April in Northeast Florida

Greetings!

April is one of the best months of the year in Northeast Florida. The weather is just about perfect, not too hot and the mosquitos and other bugs are not out in force yet, so it is a perfect time to get out and about. Plus we can open our windows and enjoy some fresh air. Plus there is lots to do – from Spring festivals and live music to Easter Celebrations and Passover gatherings.

To our friends Celebrating Easter wishing you a joyful and blessed Easter. Good Friday is April 3, 2026, Easter is April 5, 2026.

To our friends observing Passover, Chag Pesach Sameach! Wishing you a joyful and meaningful celebration with family and friends.

In the spirit of Easter there are several community Easter Egg hunts for the entire family in addition to Church and community events including: The JaxParks Riverfront Palooza 2026 is scheduled for Saturday, April 4, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Riverfront Plaza (2 W. Independent Drive) in Jacksonville, FL. Touted as Jacksonville’s biggest Easter egg hunt, the free community event features 20,000+ eggs, crafts, bubbles, and other family-friendly activities.

The 67th Annual St. Augustine Easter Parade (Parada de los Caballos y Coches) is Saturday, April 4, 2026, at 9:00 AM, featuring horses, carriages, bands, and the Easter Bunny, running from the Old Jail through downtown. It is the second-oldest Easter parade in the U.S. and highlights the city’s Spanish heritage and, notably, the “royal family” entourage.

As Easter is celebrated, the Jewish community will also be observing Passover—a holiday centered on tradition, storytelling, and shared meals known as Seder.

Passover begins the evening of April 1 and ends sundown April 9, 2026.

April also provides so many outdoor activities it will be difficult to choose what to do! Here are a few that caught my eye and may be fun. First up:

The annual Clay County Fair start April 2 – 12, 2026. One of the best Fairs in the area.

Clay County Fair Highlights — April 2–12, 2026
🎡 Midway Rides & Carnival Games – Thrills for kids, teens, and adults alike
🐄 Livestock Exhibits – Cattle, pigs, goats, and poultry competitions showcasing local farmers
🏆 Animal Shows & Contests – 4-H and FFA participants showing their prize animals
🎨 Contests & Competitions – Baking, crafts, photography, and more
🎶 Live Entertainment – Local bands, performers, and community stage shows
🍿 Classic Fair Food – Funnel cakes, corn dogs, fried treats, and seasonal favorites
🌱 Educational Exhibits – Learn about agriculture, sustainability, and Florida farming traditions
🏡 Early Florida Village – Step back in time with historic crafts and demonstrations
🛍️ Artisan & Vendor Booths – Handmade goods, local crafts, and community organizations
🐾 Pet-Friendly Activities – Occasional special events for family pets
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly Fun – Affordable admission and activities for all ages

• www.claycountyfair.org for more information

🎸 Springing the Blues Festival — April 10–12, 2026
Enjoy one of the largest and longest-running blues festivals on the East Coast, right on the sands of Jacksonville Beach! Springing the Blues features national, regional, and local blues artists, artisan vendors, food, and family-friendly fun. Bring your friends, enjoy the ocean breeze, and experience a weekend full of music, culture, and seaside vibes — all free to attend. www.springingtheblues.com for more information

🎻 Gamble Rogers Folk Festival — April 10–12, 2026

Celebrate the legacy of Florida’s beloved troubadour at the 31st Annual Gamble Rogers Folk Festival held at the St. Johns County Fairgrounds in Elkton. This three-day festival features live folk, Americana, and roots music across multiple stages, showcasing nationally acclaimed performers alongside local talents. Enjoy artisan vendors, food trucks, family-friendly activities, and a relaxed atmosphere where you can bring chairs or a blanket, kick back, and soak in the sounds of spring. The event honors the spirit of Gamble Rogers — a gifted musician, storyteller, and Florida music icon — and is a favorite weekend getaway for music lovers across Northeast Florida. www.gamblerogersfest.org for more information.

🎠 Nassau County Spring Carnival — April 17–26, 2026
Kick off spring with classic carnival fun at the Nassau County Spring Carnival at the Northeast Florida Fairgrounds in Callahan, FL! This ten-day celebration brings ride-filled excitement and family fun to Northeast Florida with something for all ages. From towering midway rides to gentle attractions for little ones, you’ll find games, fair food, vendors, and lively entertainment all in one festive atmosphere. Try your luck at midway games, grab seasonal treats (including fresh Florida strawberries!), and enjoy music and shows throughout the event. It’s a great way to make spring memories with family and friends! hildebrandamusementrides.com/event/nassau-county-spring-carnival for more information.

🐶 Mutt March — April 12, 2026
Calling all pet lovers! Get ready to walk, wag, and celebrate at the Jacksonville Humane Society’s Mutt March! This lively event is all about supporting local pets and animal welfare while having fun with your furry friends. Bring your dog for a scenic stroll, enjoy family-friendly activities, vendor booths, and demonstrations, and connect with other animal lovers in the community. It’s a perfect way to spend a spring day outdoors while helping pets in need!  And who knows, you may just find a new best friend.

These are the stand out events for this month, but don’t forget the Jumbo Shrimp are always a good time as is the new Manatee River at the Zoo.