The Source to Sea Celebration taking place at the Azalea City Brewing Company is a time to honor the exclusive group of individuals who have paddled all 310 miles of the St. Johns River. There will be a brief program followed by a chance to mingle with these extraordinary honorees. The celebration will include food trucks, drink specials, and music by Damion Waters.

REGISTER

Schedule of Events

St. Johns River Paddle | 8:30-11:30 a.m. at Swashbuckler’s Marina & Bar (launch/takeout)

Paddle Spalding’s Lower Store (approx. 6 miles) with experts Dean Campbell, Sam Carr, Jane Goddard, Jim Durocher, and Ray Whaley. This is the premier William Bartram paddle in Florida. It features sheltered conditions, historic importance, and a natural setting. The trip may include a creek excursion and will include a brief view of the barge canal entrance on the way to Trout Creek.

Paddlers who wish to caravan to the launch can meet at 7:30 a.m. at Azalea City Brewing (120 S. 7th St., Palatka, FL).

Bring your own kayak, paddle, PFD, whistle, water bottle and snacks. Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. No pets or children under 15 years old. Limited to 15 paddlers.

This event is SOLD OUT and will be rescheduled due to inclement weather.

Boat Tour Aboard the Pride of Palatka II | 1-3 p.m. | Palatka City Dock (319 River Street)

Explore the St. Johns River with a guide on board the Pride of Palatka II.

This event will be rescheduled due to inclement weather.

Source to Sea Celebration | Program Begins 4 p.m. at Azalea City Brewing Company

The Source to Sea Celebration taking place at the Azalea City Brewing Company is a time to honor those who have paddled all 310 miles of the St. Johns River. There will be a brief program followed by a chance to mingle with these extraordinary honorees. The celebration will include food trucks, drink specials, and music by Damion Waters.

REGISTER

Other Activities to Enjoy in Palatka

Hike or Bike at Ravine Gardens State Park | Park opens at 8 a.m. | 1600 Twigg St. Palatka FL

Ancient ravines and the banks of Whitewater Branch, a spring-fed creek that flows into the St. Johns River, have been transformed into a rustic tropical garden at Ravine Gardens State Park. Explore miles of paved and unpaved trails, geo-seek, bring a picnic, or simply enjoy the scenery. Peak bloom season for hundreds of azalea bushes is January-March.

View the trail map online. Admission is $5 per vehicle or $2 per pedestrian/cyclist.

Visit the Bronson-Mulholland House | Opens at 1 p.m.

Built in 1854, the Bronson-Mulholland House is a stunningly furnished antebellum home sitting on more than two acres of expansive lawns and charming gardens with brick paths, live oaks, and magnolias. Step into the past as you explore its gracious rooms and gardens.

Take the Mural Tour of Downtown Palatka | View the map

Downtown Palatka boasts more than 30 murals depicting the historical, cultural, and natural riches of Palatka and Putnam County. These larger-than-life pictorial renderings range from “Harlem Nights in Palatka” to “Putnam County Wildflowers.” They create a fun walking tour and make fine selfie backgrounds, too.

Visit the St. Johns River Center: Adventures in a Wetlands Ecosystem | Opens at 11 a.m. | 102 N. 1st St.

Focused on the unique and varied ecosystems of the St. Johns River, the St. Johns River Center showcases the river’s unique history, culture, and commerce. Kids and adults will enjoy the interactive exhibits and displays.