Coastal Companion

Your ultimate guide to the coast

Things to do in Georgia – March 2012

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Spring is in the air, and festival season is getting into full swing, so this month is packed with happenings and events.

You have to taste the catfish!

Heart & Soul Festival
March 4, 2012
Kingsland, Georgia

The three most popular festivals in Camden County; the Rock Shrimp Festival in St Marys, Catfish Festival in Kingsland and Crawfish Festival in Woodbine are combining forces in a special festival where you get the opportunity to taste food from all the festivals. Taste tickets on sale now at Kingsland Visitor Center. The event takes place 2:00 PM – 5:30 PM lat North Shore’s Shell Cracker Clubhouse and is one of the events where the TV series Lovetown, USA is filming. For more information contact Kingsland CVB at 912-729-5999

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.

Peaches to Beaches

Peaches to Beaches Yard Sale
March 9 – 10, 2012
various locations in Georgia & Golden Isles

This popular yard sales takes place along the Golden Isles Parkway, US 341, from Middle Georgia to the beaches in the Golden Isles. It’s a 220 mile long yard sale paradise for those looking for a good deal. 

Jekyll Island Arts & Antique Festival
March 9 – 11, 2012
Jekyll Island Historic District

Jekyll Island is also located in the Golden Isles area, and on the same weekend, there is an Arts & Antique festival in the beautiful historic district on the island. 

st patrick's day savannah georgia
Green for everyone

St. Patrick’s Day in Savannah
March 9 – 17, 2012
various locations

This is one of the biggest and most popular events in Savannah. Actually, the parade is the second largest in the country – so expect a huge crowd. The official start of the celebration is the Greening of Forsyth Park Fountian at noon on March 9, 2012 in Forsyth Park. This event is followed by a family-friendly event to celebrate everything Irish in Emmet Park on March 10, 2012 – Tara Feis Irish Festival. On the same day, there’s also a parade on Tybee Island. But the big event is the St. Patrick’s Day parade on March 17. 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.

Bassekou Kouyate
Savannah Music Festival

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

Mardi Gras Festival in Coastal Georgia 2012

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Mardi Gras traditionally takes place before the fasting season of Lent, its origins go all the way back to the ancient Rome. Many cities continue the tradition today, for example Mobile, Alabama and New Orleans, Louisiana, and maybe the most famous celebration of them all takes place in Rio de Janeiro.

But did you know that here on the coast of Georgia, we actually have two festivals of our own.  St. Marys Mardi Gras Festival has a long tradition, in 2012 it will be;the 18th year for the family friendly Mardi Gras festival.  Tybee Island is slightly behind in years anyway – but the Tybee Island Mardi Gras Festival makes up for that with lots of activities, events and participants. 

Mardi Gras St Marys
The Annual Mardi Gras Festival and Parade will showcase festive floats and costumes. This is one of the most popular annual festivals in St Marys. Everyone comes downtown to view the Mardi Gras parade and catch beads.

A 10 a.m. parade will kick off the festival and the parade is followed by an action-packed day of entertainment, arts and crafts, and amusements. This year there is also a Chili Cook Off and a Pet Costume Contest. The, when the sun goes down , adults can continue to the Mardi Gras Ball.  A new King and Queen are chosen and prizes are awarded for best costumes. 

Tickets for the ball are available at the St. Marys Welcome Center and Once Upon a Bookseller in Downtown St. Marys. Beads are also available at the bookstore on days leading up to the festival. For more information, call 912-882-7350 or 912-552-0072.

The Mardi Gras Festival includes a parade and live entertainment on Saturday, February 18, 2012.
For more information, please call St Marys Convention and Visitors Bureau at 912.882.4000 or visit www.stmaryswelcome.com

Mardi Gras Tybee
Tybee Island is celebrating Mardi Gras for the second time this year.
Purple, gold and green flags will dress up Tybee Island for the party. Mardi Gras Tybee kicks off with a  Masquerade Ball on Friday, February 12th at 8pm, hosted by Fannies on the Beach. Tickets are $20 in advance, or $25 at the door.

