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2012-03-09T15:07:00.000-05:00

BIKE WEEK IS HERE!

The Irish are Coming! The Irish are Coming!

2012-03-09T11:25:00.000-05:00

2012 Celtic Music and Heritage Festival
It's here at last! Celebrate the Celtic Heritage that is such an important part of our Nation's oldest city. The fun begins with the second annual St. Patrick's Day Parade at 10 a.m. on Saturday. Then on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., at Francis Field located behind the St. Augustine Visitors Information Center, traditional Irish music, Scottish pipes and drums, contemporary Celtic Rock, literature, and all things Celtic will converge in celebration to honor St. Augustine's remarkable Celtic history and heritage dating back to its founding in 1565! The Celtic Festival features music by international headliners and regional stars, Clans, Celtic vendors, plenty of fun for kids and even a comic Irish play. Admission to the festival is $5 per day and VIP admission is $35 for the weekend and includes t-shirts and more. For more information, visit http://romanzastaugustine.org

Friday, Saturday & Sunday: March 9-11

Celtic Festival Pub Sessions
Get started on a week-long celebration of St. Augustine's Celtic heritage when more than a dozen Celtic musical performers entertain at several pubs in the Oldest City. For a complete list of performances through March 17 along with pub locations, go to: http://romanzastaugustine.org

House of Blue Leaves at Limelight Theatre
Come see this dark comedy set in Sunnyside Queens in 1965. As a zookeeper who dreams of making it big as a songwriter contemplates pursuing his dreams, committing his wife and helping his AWOL son, the only thing for sure is that the world around him will never be the same.Performance times are Thursday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. All performances take place at the Limelight Theatre, located at 11 Old Mission Avenue in St. Augustine. Tickets are $25 for adults, $22 for seniors and $20 for students and military. For more information, call 904.825.1164 or visit www.limelight-theatre.org

Kiss Me Kate
Don't miss this special production of Kiss Me Kate presented by Flagler College's Department of Theatre Arts. This sophisticated musical will be presented at 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and at 2 p.m. on Sunday at the Flagler College Auditorium in St. Augustine. Tickets are $20 and available from noon to 5 p.m. at the auditorium box office (cash or check only). For more information, call 904-826-8600.

Friday and Saturday: March 9 & 10

Turn and Burn Barrel Racing at St. Johns County Fairgrounds
Head over to the St. Johns County Fairgrounds to experience this display of excellent Horsemanship presented by youth & adults. The St. Johns County Fairgrounds is located at 5840 State Road 207 (approximately 7 miles west of I-95) in Elkton. http://fairgrounds.sjcvenues.com

Saturday and Sunday: March 10 & 11
2012 Celtic Music and Heritage Festival
It's here at last! Celebrate the Celtic Heritage that is such an important part of our Nation's oldest city. The fun begins with the second annual St. Patrick's Day Parade at 10 a.m. on Saturday. Then on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., at Francis Field located behind the St. Augustine Visitors Information Center, traditional Irish music, Scottish pipes and drums, contemporary Celtic Rock, literature, and all things Celtic will converge in celebration to honor St. Augustine's remarkable Celtic history and heritage dating back to its founding in 1565! The Celtic Festival features music by international headliners and regional stars, Clans, Celtic vendors, plenty of fun for kids and even a comic Irish play. Admission to the festival is $5 per day and VIP admission is $35 for the weekend and includes t-shirts and more. For more information, visit http://romanzastaugustine.org

Eco-Explorer Adventure
Go on a one-of-a-kind excursion for remarkable wildlife viewing aboard an Eco-Explorer boat. The naturalist-led adventure departs from the downtown St. Augustine City Marina at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Trips can be reserved for up to six guests -- $35 per passenger ages 12 and over and $15 for ages 2-11. For reservations, call 904-377-7245.

World Golf Hall of Fame Putting Championship
Put your putting skills to the test during the 8th annual World Golf Hall of Fame Putting Championship. Set on the Hall of Fame's 18-hole, natural grass putting course, you have a chance to compete for more than $10,000 in prizes including golf rounds at area courses, gift certificates and tickets to THE PLAYERS. Qualifying rounds are Saturdays and Sundays. Tee times are 10 a.m., 11 a.m. and 12 p.m. The Finals are April 2. Tickets are $35 each and include a free lunch, one practice round, admission to the Hall of Fame and a gift bag! For more information, visit www.WorldGolfHallofFame.org.

St. Augustine Community Chorus Performs "On Broadway"
Enjoy the exceptional vocal talents found in St. Augustine when the Community Chorus performs under the direction of Kathleen Vande Berg a varietyshow tunes and masterpieces from Broadway Shows. The performances take place at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday and 3 p.m. on Sunday at The Performing Arts Auditorium at St. Augustine High School, located at Varella Street. For ticket prices and more information, visit http://www.StAugustineCommunityChorus.org.

Saturday: March 10

Menorcan Heritage Celebration
Come learn about this unique cultural heritage found in St. Augustine. The Menorcan Heritage Society will hold their annual celebration from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the historic Llambias House, located at 31 St. Francis Street in St. Augustine. There will be demonstrations of mullet net making, Spanish dance performances, Menorcan foods, and story telling by Menorcan descendents. There will be t-shirts books and foods for sale. Admission is free. For more information, call 904.826.3388.

A Day in the Colonial Market
Step back in time and browse the wares of artisans who will be demonstrating and selling colonial crafts at the Colonial Spanish Quarter, 29 St. George Street in St. Augustine. In addition to demonstrations, exhibits and goods presented by a silversmith, blacksmith, jewelers, spice & tea traders, leatherworkers, woodworkers, beekeepers, local farmers piglets, needlework, soap makers, weavers, and a sponge monger, there will also be a petting zoo, lots of food and music and theatre troupes recreating life in an18th century colonial Spanish market. The event is from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and admission is free with a suggested donation of $1 per person. 904-825-6830

Civil War Sesquicentennial Federal Capture of St. Augustine
Spend a day at the Castillo de San Marco experiencing living history impressions of the Civil War.
The majority of Confederate forces from St. Augustine consisted of a company called the St. Augustine Blues. The city of St. Augustine was occupied by Federal forces for the majority of Civil War. The Castillo de San Marcos National Monument is located along the Bayfront in downtown St. Augustine. For more information, visit www.NPS.gov/casa.

Sunday: March 11
Bird Walk at Fort Mose
Come meet the birds at Fort Mose Historic State Park. Led by a park volunteer, this fun, informative walk takes place from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. and is open to birders of all levels. We'll view the rookery and search for marsh birds and migrating warblers. Please dress for the weather and bring binoculars and a field guide if you have one. Walk and park entrance are free. Visitor center entrance fees are $2 per person. Fort Mose is located at 15 Fort Mose Trail, on Highway 1, one mile north of Route 16. For more information, call 904-823-2232.

St Francis wins White Glove Award Again!

2012-03-05T15:52:00.000-05:00

The St. Francis Inn received the Donal A. Dermody White Glove Award in recognition of its outstanding performance in housekeeping. The award was presented as a result of an annual quality-assurance audit performed by The Property Review Program - an independent on-site inspection service serving the hotel and cruise industries. The St. Francis Inn is a member of the prestigious Superior Small Lodgings Program.

"One of the great things about these awards is that they are not given to simply recognize conformance to quality requirements. They reflect conformance to guest expectations," said Ben Hirschenfang, quality assurance auditor and chief information officer for The Property Review Program. "Innkeepers are challenged to meet the expectations of their guests and these awards confirm that's exactly what they have done."

Congratulations to our housekeepers and to Kelly Brooks, Inn Manager!

Art Walk, Drama, Privateers, and Hank Williams Jr!

2012-03-01T09:51:00.000-05:00

Art Walk, 2 new Plays Opening, Privateers Sack the City, and Hank Williams Jr - What a Weekend!

Friday: March 2
First Friday Art Walk
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
Worley Faver Pottery Demonstration
See the master at work beginning at 7 p.m. at the Worley Faver Gallery on Aviles Street in St. Augustine. This special demonstration by Worley is a First Friday Art Walk "must see". For more details, call the gallery at 904-860-1098 or visit Worley Faver on Facebook. Cellar Six is a partner for this event - for pre-demo dinner reservations, call 904-827 9055

Friday, Saturday & Sunday: March 2-4
Food For Thought Art Exhibit
Stop in the St. Augustine Art Association Gallery to see this tasteful juried exhibit.This exhibit combines both the literal images of food, such as still life, with imaginative thought-provoking interpretations of any subject that offers "food for thought." A food drive underscores the exhibit. The St. Augustine Art Association Gallery is located at 22 Marine Street in St. Augustine. The gallery is open Tuesday through Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 2 to 5 p.m. Admission is free. For more information, visit www.staaa.org
or call 904-824-2310.
House of Blue Leaves at Limelight Theatre
Come see this dark comedy set in Sunnyside Queens in 1965. As a zookeeper who dreams of making it big as a songwriter contemplates pursuing his dreams, committing his wife and helping his AWOL son, the only thing for sure is that the world around him will never be the same.Performance times are Thursday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. All performances take place at the Limelight Theatre, located at 11 Old Mission Avenue in St. Augustine. Tickets are $25 for adults, $22 for seniors and $20 for students and military. For more information, call 904.825.1164 or visit www.limelight-theatre.org
Kiss Me Kate
Don't miss this special production of Kiss Me Kate presented by Flagler College's Department of Theatre Arts. This sophisticated musical will be presented at 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and at 2 p.m. on Sunday at the Flagler College Auditorium in St. Augustine. Tickets are $20 and available from noon to 5 p.m. at the auditorium box office (cash or check only). For more information, call 904-826-8600.

Saturday: March 3
Searle's Sack of St. Augustine
Relive history as the Historic Florida Militia re-enact Captain Robert Searle's 1668 attack on St. Augustine. Searle and his privateers sailed from Jamaica to loot the silver ingots held in the royal coffers at St. Augustine. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the public can visit the raiders' encampment at the Fountain of Youth Archeological Park. Beginning at 5 p.m., the raiders will attack the city's Spanish soldiers and colonial citizens. Townspeople and soldiers will flee up St. George Street to the City's historic gate at Orange and Cordova Streets where the skirmish continues. For more information, call 904.534.6168, visit www.searlesbucs.com

Hank Williams Jr in Concert
Are you ready for some Hank Williams Jr? Originally, he copied and played his father's music, but as he grew older, he began to carve out his own niche and it was one that owed as much to country-rock as it did to honky-tonk. Williams retooled his image to appeal both to outlaw country fans and rowdy Southern, resulting in a string of Top Ten singles including the number one hits "Texas Women," "Dixie on My Mind," "All My Rowdy Friends (Have Settled Down)," "Honky Tonkin'," and "Born to Boogie." Hank Williams Jr. will be performing live at 8 p.m. (gates open at 6:30 p.m.) at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre, located at 1340 A1A in St. Augustine. Tickets are $29.50, $49.50, $62.50 and $100. For more information, visit www.StAugAmphitheatre.com

10th Annual Florida's Birding & Photo Fest, April 25 - 29, 2012

2012-02-29T14:17:00.000-05:00

Festival Features More Than 100 Birding and Photography Events!

ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. (Feb. 29)... Florida's Birding & Photo Fest will be presenting programs and tours led by some of the world's best bird and nature photographers during the 10th Annual Florida's Birding & Photo Fest, April 25 - 29, 2012.

Headquartered on the campus of the Whitney Laboratory for Marine Bioscience located on the Intracoastal Waterway south of St. Augustine, the Festival is one of the most celebrated of its kind in the nation, with attendees and participants flocking in from all over the world. For photographers - from beginner to professional - this is an opportunity to sharpen skills with lessons from true masters. For birders, it's a chance to gather with fellow enthusiasts and marvel at the incredible diversity of species here in northeast Florida.

The 2012 Festival features more than 100 exciting birding and outdoor photography events including Birding presentations on migration, warbler and shorebird identification, photography field workshops and classroom sessions about night and macro photography.

Workshop presenters include a "Who's Who" of the best in the business with credentials and experience that clearly establishes them as "world class" outdoor photographers. New to the festival this year are George Lepp, one of North America's best-known contemporary outdoor and nature photographers and a leader in the field of digital imaging, and Mike Moats, an award winning professional nature photographer who specializes in macro photography, or as he calls it, "tiny landscapes". Other popular photography presenters returning to this year's festival include Tim Grey, Chas Glatzer, Kevin Karlson, Greg Downing, Maxis Gamez, Deb Sandidge, Vinny Colucci and Melissa Southern.

In addition to the photography programs, more birding events and tours have been added to the festival, including kayak tours led by Ripple Effect Eco Tours and boat tours led by St. Augustine Eco Tours, as well as a series of trips led by world-renowned professional birding guides from Tropical Birding Tours.

Registration and tickets for Florida's Birding & Photo Fest workshops, seminars, trips and tours are available online at www.FloridasBirdingAndPhotoFest.com. Also on the site are lodging options, including the Festival's four beachside host hotels - Holiday Isle Oceanfront Resort, Hampton Inn St. Augustine Beach, Hilton Garden Inn St. Augustine Beach and Beacher's Lodge, each of which offers special rates to attendees.

Florida's Birding & Photo Fest is organized and hosted by St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra & The Beaches. Click here for more information: http://www.floridasbirdingandphotofest.com/PhotoFest/Birding_Tour_Guides.html

This Weekend's Events in St. Augustine

2012-02-24T15:43:00.000-05:00

Saturday: February 25

Living History Days at Fort Mose
Experience living history demonstrations as volunteers in period dress offer visitors a fascinating glimpse into the past. Program is weather permitting.The demonstrations take place from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Fort Mose State Park located at 15 Fort Mose Trail in St. Augustine. Admission is $4 per vehicle or $2 for pedestrians or bicyclists. For more information, call 904.823.2232 or visit www.floridastateparks.org/fortmose

Menendez Birthday Grand Procession
Everybody loves a parade - especially a 16th century exhibition. Enjoy this colorful and lively procession of authentic 16th Century reenactors, musicians and entertainers as they stroll along St. George Street to Lightner Museum for the opening of the Nocha de Gala, the 493rd birthday celebration of St. Augustine's founder Pedro Menendez de Aviles. The procession begins at 5 p.m. at City Gates, located at Orange and St. George Streets. For more information call 904-669-1485.

Casa Monica Nocha de Gala (Night of the Ball)
Be a part of this 16th century masked ball celebrating the 493rd birthday of St. Augustine's founder, Don Pedro Menéndez de Avilés. The celebration begins at 5 p.m. with a grand and exciting procession through downtown St. Augustine to announce the arrival of Menéndez and his colorful entourage. A cocktail reception and dinner will be followed by dancing to contemporary tunes. Gala attire is black tie or 16th century costume. The Noche de Gala takes place from 6:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. in the Lightner Museum Ballroom, 75 King Street in St. Augustine. Sponsored by the Casa Monica Hotel, this is St. Augustine's most exciting social event of the year. Tickets are $195 per person, or $75 per person for just the cocktail reception. All proceeds go toward the restoration of Lightner Museum.
nochadegala@casamonica.com

19th Annual RSVP Chocolate and Beyond Gala
Savor a parade of chocolate delicacies from many of the area's finest restaurants and specialty shops at this annual event hosted by the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program of St. Johns County. The gala begins at 6:30 p.m. at St. Augustine First Coast Technical Institute, 3640 Gaines Road. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at Whetstone's Chocolates and Cold Cow Ice Cream or by calling 904.547.3945

St. Francis Inn's Bozena Dobrzeniecki Wins ROSE Award

2012-02-22T12:51:00.000-05:00

Mike and Bozena Dobrzeniecki with her ROSE Award

The North Florida Hotel & Lodging Association bestowed its top housekeeping award - the ROSE Award (Recognition of Service Excellence) to our very own Bozena Dobrzeniecki last night at the 4th Annual ROSE Awards held at the Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront. The event was attended by St. Francis Inn owners Joe and Margaret Finnegan, Kelly and Mike Brooks, and Bozena and her husband Mike.

