Top Summer Events in St. Augustine: Your Complete Guide

Originally published March 2024. Updated January 2026 with current event information.

Why Summer in St. Augustine?

• Free concerts nearly every week
• World-class music festival
• Historic venues hosting contemporary events

• Morning and evening events beat the heat
• Ocean breezes cool waterfront venues
• Brief afternoon thunderstorms clear quickly

• Many signature events completely free
• Family-friendly programming throughout
• Mix of locals and visitors creates energetic atmosphere

• 450+ years of history as backdrop
• Walking distance between venues
• Unique ambiance impossible to replicate

Signature Events

Fireworks Over the Matanzas (July 4th)

• Free All-Star Orchestra concert at 6:00 PM in Plaza de la Constitución
• Fireworks launch at 9:30 PM over Matanzas Bay
• Spectacular display visible throughout downtown

• Castillo de San Marcos national monument
• Bridge of Lions (arrives early, closes to traffic)
• Vilano Beach (family-friendly, easier parking)
• St. Augustine Beach pier

• Arrive by 4:00 PM for best spots
• Bring lawn chairs and blankets
• Pack for potential brief afternoon storm
• Exit patience-traffic clears within 30 minutes

St. Augustine Music Festival (Late June)

• 10 days of world-class classical performances
• Primary venue: Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine
• Acoustics in the historic cathedral are extraordinary
• Features internationally recognized musicians

• Quality rivals paid festivals nationally
• Accessible to all income levels
• Introduces classical music to new audiences
• Beautiful historic setting enhances experience

• Arrive 30+ minutes early for seating
• Donation appreciated but not required
• Dress comfortably but respectfully for cathedral
• Check schedule at staugustinemusicfestival.com

OakFest (July 3-7)

• Colonial Oak Music Park on St. George Street
• Multiple genres spanning Americana, blues, rock, country
• Family-friendly during day, more adult evening shows
• Food and beverage vendors on site

• Local and regional acts
• Intimate outdoor venue
• Mix of tourists and locals
• Great complement to July 4th festivities

International Music Festival (Late August)

• Francis Field venue (downtown)
• 14+ musical acts from around the globe
• Food trucks featuring international cuisine
• Family activities and cultural displays
• Dance performances and workshops

• Families with children
• Music lovers seeking variety
• Those wanting world culture exposure
• Supporting local arts organizations

Weekly Summer Series

Concerts in the Plaza

• Every Thursday evening through August
• 6:00-8:00 PM
• Plaza de la Constitución gazebo

• Completely free admission
• Variety of musical styles week to week
• Bring lawn chairs or blankets
• Family-friendly atmosphere
• Local restaurants within walking distance

Music by the Sea

• Wednesday evenings, May through August
• 7:00-9:00 PM
• St. Johns County Ocean Pier Park

• Ocean breeze and sunset views
• Beach access before and after
• More relaxed than downtown events
• Local favorite for residents

• Beach chairs
• Cooler (check restrictions)
• Sunscreen for early arrival
• Cash for any vendors

Live Music at the Amphitheatre

• 4,000+ capacity outdoor venue
• Covered and lawn seating options
• Excellent acoustics
• On-site parking

• National touring acts across genres
• Classic rock, country, alternative
• Comedy shows and special events

Farmers Markets & Artisan Events

Regular Markets

• Wednesday mornings, 8:00 AM-12:30 PM
• Fresh produce, local vendors, breakfast items

• Saturday mornings, 8:30 AM-12:30 PM
• Largest market in the area
• Crafts, produce, prepared foods

• Third Saturday of month, 4:00-8:00 PM
• Evening market with entertainment
• More relaxed beach atmosphere

• Fresh Florida produce (summer tomatoes, citrus)
• Local honey and jams
• Handmade crafts and art
• Fresh seafood
• Prepared foods and baked goods

Beat the Heat Activities

Morning Beach Time

• Sunrise to 10:00 AM beach visits
• Water temperatures perfect (80-85°F)
• Crowds minimal early
• Return for evening activities

• St. Augustine Beach (family facilities)
• Vilano Beach (fewer crowds)
• Anastasia State Park (natural setting)

Indoor Attractions

• Lightner Museum (antiques and art in former Alcazar Hotel)
• Flagler College tours (stunning architecture, air conditioning)
• St. Augustine Distillery (tours and tastings)
• Colonial Quarter (covered historic exhibits)

Evening Activities

• Walking tours (ghost tours, history tours)
• Bayfront dining
• Rooftop bar scene
• Concert series (see above)

Historic Attractions to Pair

• National monument open daily
• Best visited morning or late afternoon
• Perfect fireworks viewing location

• Pedestrian shopping and dining
• Connects many event venues
• Shade covers portions of street

• World-class antiques collection
• Air-conditioned galleries
• Beautiful courtyard

• Stunning Gilded Age architecture
• Air-conditioned respite
• Historic context for the city

Planning Tips

Parking Strategies

• Street parking (meters, limited time)
• Parking garages (more available, reasonable rates)
• Shuttle from visitor center

• Arrive early (before 4:00 PM for July 4th)
• Consider rideshare
• Beach venues have better parking

Beat the Crowds

• Weekday events less crowded than weekends
• Arrive 30 minutes early for popular shows
• Morning farmers markets before 10:00 AM
• Beach before 10:00 AM or after 6:00 PM

Weather Considerations

• Check afternoon storm forecasts
• Events rarely cancelled for brief showers
• Bring water and stay hydrated
• Shade and sunscreen essential

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Resources

• Outdoor Activities in Northeast Florida
• Relocating to St. Johns County
• Florida’s Historic Coast Official Site
• Visit St. Augustine Event Calendar

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