On Saturday February 13th, there will be a Mardi Gras parade at 3pm down Butler Avenue and a street party with music and festivities on Tybrisa Street. Join the fun, listen to authentic Zydeco music featuring Brad Randell and the Zydeco Ballers, All American All Star Dixieland Review and Jeff Beasley Band. The music starts already at noon. Admission to the street party and parade viewing is free.

Read more on our page for Tybee Island Mardi Gras Festival


Tickets for the Fantasy Masquerade Ball can be purchased online at www.mardigrastybee.com

 

 

 

Holiday Season in St Augustine, Florida

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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.

During the nearly 250 years when St. Augustine served as the capital of Spanish La Florida, the residents marked the holiday season with a single white candle burning in a window at each home. Today, the Nights of Lights continues that happy tradition in a grand style that reflects the city’s 446 years of history

The iconic Bridge of Lions will once again provide an incredible display of lights. For the past five years, the bridge has been dark during the Nights of Lights due to a complete renovation and re-construction. This year, the bridge and the two new parks will be a welcomed addition to the holiday season. Together they will add tens of thousands of lights to the spectacular lighting display in St Augustine.    

Here are some of the events:


LIGHT- UP! NIGHT

Nov. 19, 2011 

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 celebration on Nov 19, 2011. 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.


MAYOR’S HOLIDAY LIGHTING GALA
Nov. 19, 2011

You can be a part of St. Augustine Mayor 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

ST. AUGUSTINE MARATHON WEEKEND
Nov 19 & 20, 2011

This is the first year for the marathon which promises to be a recurring holiday event. Where else can you participate in a full marathon, half marathon, 10K, 5K through the streets of the nation’s oldest city during the Nights of Lights. Winners will get to drink from the Grail of Endurance filled with fresh spring water from the world famous Fountain of Youth.   

 On Saturday there will be a 10K run at 7 a.m.; a Family 5K Run at 7:15 a.m.; and the St. Augustine’s Kids Race at 9:30 a.m. Then on Sunday at 6:05 a.m., the St. Augustine Full Marathon & Half Marathon wheelchair participant starts and at 6:15 a.m. the St. Augustine Full Marathon & Half Marathon starts. The Marathon course will be USATF certified. Each run take place at various locations between St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach and Crescent Beach. For more information and registration, visit www.StAugustineMarathon.com or call           305.716.1111 .


Magnificent view from the lighthouse

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


SUNSET/MOONRISE TOUR
Nov. 22, 2010 – Jan. 31, 2011 

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


HOLLY JOLLY HOLIDAY TROLLEY
Nov. 20 – Dec 31, 2011 

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


SANTA’S BIG RED CHRISTMAS TRAIN TOURS
Nov 20, 2011 – Jan 1, 2012 

 Get into the holiday spirit as our Big Red Trains transport you through our magical city to view the Nights of Lights celebration nightly from 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 6 -9 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Tickets are $7 for adults ages 12 and over and $3 for children ages 3-1. Ticket includes complimentary magical glasses that make the light displays extra amazing. December 2nd through 24th tours include stops at Santa’s Village and Prancer’s Putt-Putt for only $1 each!  904.824.1606  www.redtrains.com

CANDLE LIGHT TOURS OF VILLA ZORAYDA
Nov 25 – 26,  Dec 2 – 3,  9 – 10,  16 – 17, 23, 27,  30

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

 

44TH ANNUAL FALL ARTS & CRAFTS FESTIVAL

Nov 26 – 27, 2011

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. 

Phone: 904.824.2310


WINTER WONDERLAND

Nov. 26, 2011 – Jan. 02, 2012

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.

 

UPTOWN SATURDAY NIGHT

Nov. 26, 2011

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


FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK

Dec 2, 2011

Enjoy the latest exhibits, music, entertainment and refreshments at more than 20 St. Augustine art galleries.  Park for free at the San Sebastian Winery, 157 King Street, where sightseeing trains and trolleys offer free round-trips to the heart of the art district – or go on your own self-guided art walk. Galleries are open from 5 to 9 p.m.  For more information, call 904.829.0065 or visit www.artgalleriesofstaugustine.com.  

