Posts tagged Vilano Beach Sunset Celebration
This Week, January 1 – 7
Jan 4th
Tuesday through Monday: January 1 – 7
Nights of Lights – St. Augustine’s famed Nights of Lights
illuminate the nation’s oldest city’s historic district with the gentle glow of more than three million tiny white lights, providing a luminous setting for an exciting agenda of holiday events and fun through January 31. www.NightsofLights.com
2013 Annual Figure & Portrait Show – Through Jan. 27, expressions of the human form and face lend personality to this exhibit. Artworks may include gesture drawings, academic figure studies, formal portraits or busts and people in groups rendered in any style or material. The St. Augustine Art Association Gallery, 22 Marine St., St. Augustine is open Tuesday through Saturday, noon to 4 p.m. and Sunday 2 to 5 p.m. Closed New Year’s Day. Admission is Free. www.staaa.org
Dressing of the Palms – Complimenting Nights of Lights, the Dressing of the Palms in the Town Center at Vilano Beach features holiday decorations adorning over 200 palm trees along Vilano Road and Coastal Highway in Vilano Beach. Through January. Free. Vilano Beach Town Center 260 Vilano Road, St Augustine Phone: 904-540-0402 www.VilanoBeachFL.com
Ripley’s Big Red Christmas Train – Ripley’s Big Red Christmas Train transports riders through St. Augustine’s magical Nights of Lights. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the season while viewing a magical holiday illusion through your free Magic viewing glasses. Nightly tours are from 6 to 8 p.m. (till 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday) and begin at Ripley’s Believe It or Not, 19 San Marco Avenue On Friday and Saturday, there will be entertainment in the lines and FREE admission to Santa’s Village! 904-824-1606 http://www.ripleys.com/redtrains/category/holiday-event
Electric Bus Nights of Lights Tours – See the City lights on a 7-seat comfortable all-electric vehicle with a fully narrated 45-minute tour covering all the downtown city lights and sights, tour covers both the narrow and main streets. Nightly departures from parking lot at rear of Love Tree Café, 31 Orange Street at 6, 7, 8 & 9 p.m. Adults $12 Child under 12 $10. 904-325-0547 www.staugustinegoldtours.com
“The Meanies” Art Exhibit at Space Eight
Exhibition of mixed-media creations by artist Jordie Hudson. Titled “The Meanies,” the exhibit takes place at the Space Eight Gallery, 228 W. King St., in St. Augustine. Info: www.spaceeight.com; 904-829-2838
Water Taxi Nights of Lights Tours – Board the Horizons II for a relaxing Nights of Lights tour from the water. Tickets are $39 on weeknights and $49 on weekends. Tours depart from Vilano Beach Fishing Pier, 298 Vilano Road, Vilano Beach. www.jaxwatertaxi.com 904-733-7782
Sundancer Yacht Nights of Lights – Tour Sundancer Yacht is providing special sightseeing and Nights of Lights cruises through the holidays. Cruises aboard this beautiful 117 foot luxury yacht are full of holiday spirit with decorations, lights, and music. Daytime sightseeing cruises are at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Tickets are $25 for adults and $10 for children ages 12 – 6. The special Nights of Lights Cruises depart at 5:15, 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. Cruises are $16 for adults and $10 for children ages 12 – 6. All cruises depart from St. Augustine Municipal Marina, 111 Avenida Menendez. 877-446-6465
Monday: January 1
First Day Hike Anastasia State Park – Leisurely one-mile, guided hike featuring birds, butterflies, flowering vegetation and a scavenger hunt using GPS. Participants will need a smart phone with GPS or some other type of GPS. Binoculars, comfortable walking shoes, bug spray and water are also recommended. The hike begins at 2 p.m. from the Ancient Dunes Trail trailhead and is included in admission ($8 per vehicle) to the park located at 1340 A1A in St. Augustine. Info: 904-461-2033 www.floridastateparks.org/anastasia
