Labor Day marks the official end of summer—and a much-needed—extended break after school has returned. Wave jumping, sand sunning and skimming through the water are great ways to say farewell to the golden rays of summer. But if you’re searching for something fresh and new, we have some ideas for you.
Water Outings: Enjoy a sunset surprise for the whole crew! Florida Water Tours offers BYOB Sunset cruises to help you relax over the holiday weekend. Glide past historic sites like the Castillo de San Marco and the Bridge of Lions while you unwind on the Matanzas. Florida Water Tours also hosts adult-only outings. Find the perfect ride for your group. Pricing starts at $29 for adults, $16 for ages 3-12 and $7 for infants/toddlers.
Arts and Culture: Literary enthusiasts can discover new pages to turn at the St. Augustine Book Fair. On Sept. 2, the Ximenez-Fatio House Museum is hosting the event, featuring author meet and greets and book signings with local vendors on hand. Genres include everything from children’s picture books to youth fiction and historical writings. The St. Johns County mobile library will also be present. Entry to the book fair is free. Tours of the museum are also available for a fee, and reservations are strongly recommended. The fair is from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. and is located at 20 Aviles Street, St. Augustine, 32084.
Kentucky-based thespian Lisa Egan Woods performs her solo play Thread & Bone at The Waterworks in St Augustine. The work is an intimate, emotional—at times funny—piece based on the artist’s personal experiences. Woods weaves through grief, loss, guilt, healing and more, all while she reconstructs, reimages and sews a dress symbolizing her inner battle. Showtimes are Saturday, Sept. 2, at 7 p.m. and a Sunday matinee at 2 p.m. Tickets are $12.50. The venue address is 184 San Marco Avenue, St. Augustine, 32084.
Learn how militia mastered their weapons at Fort Mose. Firing drills teach members proper functions as well as safety in demonstrations all visitors can enjoy. There is even a children’s training which utilizes wooden toy muskets to share knowledge and safety with youngsters. This added experience makes for a memorable day in a scenic State Park. Entry is $2 for adults. Children under six are free.
Flex your brain with a scavenger hunt! Sure, you might live near the nation’s Oldest City, but do you know the Oldest City? Get better acquainted with a scavenger hunt. Operation City Quest offers searches perfect for all groups and ages, with prices at $20 per person.
Keep it active: Take a free guided hike through the Guana Preserve. Revel in nature during this 2.2-mile adventure while discovering Florida’s dynamic biodiversity. Register online. And don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes and bring water and sunscreen. Please note that there is a $3 parking fee.
Make a run for it at the Jacksonville Labor Day 5K sponsored by 1st Place Sports. Over $5,000 in cash and prizes will be awarded while benefiting high school track and cross-country programs. So, lace up and get moving. The race starts and ends at 1st Place Sports at 3931 Baymeadows Road, Jacksonville, 32217. The race begins at 7:30 a.m., and a kid’s fun run is available at 8:30 a.m. Register online.
