Spring is one of the best times to visit Florida’s historic coast. The weather is warm but comfortable, flowers are in bloom, and the local event calendar fills with festivals and outdoor celebrations.
From food traditions to wildlife photography and live music, there are plenty of seasonal experiences to enjoy. Many visitors plan their trip around these events because they highlight local culture and bring the community together.
If you’re looking for memorable things to do in St. Augustine Florida, spring festivals offer something for nearly every interest. Below are some of the most popular events visitors enjoy during the season.
Cabbage, Potato, and Bacon Festival
The Hastings Cabbage, Potato, and Bacon Festival celebrates the agricultural roots of St. Johns County. Held in nearby Hastings, this event highlights the farming community that has helped supply vegetables across Florida for generations.
Visitors can expect a full day of family-friendly activities, including:
- Local food vendors serving cabbage, potato, and bacon dishes
- Live music and entertainment
- A farmers’ market with fresh produce
- Craft vendors and small businesses
The event typically takes place in the spring when harvest season begins. It’s a fun way to explore a different side of the region while supporting local farms. Many travelers staying in our St. Augustine condo rentals make the short drive to Hastings to experience this unique local tradition.
Birding and Photo Festival
The St. Augustine Birding and Photo Festival attracts wildlife lovers and photographers from around the country. It usually takes place in May and focuses on the area’s diverse ecosystems. Participants can join guided excursions through some of the region’s most scenic natural areas, including:
- Anastasia State Park
- St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge
- Fort Mose Historic State Park
- Local wetlands and coastal preserves
The festival also offers photography workshops, expert presentations, and field trips designed to help visitors improve their skills. Even if you’re not a professional photographer, the event offers a great opportunity to see coastal birds, marsh wildlife, and beautiful natural landscapes.
St. Augustine Music Festival
Music lovers visiting during late spring can enjoy the St. Augustine Music Festival. This free event features live classical music performed by talented musicians from across the country. Concerts usually take place at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine, providing a beautiful historic setting and excellent acoustics.
What makes this festival special:
- Free admission to most performances
- Professional orchestral musicians
- A historic venue in the heart of downtown
Visitors often combine the concert with dinner in the historic district or an evening walk along the waterfront. For many travelers exploring things to do in St. Augustine, Florida, this festival offers a relaxing cultural experience after a day at the beach.
Tips for Booking Around Popular Events
Spring festivals bring more visitors to the area, especially on weekends. Planning ahead can help ensure a smoother trip.
Here are a few helpful tips:
1. Book accommodations early
Popular events can fill rooms quickly, especially during spring break and festival weekends.
2. Plan transportation ahead of time
Parking near festival areas can be limited. Consider arriving early or using rideshare services.
3. Check event schedules
Some festivals include multiple days of activities. Knowing the schedule helps you plan your itinerary.
4. Visit attractions during off-peak hours
Exploring early in the morning or later in the evening can help avoid crowds.
Many visitors looking for St. Augustine vacation rentals choose oceanfront properties outside the busy downtown area while still staying close to major events.
Sunflower Festival
The Sunflower Festival is one of the most colorful spring events in the region. Held at local farms such as Wesley Wells Farm, the festival celebrates blooming sunflower fields and rural farm life. Guests can walk through rows of bright yellow flowers and take photos in one of the most scenic settings near St. Augustine.
The event typically includes:
- U-pick sunflower fields
- Farm tours and tractor rides
- Local vendors and handmade goods
- Food trucks and refreshments
It’s a great outing for families, couples, and photographers looking for something unique during their visit.
Final Thoughts
Spring in St. Augustine brings a variety of seasonal festivals that highlight the area’s culture, nature, and community traditions. Visitors can enjoy everything from local farm celebrations and sunflower fields to birding excursions and live classical music.
Events like the Cabbage, Potato, and Bacon Festival, the Birding and Photo Festival, and the St. Augustine Music Festival give travelers new ways to experience the city beyond the beaches. Planning your visit around these festivals can make your trip even more memorable. Staying nearby also allows you to enjoy both the events and the natural beauty of the coast. You can also enhance your stay with boat tours in St. Augustine, offering a unique way to explore the waterfront, spot wildlife, and take in the city’s historic skyline from the water.
Plan Your Visit
Are you ready to explore things to do in St. Augustine during your next vacation? Browse our entire selection of rentals today and find the perfect match for your stay!
Book Your St. Augustine vacation rental with Beacher’s Lodge
If you’re planning a spring getaway, Beacher’s Lodge offers comfortable oceanfront suites directly on Crescent Beach. Each condo-style suite includes a private balcony or patio, a separate bedroom, and a convenient kitchenette. Guests also enjoy easy beach access and a temperature-controlled oceanfront pool.
After a day exploring spring festivals and local attractions, relax by the ocean and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Crescent Beach. Reserve your stay with Beacher’s Lodge and make your next St. Augustine trip both relaxing and memorable.