St Augustine, Florida- Great travel destination- Hispanic Heritage Month Sept. 15th-Oct. 15th, 2024- Info & Happenings
As Hispanic Heritage Month approaches, St. Augustine, Florida, invites visitors to immerse themselves in a celebration of Hispanic culture, history, and traditions. From September 15th to October 15th, this historic city comes alive with a vibrant array of events and experiences that pay homage to its Hispanic roots. Whether exploring centuries-old landmarks, savoring authentic cuisine, or enjoying live music and performances, St. Augustine offers a captivating journey through Hispanic heritage. Visit the fort, the beach, the archaeological park and art galleries besides famous St. George Street.
It is Oldest city in the USA with a Spanish background, St. Augustine is a great place to visit for the history, culture, food & unique vibe. There are plenty of activities and attractions and many you can do by foot if you stay near downtown or the popular St. George Street. Great accommodations at the fabulous St George Inn ( see featured photo and ones below). This place had it all with professional staff/service, complimentary breakfast, free wifi, comfortable rooms/bed and location convenience.
St. George Street is all pedestrian with a couple small car crossing areas full of shops, restaurants, galleries and more. Not far away is the fort where you can walk and learn about the history of how it was built and what happened hundreds of years ago.
Some great restaurants suggestions include Columbia, which is a Spanish/Cuban themed dining experience on St. George Street and not to miss. They have a variety of Latin themed dishes, but the seafood paella was fantastic. A variety of great appetizers such as the black bean cakes and famous 1905 salad that you can add to any entrée for $10. The mahi-mahi was cooked to perfection and the steaks looked amazing.
Lunch at Pesca rooftop top of the Hyatt in Saint Augustine was great, which offered a nice variety of tapas and shared plates.
We also dined at Michael’s, which was very elegant and offered a fantastic tasting menu. You can also order all a cart, but they paired some wines with the five-course meal and it was delicious.
Bourbon & Boards www.Diningattheplaza.com
Brunch and boards includes brunch & dinner
Casa Maya restaurant near downtown Saint Augustine is Mexican/Spanish serves a variety of seafood to tacos and burritos. https://casamayasta.com/
Saint Augustine distillery was a great educational experience. The guide takes you through the process and into the distillery to show you the individual spirits including full barrels from vodka, gin, rum and the most popular bourbon.
Saint Augustine sailing Is a great way to spend a couple hours out on the river with a relaxing sail or choice of boat for a group or family. Overall just a fantastic place to visit on your next trip to Florida. https://www.visitstaugustine.com/
My suggestion and best way to get around the city and surrounding areas was to get a bike at Fun Rentals St Augustine. They have a variety of options and transportation options.
A Journey Through Time
Founded in 1565 by Spanish explorers, St. Augustine holds the distinction of being the oldest continuously occupied European settlement in the continental United States. Throughout its storied history, Spanish influence has left an indelible mark on the city’s architecture, cuisine, and culture.
St. Augustine celebrates its Hispanic heritage year-round. The tales of the adventures of Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de Leon, who first claimed the land of this town, are common legends around town. Later in 1565, explorer Pedro Menendez de Aviles followed. It was here in St. Augustine that Spanish settlers celebrated the first mass and the first Thanksgiving held in the U.S.
Year-Round Hispanic Pride
Beyond Hispanic Heritage Month, Hispanic culture and history are part of daily life in St. Augustine. Visitors come to explore the legendary Fountain of Youth Archeological Park, the Mission Nombre de Dios, where the Spanish settlers celebrated the First Mass in the U.S., and the Castillo de San Marcos, the first masonry fortress built in the country.
On September 7, St. Augustine will celebrate the 459th anniversary of the city’s founding. With the help of dedicated historical reenactors, visitors can experience the founding of the city and the very first mass that was held here. Additional events include the procession to the Fountain of Youth, encampment and weapons demonstrations, plus plenty of live music, performances, and food.
A Tapestry of Flavors
No celebration of Hispanic heritage is complete without savoring the flavors of traditional cuisine. St. Augustine’s diverse dining scene offers a feast for the senses, with Spanish-inspired dishes that showcase the region’s culinary heritage. Columbia Restaurant, for example, offers diners a traditional Spanish setting in the historic district. The restaurant has been serving culinary enthusiasts for more than a century and has a menu of award-winning Spanish and Cuban cuisine. Llama Restaurant is another example of excellent Hispanic cuisine in the city. This snug, hole-in-the-wall highlights Peruvian classics, from seafood and ceviches to risottos and grilled meats. While Maya Restaurant offers a fusion of Mexican dishes.
Not to be missed are Chef Michael ‘s creations: Michael’s Tasting Room and Pesca which fuse Puerto Rican and other Caribbean cuisines, with influence from the finest local ingredients.
The St. Augustine Spanish Food & Wine Festival, though held in February, marks another great time to experience the city’s Hispanic heritage. This annual event features tapas, wine, spirits, a Cava Dinner Reception, and a Grand Tasting. Throughout the three-day event, guests can sample more than 100 Spanish wines, as well as Spanish-inspired cuisine designed by local chefs.
Art and Culture
Art enthusiasts will find inspiration in St. Augustine’s galleries, where local artists showcase their works influenced by Hispanic traditions. The city’s vibrant arts scene comes alive during Hispanic Heritage Month, with special exhibitions, performances, and cultural events that highlight the creativity and talent of the Hispanic community.
Music and Dance
Experience the rhythm and passion of Hispanic music and dance with live performances throughout the city. From flamenco to salsa, visitors can enjoy an array of musical genres and dance styles that reflect the diversity of Hispanic culture. Don’t miss the opportunity to join in on dance workshops or attend lively concerts that bring the streets of St. Augustine to life.
Great for Families
St. Augustine is one of the most family-friendly cities in Florida, particularly for families who want to learn about history and culture. Stroll the pedestrian-friendly St. George Street, which runs through the entire Historic District and is home to boutiques, restaurants, galleries, and cafes.
Families can dive deeper into Spanish history at the Ponce de Leon Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park. Walk in the footsteps of the very first Spanish settlers who arrived in St. Augustine. The site of the original settlement sheds light on the Spanish settlers, as well as the Timucua Native Americans who called this area home. The original Fountain of Youth, the legendary spring said to hold the secret of eternal youth, is located here, as well.
Community Celebrations
Hispanic Heritage Month in St. Augustine is a time of community. Visitors are invited to join in on celebrations and festivals that honor Hispanic traditions. From colorful parades to cultural fairs, these events provide an opportunity to connect with the local community and learn more about the customs and heritage that define St. Augustine. https://www.visitstaugustine.com/