ROSE (Recognition of Service Excellence) Awards recognize Northeast Florida front line hospitality employees who demonstrate excellent customer service. These industry champions showcase the region's commitment to creating an extraordinary visitor experience. More than 150 employees were nominated and there were 74 finalists in the 24 categories.

Bozena started with the St. Francis Inn in February 2006. She quickly demonstrated that she was more than up to the task of making our guest rooms sparkle. In recent years she has taken on the additional responsibility of designing and arranging our fresh flowers for both the public rooms and guest rooms. Last year she also started taking care of the live plants around the Inn and they are flourishing. Bozena is a delight here at the Inn with her quick smile and sunny disposition.

CONGRATULATIONS, BOZENA!

WE ALL LOVE YOU!

St. Francis Inn circa 1936-1937

2012-02-20T11:36:00.000-05:00

From the St. Augustine Record: Photos of St. Augustine from the Library of Congress. Back in the 1930's the Inn was known as The Graham House. Notice the screen door on St. Francis Street?

# Title: Graham House, 279 St. George Street, St. Augustine, St. Johns County, Florida # Creator(s): Johnston, Frances Benjamin, 1864-1952, photographer # Date Created/Published: [1936 or 1937]

Beach Boys Coming to St. Augustine !

2012-02-16T07:38:00.001-05:00

The Beach Boys, one of the world's most legendary and influential bands, have reunited for a global 50th Anniversary Tour. Brian Wilson, Mike Love, Al Jardine, Bruce Johnston, and David Marks will be performing together for the first time in more than Two Decades.

The band will be performing at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre on May 2nd. Tickets go on sale Friday, February 24th at 10:00 am. Ticket prices will be announced shortly.

This Weekend Arts & Crafts Festival * St. Augustine Beach

2012-02-15T10:36:00.000-05:00

FEBRUARY 18-19, 2012
SAT. 10-5 SUN. 10-4
FREE ADMISSION!
FREE PARKING!

An array of Fine Art, Fine Crafts, Food, and Music by Patchouli (www.patchouli.net)!

2012-02-08T12:04:00.000-05:00

FRIDAY, SATURDAY & SUNDAY FEB 10, 11, 12
Harvey at Limelight Theatre

Enjoy this family-friendly comedy production about mild-mannered Elwood who insists his imaginary friend Harvey - a man sized rabbit - is real and his sister decides to have him committed. Performance times are Thursday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and this Sunday at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. All performances take place at the Limelight Theatre, located at 11 Old Mission Avenue in St. Augustine. Tickets are $25 for adults, $22 for seniors and $20 for students and military. For more information, call 904.825.1164 or visit www.limelight-theatre.org

SATURDAY FEB 11

Flight to Freedom
Participate in a unique living history event where you will meet a number of travelers on route to Fort Mose in Spanish St. Augustine, the first legally sanctioned free black settlement in the United States. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. there will be guided tours, food, drumming and music, authentic historic re-enactors, colonial weapons demonstrations and more. It all takes place at Fort Mose Historic State Park, located at 15 Fort Mose Trail just north of St. Augustine. Free shuttle service from the Old Jail at 167 San Marco Avenue will be provided. Admission to the park is $2 per person. For more information call 904.823.2232.

Citrus Harvest Festival
Explore several varieties of oranges, grapefruit, tangerines, lemons and limes at the historical Washington Oaks State Gardens Park citrus grove. The festival takes place form 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. At 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. there will be guided tours of the historic citrus grove, the perfect environment for you to enhance your knowledge of citrus. At 11 a.m. there will be a program on cooking with citrus by Ruth Micieli of Simple Gourmet. Other activities will include a plant clinic and the Friends of Washington Oaks will offer for sale "home-made" baked goods featuring citrus together with hot and cold beverages, and of course a plant sale. Admission is $5 per vehicle (up to 8 passengers) and $2 for pedestrians and bicyclists. For more information, call 386-446-6783 or email melissa.kafel@dep.state.fl.us

A Day in the Colonial Market
Step back in time and browse the wares of artisans who will be demonstrating and selling colonial crafts at the Colonial Spanish Quarter, 29 St. George Street in St. Augustine. In addition to demonstrations, exhibits and goods presented by a silversmith, blacksmith, jewelers, spice & tea traders, leatherworkers, woodworkers, beekeepers, local farmers piglets, needlework, soap makers, weavers, and a sponge monger, there will also be a petting zoo, lots of food and music and theatre troupes recreating life in an18th century colonial Spanish market. The event is from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and admission is free with a suggested donation of $1 per person. 904-825-6830

Changing of the Guard
Witness twilight time in colonial St. Augustine as soldiers guarding the town are dismissed for the night, and their replacements arrive to take over guarding Government House. The commander of the new watch puts the replacement soldiers through a rigorous drill before they take over their posts. The retiring soldiers are ordered to clear their weapons with the command of "Disparen!" The resounding blast of musket fire assures 18th century St. Augustine that the changing of the guard has taken place and the town is safe for the night. This traditional Spanish military parade travels along St. George Street from City Gates at 5:30 p.m. The changing of the guard takes place at 6 p.m. in front of St. Augustine's Government House in the Plaza de la Constitucion. The event is free. (This is the last Changing of the Guard of the season.) For more information, call 904.808-1999.

500 Years of History!

2012-02-06T15:27:00.000-05:00

Florida's Historic Coast Prepares for Commemorative Events

ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. (Feb. 6) - Long associated with Ponce de León's momentous voyage of 1513, Florida's Historic Coast (St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra & The Beaches) will serve as a center of studies and events related to the 500th anniversary of the first major landing by Europeans on the shores of what would become the continental United States.

Scholarly studies indicate that Ponce de León first sighted La Florida between March 27 and April 2. His last reported navigational fix prior to coming ashore was taken at noon on April 2. It showed his three-ship fleet was at 30 degrees, 8 minutes north latitude - just south of present day Ponte Vedra Beach. It is thought they moved slowly northward and anchored before sunset. The next morning, Ponce and his landing party came ashore.

To honor and celebrate Florida's rich Spanish - American heritage, Florida's Historic Coast will play host to numerous events and celebrations. These will begin in the spring of 2012 with the bicentennial of the Spanish Constitution, and will continue with the 500th Anniversary of Ponce's discovery of La Florida in 2013; the 50th Anniversary commemorations noting the pivotal role the City of St. Augustine played in the 1964 civil rights movement; and finally in 2015, the Commemoration of the 450th Anniversary of the founding of St. Augustine, the nation's oldest city.

Each day of the year, visitors to Florida's Historic Coast experience living history at a collection of exciting museums, parks and attractions. For current updates on all things Ponce de Leon in St. Augustine | Ponte Vedra on Florida's Historic Coast, become a Fan on the Ponce de Leon's 500th Facebook Fanpage.

Following are some upcoming events that commemorate Ponce de León and other Spaniards who came to Florida and first brought European culture to what would become the United States:

2012
March 3 - Searles Sack of St. Augustine: Captain Robert Searles 1668 Raid Reenactment
Relive history as the Historic Florida Militia re-enact Captain Robert Searle's 1668 attack on St. Augustine. Searle and his privateers sailed from Jamaica to loot the silver ingots held in the royal coffers at St. Augustine. Searlesbucs.com

March 19 - 24: Viva St. Augustine! Week
In 2012, Spain and most Spanish-speaking countries will celebrate the Bicentennial Anniversary of the Spanish Constitution, penned in 1812. Although short-lived, the decree of the Spanish Constitution two centuries ago is recognized as one of the most pivotal events in the shaping of governments worldwide. In March 1812, Spain called for all towns throughout the Spanish Empire to honor the constitution with monuments and by renaming their main plazas La Plaza de la Constitución. Completed in 1813, St. Augustine's Constitutional Monument is the only known remaining Spanish Constitucion Monument in the world. StAugustine-450.com

March 19: Former President Bill Clinton Speaks at St. Augustine Amphitheatre
March 21: Grand Opening of the St. Augustine Expo Center
March 23: A Spanish Legacy Black Tie Event
March 23 - 24: Spanish Grand Muster

May 3 to 6 - Culturally La Florida: Spain's New World Legacy
Experience this city-wide cultural exposition with demonstrations, traditions, folklore, music, lectures, and performances. As part of the educational and cultural programming to commemorate the 500th Anniversary of Ponce de Leon's 1513 discovery of La Florida, Flagler College, Florida Humanities Council, Florida's Historic Coast and the City of St. Augustine will host this exciting celebration that commemorates and educates about the cultural and heritage influences since the time of Florida's earliest Spanish settlements. CulturallyLaFlorida.org

May 14 to 19 - Romanza Week
A week-long music and art extravaganza to kick off St. Augustine's "anniversary years", 2012 to 2015, leading up to its 450th year as the Nation's Oldest and most romantic city. Romanza.org

May 19 - First Coast Opera: Viva España
Celebrate St. Augustine's Spanish heritage during this performance of Spanish song, dance and music. FirstCoastOpera.com

June 1 & 2 - Reenactment of Drake's Raid of St. Augustine
Relive history as the English corsair, Sir Francis Drake, and his raiders return to St. Augustine in an authentic re-creation of the 1586 sack of the city. DrakesRaid.com

June 23 - Battle of Bloody Mose
This exciting re-enactment commemorates the 1740 Battle of "Bloody Moosa" which forced the British to retreat from Spanish Florida. The settlement of Gracia Real de Santa Teresa de Mose, the First Free Black Settlement in North America, was home for hundreds of free blacks who escaped slavery from the English colonies to the north and became Spanish citizens. Fort Mose

September 7 to 9 - 16th Century St. Augustine Historic Encampment
Visit Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth Archeological Park to learn more about the 1565 founding of the nation's oldest city through authentic interactive reenactments and demonstrations. FountainofYouthFlorida.com

September 8
447TH St. Augustine Founders Day Celebration
Witness a reenactment of the 1565 landing of St. Augustine's founder, Don Pedro Menendez de Aviles. Ceremonies include presentations about St. Augustine and America's Spanish history and a celebration of Mass at the Mission's outdoor altar. MissionandShrine.org

October 20 - Bicentennial Commemoration of the Spanish Constitution of 1812
Relive the celebrations of the Spanish Constitucion during this reenactment of its proclamation in 1812 St. Augustine. There will be a dedicatory parade and authentic presentations in the Plaza de la Constitucion. StAugustine-450.com

November 17 & 18 - St. Augustine Marathon
A sanctioned St. Augustine 450th event, these full and half marathons are certified by USA Track and Field, also making the event a qualifier for the prestigious 2013 Boston Marathon. StAugustineMarathon.com

November 24 through January 31, 2013 - Nights of Lights
Tracing its origins to the Spanish tradition of displaying a lighted white candle during the Christmas holidays, the spectacular lighting in St. Augustine reflects the city's 448-year history while creating a beautiful setting for the holidays through January 31. Nightsoflights.com

2013:
January through March - Discover First America
A series of entertaining lectures and presentations that celebrate the history and heritage of Florida's Historic Coast. StAugustine-450.com

March 25 through April 2 - Viva St. Augustine!
A series of events and presentations celebrating the 500th Anniversary of Ponce de Leon's discovery of La Florida. StAugustine-450.com

Oyster Roast Saturday Feb 4, 2012 Noon-4pm

2012-02-03T07:40:00.000-05:00

Cathedral Parish School - just 2 houses up from the Inn on St. George Street - is sponsoring an Oyster Roast Saturday, Feb. 4, 2012 from 12:00 - 4:00pm. They will be serving steamed oysters, chowder, shrimp boil, wings, and hotdogs. They will also be selling beer and wine. There will be musical entertainment from two local bands and a kid's area with games and face painting.

There is a small admission to get in, food and drink are available for purchase. All-U-Can-Eat Oyster tickets will be sold for $25 at the gate. All proceeds will benefit Cathedral Parish School.

Rodeo, Harvey & Popular Art Walk This Weekend in St. Augustine

2012-02-02T08:09:00.000-05:00

FRIDAY FEB 4
First Friday Artwalk
Enjoy the latest exhibits, music, entertainment and refreshments at more than 20 St. Augustine art galleries. Don't miss potter Worley Faver and painter Russ Wilson, along with painters Claire Kendrick, Kristin Hosbein and Wendy Norton who will display a stunning collection of their work at the Worley Faver Gallery, 11A Aviles Street. 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.

Canvas, Clay Collage & Cutting Edge Art Exhibit
Stop in the St. Augustine Art Association Gallery to see this captivating juried art exhibit. "C"-ing is believing when four themes combine in one exhibit setting. Cutting Edge is defined as work that pushes the boundaries of ideas and/or materials. The St. Augustine Art Association Gallery is located at 22 Marine Street in St. Augustine. The gallery is open Tuesday through Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 2 to 5 p.m. Admission is free. For more information, visit http://www.staaa.org or call 904-824-2310.

FRIDAY, SATURDAY, SUNDAY FEB 4-6

Harvey at Limelight Theatre

Enjoy this family-friendly comedy production about mild-mannered Elwood who insists his imaginary friend Harvey - a man sized rabbit - is real and his sister decides to have him committed. Performance times are Thursday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. There will be an additional performance at 7:30 p.m. on Sunday, February 12. All performances take place at the Limelight Theatre, located at 11 Old Mission Avenue in St. Augustine. Tickets are $25 for adults, $22 for seniors and $20 for students and military. For more information, call 904.825.1164 or visit www.limelight-theatre.org.

Pro Riding at St. Johns County Fairgrounds
Head over to the St. Johns County Fairgrounds for a fun-filled evening of bull riding and calf roping. This exiting rodeo takes place at 8 p.m. each evening. Tickets are $12 for ages 12 and older and $8 for students ages 6 to 11. The St. Johns County Fairgrounds is located at 5840 State Road 207 (approximately 7 miles west of I-95) in Elkton. For more information, visit http://stjohnscountyfairgrounds.com.

Events: History, Shopping, and Music

2012-01-27T08:15:00.000-05:00

Saturday Jan 28

School of the 16th Century
Learn 16th Century Living History techniques including: Black Powder Weapons, cooking, navigation, creating a historic persona, research, clothing and more! This one-of-a-kind living history school takes place at Ponce De Leon's Fountain of Youth Archeological Park, 11 Magnolia Street. Admission to the Park is $10 adults and $6 for Children 6 - 12. Children under 6 are free. For more information, visit http://www.fountainofyouthflorida.com/index.php, or call (904) 829-3168.

Uptown Saturday Night

From 5 to 9 p.m. on the last Saturday of each month, experience live music, refreshments, new exhibits, book signings and much more at the galleries, antique stores and unique shops on St. Augustine's San Marco Avenue between Ripley's Museum and the Mission Nombre de Dios. The Mission Nombre de Dios provides FREE PARKING. For more information, call 904.823.9263.

EMMA Concert Series: Marika Bournaki

Enjoy a piano concert by nineteen year old pianist Marika Bournaki. Bournaki is quickly emerging as an exciting young artist with an extraordinarily engaging musicianship; as one critic noted, her playing exudes passion. The concert takes place at 8 p.m. at the Flagler College Auditorium, 14 Granada Street in St. Augustine. Tickets are $25 per person. For more information, visit www.EmmaConcerts.com or call 904.797.2800.

Sunday: January 29

Travis Tritt in concert

Enjoy a lively country/rock performance by the legendary Travis Tritt at the Ponte Vedra Concert Hall. Tritt has been on the country music scene since the 90s and won two Grammy awards for his work on the singles "The Whiskey Ain't Workin'" and "Same Old Train." Doors open at 7 p.m. p.m. and the show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets are reserved seating at $65.50 and $77.50. The Ponte Vedra Concert Hall is located at 1050 A1A North in Ponte Vedra Beach. For more information, call 904.209.0367or visit www.PVConcertHall.com.

HOLIDAY TOURS AND ATTRACTIONS
Last Weekend To Enjoy The Nights of Lights -- Selected by National Geographic as one of the 10 Best Holiday Lights Displays in the WORLD!

Martina McBride, Lyle Lovett & John Hiatt in St. Augustine!

