Step back in time this weekend at the Bartram Living History Festival, where St. Johns County comes alive with the sights, sounds, and flavors of old Florida. On Saturday, Alpine Groves Park opens its gates for an immersive historical event presented by the St. Johns County Parks and Recreation Department in partnership with the St. Johns Cultural Council.
From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the festival will feature craft tables, historical interpreters including a portrayal of William Bartram, and various live demonstrations staged to illustrate Florida's past. Live music will accompany guided tours of the park’s historical farmhouse, showcasing its development from the early 18th century to the present. Food and refreshments will be available from the Salt Run BBQ Food Truck and the Sour Filly Drink Truck.
Emphasizing the depth of local history available for exploration, Outdoor Recreation Supervisor Kelly Ussia stated, "There is so much history in St. Johns County to explore beyond the city gates," in a statement obtained by SJC Parks and Recreation. "This event is a great way to spend a Saturday with family exploring the amazing stories that our county has to tell."
Further underlining the event's appeal, Natural Resources Superintendent Nathan Otter proclaimed his fondness for the park, noting, “Alpine Groves is one of my favorite parks in the county, and this event helps bring it to life,” as reported by SJC Parks and Recreation. He went on to assure that the festival promises something for every attendee: "food, music, history, animals, crafts, games, and more!"
Additional convenience is offered with free shuttle service from Hickory Creek Elementary, beginning at 9:30 a.m. and running through 2:30 p.m. These shuttles will be ferrying patrons attending the festival, ready to immerse in a celebratory atmosphere that honors a seminal period in Floridian history. Both the shuttle service and admission to the event are offered at no cost, reflecting the community's commitment to making historical education accessible to all.
