The Palatka Azalea Festival

The Palatka Azalea Festival takes place annually at the beginning of March on the beautiful Palatka Riverfront.

Originally known as Jaycees Day, the first festival was in 1938, making it the longest-running festival in Florida. It was centered around the Ravine Gardens to appreciate the local azaleas in bloom.

Once it grew in popularity (35,000+ people attend every year!), it was moved to the Palatka Riverfront where it became what it is today.

This free, two-day event includes a parade, a beauty pageant, and an antique car show. With five blocks of vendors, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The event is pet-friendly, family-friendly, and has plenty of activities for kids. 

Date and Location

The 2024 Florida Azalea Festival will take place on:

  • Saturday, March 2, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
  • Sunday, March 3, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

The festival is held in downtown Palatka, Florida, along the banks of the St. Johns River.

Festival Highlights

The two-day event offers a variety of attractions and activities:

  1. Entertainment on multiple stages
  2. Five blocks of vendors showcasing arts, crafts, and food
  3. Antique car show
  4. Beauty pageant
  5. Kids’ activities (face painting, games, arts and crafts)
  6. Live music performances
  7. Beer tents
  8. Local artists and homemade crafts displays

We hope that you can join us for the next one!

Click here for more information.