2012-01-25T13:52:00.000-05:00

St. Augustine Amphitheatre Announces 2 New Shows:

Country Superstar Martina McBride will perform on Friday, April 13th, 2012. Martina McBride is a multi-platinum performing artist who has sold over 18 million albums worldwide. In addition to album success, Martina has won the Country Music Association's "Female Vocalist of the Year" award four times and the Academy of Country Music's "Top Female Vocalist" award three times.

Tickets for this show will go on sale Friday, January 27th at 10am.

Lyle Lovett and John Hiatt are bringing their co-headlining tour to the Saint Augustine Amphitheatre on Friday, March 23rd, 2012. Lyle Lovett is an American singer-songwriter and actor. Since 1980 he has recorded thirteen albums and released 21 singles to date. John Hiatt is an American rock guitarist, pianist, singer, and songwriter. Hiatt began his solo career in 1974, and over the next decade he ran through a number of different styles from rock & roll to to new wave pop before he finally settled on a rootsy fusion of rock & roll, country, blues and folk.

Tickets for this show will go on sale Friday, January 27th at 10am.

St. Augustine Events: Film Festival, Harvey, Fun Run, Cemetery Tours & More

2012-01-19T09:33:00.003-05:00

FRIDAY, SATURDAY, SUNDAY * JAN 20-22

St. Augustine Film Festival
Challenge your imagination and celebrate films at St. Augustine's Flagler College Film Festival, the newest film festival venue sponsored by the Ft. Lauderdale Film Festival. Starting Thursday evening, watch movies and party with the film makers. Each film ticket is $10 general admission and $8 for students and seniors. FAST Passes are available for $15 for films only and $45 for films and parties. For a complete schedule of the films presented at various locations on the Flagler College Campus, visit http://www.fliff.com/St._Augustine, or call 904-826-8522.

Harvey at Limelight Theatre
Enjoy this family friendly comedy production about mild-mannered Elwood who insists his imaginary friend Harvey - a man sized rabbit - is real and his sister decides to have him committed. Performance times are Thursday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. All performances take place at the Limelight Theatre, located at 11 Old Mission Avenue in St. Augustine. Tickets are $25 for adults, $22 for seniors and $20 for students and military. For more information, call 904.825.1164 or visit www.limelight-theatre.org.

SATURDAY, JAN 21

Matanzas 5K & Fun Run
This 5K run begins from Swing Park at Francis Field, located on Castillo Drive in St. Augustine, and continues downtown along the bay front. The race starts at 9 a.m. An awards ceremony follows the race. Registration is $15 in advance, $25 the day of the race.
www.ancientcityrr.org 904.461.1615

Tolomato Cemetery Tours

Come explore the historic markers at the oldest extant cemetery in Florida. The self-guided and docent-led tours are from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Tolomato Cemetery is located on Cordova Street, the site of an earlier Franciscan Indian mission (Our Lady of Guadalupe of the Tolomato) in St Augustine. Burials officially ceased in 1884. Visits are free of charge, but visitors are encouraged to offer a donation. All money goes to the preservation and restoration of the cemetery. For more information, visit www.tolomatocemetery.com.

HOLIDAY TOURS AND ATTRACTIONS

ST. AUGUSTINE GOLD TOURS NIGHTS OF LIGHTS

Tour the dazzling display of lights in comfort and style with just 7 passengers on all electric silent shuttle bus with individual seat restraints. All tours are $7 (inclusive of 3D glasses) starting and finishing at the Old Drug Store car park on Orange Street where the kids can meet Santa.

Tours take place each night, except Tuesday from 5 till 10 p.m. For more information, call 904.325.0547, or visit www.staugustinegoldtours.com.

NIGHTS OF LIGHTS SUNSET SAIL

See the glittering Nights of Lights from the deck of a authentic 19th century schooner! Every night now through January will feature a memorable and beautiful sunset Nights of Lights cruise aboard the Schooner Freedom. The two-hour cruise departs from the St. Augustine City Marina at 4:15 p.m. Tickets are $45 per adults, kids 2-12 are $35, under 2 sail free, complimentary beer, wine, soda, and water provided. For reservations, call 904.810.1010.

PRIVATE NIGHTS OF LIGHTS TOUR CHARTERS

Plan a private tour of the Nights of Lights for your large group. Old Town Trolley Tours offers a special 40 minute tour for groups of 20 or more. Tours are available in advance every night. Private tour rates are $9 for adults and $4 for children. Tours depart from the Visitor Information Center, located at 11 W Castillo Drive in St. Augustine. For more information, call 904.829.3800

NIGHT OF LIGHTS CARRIAGE AND WINE TOUR

Step aboard an old-fashioned horse-drawn carriage and meander the historic streets in true southern comfort on this hour long tour. While you enjoy St. Augustine's spectacular light display, snuggle up and indulge in delicious Spanish boutique wines. $49 per person. Tours are held Tuesday through Sunday at 6, 7 and 8 p.m. Last tour date is January 29. Reservations are required. 904.325.3911 www.thetastingtours.com

2012-01-12T13:11:00.000-05:00

FRIDAY, JAN 13
Shelter - A Photographic Exhibition
"Shelter," an exhibition of the exceptional photographs of Mark Ruwedel, opens with a reception from 5-9 p.m. at the Crisp-Ellert Art Museum at Flagler College in St. Augustine. A professor of photography at California State University in Long Beach, Ruwedel has spent more than 25 years photographing the open landscapes of western North America and documenting evidence of the West's ancient inhabitants. The exhibition will be on view through February 24. Admission is free. For more information, call 904-826-8530 or go to www.flagler.edu/our-community

FRIDAY & SATURDAY, JAN 13-14

Chocolate and Wine Pairing
Join Whetstone Chocolates, St. Augustine's original chocolate family, every Friday and Saturday at 6 p.m. for a 1-1/2 hour chocolate and wine pairing event. Learn the similarities of growing and harvesting grapes and chocolate. Taste four different wines as each is paired with a unique chocolate piece. Experience the difference in flavor profiles with each wind and bite of chocolate. Must be 21 years or older to participate. Adults are $25 per person and includes a sample box of chocolate to take home. Reservations are required and can be made by calling 904-217-0275. Pairing event takes place at Whetstone Chocolates, 13 Anastasia Blvd.

SATURDAY & SUNDAY, JAN 14-15

Fee Free Days at Castillo de San Marcos
In Celebration of Martin Luther King Jr Weekend, admission to the Castillo de San Marcos is free on Saturday, Sunday and Monday.. Built by the Spanish military between 1672 and 1692, the Castillo de San Marcos is the oldest masonry fortification in the U.S. Friday through Saturday visitors can experience living history during Spanish Military cannon firings. The Castillo de San Marcos is located on Avenida Menendez, overlooking Matanzas Bay in historic St. Augustine. www.NPS.gov/casa

SATURDAY, JAN 14

The Maritime World of Ponce de Leon
Get a close-up look a the daily life of Spanish mariners sailing the Caribbean in the 16th century when Florida Living History presents The Maritime World of Juan Ponce de Leon. Developed in partnership with the First Light Maritime Society, the presentation will take place from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. at the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Museum in St. Augustine, Florida, the oldest, continually occupied European settlement and port in the continental United States. Throughout the day, re-enactors will show how Spanish mariners lived and worked - with special emphasis on Ponce de Leon's fleet that discovered Florida in 1513. The navigation tools used to find their way will be demonstrated. Admission is free. For more information, go to www.floridalivinghistory.org or call the Lighthouse at 904.829-0745.

A Day in the Colonial Market
Step back in time and browse the wares of artisans who will be demonstrating and selling colonial crafts at the Colonial Spanish Quarter, 29 St. George Street in St. Augustine. There will also be a petting zoo, lots of food and music and theatre troupes recreating life in an18th century colonial Spanish market. The event is from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and admission is free with a suggested donation of $1 per person. 904-825-6830

Changing of the Guard
Witness twilight time in colonial St. Augustine as soldiers guarding the town are dismissed for the night, and their replacements arrive to take over guarding Government House. The commander of the new watch puts the replacement soldiers through a rigorous drill before they take over their posts. The retiring soldiers are ordered to clear their weapons with the command of "Disparen!" The resounding blast of musket fire assures 18th century St. Augustine that the changing of the guard has taken place and the town is safe for the night. This traditional Spanish military parade travels along St. George Street from City Gates at 5:30 p.m. The changing of the guard takes place at 6 p.m. in front of St. Augustine's Government House in the Plaza de la Constitucion. The event is free. For more information, call 904.808-1999.

Limelight Theatre 20th Anniversary Celebration
Enjoy twenty songs from twenty seasons celebrating 20 years of great theatrical performances at Limelight Theatre in St. Augustine. This dazzling performance features cast members and musicians form previous Limelight productions and guest artist appearances form First Coast Opera, St. Augustine Community Chorus and the St. Johns County Center for the Arts. The celebration takes place at Flagler College Auditorium, 14 Granada Street in St. Augustine. Tickets are $40 each. www.limelight-theatre.org.

SUNDAY, JAN 15

EMMA Concert Series: America's Dream Chamber
Experience America's Dream Chamber Artists musical performance that is changing the face of chamber music, bringing about a resurgence of the great chamber music masterworks with renewed and energized freedom and expression, making it approachable and enjoyable to all audiences. The concert takes place at 2 p.m. 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.

2012-01-05T11:14:00.000-05:00

Friday: January 6
FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK
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

FIGURE AND PORTRAIT ART EXHIBIT
Stop in to the St. Augustine Art Association Gallery to view artistic works with a primary subject of the human body or face. Figure studies, including academic drawings, formal portraits or busts, people in groups. The gallery is located at 22 Marine Street in St. Augustine. Hours are Tuesday through Saturday noon to 4 p.m. and Sunday 2 to 5 p.m. Admission is free. For more information, call 904.824.2310 or visit www.staaa.org.

Friday, Saturday and Sunday: January 6-8
PIERCING THE DARKNESS
Recapture the trials, tribulations and triumphs of St. Augustine Lighthouse Keepers at this special one-man presentation by Lee Weaver. This world premier presentation is for this weekend only at the Limelight Theatre, 11 Old Mission Avenue in St. Augustine. Performances are Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets are $20. For tickets, call 825-1164.

Saturday and Sunday: January 7 & 8
THE LAST STAND: TEXAS RANGERS AND THE OUTLAWS
Saddle up and head over to the American Tactical Training Arms Center in St. Augustine for the biggest shootout since the OK Corral! More than 400 Cowboys, Cowgirls, Buckeroos and Buckerettes dressed in full Western attire will demonstrate their skills with six-guns, shotguns and lever-action rifles at one of the nation's largest shooting competitions. Hosted by the Ancient City Shooting Range and Ghost Town Gunslingers, this event is the State of Florida Championship Match. Action takes place 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday and Saturday; and the Top Gun Shoot-Off featuring the 32 highest scoring competitors is at High Noon on Sunday. The Arms Center is located adjacent to the St. Johns County Agricultural Center just off SR 16 west of I-95. Admission is free. For more details, call 904-808-8559 or email misusina@gmail.com

NATURE MOVIES AT GTM RESERVE
Every Saturday and Sunday in January the GTM Reserve features the nature movie "Jean-Michel Cousteau Ocean Adventures". Peabody and Emmy Award-winning Jean-Michel Cousteau and his acclaimed diving teams as they explore a thrilling array of natural phenomena, investigate little known territories and ecosystems hundreds of feet beneath the ocean's surface, and come face to face with the friendly and ferocious inhabitants of the deep in this film. Showings are at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. The GTM Environmental Education Center (EEC) is located at 505 Guana River Road, Ponte Vedra Beach. There is no cost to see the movie. Tours of the GTM Environmental Educations Center are available before or after the film and the cost is $2.00 for adults, $1.00 for children age 10 to 17 and children under 10 are free. For more information, call 904-823-4500.

Saturday: January 7
EMMA CONCERT SERIES: Trio con Brio Copenhagen

Enjoy a beautiful musical performance by Trio con Brio Copenhagen, whose family ties, cultural blending and musical connections all converge to color, shape and energize the concerts they present worldwide. The concert takes place at 8 p.m. at the Flagler College Auditorium, 14 Granada Street in St. Augustine. Tickets are $25 per person. For more information, visit www.EmmaConcerts.com or call 904.797.2800.

NIGHTS OF LIGHTS CONTINUES THROUGH THE MONTH OF JANUARY...

Man Who Thought of Nights of Lights 18 Years Ago is Surprised at Success | News | St. Augustine News

2011-12-22T09:35:00.000-05:00

Man Who Thought of Nights of Lights 18 Years Ago is Surprised at Success | News | St. Augustine News

Have You Made Your New Year's Eve Plans Yet?

2011-12-21T09:23:00.000-05:00

447th Consecutive New Year's Eve Celebration!
GREET 2012 WITH EVENTS, FOOD AND FUN ON FLORIDA'S HISTORIC COAST
(News from the Visitors & Convention Bureau)

ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. (Dec. 19) - Looking for a different place to celebrate New Year's Eve? Why not come to Florida's Historic Coast where residents have welcomed the arrival of the New Year more often than any other place in the United States? This will be the 447th consecutive year St. Augustinians have celebrated the passing of the old and the arrival of the New Year.

All that experience with New Year's Eve revelry makes Florida's Historic Coast the perfect location for saying good-bye to 2011 and hello to 2012. There's something here for anyone looking for a memorable way to start the New Year. For example:

Beach Blast Off 2012: 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 10 p.m. After things cool off from the chili - the Fireworks synchronized to music 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. For more information, call 904.829.5681 or visit www.beachblastoff.com

Laughs and BBQ: Start the New Year right with lots of laughs and great Down Home eating when St. Augustine' Limelight Theatre presents a special presentation of Duck Hunter Shoots Angel - the hilarious story of two Southern hunters who believe they have shot down an angel! In keeping with the show's theme, the buffet dinner will feature barbecue with Krispy Kreme donuts for dessert. Tickets for the show and buffet are $50 and may be purchased by calling the box office at 904.825.1164 or online at www.Limelight-Theatre.org. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show starts at 8 p.m.

Fine Dining: Bid farewell to 2011 with an unforgettable New Year's Eve dinner at one of the fine restaurants on Florida's Historic Coast. Explore the exquisite tastes of Italy or take advantage of the Surf & Turf (Lobster and Filet Mignon) dinner at Amici's, 1915 A1A South in St. Augustine. The Surf & Turf special is only $29.. Call 904.461.0102 or go to www.amicistaugustine.com for more information. At the beach, Café Atlantico (647 A1A Beach Boulevard, St. Augustine) offers a special five-course New Year's Eve dinner with an entrée choice of Catch of the Day over Mediterranean ratatouille and cream of plum tomatoes or Beef Wellington with a mushroom,-cognac reduction - all for $75 per person. For reservations, call 904.471.7332 or go to www.cafeatlantico.net . Get a taste of France when Chef Jean-Stephane Poinard shares the award-winning menu he presented in November at the James Beard House in New York City. This special New Year's Eve treat begins with a mise en mouche and climaxes with a pear poached in Beaujolais Nouveau -- all for only $69 per person, plus tip and taxes. Bistro de Leon is located on St. Augustine's Plaza de la Constitucion at 12 Cathedral Place/ Phone: 904.810.2100 or www.bistrodeleon.com For more continental cuisine, enjoy fine dining with a Russian flair a Sara's Crepe Café. From 10 p.m. until 3 a.m., enjoy a three-course pre-fix menu featuring appetizers like blini with caviar, fried potato with mushrooms, and shrimp cocktail followed by entrees including prime rib, Cornish hens in garlic sauce and pasta with fresh basil oil sauce. For the perfect conclusion, there's dessert and champagne. The dinner package is $75. Plus, there is live entertainment throughout the evening! Sara's Crepe Café is located at 100 St. George Street, Suite F in St. Augustine. Call 904.810.5800 or go to www.sarascrepecafe.com . And for the golf fan, there's nothing more memorable than New Year's Eve dinner at the beautiful TPC Sawgrass. From 5-9 p.m. enjoy a delicious a la carte dinner and live music in an unmatched setting. For details and reservations, call 904.453.5105

Piratical Party: Join the crew of the pirate ship Black Raven as she sails across Matanzas Bay in search of 2012! Great food washed down with the finest brews, plus sea shanties, a Pirate DJ and non-stop partying. The Black Raven casts off from the St. Augustine Marina at 10:15 p.m. Tickets are adults only (21+) $65 per person. For more information and reservations, call 904.826.000 www.BlackRavenAdventures.com

Wine, Food and Carriages Too: Explore the Oldest City's culinary, wine and beer heritage on a series of New Year's Eve walking and carriage tours. Taste the best St. Augustine has to offer on the three-hour Vittles and Vino Carriage Tour. Sample wines and food at one-of-a-kind specialty shops and eateries with transportation provided by a horse-drawn carriage. Tours are priced at $99 per person and depart at 2 p.m. Nights of Lights Wine and Carriage Tours take you on a tour of the spectacular Night of Lights aboard a horse-drawn carriage while indulging in delicious Spanish boutique wines. These one-hour tours are available for $45 per person and depart at 6 p.m., 7:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. (Private tours can also be arranged.) Departing at 5 p.m., the Barley and Hops Beer Tours features a walking tour filled with fascinating facts about brewing as well as sampling of outstanding local brews. Tickets are $46 per person. Start the New Year's Eve celebration at 4 p.m. with the Wine About Town tour - a 2.5 hour strolling tour featuring exclusive wine samplings gourmet cheese and fresh baked breads. Tickets are $56 each. For details, reservations and more information about these tours, call 904.325.3911 or visit www.thetastingtours.com

Weekend Events: Candlelight Tour, Winter Wonderland, The Nutcracker Ballet, and more!