Phone: 904.829.0065


BRITISH NIGHT WATCH OPENING EVENTS

Dec. 2, 2011

Publicly declare your support for King George III in an authentic St. Augustine celebration from 1776.   At 4 p.m., gather in the Plaza de la Constitucion and receive the news of the heinous Declaration of Independence. Join the loyal St. Augustine Garrison and townsfolk as they hang the traitors John Hancock and Sam Adams in effigy and march them to and fro. Meet beneath the balcony of Government House to learn of the rebellious acts of the “patriots” in northern colonies.   Redcoats will be on alert to quell any dissention from the crowd. Experience a colonial mob firsthand! For the latest information, go to www.britishnightwatch.org

Phone: 904.819.2629


ST JOHNS COUNTY FESTIVAL OF TREES AT WORLD GOLF VILLAGE

December 2 – 11, 2011
The St. Johns County Convention Center and Renaissance World Golf Village Resort will showcase trees and wreaths decorated and donated by local businesses, organizations, families and friends from the community. The display 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. Admission is free. The trees and wreathes 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 favorites. Proceeds will benefit the St. Augustine Record’s Empty Stocking Fund and the United Way of St. Johns County. The World Golf Village is located at Exit 323 off I-95 in St. Augustine. For more information, visit the events calendar at www.WorldGolfHallofFame.org.

Phone: 904.940.4015

Dec. 04, 2010

day at the beachST. AUGUSTINE BEACH SURF ILLUMINATION

Light up your evenings when the Surf Illumination complements the seasonal lighting of A1A Beach Boulevard. The event includes the ceremonial lighting of the seasonal tree by the Mayor. Food and beverages are offered by local restaurants and many local arts and crafts vendors provide convenient shopping for the holiday season. Santa, musical performers and traditional carolers make it fun for all. This season’s lighting will be expanded to illuminate four buildings and most of the trees at Pier Park, creating St. Augustine Beach’s winter wonderland

Phone: 904.347.8007

57TH ANNUAL ST. AUGUSTINE CHRISTMAS PARADE

Dec. 3, 2011

The 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

BRITISH CAMP OPENS
Dec 3, 2011
At 9 a.m., enter St. Augustine’s Francis Field and experience Colonial Market Days featuring 18th century musicians and itinerant travelling performers that will delight all ages. Marvel at the skill of a Colonial Conjurer, watch a Punch and Judy Puppet Show, and enjoy the balancing act of Signora Bella. At 1 p.m., learn about Colonial Clothing of the era, when the Parade of Fashion is presented at 1 p.m. Then witness British Redcoats drill, meet a British Army Surgeon, interact with Townsfolk concerned about their liberty, immerse yourself in 18th lifestyles & politics of St. Augustine.   For more details, go to www.britishnightwatch.org .
THE GRANDE ILLUMINATION PARADE
Dec 3, 2011
March to the fifes and drums down the same St. Augustine streets marched through by British troops over 200 years ago. Then form up for the parade at 7:45 p.m. in front of Government House. The parade proper starts at 8:00 p.m. Saturday, December 3rd. Non-reenactors and other persons who wish to march along with the parade are invited to fall in behind the Civilians and Distaff. Candles will be made available for a donation from 18th Century Folk in the west garden of the Cathedral Basilica. For further information and updates, go to www.britishnightwatch.org  

 

3rd ANNUAL GARDEN CLUB CHRISTMAS TOUR OF HOMES

Dec 4, 2011
Enjoy the St. Augustine Garden Club’s annual tour that showcases a selection of St. Augustine’s most outstanding private homes. These beautiful decorated historic Florida style homes, welcome you to enjoy a taste of nostalgia in the colorful floral decorations and floral arrangements composed of natural materials designed and hand crafted by members of The Garden Club of St. Augustine. In addition, your ticket includes a delightful tea. The tour takes place from noon to 5 p.m. Admission is $20. For more information, and to purchase tickets, visit www.gardenclubofstaugustine.org.
ST. AUGUSTINE COMMUNITY ORCHESTRA PERFORMS HOLIDAY FAVORITES
Dec 9 & Dec 11, 2011
Come enjoy an orchestral presentation of Holiday Favorite music. St. Augustine Orchestra celebrates its 50th concert season with stellar performances in St. Augustine and Ponte Vedra Beach. On Friday, the Orchestra will perform at 8 p.m. at Lightner Museum, 75 King Street in St. Augustine and at 3 p.m. at Ponte Vedra United Methodist Church, 76 Roscoe Boulevard in Ponte Vedra Beach. For more information, visit www.staugustineorchestra.org.

