This Week in St. Johns County

Monday 19 – Monday 26

The Award-Winning Journey: 450 Years of the African-American Experience
Recognized by the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation as an outstanding heritage education program, Journey: 450 Years of the African American Experience covers the long and storied history of African-Americans in St. Augustine. The story of African-Americans begins in St. Augustine with the first Africans both free and slave among founding colonists in 1565. The exhibition is designed for cultural and heritage visitors interested in the full history of America and its beginnings and comprises four themes: Genesis of the African-American Experience; Fortress of Freedom; Breaking the Chains; and Crossroads of Change. Tickets are $5 for adults; $4 for seniors; $3 for youth 7-12; under 7 free. Free admission for military in uniform. Located at the St. Augustine Visitors Information Center, 10 West Castillo Dr., St. Augustine. staugustine-450.com/journey/

El Galeón and Nao Victoria Tour
Tour full-sized replicas of 16th and 17th century Spanish tall ships. Docked at the St. Augustine City Marina, El Galeón Andalucia and Nao Victoria are both open for daily tours. El Galeón is an exact replica of the famous galleons that played an important role in the creation and maintenance of the Spanish Empire. Built in Spain, it is similar to the galleon that brought Pedro Menendez to Florida where he founded St. Augustine in 1565. The Nao Victoria is a replica of the first ship to successfully circumnavigate the world commanded by Ferdinand Magellan in the 16th century. The ships are available for tours beginning at 10 a.m. daily. El Galeón admission is $15 for adult and $8 for youth. Nao Victoria admission is $10 for adults and $5 for youth. A combo ticket for both ships is available for $20 for adults and $10 for youth. Located at 111 Avenida Menendez. For more information, call (904) 824-1606 or visit http://www.elgaleon.org/?gclid=CLir8b-3lb4CFU4aOgodDCsA_g. 

Miniature Marks
Through June 1 the St. Augustine Art Association hosts a juried open media and subject exhibit of artists making their personal mark in this installation of works no larger than 12 inches.  Small, but mighty, the individual pieces explore a wide range of subjects, ideas and materials. The gallery is open Tuesday – Saturday noon – 4 p.m. and Sunday 2 – 5 p.m. Admission is free.  Located at 22 Marine St. St. Augustine. For more information, call (904) 824-2310 or visit http://www.staaa.org/.

Amiro Art & Found “By the Sea”
Through May 30, Amiro Art & Found features a collection of ocean-inspired artwork, which includes artwork by Miami-based artist, Jeanine Maleno, as well as local artists Jim Macbeth, Nancy Hamlin-Vogler, Deane Kellogg, and Wendy Mandel McDaniel. The Gallery is open Thursday-Monday from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. with extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays until 7 p.m. Located at 9C Aviles St., St. Augustine. For more information, call (904) 824-8460 or visit http://www.amiroartandfound.com/.

Florida Artists Group Juried Exhibition
Through June 1, the St. Augustine Art Association hosts the annual symposium and exhibition of the FLORIDA ARTIST Group (FLAG). The exhibition contains a diverse collection of work by the many active painters, photographers, sculptors and mixed-media artists that make up that prestigious group. The gallery is open Tuesday – Saturday noon – 4 p.m. and Sunday 2 – 5 p.m. Admission is free. Located at 22 Marine St. St. Augustine. For more information, call (904) 824-2310 or visit http://www.staaa.org/.

Honoring the Legacy: A Tribute to African-Americans in Golf
The World Golf Hall of Fame opens a new, permanent exhibit titled “Honoring the Legacy: A Tribute to African-Americans in Golf.” The exhibit details the long, rich history of African-Americans in golf, from the difficult beginnings in the late 1800s for pioneers like John Shippen, to the progress and challenges of today. The exhibit also highlights the struggles and successes of notable golfers like Hall of Fame member Charlie Sifford and major personalities such as Althea Gibson, Joe Louis and Tiger Woods. The World Golf Hall of Fame is open daily except for Thanksgiving, Christmas and Induction Day. Hours are Mon. – Sat. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Sundays noon – 6 p.m. Admission is $19.50 adults; $18.50 seniors, military and Florida residents; $10 students ages 13 and over; and $5 for children ages 5-12. Located at One World Golf Place (i-95 exit 323), St. Augustine. For more information, call (904) 940-4123 or visit http://www.worldgolfhalloffame.org/.

