Historic Florida Militia and the St. Augustine Garrison, in cooperation with the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, will present a commemoration of the 455th anniversary of the founding of our city by Pedro Menendez de Aviles (on September 8, 1565) with a processional and celebration of the First Thanksgiving on Saturday, September 5, 2020.
The processional will begin at 11 a.m. at the Fountain of Youth, as Pedro Menendez with his entourage (historically clad living history interpreters) will march through the front gates of the park and around the park’s grounds. Flags and musket firings will mark the occasion.
Photo by Stacey Sather
There will be a ceremony at the Fountain of Youth Boathouse commemorating the First Thanksgiving that occurred on September 8, 1565, 55 years before the pilgrims ever landed on Plymouth Rock. After some remarks and a blessing, guests of the park will be treated to a cake to help celebrate the occasion.
Please keep in mind, social distancing protocols from the CDC will be followed throughout the entire celebration, though most of the activities can be observed outdoors, masks are required when indoors.
The Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and regular admission and St. Johns County resident prices are applicable (50% discount for residents with ID).