2011-12-15T09:20:00.000-05:00

Friday and Saturday: December 16 & 17

CANDLE LIGHT TOURS OF VILLA ZORAYDA

Explore the beautiful Villa Zorayda, decorated for the Holiday season, featuring a Christmas tree in the "Court of Lions", decorated in the Villa's traditional red and gold and a beautiful crèche nativity scene that that has been a Villa tradition since the 1930s. On Friday at 6 p.m., enjoy refreshments of cookies and punch. Candles are aglow throughout the museum as the docent led candlelight tour begins at 6:30 p.m. On Saturday, enjoy refreshments at 5:30 and tour at 6 p.m. Tickets are $16 for adults and $8 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. For more information, visit www.villaZoryada.com or call 904.829.9887.

Friday, Saturday and Sunday: December 16-18

WINTER WONDERLAND AT ST. AUGUSTINE AMPHITHEATRE

Bring the whole family to enjoy St. Augustine's Winter Wonderland which features a real ice skating rink, ice slide, Elf Express train rides, The Elf Village, sleigh rides and SNOW! There are even scheduled visits from Santa. Adults are welcome to relax and enjoy refreshments in the Igloo Lounge (21 and up only). St. Augustine Amphitheatre is located at 1340 A1A St. Augustine. Hours are November 26 through December 16, Monday through Friday 5 to 10 p.m.; Saturdays and Sundays from 2 to 10 p.m..; and December 17 through January 1 from 2 to 10 p.m. daily except Christmas Day (5 - 10 p.m.) and New Year's Eve (noon to 5 p.m.) Admission is free with activity participation fees. For more information, call 904.209.0367 or visit www.WinterWonderlandFlorida.com.

ST. AUGUSTINE BALLET PERFORMS THE NUTCRACKER
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.

FANTASTIC FLORIDA ART EXHIBIT

Stop in to the St. Augustine Art Association Gallery to view artistic impressions at one of the Association's most popular shows that exhibits celebrates the sights and structures, beaches and byways, flora and fauna that make Florida fantastic. The show runs through December 30. The gallery is located at 22 Marine Street in St. Augustine. Hours are Tuesday through Saturday noon to 4 p.m. and Sunday 2 to 5 p.m. Admission is free. For more information, call 904.824.2310 or visit www.staaa.org.

FREEDOM SUNSET SAIL

Board the beautiful Schooner Freedom for a sailing adventure that includes a gorgeous sunset and the Oldest City aglow in Nights of Lights splendor. The schooner departs daily at 4:15 p.m. from the St. Augustine City Marina. Soda, beer, wine and blankets are provided -- passengers are more that welcome to bring a picnic basket or a thermos of hot chocolate. Tickets for the two-hour tour are $45 per adult; kids 2-12 are $35 each; children under 2 sail free. For reservations, call 90.810.1010.

LIMELIGHT THEATRE: DUCK HUNTER SHOOTS ANGEL

Enjoy this family-friendly performance about two bumbling duck hunters in the Alabama swamp manage to shoot an angel and are then pursued by the tabloid media. This hilarious tale interweaves a love story, race relations, and cultural stereotypes as the chase to find the angel builds to a crescendo. Performance times through December 30 are Thursday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. All performances take place at the Limelight Theatre, located at 11 Old Mission Avenue in St. Augustine. Tickets are $25 for adults, $22 for seniors and $20 for students and military. For more information, call 904.825.1164 or visit www.limelight-theatre.org.

Saturday: December 17

BEACH PHOTOS WITH SANTA

Join Santa in the dunes just north of the St. Augustine Beach Pier for a tremendous holiday photo opportunity. Sponsored by the St. Augustine Lifesaving Association, it's a great way to feature the whole family, including the pets, in a memorable photo with Santa in a beach setting. A 5x7 photo in a holiday folder is only $10 - or you can bring your own camera and get each pose for $5. All proceeds benefit the county's lifeguard service. Photos will be taken from 9 a.m. to noon today. Access via Pope Road. 904.484.4514

KAYAK ST. AUGUSTINE

Grab breakfast and then depart from downtown St. Augustine for an amazing 10 a.m.-noon kayak adventure. Great way to see the salt marsh up close and discover the treasures it holds. Call 904.377-7245 for reservations. Special holiday prices - $35/adult; $30 ages 6-12. www.staugustineecotours.com

A DAY IN THE COLONIAL MARKET

Visit A Day in the Colonial Market in the St. Augustine Colonial Spanish Quarter located at 29 St. George Street. Take a step back in time and browse the wares of artisans who will be demonstrating and selling colonial crafts. There will also be food, music and theatre troupes recreating life in a colonial Spanish market. The Market is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event is free and just a short walk from the Visitors Information Center and The Downtown Parking facility. For more information, call 904-825-6830.

NAVIDAD EN EL VIEJO SAN AGUSTIN/CHRISTMAS IN OLD ST. AUGUSTINE

Celebrate Christmas 16th Century style. From 7 to 9 p.m. Alondra, La Compañía de Santiago, Theater with a Mission, and Los Compañeros de la Cocina, will be presenting Christmas music and customs of 16th-century St. Augustine and colonial Spanish Florida at the Mission Nombre de Dios on San Marco Avenue in St. Augustine. Admission is free. For more information, call 1-877-352-4478 or visithttp://www.FloridaLivingHistory.org or http://www.missionandshrine.org.

CHANGING OF THE GUARD

Witness twilight time in colonial St. Augustine as soldiers guarding the town are dismissed for the night, and their replacements arrive to take over guarding Government House. The commander of the new watch puts the replacement soldiers through a rigorous drill before they take over their posts. The retiring soldiers are ordered to clear their weapons with the command of "Disparen!" The resounding blast of musket fire assures 18th century St. Augustine that the changing of the guard has taken place and the town is safe for the night. This traditional Spanish military parade travels along St. George Street from City Gates at 5:30 p.m. The Changing of the Guard takes place at 6 p.m. in front of St. Augustine's Government House at the Plaza de la Constitucion. The event is free. For more information, call 904.808.1999.

Sunday: December 18

PHOTO SAFARI AT GTM RESERVE
Go on a one-of-a-kind photo safari through Guana Reserve's rich and varied natural resources. Led by expert local photographers, this three-hour tour is designed for advanced beginner and intermediate photographers who are ready to discover new places and new skills. From 8:00 to 11:00 a.m. on Sundays learn more during the photo walk about the techniques they use to capture nature at its best: Proper camera settings, composition, macro photography, landscape photography, HDR (High Dynamic Range) imagery, and post-processing software tips. Cost is $69 per person with a portion of the proceeds benefitting the Friends of the GTM Reserve. There is a $3/per vehicle parking fee. Space is limited. The GTM Research Reserve is located at 505 Guana River Road, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082, (904) 823-4500 ort www.photosherpas.com

LINCOLNVILLE FARMER'S MARKET
Get fresh produce, arts, crafts, jewelry, delicious lunch selections and family fun at downtown St. Augustine's new Lincolnville Farmer's Market. Open from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. -- turn south on Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue and follow it to the market behind the Galimore Center.

18TH ANNUAL HOLIDAY TOUR OF BED AND BREAKFAST INNS

2011-12-08T07:41:00.001-05:00

The St. Francis Inn is on Sunday's tour and we are teamed with Meehan's Irish Pub. In addition, Lily and her soldier have agreed to "appear" that day as part of the "Ghosts of Christmas Past" theme!

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. Tickets are $25. After November 20, tickets are $35. Proceeds from the Holiday Tour will benefit the St. Augustine Record "Empty Stocking Fund".http://www.staugustinebandbtour.com/.

Weekend Premiere Event: 37TH ANNUAL BRITISH NIGHT WATCH

2011-12-01T10:32:00.001-05:00

Friday: 2nd December 2011

4:00 PM Opening Ceremony – "Traitors to the Crown"

Saturday: 3rd December 2011

9:00 – British Encampment opens to the public.
Venue: Various locations in Francis Field, west of the Parking Garage

ALL DAY: The Market Square Comes to Life!
Venue: Francis Field, west of the Parking Garage

Description: The Market Square will interpret a busy Market Day in Colonial St. Augustine, with professional entertainers such as Signora Bella, whose shows captivate audiences throughout the country; numerous authentic Sutlers working to help the soldiers spend their pay; various musicians performing on 18^th Century instruments; The Recruiting Sergeant; And numerous Historians and Performers mingling with the visitors both as historical personas, and interpreters to answer questions.


7:30 PM – Fife & Drum Corps Appetizer Concert
Venue: St. George St. at the Plaza

7:00 P.M. Candles for a donation
Venue: Lawn of the Basilica Cathedral
Description: Participants will have candles for modest sale for those that desire to carry a light in the Parade

7:30 P.M. – Head to the Plaza to get a good viewing place for the British Night Watch Parade


8:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M. The Grande Illumination~British Night Watch Parade
Venue: The Plaza, Government House, St. George Street & back to the Plaza
Description: The only Public Participation Parade outside of Mardi Gras! Follow the troops with candles and lanterns as they close the town for the evening in a festive manner for the Holidays.

After the parade- Caroling in the Plaza

Sunday: 4th December 2011

9:30 AM-18^th Century Anglican stack the Drum Church Service
Venue: British Encampment, Francis Field
Description: An actual Church Service, performed by an Anglican Priest. Following historic sermons and prayer books, be prepared to experience religion in the late 18^th century.

Thanksgiving Weekend Events include Boating Excursions, Alligators and More!

2011-11-23T12:18:00.000-05:00

BLACK FRIDAY NOV 25
FAMILY BOATING EXCURSION

Avoid the shopping madness by taking a cruise into the waters surrounding St. Augustine for a tour you'll be talking about in years to come. Passionate Captains explain marine wildlife behavior. Underwater microphones make for a unique experience as you listen for dolphins, snapping shrimp & more! $35/Adults, $30/Kids 3-12. (There's also a Thanksgiving Day Eco Tour.) Call St. Augustine Eco Tours today at 904-377-7245. www.staugustineecotours.com

THANKSGIVING GOES WILD

The St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park will continue the city's wildest Thanksgiving tradition with Thanksgiving-themed feeding sessions and special holiday hours on Thanksgiving Day and Friday for the 3rd Annual Thanksgiving Goes Wild. Maximo will leap for a turkey dinner, alligators will enjoy a special poultry feast, tortoises will munch on winter squash, and much more. This year, guests will even be invited to design and create enrichment devices for the animals. Call 904.824.3337

FRIDAY, SATURDAY, SUNDAY NOV 25-27

TOUR DE CHOCOLATE

Join City Walks on the brand new Tour de Chocolate every Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 12:00 noon for a 2-hour fantastic journey into the world of Chocolate. From the Aztecs and Mayans to Europe via the Spanish Conquistadors, explore the history and indulge yourself in the wonderful world of CHOCOLATE. The tour is 2 hours long and includes all tastes and samplings, and a VERY special take home gift of chocolates. All ages welcome, Adults are $36 and Children under 10 are $25, per person. Reservations are required and are available for online reservations/purchase, where guests will save $2 per person. Make your reservation now at http://www.staugustinecitywalks.com or call904.377.8234

SUNSET SAIL

See the sparkling Nights of Lights from the beautiful deck of the Schooner Freedom on these special daily sunset sails. The Schooner Freedom departs daily from the St. Augustine City Marina at 4:15 p.m. for 2 hours, will feature the illumination of the city. Rates are $45 per adults, kids 2-12 are $35, under 2 sails free, we provide complimentary beer, wine, soda, and water. Call 904.810.1010

FRIDAY AND SATURDAY, NOV 25-26

CANDLE LIGHT TOURS OF VILLA ZORAYDA

Explore the beautiful Villa Zorayda, decorated for the Holiday season, featuring a Christmas tree in the "Court of Lions", decorated in the Villa's traditional red and gold and a beautiful crèche nativity scene that that has been a Villa tradition since the 1930s. Starting at 6 p.m., enjoy refreshments of cookies and punch. Then the guided candlelight tour begins at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $16 for adults and $8 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. For more information, visit www.villaZoryada.com or call 904.829.9887.

NIGHTS OF LIGHTS CARRIAGE AND HOLIDAY WINE TOUR

Step aboard an old-fashioned horse-drawn carriage and enjoy the spectacular light displays while indulging in delicious boutique wines! Lights, Carriage and Holiday 'Cheer'! These special tours depart from 6 Granada Street at 6 pm, 7:30 pm and 9 pm on Monday through Saturday through January 31.. Tickets are $49 per person. Reservations are required. For more information, visitwww.TheTastingTours.com, text or call 904.325-3911.

SATURDAY AND SUNDAY, NOV 26-27

46^TH ANNUAL FALL ARTS & CRAFTS FESTIVAL

See art created from lace to limestone and crayons to crystal. More than 150 artists from around the USA are juried into this Thanksgiving Weekend art festival 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 takes place Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Admission is a $1 donation. For more information, call 904.824.2310 or visit www.staaa.org.

WINTER WONDERLAND AT ST. AUGUSTINE AMPHITHEATRE

UPTOWN SATURDAY NIGHT

From 5 to 9 p.m. on the last Saturday of each month, experience live music, refreshments, new exhibits, book signings and much more at the galleries, antique stores and unique shops on St. Augustine's San Marco Avenue between Ripley's Museum and the Mission Nombre de Dios. The Mission Nombre de Dios provides FREE PARKING. For more information, call 904.823.9263

EMMA CONCERT SERIES: WOLFGANG DAVID & DAVID GOMPPER
Enjoy a musical presentation by international violin recitalist Wolgang David and pianist/composer David Gompper at the Flagler College Auditorium, 14 Granada Street in St. Augustine. The concert begins at 8 p.m. and tickets are $25 per person. For more information or to order tickets, visitwww.EmmaConcerts.com or call 904.797.2800.

SUNDAY NOV 27

LINCOLNVILLE FARMER'S MARKET
Get fresh produce, arts, crafts, jewelry, delicious lunch selections and family fun at downtown St. Augustine's new Lincolnville Farmer's Market. Open from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. -- turn south on Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue and follow it to the market behind the Galimore Center.

Marathon! 72-mile Garage Sale! Nights of Lights! WOW!