First Day Hike-Dykes State Park – Ranger-guided nature hike along the beautiful, 2.6-mile Hiram-Faver Trail. The hike through oak hammocks and pine flatwoods provides opportunities to learn about the plants, wildlife and history of the area. Bring binoculars, comfortable walking shoes, bug spray and water. The hike begins at 1 p.m. at the Ranger Station. Hike is included in admission ($5 per vehicle) to the park located at 1000 Faver-Dykes Road, St. Augustine. Info: 904-794-0997www.floridastateparks.org/faverdykes
Tuesday through Sunday: January 1-6
Winter Wonderland – The 6th Annual Winter Wonderland at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre is hosted by the St. Johns County Cultural Events Division. Winter Wonderland features North Florida’s premiere outdoor ice skating rink, along with a brand new Ice Chute, RC Race Track and Kid’s Room and visits with Santa! St. Augustine Amphitheatre, 1340 A1A South, St. Augustine. Event Pricing: Each activity priced separately. Phone: 904-209-0367 winterwonderlandflorida.com
Holly Jolly Holiday Trolley – Explore St. Augustine’s famous Nights of Lights in the cozy comfort of the Holly Jolly Trolleys. Guests of all ages delight at the festive glittering lights throughout St. Augustine’s historic area while enjoying caroling, hot apple cider and homemade cookies. Tours depart from St. Augustine Visitors Information Center, 10 W. Castillo Drive. www.TrolleyTours.com
Thursday: January 5
Living History Day at Fort Matanzas National Monument
From 10:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m., authentically clad re-enactors will demonstrate Spanish cannons at this fortress that guarded the southern approach to St. Augustine. Admission is free including the ferry ride to and from Rattlesnake Island. Fort Matanzas National Monument is located at 8635 A1A at the south end of Anastasia Island approximately 15 miles south of St. Augustine. Info:www.nps.gov/foma; 904-471-0116
St. Augustine Chocolate Tour
Guided journey to the finest chocolatiers in St. Augustine. Learn the history of chocolate while sampling truffles, pastries, and gooey delights. The 2 hours tour departs at 1:30 p.m. from the Old Town Trolley Welcome Center at 27 San Marco Ave. The tour cost is $60. For reservations and more information: 904-829-3800; www.trolleytours.com/st-augustine/tour-chocolate.asp
Vilano Beach Sunset Celebration
Features a spectacular sunset across the bay — plus, dozens of market vendors, live music, local arts and crafts and more can be found on the pier! Activities are from 3 p.m. – dusk. Admission is free. Located at 115 Vilano Rd., St. Augustine. Info: 904-540-0402; www.vilanobeachfl.com
Evening Nature Program at Anastasia State Park
Park rangers or volunteers present programs on various topics ranging from sea turtles to star gazing. Programs take place at open-air pavilions with one of the most beautiful scenic backdrops in Northeast Florida as inspiration. Program included in regular admission of $8 per vehicle. 1340 A1A, St. Augustine. Times vary throughout year. For more information, call 904-461-2035; http://www.floridastateparks.org/anastasia
EMMA Concert Series: Inspirata
Acclaimed vocal and stage artists perform at 8 p.m. at the Lewis Auditorium at Flagler College,14 Granada St. in St. Augustine. Tickets are $30 per person.
Info: 904-797-2800; www.EmmaConcerts.com
Thursday through Sunday: January 3-6
Limelight Theatre Presents Forever Plaid: Plaid Tidings
Through January 6, Christmas classics delight as well as audience favorites featuring the Rockettes and the Chipmunks! This holiday show is truly heaven-sent! Located at 11 Old Mission Avenue, performances will take place Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2 and 7:30 p.m. Tickets are priced at $25 for adults; $22 for seniors; and $20 for students and active-duty military. www.limelight-theatre.org 904-825-1164
Friday: January 4
First Friday Art Walk
Experience one of St. Augustine’s most popular cultural events from 5 – 9 p.m. on the first Friday of every month. Enjoy the latest exhibits, music, entertainment and refreshments at over 20 participating galleries. Tours begin at San Sebastian Winery, 157 King St. St. Augustine Sightseeing Trains and Old Town Trolleys offer attendees a complimentary shuttle service to most of the galleries. Shuttles run on a continuous loop every 30 minutes.