Tours
For a complete list of eco/kayak, food, and history tours, and other special tours taking place on Florida’s Historic Coast this week, visit Florida’s Historic Coast Events. 

Monday:  May 19

Schooner Freedom Privateers and Pirates Set Sail
Set sail on the Schooner Freedom and learn all about the privateer and pirates who sailed the waters of St. Augustine and the coast of Florida. The schooner’s captain and crew are joined by an educator from the St. Augustine Pirate and Treasure Museum to present tales of adventure beneath the Jolly Roger banner. Plus, passengers get a chance to hoist the sails, see some artifacts and enjoy complimentary soda, water, beer and wine. The schooner departs at 2:15 p.m. and returns at 4:15 p.m. Tickets are $50 adults; $30 for kids 16 and under. Reservations suggested. Located at 111 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine. For more information, call (904) 810-1010 or visit http://www.schoonerfreedom.com/.

Monday – Thursday: May 19 – 22

The Amazing Spider-Man 2 at the IMAX Theater
Spider-Man 2 plays at the IMAX Theater at World Golf Hall of Fame through May 15. Peter Parker finds that a greater conflict lies ahead and realizes that all of his enemies have one thing in common: OsCorp. This IMAX theater features the largest 3D screen in the Southeast. Adults $13, Seniors/Students/Military $12, and Children 3-12 $10. Visit the website for showtimes at http://www.worldgolfimax.com/ or call (904) 940-4133. Located at One World Golf Place, St. Augustine.

Tuesday: May 20

GTM Research Reserve Marineland Lecture
This lecture series is held on the 3rd Tuesday of the month from 10 – 11 a.m. at the GTM Research Reserve Marineland Field Office. Stefanie M. Nagid, Audubon Florida Northeast Policy Associate, will give a presentation titled “Coastal Breeding Birds of Northeast Florida.” The lecture is free, space is limited and reservations are requested. Located at 9741 N. Oceanshore Blvd., Marineland. For more information, call (90) -823-4500 or visit http://www.eventbrite.com/e/gtm-research-reserve-marineland-lecture-registration-5108648104

Jack Johnson Concert
The St. Augustine Amphitheatre hosts Jack Johnson in his current tour’s only Florida appearance. Jack Johnson’s sixth album “From Here to Now to You” debuted #1 on the Billboard Top 200 Albums chart, Johnson’s fourth chart topping album to date. The concert begins at 6:30 p.m. (gates open at 5:30 p.m.) with special guest performer ALO. This sold out concert will be a paperless entry as the Johnson tour continues to pave the way in green touring practices and community engagement initiatives. Located at 1340 A1A South St. Augustine. For more information, call (904) 209-0367 or visit http://www.staugamphitheatre.com/

Wednesday:  May 21

Farmer’s Arts and Crafts Market
Farmer’s Market located at the ocean-side St. Johns County Pier Park featuring selections of fresh produce, plants, baked goods, fine art, jewelry and more! Open 8 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. rain or shine. Located at 350 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Augustine Beach. Call (904) 347-8007 or visit http://www.thecivicassociation.com/.

Music by the Sea Concert
This live performance featuring Sam Rodriguez Project playing jazz and Motown music takes place from 7 – 9 p.m. at the St. Augustine Beach Pier Pavilion. Amici’s Italian Restaurant will offer signature dinners for $10. Admission is free. For comfortable seating, bring a folding chair. Go to the website for a listing of the band and restaurants for each Wednesday. Located at 350 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Augustine Beach. For more information, call (904) 347-8007 or visit http://www.thecivicassociation.org/.