2011-11-18T08:22:00.001-05:00

Saturday and Sunday: November 19 & 20

ST. AUGUSTINE MARATHON WEEKENDPut on your running shoes and participate in a foot-race that suites your running level. 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 starter's pistol will fire for the St. Augustine Full Marathon & Half Marathon. The Marathon course will be USATF-certified. Each run takes place at various locations between St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach and Crescent Beach. A special awards presentation will take place Sunday at 1 p.m. at the City Marina. For more information and registration, visit www.StAugustineMarathon.com or call 305.716.1111.

MID-MORNING KAYAK TOUR
Grab breakfast and then head to downtown St. Augustine for an amazing 10am-12pm kayak trip! A great way to see the salt marsh up close and discover the treasures it beholds. Recent sightings include dolphins and bald eagles! Call St. Augustine Eco Tours at 904-377-7245 for reservations. $40/adult, $35 ages 6-12. www.staugustineecotours.com

Saturday: November 19

CRUISE TO FORT MATANZASGo on a spectacular boating experience AND get FREE coffee and bagels courtesy of Everything Bagel on this special 9 a.m. to noon cruise from the Vilano Boat Ramp. USCG-certified captain takes passengers on an interesting tour to Fort Matanzas. Book individually at $30 per person, reservations required. Call Captain Mike at 352.246.3836. For more information, go to www.Yachtoffun.net.

SCENIC A1A 72-MILE GARAGE SALE
Discover the scenic beauty of A1A while shopping at group garage sales from Ponte Vedra to Flagler Beach. From 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., this 72-mile stretch of scenic, seaside highway will have huge garage sales at 10 designated stops along the way. Plus, you can tour the culture and history of the highway via a special cell phone tour.   Sponsored by the Friends of A1A. For more information, call 904.425.8055 or 540.0402.
BANDFEST
See some of the area's hottest bands and soloists when Friends of St. Augustine Amphitheatre present Bandfest from 12:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the amphitheatre. Penguin Teeth Band, Will Pearsall, Rob Peck, Smokin Mirrors, Anthony Wild and the Suspects are just a few of the featured performers. Tickets are available at the door and through Ticket Master and are priced at $15 for adults and $10 for students. Half for the proceeds will be donated to St. Johns County schools. For more information, call 904.471.4113.

KIDS ROCK THE NATION AT ST. AUGUSTINE AMPHITHEATRE
Enjoy this all-day musical event from 12:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre featuring some of the area's hottest bands and soloists and spotlighting the talent of Kids Rock the Nation Foundation award recipients. The Kids Rock the Nation Foundation, led by musician Anthony Wild of Palm Coast, promotes self-esteem through musical performance by recognizing and rewarding potential musical talent in kids nine to sixteen years old. Half of the proceeds will be donated to St. Johns County schools to provide opportunities for students to see and experience live performances. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students 18 and under. Children under five will be admitted for free. The St. Augustine Amphitheatre is located at 1340 A1A in St. Augustine. For more information, visit www.staugamphitheatre.com or call 904.471.4113.

18^th ANNUAL NIGHTS OF LIGHTS CELEBRATION
More than three million tiny white lights will glow along the ancient streets and historic buildings of the Nation's oldest city when the 18^th Annual Nights of Lights celebration sparkles to life. The festivities begin in the Plaza at 4 p.m. with performances by Showtime USA and the All Star Orchestra. The lighting ceremony begins at 6:30 p.m.. Tracing its origins to the Spanish tradition of displaying a lighted white candle during the Christmas holidays, the spectacular lighting in St. Augustine reflects the city's 447-year history while creating a beautiful setting for the holidays through January 31. For more information, visit www.NightsofLights.com or call 800.653.2489.

NIGHTS OF LIGHTS LIGHT UP NIGHT ABOARD VICTORY III Hop aboard the Victory III Scenic Cruise at the St. Augustine Marina to watch the city come to light during the 18th annual lighting of St. Augustine's Nights of Lights. Boarding is at 6 p.m. aboard the Victory III located at St. Augustine Municipal Marina, 111 Avenida Menendez, just south of the Bridge of Lions. Tickets are $17.76 (includes tax) for all ages and include free hot cocoa and cookies. For additional information call  904.824.1806 ext 210 or visit www.scenic-cruise.com

Veterans' Weekend Events in St. Augustine

2011-11-10T09:33:00.000-05:00

CASTILLO DE SAN MARCOS HONORS VETRANS WITH FREE ADMISSION FRI/SAT/SUN NOV 11-13

Enjoy a visit to Castillo de San Marcos with the family - for free. In honor of our Nation's military veterans, the National Parks Service is offering free admission to the Castillo de San Marcos for the weekend. The Castillo is open from 8:45 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. Historic Spanish Military weapons demonstrations take place at 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. and at 1:30, 2:30 and 3:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.NPS.gov/casa.

WASHINGTON OAKS STATE GARDENS WEEKEND FRI/SAT/SUN NOV 11-13
Come celebrate the improvements to the Washington Oaks Historic District. On Friday there will be free admission to the park and a Veterans Day Observance will begin at 10:00 a.m. with music performed by the Matanzas High School Jazz Band and singer Jimmy Lopez. At 11 a.m. there will be a moment of silence in observance of our country's veterans and at 1 p.m. there will be an inaugural tour of the Historic District Interpretive Panels. On Saturday at 10 a.m. the Friends of Washington Oaks will celebrate the restoration of Mrs. Louise P. Young's Greenhouse and at 11 a.m. there will be an orchid workshop and plant clinic. On Sunday from 2 to 4 p.m. the Tim Rippey Benefit Concert will take place. A special silent auction fundraiser will take place throughout the weekend. Other activities on this special "Washington Oaks Weekend" include a Friends Bake Sale, food from JT's Seafood Shack, a youth area featuring patriotic and planting activities, tours and the gift shop will be open. Admission to the Park on Friday and Saturday is free. The Benefit Concert tickets on Sunday are $15 which includes park admission. For more information, visitwww.floridastateparks.org, or call 386.446.6783.

VETERANS DAY ECO ADVENTURE! FRI/SAT NOV 11-12
The kids are off school so join us on our 1.5 hour Eco Tour boat ride in the estuary that's sure to keep everyone entertained - underwater microphones & more! Guides provide educational information on local marine life including dolphins and shorebirds! Veteran price is $35 with ID. For more information, call 904.377.7245 or visit www.staugustineecotours.com.

JOHN FOGERTY AT ST. AUGUSTINE AMPHITHEATRE SAT NOV 12
Get over to the Amphitheatre to enjoy a performance by rock legend John Fogerty. Best known as the lead voice for Creedence Clearwater Revival, Fogerty will perform at 7:30 p.m. The St. Augustine Amphitheatre is located at 1340 A1A on Anastasia Island in St. Augusitne. Tickets are $37 to $77. For more information, call 904.209.3759 or visit http://www.staugamphitheatre.com/

BIRD WALK AT FORT MOSE HISTORIC STATE PARK SUN NOV 13
Come meet the birds at Fort Mose Historic State Park. Led by a park volunteer, this fun, informative walk is open to the public and to birders of all levels. We'll view the rookery and search for marsh birds and migrating warblers. The walk takes place form 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. Please dress for the weather and bring binoculars and a field guide if you have one. Walk and park entrance are free. Fort Mose is off of US Highway 1, one mile north of SR 16 at 15 Fort Mose Trail in St. Augustine. For more information, visit www.FloridaStateParks.org, or call904.823.2232.

LINCOLNVILLE FARMERS MARKET SUN NOV 13
St. Augustine's newest fresh market offers farm-fresh vegetables, meats/fish, cheese, bread, treats, arts & crafts, prepared food, jewelry and more. Plus there are picnic areas and a playground! The Market takes place every Sunday at 399 Riberia Street in Lincolnville from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, visit http://www.lincolnvillefarmersmarket.com

POPPIN PEPPER PALOOZA SUN NOV 13
Be brave and pop a pepper. Or just have fun watching as others celebrate one of St. Augustine's favorite culinary delights the Datil Pepper. This first time chocolate-dipped Datil Pepper eating contest will take place at 4 p.m. on the Hot Shot Bakery Deck and in the Villa Zorayda Parking Lot at 8 Granada Street in St. Augustine. Registration is $10 per person and starts at 3 p.m. Judging is at 5 p.m. There will be lots of prizes, entertainment and food. Proceeds will go to The Boys and Girls Clubs of St. Augustine. For more information, visit www.hotshotbakery.com or call904.824.7898.

Chowder, Art, Evil Haunts and More this Weekend

2011-11-03T10:05:00.000-04:00

26^th ANNUAL GREAT CHOWDER DEBATE - SUNDAY NOVEMBER 6

Satisfy your passion for great seafood at the Conch House Marina's celebrated annual Great Chowder Debate. More than 30 area restaurants come together to compete to see who has the best chowder.Everyone can be a judge and savor an almost limitless variety - from local favorites like the Menorcan chowders to an assortment of New England chowders - made with clams, conch, lobster, scallops and crab and laced with secret concoctions of herbs and spices. The event starts at noon and runs throughout the day. All proceeds benefit the Shriner's Hospitals for Crippled Children. The Conch House Marina is located at 57 Comares Avenue. For more Information, call 904.829.8646.

FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK - FRIDAY NOVEMBER 4

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 visitwww.artgalleriesofstaugustine.com.

FIRST FRIDAY BOOK SIGNING - FRIDAY NOVEMBER 4

Get artsy and literary at the same time at this Meet-the-Author event. Visit Worley Faver Gallery, 11A Aviles Street in St. Augustine, to meet author Dennis Smith, Jr. to find out about his new book The Trilogy of Swamp Hattie - the most evil ghost to ever haunt Florida's Historic Coast. 904.238.8900.

FIFTH ANNUAL EVERYWOMAN'S ART FESTIVAL - SATURDAY NOVEMBER 5

Shop for unique, one-of-a-kind art created by female artists from throughout the region. Features original paintings and prints, pottery and ceramics, beaded and semi-precious stone jewelry, glass art, hand-poured soaps and candles, beach kitsch, pet items and much more. The festival is from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. at the St. Augustine Beach Pier Pavilion. For more information, call 904. 669.2260 or go towww.everywomansart.com.

FIFTEEN & FOREVER EXPO - FRIDAY, SATURDAY, SUNDAY NOVEMBER 4-6

Come learn about the most unique sites and services available for your Quincienara or Wedding on Florida's Historic Coast. This exciting Expo highlights the romantic settings of the Nation's Oldest City and the surrounding seaside venues as well as the many companies that offer services that make Florida's Historic Coast a favorite location for these lifetime celebrations. Admission to the entire three-day Expo is $25 per person, and includes the Friday night reception at 7 p.m.; on Saturday the tour of ceremony and reception sites from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and the Fashion Show at 7 p.m. at Lightner Museum; and the Sunday Expo which takes place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Casa Monica Hotel in St. Augustine. Admission to just the Sunday Expo is $10 per person. For more information about the Fifteen and Forever Expo, call 800-814-7529 or go to www.FifteenandForever.com

Halloween Weekend Events include Pirates and Uptown Saturday Night

2011-10-27T07:55:00.000-04:00

FRIDAY, SATURDAY, SUNDAY OCT 28-30

THE PIRATE GATHERING

Celebrate the Golden Age of Piracy in the Nation's oldest city during the 4^th annual gathering of pirate's from all over the South. See a pirate mutiny, weapons demonstrations, sailor's encampment, shop in the Thieves Market and hear stories of the high seas, history and sea shanties. For more information, call 904.824.4997 or visit www.pirategathering.com.

CREATURES OF THE NIGHT AT THE ALLIGATOR FARM

Dress in your favorite costume to the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park for candy, a creepy creature experience, animal trading cards, and a great time! Young ghosts and goblins can wander the wild walkway and encounter costumed animal keepers with creepy creatures and candy! There will be an alligator feeding show and a drawing for prizes. It all takes place from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Admission is $8 for adults and $6 for children. For more information, call 904.824.3337 or visit www.alligatorFarm.com.

ST. AUGUSTINE CITY WALKS HALLOWEEN AND SAMHAIN TOURS
Through the month of October, St. Augustine City Walks Tours will honor the historical and ancient origins of Halloween and Samhain, The Celtic New Year! Each of their tours, The St. Augustine Pub Crawl; The St. Augustine CREEPY Crawl; History, Mystery, Mayhem & Murder!; Savory Faire ~ A Food Tour with Taste!; and the Plaza Stroll, will celebrate the history and origins of Halloween's modern day customs - Bonfires, The Jack-O-Lantern, Dressing Up in Costume, Trick or Treating and more! For more information, call 904.540.3476 or visit www.StAugustineCityWalks.com.

GHOSTS AND GRAVESTONES FRIGHTSEEING ADVENTURES
Explore the darker side of the Nation's Oldest City. Visit the site of the terrible tragedy that occurred in 1873 at the St. Augustine Lighthouse and on these special October dates, Ghosts & Gravestones will include complimentary admission into Riot at the Old Jail, St. Augustine's premier haunted house. Tours are from 8 to 10 p.m. Admission is $26 per Adult and $14 per Child (ages 6 - 12). Children 5 and under are not permitted. All tours depart from The Old Jail, 167 San Marco Avenue. For more information, call 904.829.3800 or visit www.ghostsandgravestones.com.

GHOSTLY HEARSE TOURS
Visit some of St. Augustine's most haunted sites from the comfort of your very own hearse! Narrated hearse tours depart with departed souls each evening at 8:30 p.m. and 10:15 p.m, and a late-night weekend tour departs at 11:45 p.m. Tickets are $23.95 for adults and $12.95 for kids ages 5-12. If you'd prefer to stretch your legs, walking tours are only $8. For reservations, to purchase tickets online or for more information go to www.ghosthearse.com or you make your arrangements by calling 904.829.0576

HAUNTED HEARSE RIDE
Experience a genuine St. Augustine ghost tour through the darkest side of the historic downtown riding in a gothic hearse.  Rides depart at 5, 6, 7, 8, 9:15, and 11:30 p.m. from Beerhammer's located in Heritage Walk Mall, 162 St. George Street in St. Augustine. Tickets are $30 for adults and $18 for Children under 12.   Reservations are recommended. For more information, call 904.824-8840, or visitwww.ghostaugustine.com.

HAUNTED PUB TOUR
Get ready to face the Spirits! Hear intoxicating tales while enjoying the ales, or other beverages, at four of St. Augustine's old haunts. Each stop is 30 to 40 minutes, just enough time to soak up your favorite drink, haunting Halloween stories and the ghostly atmosphere before you'll step outside for a refreshing easy stroll to the next pub. The Pub Tours depart at 5, 7, 8:30, 9 and 9:30 p.m. from Beerhammer's located in Heritage Walk Mall, 162 St. George Street in St. Augustine. Reservations are recommended. Tickets for this adults-only tour are $17per person. For more information, call 904.824-8840, or visitwww.ghostaugustine.com.

HAUNTED ST AUGUSTINE PARANORMAL INVESTIGATION
Learn how to assess seemingly haunted phenomena. Bring your cameras and your wits. The investigations begin at 6 and 9 p.m. at Beerhammer's located in Heritage Walk Mall, 162 St. George Street in St. Augustine. Tickets are $35 for adults and $15 for children under 12. Reservations are recommended. For more information, call 904.824-8840, or visit www.ghostaugustine.com.

