Music Festivals

Florida’s Historic Coast is a Hotbed for All Kinds of Music Festivals

If there’s an open field or a pavilion on the beach, there’s probably a festival taking place.

Visitors and locals alike agree on one thing: Florida’s Historic Coast is the perfect place to catch some live music, food and cultural festivals. With mild, year-round weather and so many outdoor venues to accommodate large and intimate crowds, you’re bound to find a festival that strikes your fancy.

Francis Field, conveniently located right outside the Historic Downtown Parking Garage hosts several major festivals throughout the year that welcome thousands of visitors. From popular cultural events celebrating Celtic, Latin American and Country traditions to the classic foodie and music fest St. Augustine Seafood Festival.

One of the biggest and best music festivals in the area is Sing Out Loud and Songwriters Festival taking place throughout September at The Amp and at various stages throughout the town, from pubs and restaurants to street corners and local venues.

Right in the heart of St. Augustine’s historic downtown is the Plaza de la Constitucion, a sanctuary that attracts locals and visitors alike to meander along its paths, relax on a bench under its majestic oaks and sing carols during Nights of Lights. It’s also home to one of the summer’s most popular live music concert series. Bring a chair and you’ll have it made in the shade as you listen to some bluegrass, country and jazz performances for free.

Headed to the beach? That’s where you’ll find the St. Augustine Beach Pier Pavilion featuring Music by the Sea and local favorites performing everything from classic rock to swing. Beach chairs or blankets are recommended and most performance nights feature a local food truck or restaurant offering unique eats.

If you need to hear some jazz and blues, head over to Fort Mose in February for a series of concerts honoring the history and cultural significance of Fort Mose. This historic state park was the site of the first free Black settlement in the U.S. and designated a National Historic Landmark in 1994.

The St. Johns County Fairgrounds, located in Elkton, hosts a variety of events throughout the year and in 2023 will be home to the popular Gamble Rogers Music Fest, attracting dozens of musicians honoring his legacy with live performances.