Thursday & Friday:  May 22 & 23

Drawing Workshop
All levels from 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. at Washington Oaks Gardens State Park, Joan F. Tasca will conduct a workshop devoted to drawing as a foundation for painting or drawing for its own sake. The outdoor classes offer students both group and individual instruction. Registration deadline is May 19 and the fee is $99 for both days of instruction. Located at 6400 North Oceanshore Blvd., Palm Coast. For more information, call (904) 794-2594, (904) 402-2292 or visit http://www.floridastateparks.org/washingtonoaks/.

Friday: May 23

Grand Opening of Python Challenge at St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park
From 10 a.m. until noon, the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park hosts a grand opening for the new addition to Crocodile Crossings — the Python Challenge! Watch their special guest jump from 40 feet, and if you dare, try Python Challenge yourself. Admission to the grand opening is free. Admission to the Alligator Farm Zoological Park is $22.95 (adults, ages 12 and up) and $11.95 for ages 3-11. Located at 999 Anastasia Blvd., St. Augustine. Call (904) 824-3337 or visit http://www.alligatorfarm.com/.

Harlem Wizards Basketball Show
The Harlem Wizards bring their amazing basketball talent and hilarious comedy to the Pacetti Bay Middle School. This two-hour event is filled with family fun and excitement. The show begins at 7 p.m. Tickets sold at the door are $12 for students and $17 for adults ($15 purchased in advance). For more information and advance ticket purchases, go to http://www.harlemwizards.com/. Located at 245 Meadowlark Lane, St. Augustine. For more information, call (904) 377-6099.

Styx and Foreigner Concert
The St. Augustine Amphitheatre hosts legendary rock bands Styx and Foreigner in concert. The monumental hits created by these two bands made them rock icons of the 1970s and 1980s.  For this performance, they will be joined on stage by former Eagles guitarist Don Felder. Tickets are $99.50, $89.50, $75, $49.50 and $39.50. The concert starts at 6:30 p.m. (gates open 5:30 p.m.). Located at 1340 A1A South St. Augustine. For more information, call (904) 209-0367 or visit http://www.staugamphitheatre.com/

Pastel Society Member Exhibition
The First Coast Pastel Society opens their 2nd Annual Juried Member Show with a public reception beginning Friday at 6 p.m. at the Cultural Center at Ponte Vedra Beach. The exhibition, featuring more than 50 paintings, will be open through June 26. The Gallery is open Monday – Friday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.  Admission is free. Located at 50 Executive Way, Ponte Vedra Beach. Call (904) 280-0614 ext. 203 or visit http://www.ccpvb.org/.

Under the Tall Sky Exhibition
Under the Tall Sky, an exhibition of the mixed-media work of Barbara Holmes-Fryefield and the ceramic sculptures of Fay Samim, opens at the Cultural Center at Ponte Vedra Beach. The opening reception is free and open to the public on Friday from 6 – 8 p.m. The exhibit will be on display Monday – Friday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.  Located at 50 Executive Way, Ponte Vedra Beach. For more information, call (904) 280-0614 ext. 203 or visit www.ccpvb.org.

Saturday:  May 24

Old City Farmers’ Market
Features locally grown fresh produce, baked goods, plants and more. Located at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre. Open 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.  Admission is free. Located at 1340 A1A, St. Augustine. For more information, call (904) 471-3733.

Behind the Scenes Lighthouse Tour
Discover the history behind the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Museum on this one-hour guided tour of the Victorian-era keepers’ house and maritime archaeology center. Find out what life was like as a lighthouse keeper and learn what secrets archaeologists have uncovered from shipwrecks off the St. Augustine coast. Tickets are $14.95 each. Call or go online to reserve tickets in advance. Located at 81 Lighthouse Ave., St. Augustine. Call (904) 829-0745 or visit http://www.staugustinelighthouse.org/.

Family Seining at the GTM Research Reserve
Join GTM Research Reserve docents from 8:30 – 10:30 a.m. to learn how to pull a seine net, collecting species of fish, crabs and more. Learn about the animals and their roles in the habitat.  Waders and boots will be provided. The program is included with regular admission to the Reserve and takes place in the Environmental Education Center. Located at 505 Guana River Rd., Ponte Vedra Beach. Call (904) 823-4500 or visit http://www.eventbrite.com.