SATURDAY, SUNDAY, AND MONDAY OCT 29-31

RIPLEY'S SAFETY-IN-NUMBER RIDING TOUR
Hop aboard Ripley's Safety -in -Number special Halloween Ghost Tours. This hauntingly fun tour departs from Ripley's Castle Warden, 19 San Marco Avenue, and makes stops at the Fountain of Youth Archeological Park and the St. Augustine Haunted History Museum. Tours are at 6:45, 8:15, 10 p.m. and Midnight. Tickets are $23 for adults and $11 for children. 904.824.1606www.ghosttrainadventure.com

RIPLEY'S GHOST TRAIN ADVENTURE
Hop aboard the Ghost Train for a trip to the paranormal side of haunted St. Augustine. This ghostly tour travels through some of the oldest city's most haunted areas. Then the tour makes a final stop a Castle Warden for a back-stage visit where participants can investigate one of the city's most notorious murder mysteries.   Tours depart from Ripley's Castle Warden, 19 San Marco Avenue at 7:15; 8; 8:30; 9:15; 9:45; 10:30; 11 p.m. and Midnight. Tickets are $26 for adults and $13 for children. 904.824.1606www.ghosttrainadventure.com

FAMILY FUN GHOST WALK ADVENTURES
Bring the kids for some Halloween fun at Ripley's Believe It or Not! Participate in this G-rated ghost walk that promises fun and frolic. The tours are $8 for adults and $4 for children. They depart at 6, 7 & 8 p.m. from the gift shop at Ripley's Believe It or Not! Castle Warden located at 19 San Marco Avenue in St. Augustine. 904.824.1606 www.ghosttrainadventure.com

SUNDAY AND MONDAY OCT 30-31

PHANTOM DJ AND HALLOWEEN PARTY AT RIPLEY'S BELIEVE IT OR NOT MUSEUM!
The Phantom DJ will provide the jammin' tunes for the Halloween party atmosphere at Ripley's Castle Warden. There will be lots of family fun featuring lasers, music, and free candy, glow-sticks, and prizes. Watch for a special appearance by the Ghost Busters. 904.824.1606 www.ghosttrainadventure.com

UPTOWN SATURDAY NIGHT

From 5 to 9 p.m. on the last Saturday of each month, experience live music, refreshments, new exhibits, book signings and much more at the galleries, antique stores and unique shops on St. Augustine's San Marco Avenue between Ripley's Museum and the Mission Nombre de Dios.  Loca Author Ann McAllister Clark will be signing copies of the her book A Bone In Her Teeth at Wolf's Head Books, 67 San Marco. Wolfhead's will also have a special on world history materials, books, prints and maps. The Mission Nombre de Dios provides FREE PARKING. For more information, call 904.823.9263.

Ghostly Events in October!

2011-10-12T14:06:00.000-04:00

GHOSTS AND GRAVESTONES FRIGHTSEEING ADVENTURES
Explore the darker side of the Nation's Oldest City. Visit the site of the terrible tragedy that occurred in 1873 at the St. Augustine Lighthouse and on special October dates, Ghosts & Gravestones will include complimentary admission into Riot at the Old Jail, St. Augustine's premier haunted house. Tours are from 8 to 10 p.m. Admission is $26 per Adult and $14 per Child (ages 6 - 12). Children 5 and under are not permitted. All tours depart from The Old Jail, 167 San Marco Avenue. For more information, call 904.829.3800 or visit www.ghostsandgravestones.com/st-augustine/.

ST. AUGUSTINE CITY WALKS HALLOWEEN AND SAMHAIN TOURS
Through the month of October, St. Augustine City Walks Tours will honor the historical and ancient origins of Halloween and Samhain, The Celtic New Year! Each of their tours, The St. Augustine Pub Crawl; The St. Augustine CREEPY Crawl; History, Mystery, Mayhem & Murder!; Savory Faire ~ A Food Tour with Taste!; and the Plaza Stroll, will celebrate the history and origins of Halloween's modern day customs - Bonfires, The Jack-O-Lantern, Dressing Up in Costume, Trick or Treating and more! For more information, call 904.540.3476 or visit www.staugustinecitywalks.com.

GHOSTLY HEARSE TOURS
Visit some of St. Augustine's most haunted sites from the comfort of your very own hearse! Narrated hearse tours depart with departed souls each evening at 8:30 p.m. and 10:15 p.m, and a late-night weekend tour departs at 11:45 p.m. Tickets are $23.95 for adults and $12.95 for kids ages 5-12. If you'd prefer to stretch your legs, walking tours are only $8. For reservations, to purchase tickets online or for more information click on the following link:
www.ghosthearse.com or you make your arrangements by calling 904.829.0576.

TOLOMATO CEMETERY TOURS
Come explore the historic markers at the oldest extant cemetery in Florida. The self-guided and docent led tours are from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. TheTolomato Cemetery, an historic cemetery, is located on Cordova Street, the site of an earlier Franciscan Indian mission (Our Lady of Guadalupe of the Tolomato) in St Augustine. Burials officially ceased in 1884. Visits are free of charge, but visitors are encouraged to offer a donation. All money goes to the preservation and restoration of the cemetery. For more information, visit www.tolomatocemetery.com

Festivals & Frampton!

2011-10-06T09:19:00.000-04:00

23rd ANNUAL ST. AUGUSTINE COLONIAL FOLK ARTS & CRAFTS FESTIVAL * SATURDAY & SUNDAY * OCT 8-9

See colonial craftspeople from throughout Florida demonstrate "Lost Arts" such as spinning, weaving, basket making, blacksmithing, pottery making and many other arts and crafts. Historical musical performances, children's hands-on craft experiences, storytelling and much more show how entertaining the old days could be. The event takes place each day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Colonial Spanish Quarter Museum, 53 St. George St., St. Augustine. Admission is free. For more detailed information, contact 904.825.8055.

14th ANNUAL GREEK FESTIVAL * FRIDAY, SATURDAY & SUNDAY * OCT 7-9

Come join the fun and experience St. Augustine's fascinating Greek Heritage at the 14th Annual Greek Festival hosted by Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church. Enjoy a delicious assortment of Greek foods, pastries and beverages along with nonstop entertainment with live Greek music and performances by Greek dance troupes. The Festival takes place from 4 to 9 p.m. on Friday; 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday at Francis Field behind St. Augustine's Historic Downtown Parking Garage on Castillo Drive. Admission is $2, children under 12 are free. For more information, call 904.829.0504 or visit www.stauggreekfest.com.

FIESTA DE AVILES AND RUNNING OF THE BULLS * FRIDAY, SATURDAY & SUNDAY * OCT 7-9

Run with the "bulls" on the oldest street in the oldest city when the 2nd Annual Fiesta de Aviles takes place in downtown St. Augustine. As part of First Friday Art Walk, the Fiesta's opening event from 5-9 p.m. will feature the shops and galleries of Aviles Street. Saturday at 5 p.m., the running of the bulls will take place in a colorful and fun version of the world-famous event at Pamplona. The "bulls: will be propelled by Flagler College students who will chase runners dressed in traditional white with red sashes. There will also be live music in the street from noon to 10 p.m. Sunday is Sangria Sunday with a lively and tasty sangria contest and Tango dancers. Admission to all events is free and colorful Festival shirts will be available for $5. For more information, call 904.377.5166.

FLAVORS OF FLORIDA'S HISTORIC COAST

Bring your appetite to nearly 20 different restaurants that will present a "Chef's Choice" prix fixe (fixed price) three-course meal reflecting their unique flavors and style. Great food, paired with a wide variety of lodging options and enticing cultural events, make October the perfect month to visit St. Augustine · Ponte Vedra on Florida's Historic Coast. For more information on Flavors of Florida's Historic Coast, participating restaurants and their menus, visit www.HistoricCoastFlavors.com.

PETER FRAMPTON AT ST. AUGUSTINE AMPHITHEATRE

Experience Peter Frampton's live performance of his "Frampton Comes Alive"--- one of the most celebrated live albums in music history! Plus, he'll perform some of his other Grammy Award-winning hits. The gates open at 6 p.m. and the show starts at 7 p.m. Tickets are $79.00, $49.00, & $39.00. The St. Augustine Amphitheatre is located at 1340 A1A South in St. Augustine. For more information call 904.471.1965 or visit www.StAugAmphitheatre.com.

2011-09-30T14:30:00.000-04:00

Claude's Chocolates is just a short walk up St. George Street - 2 blocks from the Inn - "up the street and 'round the corner". The shop is a chocolate wonderland anytime, but Claude & Nicole are going all out for the Halloween season. Pictured above is the Milk Chocolate Pumpkin. Crack open this pumpkin and you will find it filled with their Chocolate Critters (pictured below)! Dark chocolate pumpkins are also available.

And just for fun - check out the chocolate casket & mummy! The casket opens up and the mummy is inside!

2011-09-29T12:18:00.000-04:00

AN OUTDOOR WEEKEND IS SHAPING UP - WITH TEMPS FORECAST IN THE LOW 80'S AND SUNNY AND BREEZY CONDITIONS.

ST. JOHNS COUNTY AGRICULTURE CENTER HOME AND GARDEN SHOW AND DATIL PEPPER FESTIVAL * SATURDAY & SUNDAY (OCT 1 & 2)

Come learn about home and garden landscaping at this annual event. Hand crafted items, Master Gardner grown plants, gardening supplies and more. For admission and hours, call 904.209.0430 or visit http://staugustine.com/entertainment/2011-09-28/datil-pepper-festival-oct-1-2-during-home-garden-show.

ITALIAN FESTIVAL: FEAST OF SAN GENNARO * SATURDAY (noon-10pm) & SUNDAY (Noon-5pm) (OCT 1 & 2)

Come experience Italian heritage at the Feast of San Gennaro. The activities include a Pizza Cook-off (you be the judge) lots of Italian foods, beer & wine, live entertainment, carnival rides, games - including volley ball and bocce ball, arts, crafts and more. It all takes place at the St. Augustine Beach Pier Park Pavilion on A1A. Admission is for $2, under 10 free. Hours are Saturday, noon to 10 p.m. and Sunday Noon to 5 p.m. For more information, call 904.461.8449.

Welcome to the St. Francis Inn!

2011-09-27T07:53:00.000-04:00

Our guest - Robin Tjiong - shared this photo of Zeke with us. Robin stayed with us last week. Thanks, Robin!

Authors Les Standiford and Mary Anna Evans Staying at the St. Francis Inn This Weekend!

2011-09-23T10:36:00.001-04:00

The Florida Heritage Book Festival has started! This weekend authors will be roaming the old streets...maybe you can spot one! (If you want to meet authors and purchase books, see the marketplace information below.) Staying with us this weekend will be:

Photo from Florida Heritage Book Festival

Les Standiford - best-selling author of Bringing Adam Home, The Abduction that Changed America. Standiford brings to life the most significant missing child case since the Lindbergh’s—that of TV host John Walsh’s son Adam and the 25 year search for his killer. Standiford is the bestselling author of twenty books and novels, including the John Deal mystery series, and critically acclaimed works of narrative history, The Man Who Invented Christmas, Last Train to Paradise, Meet You in Hell, and Washington Burning. Recipient of the Frank O’Connor Award for Short Fiction, he is director of the Creative Writing Program at Florida International University in Miami.
http://www.les-standiford.com/Pages/MainLes.html

AND:

Photo from Florida Heritage Book Festival

Mary Anna Evans - author of the award-winning Faye Longchamp archeological mysteries. Although Mary Anna Evans has degrees in physics and engineering, her heart is in the past. Her latest novel,Strangers, is set in St. Augustine and features St. Augustine’s history from its 1565 founding through the Gilded Age, and into the present. Her work has received honors including the Benjamin Franklin Award, the Patrick D. Smith Florida Literature Award, and a Florida Book Awards Bronze Medal. In addition, her novels appear on the list of “Adult Mysteries with Young Adult Appeal.” She lives in Gainesville, Florida.
http://www.maryannaevans.com/

The Marketplace will be

open to the public

September 24, 2011

9:30–5:00

The Ringhaver Student Center Building

50 Sevilla Street (on King Street)

The Virginia Room

St. Augustine, Florida

Book Festival, Car Show, Antiques, Uptown Fun

2011-09-21T14:24:00.000-04:00

Friday and Saturday: September 23 & 24

FLORIDA HERITAGE BOOK FESTIVAL
Get literary at this celebration of the authors and books that chronicle the ethnic, social, and historical heritage of the Sunshine State. The festival will feature a wide array of events and activities including workshops, readings, and book signings by popular authors. On Friday, writer's workshops take place at the Casa Monica Hotel in historic St. Augustine, then the Literary Legends Awards Banquet takes place at the Renaissance Resort at World Golf Village from 6:30 to 10 p.m.,. On Saturday, panel discussions take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and children and young adult programs will take place from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Ringhaver Student Center at Flagler College in downtown St. Augustine. For ticket prices and more information, call 904.940.0194 or visit www.fhbookfest.com.

Saturday: September 24

27^th ANNUAL ANCIENT CITY CAR SHOW
See nearly 200 cars judge in 31 classes at this exciting event hosted by the Ancient City Auto Club. The show will be on the beautiful campus of the Florida School for the Deaf and Blind, 207 North San Marco Avenue in St. Augustine. Registration for entries begins at 8 a.m. and awards will be presented at 3 p.m. In addition to great cars, the event will include an arts and crafts events, food and beverages. Admission is free. A car show entry form for pre-show registration is available from the club's website http://local.aaca.org/ancientcity/ . For more information, call 904.794.9172 or 904.797.7732.

Saturday: September 24

ANTIQUE APPRAISAL FAIR

Head over the front lawn of the picturesque St. Augustine Lighthouse and have certified appraisers estimate the value of your family heirlooms. Categories range from books to jewelry and everything in between, including cars and motorcycles. Appraisals are $10 per item or $25 for three. All proceeds benefit The First Light Maritime Society. The event is from 10:30 a.m. until 3 p.m. For more information, call the Lighthouse at 904.829.0745, ext. 217 or 224.

Saturday: September 24

UPTOWN SATURDAY NIGHT

A Premier Small Retreat Destination

2011-09-13T09:55:00.000-04:00

The Historic Llambias House - our meeting facility.

Inside the Historic Llambias House

Here is what the St. Francis Inn offers all our Small Retreats:

Dedicated Meeting Space in the historic Llambias House (circa 1763) - up to 24 persons. "A landmark with nearly a square block of enclosed garden for a private reception." Located conveniently across the street from the St. Francis Inn.
Ground floor accessibility.
Individually controlled AC/Heat
Two restrooms
Space for breakouts:

Llambias House Courtyard (pictured top)
St. Francis Inn Suites (4)
St. Francis Inn Dining Room
St. Francis Inn Courtyard
The Cottage

Complimentary Wi-Fi - entire property.
Latest audio visual equipment available.
Impeccable service, elegant historic accommodations and amenities that executive travelers expect.
A small, quaint hotel where your meeting is the only group event taking place.
Professional site inspections and custom-designed adventures.
Complimentary full breakfast and evening social hour with wine, beer, hors d'oeuvres.
Complimentary onsite parking.
Swimming pool and complimentary bicycles.
Restaurants just blocks away offer a variety of cuisines: French, Italian, New Orleans, Spanish, German, British, Cuban, and Southern.
Suggested off-site activities:

Golf
Eco-Tours
Deep Sea Fishing

For more information call Joe Finnegan at 1-800-824-6062. Be sure to visit our web site www.stfrancisinn.com.

Attention, Foodies!

2011-09-08T09:11:00.000-04:00

Chefs on Florida's Historic Coast are once again making history with signature dishes featuring local favorites and heritage-inspired flavors. Throughout October, eighteen outstanding restaurants will present a prix fixe (fixed price) three-course menu that will showcase their best culinary skills.

Local downtown restaurants participating in this event include:

The Tasting Room

Restaurants located nearby include:

Kingfish Grill (Camachee Harbor)

Creekside Dinery (US 1)

Cafe Atlantico (St. Augustine Beach)

Saltwater Cowboy's (St. Augustine Beach)

Amici's Italian Restaurant (St. Augustine Beach)

South Beach Grill (Crescent Beach)

Aunt Kate's on the Water (Vilano Beach)

The Reef (Vilano Beach)

Labor Day - Don't Play Too Hard!

2011-09-05T12:28:00.002-04:00

We hope you are having a wonderful Labor Day!