Info: 904-829-0065; www.artgalleriesofstaugustine.com
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: January 4-6
The Secret: The Spanish Inquisition in Old St. Augustine
Could Jews, fleeing for their lives from Spain, have arrived with Pedro Menendez in 1565 when he founded the City of St. Augustine? This stunning new play by Lee Weaver features this possibility, along with the drama of an ocean crossing, Indian and pirate attacks, religious intolerance and an unforgettable love story. This one-person show covers 50 years in St. Augustine as one family struggles with both survival in the New World and the betrayal, secrecy and bigotry of the Spanish Inquisition. Performances times at the Pioneer Barn at Fort Menendez, 259 San Marco Avenue in St. Augustine are 7 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. on Sundays. Tickets are $20 for general admission; $15 for students and groups of 15 or more. Info:www.OldFloridaMuseum.com or 904-824-8874
School of the 16th Century
A three-day course titled “How To Survive in the 16th Century” provides an in-depth look at the clothing, weapons, food, history, resources and more at the 1565 Menendez settlement site. The school takes place on the grounds of Ponce de Leon’s Archaeological Park, 11 Magnolia Ave. St. Augustine. Tuition is $100 which includes Friday reception and lunch on Saturday and Sunday. Info: FOYexplorer@gmail.com or 904-599-2113.
Local Resident Specials
NOTE: St. Johns County residents with a valid ID are always admitted free of charge to the Oldest House, the Lightner Museum, the Fountain of Youth (special events excluded), the Ximenez-Fatio House, the Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse, Spanish Military Hospital Museum, and the Historic Tours of Flagler College. The daily tours and wine tastings at the San Sebastian Winery are free to everyone. Also, admission isfree to everyone at the Authentic Old Drug Store, Fort Matanzas National Monument, St. Photios Chapel, the Pena-Peck House, the Father Miguel O’Reilly Museum and the Mission Nombre de Dios Museum (donations are welcomed).
Source: Visitors and Convention Bureau
This Weekend in St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra, and The Beaches: July 6 – 8
Jul 6th
Friday: July 6
First Friday Art Walk
The latest exhibits, music, entertainment and refreshments at more than 20 St. Augustine art galleries. Old Town Trolleys offer free 
round-trips to the heart of the art district from the San Sebastian Winery, 157 King Street, or go on your own self-guided art walk. Some highlights for this art walk include the 2nd Anniversary of Plum Gallery, 9 Aviles Street featuring a toast and new contemporary art exhibits; new paintings by Claire Kendrick at Worley Faver Gallery, 11A Aviles Street; new offering and a new look (including a beautiful new storefront mosaic) at Amiro Art & Found, 9C Aviles Street; and the opening of Photographic Expressions, an exhibit of fine art photographs by Tom Tibbitts and Tom Brock at the Butterfield Garage Art Gallery, 137 King Street (meet the artists there on Sunday). Galleries are open from 5 to 9 p.m. 904.829.0065 See www.artgalleriesofstaugustine.com
Saturday: July 7
Nature Program At Anastasia State Park
Park rangers or volunteers present programs on topics ranging from bird watching to star-gazing. Admission to the park, located at 1340 A1A South in St. Augustine, is $8 per vehicle. 904.461.2033.
http://www.floridastateparks.org/anastasia
Historic Weapons Demonstrations At Fort Matanzas
The 18th century Spanish fort that guarded the southern approach to St. Augustine. From 12:30 p.m. until 3:30 p.m., authentically clad re-enactors will demonstrate Spanish muskets and cannons. Admission is free including the ferry ride from Rattlesnake Island. Fort Matanzas National Monument is located at 8635 A1A at the south end of Anastasia Island approximately 15 miles south of St. Augustine. 904.471.0116. www.nps.gov/foma
First Coast Arts & Crafts Show
Crafts show featuring original and unique crafts designed by talented artists and available for viewing and purchase. The show takes place from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the St. Johns County Beach Pier Pavilion, 350 A1A on St. Augustine Beach. 906-669-8529. gandaessentials@att.net
Vilano Beach Sunset Celebration
New businesses, dozens of market vendors, unusual and unique crafts, entertainment by She Fay and Dee McDuffie and a beautiful sunset are just part of the entertainment and fun to be enjoyed from 3 p.m. until dusk at the Vilano Beach Pier located just off A1A across Matanzas Bay from St. Augustine. For more information, call 904-540-0402.