REGATTA OF LIGHTS
Dec 10, 2011
Regale your eyes with a holiday parade of boats from 15 to 85 feet in length – sailboats, trawlers, shrimp boats, and many other vessels all-a-glitter with brilliant lighted displays ranging from patriotic to whimsical. Awards will be made for the best theme, most colorful, best in class, and best overall. Beginning at 6 p.m., the boats will light up Matanzas Bay between the Bridge of Lions and Castillo de San Marcos. The Regatta of Lights is sponsored by the St. Augustine Yacht Club. For more information, call 904.824.9725 or visit www.sayc2000.com.

SUNSET/MOONRISE TOUR
Dec 10, 2011
Enjoy the sunset, moonrise and Night of Lights from the most unique perspective in all of St. Augustine – the top of the Lighthouse!  This special event includes a champagne toast, provided by San Sebastian Winery, hors d’oeuvres from The Reef 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 Avenue.  The fee is $25 for non-museum members and $20 for members.  Reservations are required.  For more information, visit www.StAugustineLighthouse.com, or to reserve a spot, call 904.829.0745  
ST. AUGUSTINE COMMUNITY CHORUS, SING WE NOW OF CHRISTMAS
Dec 10 & 11, 2011
Enjoy this concert of English Carols and selections from “Messiah” presented by St. Augustine Community Chorus. Sing We Now of Christmas will take place at the Cathedral Basilica on St. Augustine’s Plaza de la Constitucion. The concerts will take place Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. For tickets and information, visit www.staugustinecommunitychorus.org.  
18TH ANNUAL HOLIDAY TOUR OF BED AND BREAKFAST INNS
Dec 10 & 11, 2011
Tour St. Augustine’s historic Bed and Breakfast Inns, all decorated in Holiday finery. This year’s tour theme is “Ghosts of Christmas Past” This year the innkeepers invite tour guests to peek into the past and learn about the sentimental stories or supernatural secrets that have inhabited their historic homes for decades, many for 100 years or more.   In addition to being able to enjoy each Inn’s dazzling Christmas season displays, tour participants will be able to enjoy taste treats throughout the Holiday Tour: Each Inn unites with one of St. Augustine’s leading restaurants and confectioners, who serve complimentary samples. The tour takes place from 1 to 5 p.m. each day; half of the inns welcome visitors on Saturday, and half on Sunday. Ticket purchased online are $25. After November 20, tickets are $35. Proceeds from the Holiday Tour will benefit the St. Augustine Record “Empty Stocking Fund”. For more information, visit www.staugustineinns.com
EMMA CONCERT SERIES: JACKSONVILLE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA HOLIDAY POPS
Dec 14 & 15, 2011
Once again the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra will regale St. Augustine with the ever popular Holiday Pops concerts. The concerts will be conducted by Mathew Kraemer, Associate Conductor of the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra. The concert takes place at 8 p.m. both evenings at the Flagler College Auditorium, 14 Granada Street in St. Augustine. Tickets are $30 per person. For more information, visit www.EmmaConcerts.com or call  904.797.2800 .   

ST. AUGUSTINE BALLET PERFORMS THE NUTCRACKER

Dec 17 & 18, 2011
Bring the children along to enjoy this delightful traditional holiday ballet. The performances will take place at 7 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and at 2 p.m. on Sunday. Performances are at the Flagler College Auditorium, located at 14 Granada Street in St. Augustine. Tickets are $20, $25 and $30. For more information, visit www.saintaugustineballet.com or call  904-810-5670 .  
  
OLD TOWN ART & CRAFT SHOW
Dec 28-29, 2011
Enjoy this juried art and fine craft show featuring artists and craftsmen from St. Augustine and from around the nation.  Paintings, pottery, glass, metal, jewelry, mixed media, fiber art, photography, wood working and much, much more will be featured!  The show takes place each day from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. at St. Augustine’s Francis Field, 14 W. Castillo Drive. Admission is free.   For more information, go towww.holidayartshows.com/old-town-art-craft-show.html or email lynn@holidayartshows.com.  