Civil Rights & Black Heritage Tour
St. Augustine Black Heritage Tours Inc. offers a free historic walking tour at 4 p.m. Learn about St. Augustine’s historic role in black history and events leading up to the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Tours depart from the Tour Saint Augustine office, 4 Granada Street and encompass several blocks over the course of an hour. Space is limited and advance reservations are required. Call (904) 825-0087 or visit http://www.staugustineblackheritagetours.com/.

Saturday & Sunday:  May 24 & 25

42nd Annual National Beach Paddle Tennis Tournament
More than 100 men and women from California, New York, the Carolinas, Virginia and Florida compete for top honors in seven divisions with $1000 in prize money awarded to winning teams in the top pro divisions. Entry fee for amateurs is $45 per player and includes tournament shirt and admission to parties. The main beach venue is Butler Beach, eight miles south of St. Augustine on A1A. For more information, call 800-727-4656. 

Sunday: May 25

Lincolnville Farmers Market
Eddie Vickers Park hosts this farmer’s market with farm-fresh vegetables, meats/fish, cheese, bread, treats, arts & crafts, prepared food, jewelry, picnic areas, playground and more! Live music by The House Cats. Every Sunday from noon – 4 p.m. at 399 Riberia St., St. Augustine. www.facebook.com/lincolnvillefarmersmarket

Plant-A-Poem Workshop and Reading
Arrive with a poem seed and cultivate it in an hour with miracle grow from the Ancient City Poets. The workshop is 1:45-3 p.m. at The Gallery Cafe in St. Augustine. $10 per person includes endless coffee and sweet treats. From 3-5 p.m., there is a free open mic poetry reading. Located at 1280 N. Ponce de Leon Blvd. Call (904) 501-0043 or visit http://www.bodor.org/.

Old Crow Medicine Show Concert
The St. Augustine Amphitheatre hosts Grammy Award winner Old Crow Medicine Show in concert. Tickets range from $29.75 to $39.75. The concert starts at 7 p.m. (gates open 5:30 p.m.). Located at 1340 A1A South St. Augustine. For more information, call (904) 209-0367 or visit http://www.staugamphitheatre.com/

Lucinda Williams Concert
The Ponte Vedra Concert Hall hosts three-time Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Lucinda Williams at 8 p.m. (doors open 7 p.m.). General admission is $38 for standing room only. Located at 1050 A1A North, Ponte Vedra Beach. Call (904) 209-0399 or visit http://www.pvconcerthall.com/.

Memorial Day Pub Crawl: Free for military!
Celebrate Memorial Day with the original, world famous St. Augustine City Walks Pub Crawl! Amble with your City Walks Pub Scout and visit some of the city’s most interesting taverns.  Enjoy tales of the city’s history mixed with traditional “pub lore,” plus find out how beer is made and how to distinguish different types. All premium beers – ales, wines and sangria (and some snacks) are included at each quaint watering spot on the tour. The tour is from 8:30 to 11 p.m. and tickets are $39 per person (retired or active duty military free with one paid guest). Reservations required. For more information, call (904) 825-0087 or visit http://www.staugcitywalks.com/.

Monday: May 26

Memorial Day Ceremony at the National Cemetery
From 10 – 11 a.m., the Military Officers Association of America, the Florida National Guard and the Veterans Council present a Memorial Day ceremony featuring a massing of colors, field music by pipes and drums, and remarks at the St. Augustine National Cemetery. Located at 104 Marine St., St. Augustine.

NOTE: St. Johns County residents with a valid ID are always admitted free of charge to the Oldest House, the Lightner Museum, the Ximenez-Fatio House, the Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse, City Walks History Mystery Murder Evening Tour, Journey: 450 Years of the African-American Experience Exhibit, and the Hotel Ponce de Leon Legacy Tours at 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 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). Many other local attractions offer discounted admissions to St. Johns County residents with valid ID.

For more information on events and activities in St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra & The Beaches, go to the Visitors and Convention Bureau website at http://www.floridashistoriccoast.com/ or call 1-800-653-2489.