About
The Festival
The St. Augustine History Festival was created and conceived by UFHSA (University of Florida Historic St. Augustine, Inc.) for the purpose of generating excitement about the history of America’s oldest city. The events are held annually in May to celebrate National Historic Preservation Month. Our goal is to showcase every era of St. Augustine’s long and storied past through over 30 Special Events and Historic Sites listed below – from our founding in 1565 to the most advanced technology available in 2024 to research and study every year in-between. American history began here, and no one tells our story better than we do – come out and enjoy our city!
Upcoming events, exhibitions, and happenings
Upcoming Special Events
More about our
Historic Sites
Best-Richardson African Diaspora Literature and Culture Museum
Honoring our History for Many Generations to Come
Castillo de San Marcos
Experience St. Augustine’s National Monument – the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States
Father Miguel O'Reilly House Museum
Fr. Miguel O'Reilly House Museum - Another Rare Treat on Aviles Street, South of the Plaza
Flagler College
Some very special programs this year - and check us out in Special Events and Historic Gardens!
Florida National Guard Historic Barracks/Museum
An insightful tour opportunity at the Nation's Oldest Militia/National Guard Unit
Fort Mose State Park and Museum
Fort Mose, America's First Free All-Black Community, established 1738.
Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park
Special History Festival Programs at America’s First Colony - Where Legend Meets History
Governor's House Cultural Center and Museum
A University of Florida historic building with free art and historical exhibits
Marineland Dolphin Adventure
Discover the oceanfront playground that has delighted visitors since 1938
Peña-Peck House
Since 1931, the Woman's Exchange has kept this historic home up and running - come by for a tour!
St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park
One of Florida's oldest continuously running attractions, since 1893.
St. Augustine Historical Society/Oldest House
Visit St. Augustine's Oldest House Museums Complex and Historical Gardens
St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum
Find Out What's Happening at the Lighthouse during St. Augustine History Festival
UF/Whitney Laboratory for Marine Bioscience
A University of Florida Full-Time Marine Research Facility
More about our
Historic Houses of Worship
Memorial Presbyterian Church
A thriving and multigenerational congregation that is committed to Christian unity amid diversity.
St. Cyprians Episcopal Church
A place where history is treasured and God's wisdom is sought for today.
St. Photios Greek Orthodox National Shrine
The Saint Photios Greek Orthodox National Shrine is located in the historic Avero House at 41 St. George Street.
More about our
Historic Gardens
Father Miguel O'Reilly House Gardens
Fr. Miguel O'Reilly House - St. Augustine's Favorite Secret Garden!
Fountain of Youth Historic Gardens
Where Legend Meets History in the Oldest Gardens in St. Augustine
Nombre de Dios Historic Grounds and Gardens
Sharing the story of the graces of Mary for over 450 on the "Sacred Acre"
Spanish Military Hospital Apothecary Garden
Some gardens enlighten, while others radiate beauty - our gardens heal the sick!
More about our
Historic Cemeteries
First Congregation Sons of Israel Cemetery
The oldest Jewish cemetery in the state of Florida, established in 1840.
Pinehurst and San Sebastian Cemeteries
Active archaeological excavation at one of the oldest remaining African-American sites in St. Augustine
A PBS Documentary
Secrets of the Dead:
The Secrets of Spanish Florida
Before Jamestown and Pocahontas – before Plymouth Rock and the Pilgrims – there was only St. Augustine, a culturally diverse colonial experiment born from dire necessities of imperial proportions in the eye of a storm. The University of Florida Historic St. Augustine, Inc. present this four-hour PBS documentary that identifies the beginnings of America’s true First Colony. Narrated by Jimmy Smits, you will see a story of early America that most people have no idea exists. This fascinating DVD is available for purchase at each of the St. Augustine History Festival’s participating venues.