – F13RCE Dance Theatre presents “Reflections of Dance” at 7 p.m.

For more information about the First Wednesday Art Walk visit our special events page.

 

The Jacksonville Landing Market

Friday July 8, 15, 22, 29, 2011, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Vendors set up throughout The Landing selling locally-grown produce, baked goods, plants, pottery, arts and crafts and more. Every Friday 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. For more information call (904) 353-1188.

 

Riverside Arts Market

July 9, 16, 23, 30. The Riverside Arts Market is open every Saturday. Even though it can be hot and humid, it’s usually cool in the shade under the bridge. This is a great place to visit. There is always something fun going on. Now you can also take your boat to the Arts Market. For more information, check out our special events page.


Jazz at Jacksonville Beach

July 10, 2011 from 5 pm. In the summer you can listen to cool jazz at Sea Walk Pavilion in Jacksonville Beach during the Summer Jazz series. This is a free concert. For more information, call the  EVENTS HOTLINE at (904) 247-6100 press 3. You can read more on our special events page for the Summer Jazz series at Jacksonville Beach.

 

Summer Movie Classics – Florida Theatre

Sunday, July 10 at 2 pm.All Summer long you can escape from the Summer heat and relax with a good movie and good company at the Florida Theatre. The movie screened on July 10, 2011, is “Taxi Driver”.

Chris Tucker

Friday, July 15, 2o11 at 8 pm. The very funny guy Chris Tucker is coming to the Veterans Memorial Arena. Chris Tucker might be most popular for the Rush Hour movies, but he is also a great standup comedian. Click here to get your tickets! 

 

 

Family Fun Day

Saturday, July 16 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.It is the 2nd Annual Family Fun Day with dance and musical performances, bounce houses, water activities, arts and crafts, giveaways, face painting, Family Expo, demonstrations, special appearances by popular characters and much more at the Jacksonville Landing downtown. All events and activities are free.. There is also Live music in the Courtyard by Hipp Street 7 p.m. – 12 a.m.

 

Kingfish Tournament JacksonvilleKingfish Tournament in Jax

This is one of the biggest fishing events around.  The Kingfish Tournament last for six whole days! More details available on our special page for Kingfish Tournament

 

 

Toby Keith at St. Augustine Amphitheatre

Toby Keith with Aaron Lewis is coming to the St. Augustine Amphitheatre on  July 21, 2011 at 7 pm. Click here to buy your tickets now!

 

Britney Spears

Saturday, July 23 from 4 p.m. at the Jacksonville Landing

95.1 WAPE’s Brittney Spear’s Pre and Post Party featuring a Brittney Spears look-a-like contest, Brittney karaoke, giveaways including tickets to the concert, drink specials and more. Live music in the Courtyard by Little Green Men 7 p.m. – 12 a.m.

Britney Spears Concert at the Veteran’s Memorial Arena – July 23, 2011 at 8 pm.

Britney Spears with Jessie and the Toy Boys is coming to Jacksonville Veterans Memorial for a special concert. This is going to be a popular event, so don’t wait. Book your tickets now.

 

ST. AUGUSTINE, FLORIDA

 

St Augustine, Florida

 

Concerts in the Plaza

Downtown St. Augustine comes alive every Thursday night in the summer when it’s time for the Concert in the Plaza concert series. Bring your own chair or blanket to this free concert in the plaza. Performances in July 7, 14, 21,28. For details visit our special events page for Concert in the Plaza, St Augustine.

 

Uptown Saturday Night

Every month antique dealers and art galleries in the Old City’s San Marco District in Saint Augustine, Fla.,  hold the Uptown Saturday Night.  This is a monthly art event combines a festive party atmosphere with hospitality and special deals.  Uptown Saturday Nights takes place the last Saturday of  the month, so in the month of July that means Saturday, July 30, 2011.

The event takes place from 5 to 9 p.m.  Galleries, antique stores and shops between Ripley’s Museum and the Mission of Nombre de Dios in St. Augustine’s San Marco Shopping District stay open.

 

FERNANDINA BEACH, FLORIDA

 

Fernandina Farmers Market

Every Saturday from 8 am – 2 pm the Fernandina Farmers Market opens in downtown Fernandina on Amelia Island, Fla. Here you can find fresh vegetables, plants, fruit, cheese, arts and crafts and much more. Read more on our special page. 

 

More interesting posts from Florida to read:

Sounds on Centre in Fernandina Beach

Jacksonville City Page

 

St. Augustine City Page

 

 

 

 Opening of the Beaches - Sand Castle Competition Jacksonville Beach, Fl