Blue Lotus Belly Dancers at Villa Zorayda
Villa Zorayda proudly presents an evening of history and entertainment set in the Moorish Court when the Blue Lotus Bellydancers perform a unique fusion of dance in an exciting theatrical manner with beautiful costumes, enchanting music, and artistic skill – including an incredible sword-balancing dance. Beginning at 7:45 p.m., guests can take a state-of-the-art audio tour of the historic Villa and its impressive collection of art and antiques. The exotic Blue Lotus ladies begin their performance at 9 p.m. Tickets for the tour and show are $20 for adults, $12 for children 7-11. Show only tickets are $15 for adults and $8 for children. The Villa Zorayda Museum is located tat 83 King Street in St. Augustine. For more information, call 904-829-9887 www.villazorayda.com
Las Comedias at Spanish Bakery
At 8 p.m., gather under the trees at the Spanish Bakery, 42 St. George Street, in St. Augustine for laughs and great food as the St. George Players present Comedias., a series of short, entertaining and educational “interludes” written in the 16th century by Spanish playwright Lope de
Rueda. Lavish tapestries and costuming add to the atmosphere of these timeless tales of star-crossed lovers, bad working conditions, thieves and trickery. Plus, the Spanish Bakery staff serves salsa, empanadas, soup and dessert throughout the performance. The entertainment and food are included in the ticket price of $10 adults and $5 for kids (under 6 are free). diannelenore@yahoo.com
Rod Stewart and Bon Jovi Tribute
World-renowned entertainer Kenny Holliday presents his tribute to Rod Stewart
and Bon Jovi at the Pioneer Barn and Fort Menendez, 259 San Marco Avenue in St. Augustine. The performance also features a CD Release Party for Kenny’s newest CD – only $5 each, a portion of the proceeds go to the Wounded Warriors Project and K9’s for warriors. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.. and the show begins at 7 p.m. All tickets are $12 and may be ordered in advance by calling 904-824-8874 or at the door as long as seating is available.
Saturday and Sunday: July 7 & 8
Explore the Estuary
Join a passionate Interpretive Naturalist on a river adventure of your choice. Try a guided kayak adventure in the salt marsh, a quiet sail in the intracoastal on a 27′ catamaran, or cover the most ground and see the most on the most popular dolphin & nature boat excursion. Tours depart at 10 a.m., 1 p.m., and 7 p.m. Small groups & great guides ! 904-377-7245 for details & reservations.
www.staugustineecotours.com
Local Resident Specials
NOTE: St. Johns County residents with a valid ID are always admitted free of charge to the Lightner Museum, the Fountain of Youth (special events excluded), the Ximenez-Fatio House, the Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse, Spanish Military Hospital Museum, and the Historic Tours of Flagler College. The daily tours and wine tastings at the San Sebastian Winery are free to everyone. Also, admission is free to everyone at the Authentic Old Drug Store, Fort Matanzas National Monument, Government House Museum, St. Photios Chapel, the Pena-Peck House, the Father Miguel O’Reilly Museum and the Mission Nombre de Dios Museum (donations are welcomed).
NEW: St. Johns County residents who purchase full-price admisssion to the St. Augustine Lighthouse ($9.50 adults; $7.50 seniors and children 12 and under; free for children under 44 inches in height) can now receive a pass good for free admission for an entire year! The Lighthouse is now open until 6 p.m. on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights.. Also, on the first Monday of each month, St. Johns County residents are admitted free to the Dow Museum of Historic Houses, 246 St. George Street, St. Augustine.
Source: Visitors and Convention Bureau