Events in St. Augustine This Weekend: LABOR DAY WEEKEND

2011-09-01T08:38:00.006-04:00

FRIDAY * SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK

WALK IN PEACE EXHIBIT

Attend the opening of Don Trousdell's Walk in Peace exhibit at the St. Augustine Art Association's Main Gallery at 22 Marine Street. Presented as part of First Friday Art Walk, the new exhibit features colorful paintings and interactive installations that chronicle the history and imagery of peace as interpreted by this internationally-acclaimed artist. The exhibit debuts from 5-9 p.m. and will be on display through October 2. The exhibit is being featured to commemorate the 10^th anniversary of 9/11. For more information, call 904.824.2310 or go to www.staaa.com

LIGHTING THE PLAZA FOR RECOVERY

Come light a luminary in St. Augustine's Plaza de la Constitucion in honor of someone you know who is on their recovery journey. This event kicks off National Recovery Month. Presented by EPIC Community Services, this inspiring night of hope takes place from 6:30 to 8 p.m. For more information, visit www.epiccommunityservices.org or call 904.829.2273.

MONDAY * LABOR DAY * SEPTEMBER 5, 2011

ST AUGUSTINE LABOR DAY CONCERT IN THE PLAZA

Enjoy an afternoon concert featuring the St. Augustine Jazz Society in St. Augustine'sPlaza de la Constitucion. This is the final concert of the season. The concert is from 1 to 5 p.m. and is free to the public. For more information, call 904.825.1004 or visitwww.plazaconcerts.com.

Events in St. Augustine This Weekend

2011-08-25T07:06:00.004-04:00

PREMIER OF

LOST ATLAS AT

ST. AUGUSTINE

AMPHITHEATRE

* Saturday * Aug 27

The St. Augustine Amphitheatre will be hosting a premiere for Kai Neville's new surf film entitled Lost Atlas. A location-based film shot in under 12 months, Lost Atlas takes the viewer on a candid jaunt into surfing today through the eyes of the most progressive, young surfers in the world. Premier events include performances by Le Blorr, Sunbears!, and Darkhorse Saloon, a taco cook-off and a surf merchandise sale. This premier movie event takes place from 5:30 to 10:30 p.m. at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre, located at 1340 A1A in St. Augustine. Admission is free. For more information, visitwww.staugamphitheatre.com or call 904.209.3741

UPTOWN SATURDAY NIGHT * Saturday * Aug 27

From 5 to 9 p.m. experience live music, refreshments, new exhibits, book signings and much more at the galleries, antique stores and unique shops on St. Augustine's San Marco Avenue between Ripley's Museum and the Mission Nombre de Dios. The Mission Nombre de Dios provides FREE PARKING. For more information, call 904.823.9263.

THOMAS ARVID AT GALERIA DEL MAR * Saturday * Aug 27

Come meet the "Master of Modern Still Life" when artist Thomas Arvid visits Galeria del Mar in St. Augustine. The gallery will unveil Arvid's newest major original oil painting, "Golden Opportunity" - a 30"x48" canvas depicting six bottles of Far Niente. The artist will be available from noon to 4 p.m. for book signings and bottle dedications. Galeria de Mar is located at 9 King Street. For more information, call 904.829.2120.

LOW TIDE BIKE RIDE AT ANASTASIA STATE PARK * Saturday * Aug 27

Get a great cardio workout on one of the most awesome beaches in Florida. The 9 a.m. ride is a 3 ½ mile loop and includes an ecology talk at the point of Conch Island. Bring at least one pint of water, bicycle, snack, binoculars, and sunscreen. Bike rentals will be available. Admission to the park is $8 per vehicle, up to 8 people, $4 for single occupant admission, and $2 for pedestrians and bicyclists. Anastasia State Park is located on A1A on Anastasia Island in St. Augustine. For more information, call 904.461.2035, or visitwww.floridastateparks.org/anastasia .

LIVING HISTORY DAYS AT FORT MOSE * Saturday * Aug 27

Experience living history demonstrations as volunteers in period dress offer visitors a fascinating glimpse into the past. The demonstrations take place from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., weather permitting, at Fort Mose State Park located at 15 Fort Mose Trail in St. Augustine. Admission is $4 per vehicle or $2 for pedestrians or bicyclists. For more information, call 904.823.2232 or visit www.floridastateparks.org/fortmose.

Irene Passes Us By...No Worries....

2011-08-24T10:39:00.001-04:00

Dog Days of Summer? We think not...

2011-08-19T08:59:00.003-04:00

Events in St. Augustine This Weekend

2011-08-17T16:30:00.003-04:00

FRIDAY, AUGUST 19

NATURE FILM AT THE ST. AUGUSTINE ART ASSOCIATION GALLERY

Created especially for St. Augustine, by Elam Stoltzfus, a top PBS nature documentary producer, this film will be shown from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the St. Augustine Art Association Gallery, located at 22 Marine Street. Admission is free but reservations are required. For more information, call 904.824.2310 or visit www.staaa.org .

ALISON KRAUSS & UNION STATION AT ST. AUGUSTINE AMPHITHEATRE

SOLD OUT! Experience Alison Krauss & Union Station's Paper Airplane Summer Tour 2011 at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre. The performance will begin at 8 p.m. Tickets are $69.50, $49.50, $39.50, & $29.50. The St. Augustine Amphitheatre is located at 1340 A1A South. For more information, call 904.471.1965, or visit www.staugamphitheatre.com

FRIDAY, SATURDAY, AND SUNDAY AUGUST 19-21

SECOND SAMUEL AT LIMELIGHT THEATRE

Enjoy this touching comedy about life and friendship in the rural town of Second Samuel. Show times are Thursday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets are $25 for adults, $22 for seniors and $20 for students and active military. The Limelight Theater is located at 11 Old Mission Avenue in St. Augustine. For more information, call 904.825.1164 or visit www.Limelight-Theatre.org .

SATURDAY, AUGUST 20

BACK2SCHOOL BEACH FEST

Get ready to start a new school year at this family-friendly event that promotes clean beaches, healthy lifestyles and fun at the beach. From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., between the Matanzas Avenue and Mary Street beach access ramps, there will be a beach clean-up, one mile fun run and free surfing lessons. At 3 p.m., there will be an Oceans Expo at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre with live music, environmental education booths, local arts and crafts vendors, a bounce house and interactive kid activities. The all-day event concludes at the Amphitheatre with a series of movie screenings including short surfing features at 6:30 p.m. and a 7:30 p.m. showing of the feature film Turtle: the Incredible Journey. The event is presented by the Friends of the St. Augustine Amphitheatre and the St. Johns County Cultural Events and Beach Services divisions. For more information, call 904.209.0367.

GOODE LIFE SCHOLARSHIP FUNDRAISER AT PIER

Show you're well-balanced in the stand-up paddle board competition or take your team to the top in the volleyball tournament while raising scholarship funds for deserving St. Augustine High School seniors. Held at the Pier Pavilion in St. Augustine Beach, The Goode Life Education Foundation will present a full-day of exciting activities. The scholarship fund will receive 90 percent of the proceeds and the remainder will go to the ARC Therapeutic Learning Center. For more details, go to http://goodelife.beep.com /2011eventspage.htm or call 904.599.7503.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 21

SLIGHTLY STOOPID PERFORMS

Following in the footsteps of Sublime, Slightly Stoopid has created a blend of rock, reggae, and hip hop that is like candy for surf & beach communities. Gates open at 5 p.m. and the show starts at 6 p.m. The St. Augustine Amphitheatre is located at 1340 A1A South in St. Augustine. Tickets are $35.00 in Advance, & $40.00 day of show. For more information, call 904.471.1965 or visit www.StAugAmphitheatre.com .

Events in St. Augustine This Weekend

2011-08-05T09:21:00.009-04:00

Please Join Us!

AGOSA galleries will be OPEN until at least 9pm for the celebration of the festive and fun August First Friday Artwalk! Enjoy local art, complimentary refreshments and live music during the festive First Friday Artwalk! Call 904.829.0065 or 904.825.4577 for more information. AGOSA represents the finest St Augustine galleries with 15 member galleries featuring local art, glass, pottery, jewelry and more. This is a FREE event and everyone is welcome!

First Friday AGOSA Artwalk

Friday, August 5th, 2011 5pm to 9pm

First Friday Artwalk - Getting Around Town

There is one FREE Artwalk Trolley on First Friday!

You can hop on starting at 6pm on King Street.

The trolley makes a loop around town to other

neighborhoods of AGOSA galleries every

15 minutes or so. You can park at

The San Sebastian Winery or

Rembrandtz Gallery to catch the train.

Come early to catch a parking space and

enjoy the galleries starting at 5pm. The

trolley tours start at 6pm until 9pm.

Call 829.0065 or 825.4577 for more info.

This is a FREE service from our wonderful

patron, Old Town Trolley Tours.

Robert Dorrill, a nature and landscape photographer, is the featured artist at P.A.St.A. Art Gallery during the month of August. Bob's exhibit, "Sites and Scenes of St. Augustine" will emphasize nature and landscapes. (SEE PICTURE ABOVE)

Some of nature's greatest gifts to mankind are the beautiful wading birds found in the St. Augustine area. During the mating season, hundreds of the Great Egrets, Ibis, Roseate Spoonbills, Wood Storks, and even the Great Blue Heron fly into the trees of the Alligator Farm nesting only a few feet from each other to mate and raise their babies. Some of these scenes will be included in the show along with beautiful sunrises which occur daily on St. Augustine beach.

Mr. Dorrill's interest in photography goes back to his younger days when he had a functioning darkroom as a hobby, but today he has evolved into the digital world of images. Retirement and the beautiful St. Augustine area has greatly contributed to his photographic experience.

You are invited to the opening reception August 5, 2011, from 5:00pm to 9:00pm during First Friday Art Walk in St. Augustine. Location is P.A.St.A. Gallery, 214 Charlotte St., regular gallery hours: 1-4 Mon-Fri. and 1-5 Sat-Sun. 904-824-0251

Who Forgot to Buy Cat Food?

2011-08-04T08:17:00.003-04:00

Events in St. Augustine This Weekend

2011-07-28T10:35:00.002-04:00

UPTOWN SATURDAY NIGHT * July 30

MUSIC AT SARA'S CREPES CAFE * FRIDAY & SATURDAY & SUNDAY NIGHTS * JULY 29-31

Enjoy delicious crepes in an Old World setting while experiencing great live music all weekend. Friday from 7-11 p.m., it's jazz, blues and rock from Douglas Mcrae; Saturday from 7-11 p.m. enjoy the smooth vocals, guitar and harmonica of Wendy Kissinger; and Sunday it's the Groov Band from 5-9 p.m. Sara's Crepes Café is located at 100 St. George Street on the corner of Hypolita and Spanish streets in St. Augustine. For more information, call 904.810.5800.

EXPLORE THE MATANZAS RIVER * SATURDAY & SUNDAY * JULY 30-31

Hop on a research boat for a mid-morning journey into the waters of the Matanzas River. The 11am-12:30pm trip leaves time for lunch afterwards in picturesque downtown St. Augustine. Recent sightings include leaping manta rays & baby dolphins! $35/adults, $30/kids 3-12, $15/infants-2. Call St. Augustine Eco Tours at 904-377-7245 to make reservations or visitwww.staugustineecotours.com to learn more.

Events: October is Flavors Month

2011-07-27T12:40:00.002-04:00

The popular Flavors of Florida's Historic Coast will return in October. Flavors is a month-long promotion of St. Augustine's unique culinary traditions that features a wide range of local restaurants. Each participating restaurant offers a prix fix (fixed price) menu that features a meal that captures the flavorful culinary traditions of Florida's Historic Coast.

This year (2011) there will be more than 20 participating restaurants from Crescent Beach to Ponte Vedra.

The website is in process of being updated with new menus as they come in, but click here to take a look at the 2010 menu offerings, and to watch for 2011 menu offerings.

October is a great month to visit St. Augustine!

Events in St. Augustine This Weekend

2011-07-21T08:14:00.003-04:00

ST AUGUSTINE ART ASSOCIATION LECTURE PRESENTATION * FRIDAY * JULY 22

Learn about the area's coastal birds during a presentation by Monique Borboem-Abrams, of Florida Audubon. Monique's presentation, St. Augustine Coastal Birds, will take place at 6:30 p.m. Admission is free, but reservations are required. The St. Augustine Art Association Gallery is located at 22 Marine Street in St. Augustine. Call 904.824.2310 or visit www.staaa.org.

EXHIBIT OPENING
See works created by six creative and imaginative minds when Galeria del Mar unveils it latest exhibition. The featured artists include Worley Faver (hand-coiled pottery); Jeffrey Terreson (oil and wax); Peter Mars (Pop art); Dmitri Danish (cityscapes); Josef Kote (expressionist) and Ira Reines (bronze and acrylic sculptures). Located at 9 King Street in St. Augustine, this exhibition will be open thru July 30. For more information, call 904.829.2120.

OLDEST STORE MUSEUM

Visit the "new" Oldest Store Museum Experience now located at Historic Tours of America, 167 San Marco Avenue in St. Augustine. Once a popular attraction in the Oldest City, the museum was closed for 10 years, but is now open daily in a new location. The Museum features more than 100,000 household items from a by-gone era - it's like walking into a Sears & Roebuck catalog from 1900! Plus, live actors add to the fun and charm of this wonderful museum. Admission is $9 for adults and $6 for children. For more information on The Oldest Store Museum Experience, visit www.trolleytours.comor contact Dave Chatterton at 904-829-3800 or via email atdchatterton@historictours.com

How to Choose? Full Moon Sail or Sunset/Moonrise Tour

2011-07-14T11:37:00.005-04:00

FULL MOON SAIL * FRIDAY JULY 15

Go on an unforgettable sail beneath the full moon aboard the beautiful Schooner Freedom. The schooner departs from the St. Augustine City Marina at 8:45 p.m. - all passengers for this wonderful voyage need to check in by 8:15 p.m. The cost is only $35 per person and includes free beverages and live music. For more information and required reservations, call 904.810.1010.

SUNSET/MOONRISE TOUR * FRIDAY JULY 15

Enjoy the sunset and moonrise 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 8 to 9:30 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 or to reserve a spot, call 904.829.0745 or visit www.StAugustineLighthouse.com.

ALSO THIS WEEKEND:

WIZ KHALIFA AT THE ST. AUGUSTINE AMPHITHEATRE * SUNDAY JULY 17

Enjoy a lively evening at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre when 23 year old rap artist, Wiz Khalifa performs tracks from his newest album including "Black & Yellow". The performance starts at 7:00 pm and tickets are $31.50, and $21.50. The St. Augustine Amphitheatre is located at 1340 A1A South in St. Augustine. For more information, visit www.staugamphitheatre.com.

Zeke - Wonder What He's Thinkin'?

2011-07-08T09:01:00.002-04:00

Many thanks to Terry and Amanda McGarry who took the picture of Zeke during their recent stay, and then shared it with us here at the Inn.

Events in St. Augustine This Weekend

2011-07-07T11:09:00.003-04:00

KINGFISH CHALLENGE * FRIDAY, SATURDAY, SUNDAY (JUL 8-10)

Chase the big ones in this exciting competition that offers cash and prizes for the biggest catch. Registration is limited to 400 boats. Friday is the Junior Kingfish Challenge, Tournament Registration and the Captain's Meeting. Fishing days are Saturday and Sunday. There will also be a fish fry and awards on Sunday. It all begins at the St. Augustine City Marina located at 111 Avenida Menendez. For more information and registration forms, call 904.824.8324 or visit www.acgfa.com/kingfishchallenge.html.

BOZ SCAGGS AND MICHAEL MCDONALD * SUNDAY * JULY 10)

Spend an evening with two of the iconic entertainers of the 70's and 80's, Boz Scaggs and Michael McDonald! Ever-popular Boz Scaggs and five-time Grammy winner Michael McDonald share top billing in this special concert at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre. The show begins at 6:30 p.m. at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre. Tickets are $44.50, $59.50 & $79.50. The St. Augustine Amphitheatre is located at 1340 A1A South. For more information call 904.471.1965 or visit www.StAugAmphitheatre.com.

Celebrity Sighting: Capt Jack Sparrow

2011-07-06T10:36:00.003-04:00

This young gentleman stayed with us last week. When asked for his name, he muttered, "Captain Jack." Obviously travelling incognito "Captain Jack" was here with his father and grandparents. AAAAAAAAAAAARRRRRRRRRRRRGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGHHH!