BEACH BLAST OFF 2011

Dec. 31, 2011
Kick off 2012 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 St. Johns County Fishing Pier and Pavilion, 350 A1A Beach Boulevard in St. Augustine Beach. For more information, call 904.829.5681 or visit www.beachblastoff.com

 

Phone: 904.982.2210

british night watch st augustine

Things To Do in Savannah – February 2011

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When I started looking for things to do, festivals, events and celebrations for the month of February, I didn’t think about history or presidential birthdays – all I could think of was little red hearts, roses, chocolate, champagne and maybe even a romantic weekend getaway for two. At least, that’s how I imagine a perfect Valentine’s Day.
Click here to get ideas about what to do for Valentine’s day in Savannah.  Then, let’s continue with the rest of the month. After all, there is a lot more to February in Savannah, GA, than Valentine’s Day events.

Savannah Restaurant Week
Yes, we know – the event started already on January 28 and probably shouldn’t make it on the list for February, but who can resist a restaurant week? During this event you can visit participating restaurants and get a three course meal for $30. Maybe you can celebrate Valentine’s Day early since this year Valentine’s Day itself falls on a xxday anyway. Savannah Restaurant week continues until February 6, 2011. Check out our special Restaurant Week page for details and participating restaurants.

In addition to celebrating Valentine’s Day, the month of February is also a time of year when we celebrate history. In Georgia, we have the Georgia History Festival taking place February 1 – 11, 2011. This festival offers a variety of different activities and events for both young and old. You might remember this event as Georgia History Days.

Here are a few of the highlights:

Saturday Feb. 6, 2011 – Super Museum Sunday
On this day you can visit many of Georgia’s museums for free. Bring the whole family for a day out exploring our history.

Feb. 11, 2011 – Georgia Day Parade
School children participate in this parade led by Oglethorpe himself.

Check out our special Georgia History Festival page for all the details.

Also in February, Savannah Black Heritage Festival from February 1 – 13, 2011. The highlight of the event is Grand Festival Day, a day of top entertainment is held in the Savannah Civic Center’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Arena on Saturday, February 12, 2011.

For more details, visit our special page for Savannah Black Heritage Festival.

President’s Day weekend is going to be an action-packed weekend in Savannah, with two festivals at the same time. First up, the book festival.

Savannah Book Festival has a new date this year. The festival is scheduled for February 18 – 20, 2011, which is a new date for this festival. During this three-day event, you get the chance to mingle and rub elbows with authors and book lovers. Read more about the festival right here – Savannah Book Festival

One of the most popular events this month is the Irish Festival also taking place on February 18 – 20, 2011, which is said to be the largest Irish Festival in the South. Not bad! Four stages, irish dance, music, food and much more. Read more on our special page about the Savannah Irish Festival.

Two Holiday Parades in Fernandina

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Two lighted holiday parades will be held back to back in downtown Fernandina Beach this holiday season – one by land, the second by sea – on Saturday evening, December 11, 2010.

The Lighted Holiday Land Parade will begin at 6:00 p.m. along Centre Street. The theme this year is “A Jingle Bell Christmas”. The grand marshal is Ms. Latrace Rowell, Executive Director of Florida Community Prevention Center, Inc., formerly the Healing Balm. Presented by America’s Youth, contact Vernetta Spaulding at 904-261-0801 for more information about the land parade.

The Fernandina Harbor Marina Holiday Lighted Boat Parade, presented by the Historic Fernandina Business Association, Westrec Marinas and the City of Fernandina Beach, will begin thirty minutes after the end of the Holiday Land Parade at the foot of Centre and Ash Streets (approximately 7:00 pm). The best lighted boat will be awarded a “Head of the Line Privilege” for an advanced boat slip reservation for the 2011 Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival.

The Fernandina Harbor Marina is also offering a Weekend Boaters Special for the parade weekend, which is one night reservation FREE with one night paid reservation. Call (904) 491-2090 to sign up, as spaces are limited.

Spectators are invited to bring their chairs and view both parades, first from along Centre Street and then move to the beautiful waterfront boardwalk. For more information about the boat parade, contact Sandy Price, at 904-206-0756