Fireworks go off with a bang | StAugustine.com

2011-07-05T08:04:00.000-04:00

Fireworks go off with a bang | StAugustine.com

Weekend Events: 4th of July and More!

2011-06-30T08:20:00.002-04:00

* note * World Golf Village Fireworks are Friday, July 1st * Downtown St. Augustine Fireworks are Monday, July 4th! *

Friday: July 1

PLAZA STROLL TOUR DEBUTS

Be one of the first to participate in St. Augustine's newest history tour. The guides from City Walks Tours will lead this fascinating 75-minute walking tour that will reveal the secrets of the Plaza de la Constitucion, the meanings behind its monuments, and the history of the center of life in St. Augustine throughout the centuries. The tour is $12 per person and discounts for online booking are available. The tour is presented at 10 a.m. in English and 10:30 a.m. in Spanish and will depart from the Public Market in St. Augustine's Plaza de la Constitucion. This new tour is offered DAILY. For more information, call 904.540.3476 or visit www.StAugustineCityWalks.com.

FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK

WORLD GOLF VILLAGE FIREWORKS

Enjoy one of the largest fireworks displays in Northeast Florida as World Golf Village celebrates Independence Day. Bring blankets or lawn chairs (no coolers please) and find a spot around the Walk of Champions to enjoy the show. Admission is free. The Fireworks take place between 9 and 9:30 p.m. Restaurants and shops will be open to the public, including an All American Tasting Room at the Renaissance Resort at World Golf Village. A minimal parking fee will be required for entry to the fireworks event. World Golf Village is located at Exit 323 off I-95 in St. Augustine. Visit www.WorldGolfHallofFame.com or call 904.940.4123.

Monday: July 4

ST. AUGUSTINE'S FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION

Have a blast at one of the East Coast's largest fireworks shows! The spectacular fireworks burst above the ancient Castillo de San Marcos and reflect in the waters of Matanzas Bay. The 20-minute show includes a stirring soundtrack of great patriotic music. Admission is free with the best vantage points located along the bayfront between the Castillo and the Bridge of Lions. The fireworks blast off at 9:30 p.m. For more details, call 904.825.1004 or go to www.staugustinegovernment.com .

4TH OF JULY TOP OF THE LIGHTHOUSE

Celebrate the 4th of July at the top of the St. Augustine Lighthouse with a magnificent view of the skyline and fireworks. The spectacular event begins with the viewing of the sunset over the Atlantic. Then fireworks when darkness sets...... St. Augustine Lighthouse and Museum is located at 81 Lighthouse Avenue. Tickets are $40 per person and space is limited. For reservations call 904.829.0745 ext. 207. For more information, visit www.staugustinelighthouse.com.

4TH OF JULY ROOFTOP CELEBRATION AT THE WHITE ROOM

Come celebrate our nation's independence at the The White Room's Loft and Rooftop and enjoy the fireworks with the best view in town. Dinner includes a fresh market station with fresh fruit, imported cheeses, salad, Rosemary and Herb crusted Beef Tenderloin, Chicken Florentine, garlic herb whipped potatoes and fire roasted vegetables, dessert, and complimentary cocktail. $45.95 plus tax and gratuity. Outside seating is limited the first 100 reservations. Special Children's menu. The White Room is located on the third floor of 1 King Street in Downtown St. Augustine on the water across from the Bridge of Lions. For more information call 904.824.9056 or email info@ocwhiteroom.comfor reservations.

FIREWORKS BOAT TRIP

Join St. Augustine Eco Tours for a a front row seat of the fireworks! Private trips are available for parties of six -- $250 per boat. For details, call 904.377.7245.

Events: Re-enactment of Fort Mose Battle

2011-06-27T08:28:00.005-04:00

From the St. Augustine Record, June 25, 2011, by Daron Dean, Photojournalist.

The second annual Battle of Bloody Mose reenactment was held at Fort Mose Historic State Park on Saturday afternoon.In the first photo, gunpowder explodes as Jim Morecraft of Jacksonville fires his musket while portraying a British soldier in Oglethorpe’s regiment.In the second photo, the sporadic sound of musket fire prompts Erik Coeke, 8, to plug his ears while with his aunt, Sofie Snapp, during the reenactment.In the last photo, reenactors portraying Spanish soldiers fire their muskets.

St Augustine Events: Music, Greeks, Uptown Fun, and Battle Re-enactment

2011-06-23T08:07:00.004-04:00

SATURDAY * JUNE 25

BATTLEOF BLOODY MOSE 271st ANNIVERSARY

This exciting re-enactment commemorates the 271st anniversary of the 1740 Battle of "Bloody Moosa" which forced the British to retreat from Spanish Florida.. The settlement of Gracia Real de Santa Teresa de Mose, the First Free Black Settlement in North America, was home for hundreds of free blacks who escaped slavery from the English Colonies to the north. From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. living history demonstrations, guided tours, food vendors, and music will be provided. Then, at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. the Spanish and British forces will reenact the "Bloody Moosa" battle. The event is weather permitting. It all takes place at Fort Mose State Park located at 15 Fort Mose Trail in St. Augustine. Admission is $2 per person. For more information, call 904.823.2232 or visitwww.floridastateparks.org/fortmose.

UPTOWN SATURDAY NIGHT

FRIDAY AND SATURDAY * JUNE 24-25

28th Annual GREEK LANDING DAY CELEBRATION

Celebrate the 243rd anniversary of the arrival of the first colony of Greeks in North America. Hundreds of Greeks, Menorcans and Corsicans arrived in St. Augustine on June 26, 1768 and went on to establish the New Smyrna Colony. St. Photios Shrine serves as a memorial to those Greek colonists by witnessing the Orthodox Faith and promoting the Hellenic culture. From 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday and 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, visit the "Glendi" for a celebration of music, food and dancing. Admission is free. The St. Photios National Greek Orthodox Shrine is located at 41 St. George Street in St. Augustine. For more information, call 904.829.8205 or visit www.StPhotios.com.

ST. AUGUSTINE MUSIC FESTIVAL

Don't miss the 2011 edition of the St. Augustine Music Festival! Musicians from the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra, along with many guest artists, offer FREE classical concerts at the Cathedral Basilica. All of the festival's performances take place at 7:30 p.m. on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at the beautiful Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine, 38 Cathedral Place. Admission is free, but donations are welcomed. For information about each night's performance, visit www.staugustinemusicfestival.org.

Events in St. Augustine This Weekend: Music, Lizardman & Golf (!?!)

2011-06-16T08:04:00.003-04:00

ST. AUGUSTINE MUSIC FESTIVAL * Thu-Sat * June 16-18

Don't miss the opening performance of the 2011 edition of the St. Augustine Music Festival! Musicians from the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra, along with many guest artists, offer FREE classical concerts at the Cathedral Basilica over two weekends. The six-concert series opens Thursday, June 16, with concerts following on Friday and Saturday. The following weekend brings concerts Thursday, Friday and Saturday, June 23, 24 and 25. All of the festival's performances take place at 7:30 p.m. on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at the beautiful Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine, 38 Cathedral Place. Admission is free, but donations are welcomed. For information about each night's performance, visit www.staugustinemusicfestival.org.

LIZARDMAN AT RIPLEY'S VISITOR CENTER GRAND OPENING * Sat * June 18

See what's new for visitors at the Grand Opening of the Ripley's Visitor Center. To celebrate the grand opening of the new center, Lizardman Erik Sprague will be performing live. In addition, the event will have free snacks and beverages, an obstacle course, a bounce house, face painting, games, prizes, free trial tours on Ripley's new Party Express Train, a dunk tank and much, much more! Everyone who attends will also receive a free souvenir. All activities are free for the day. It all takes place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the new Ripley's Visitor Center, located at 340 State Road 16 in St. Augustine. For more information, call 904.824.1606 or visit www.Ripleys.com.

COMMUNITY DAY AT THE WORLD GOLF HALL OF FAME * Sun * June 19

Experience the World Golf Hall of Fame for FREE when it opens its doors to everyone for its annual Community Day. The first 500 dads through the doors will receive a goody bag filled with gifts, coupons and certificates from businesses at World Golf Village and the surrounding areas. The fun takes place from noon to 6 p.m. at the World Golf Hall of Fame, 1 World Golf Place, St. Augustine. For more information, visitwww.WorldGolfHallofFame.org, or call 904.940.9000.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO JOE ! !

2011-06-10T14:43:00.004-04:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JOE FINNEGAN!

from your HARD-WORKING STAFF AT THE INN

(L-R Anna, Andrea, Bev, Nancy, Chef Mary, Bozena, Max, Kelly)

This Weekend's Events

2011-06-09T11:41:00.004-04:00

2011 FOUNTAIN MERCURY KING BUSTER 400

FRIDAY, SATURDAY, SUNDAY (JUNE 10-12)

Put your fishing skills to the test in the premiere Southern Kingfish competition of the year - with over $175,000 in cash and prizes! The tournament starts from St. Augustine Municipal Marina, located at Avenida Menendez and the Bridge of Lions. The King Buster 400 is limited to 400 boats. Fishing days are Friday and Saturday. There will be a party with live music Friday from 5:30 to 9 p.m. and prizes will be awarded at Sunday's Festivites from noon to 6 p.m.. Tournament entry fees are $449.50. Women anglers register for free. For more information, call 904.759.6588 or visit www.kingbuster400.com.

W.W.R.A. RODEO AT ST. JOHNS COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS

FRIDAY & SATURDAY (JUNE 10-11)

Head over to the St. Johns County Fairgrounds for a night at the rodeo. There will be fun for the whole family including Barrel racing, team roping, kids calf scramble (for those 10 and under and free), tiedown roping, bull riding, chute dogging and more. The show begins at 8 p.m. both evenings. Admission is $12 for adults and $7 for children. The Fairgrounds are located on S.R. 207 (7 miles west of I-95 exit 311) in Elkton. For more information, call 904.845.7492.

ANDREW YOUNG CROSSING DEDICATION

SATURDAY, JUNE 11, 10AM

Don't miss the dedication ceremony for the new Andrew Young Crossing monument in St. Augustine's Plaza de la Constitucion. The monument commemorates Ambassador Young's experience in St. Augustine during the push for the passage of the Civil Rights Act in 1964. Ambassador Young will be in attendance. The ceremony begins at 10 a.m. For more information, call 904.825.1004.

Mystery Innkeeper

2011-06-08T12:36:00.002-04:00

HEY! Who's that guy behind the Front Desk? Anyone know???

Concert Event: Slightly Stoopid August 21

2011-06-07T11:16:00.004-04:00

Slightly Stoopid

with Rebelution, Shwayze and Cisco Adler

Sunday, August 21st, 2011
at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre

Slightly Stoopid will be making their 3rd appearance on the St. Augustine Amphitheatre's Stage this summer.
Slightly Stoopid has perfected what they call the "Stealth Groove". This is a blend of Rock, Reggae, & Hip Hop that the Long Beach California band Sublime pioneered in the '90s. Accompanying them on this tour is another Southern California band Rebelution. They previously sold out venues in Jacksonville and you can bet that this show might do the same.
Tickets are: $35.00 in Advance $40.00 Day of Show Show at 6:00 pm
For more information: click here.
Stay at the St. Francis Inn Sunday, 8/21/11- show us your tickets - and get 15% off your Sunday night stay!

Being Pet Friendly has its Benefits...like Gracie!

2011-06-06T09:17:00.003-04:00

Gracie stayed with us in May and loved nosing around the courtyard...what a friendly and fun guest! (She brought her parents Jer & Carole K.)

The St Francis Inn accepts small well-mannered pets on a limited basis in certain rooms/suites by advance reservations only under the following conditions:

When reservation is made, guest must disclose their pet will also be visiting.
At check-in, guests with a pet will need to sign our "Guest Pet Responsibility" agreement which guarantees and authorizes credit card payment for any damage caused by their pet.
We charge a nightly pet fee of $15.
This fee covers the additional time and effort needed to clean the guest accommodation after a pet visit.
A "small pet" is a cat or dog which is easily held/carried by the guest, a maximum of 45 lbs.
Pets may not be allowed during certain holidays, weekends, or special event periods; please check ahead for availability.
Pets must be under owner's control and should not disturb other guests (barking, non-friendly manner, etc.).
Since pets are not allowed in our "common areas" such as the lobby, sitting room, dining room, only certain rooms with direct access are available to accommodate guests with small pets.
Daily housekeeping may be interrupted if a pet is in the room alone and not crated.

Concerned about your Allergies?
Not to worry! Most of our rooms are kept "pet free"... Only a select few rooms are ever allowed to house pets. All our rooms are non-smoking.

Upcoming Concerts: LeAnn Rimes*June 5 **Peter Frampton*Oct 7

2011-06-01T08:46:00.003-04:00

An Evening with LeAnn Rimes

to benefit Tornado Relief

Sunday June 5th, 2011

at the Ponte Vedra Concert Hall

Tickets are on sale now!

An Evening with Peter Frampton

"Frampton Comes Alive" 35 tour

Friday, October 7th, 2011
at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre

Pre-sale starts Wednesday June 1st at 10:00 am and ends June 2 at 10:00 pm

Password is PF2011 and must be entered in the "Venue" pre-sale box

Public On Sale Friday June 3rd at 10:00 am.

Summertime

2011-05-25T08:27:00.008-04:00

Those "lazy crazy hazy" days of summer are upon us. Frankie took up his position in the courtyard last Friday.

Tuesday afternoon a pair of gray legs was spotted poking out from a patch of shade...

He blends in well with the shade...that's our Zeke in there!

AIR SHOW COMING TO ST. AUGUSTINE

2011-05-24T11:12:00.003-04:00

This Memorial Day weekend, the skies above the Nation's oldest city will be filled with daring men and women in their fabulous flying machines when the St. Augustine Air Show returns to the Northeast Florida Regional Airport. The two-day show will feature world-renowned aerobatic pilots, military exhibits and static displays and a special appearance by the world's first car-nivorous monster - Robo Saurus.

Gates will open on both May 28 and 29 at 9:30 a.m. and the show will begin at 1 p.m. Among the performers will be aerobatic pilot Gene Soucy with wing-walker Teresa Stokes; the jet aerobatics of Team MS 760; the Misty Blues all-women skydiving team; Elliot Cross and his World War II Curtis P-40; Viper East F-16 Fighting Falcon jet fighter demonstration; and Shock Wave, the extreme jet-powered truck.

The event will honor America's military with a special "Salute to Veterans" past and present. Proceeds from the show will support United Way of St. Johns County, Wounded Warrior Project, Special Operations Warrior Foundation and Naval Special Warfare Foundations (SEALS). Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children. For more details, go towww.StAugustineAirShow.net .

(Article and photo from the Visitors Convention Bureau - St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra)

St. Augustine Attractions - Fountain of Youth

2011-05-19T12:17:00.005-04:00

A white peacock arches his tail feathers into a magnificent fan in hopes of attracting a mate at The Fountain of Youth on Wednesday. By DARON DEAN, daron.dean@staugustine.com Courtesy of the St. Augustine Record.

More Free Guest Amenities!

2011-05-17T12:46:00.002-04:00

NEW! We now have complimentary soda and bottled water available at the Front Desk. AND... For our guests who arrive late or guests who just need something to tide them over until breakfast in the morning, we will set out Evening Snacks (crackers, granola bars, etc.) just before the innkeeper leaves every night.

CANON FIRING DEMONSTRATIONS

2011-05-16T09:06:00.004-04:00

DID YOU KNOW that every weekend you can see a canon fired here in St. Augustine?

Rangers and Garrison volunteers will demonstrate the weapons and relate the experiences of the colonial Spanish soldier of 1740s St. Augustine. Historic weapons demonstrations will be presented at 10:30, 11:30, 1:30, 2:30, & 3:30. Firing times are subject to change depending on weather conditions and staff availability.
Location: Castillo de San Marcos
Hours: 8:45 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily
Admission: $6 for adults, children under 15 free when accompanied by an adult