Name: 67th Annual St Augustine Easter Parade
Start: 2026-04-04T09:00:00-04:00
Location: Downtown Historic St. Augustine

Witness History in Motion at the Nation’s Oldest City!

Celebrate the season at the 67th Annual St. Augustine Easter Parade, a vibrant Florida tradition taking place on Saturday, April 4, 2026. Known for its unique blend of historic pageantry and community fun, the parade features the St. Augustine Royal Family, custom-made floats, local marching bands, and the iconic horse-drawn carriages that define the city’s charm.

Step back in time as the streets of the Historic District come alive with 16th-century Spanish costumes, local civic groups, and festive holiday cheer. Whether you are a local or visiting for the weekend, this parade is the centerpiece of Easter in St. Augustine.

Spectator Guide: The Parade Route

The parade officially "steps off" at 9:00 AM. To get the best view, it is vital to know where the route turns:

Start: The parade begins at the Old Jail Museum (San Marco Avenue).
The Main Stretch: It heads south on San Marco Avenue, passing the Magnolia Avenue "Tree Tunnel" area.
The Bayfront: The route continues south onto Avenida Menendez, running right alongside the Matanzas Bay and the Castillo de San Marcos.
The Turn: It turns west onto Cathedral Place, moving past the Plaza de la Constitución.
The Final Leg: It turns north onto Cordova Street, ending at the Visitor Information Center.

Top Tips for Spectators:

Arrive Early: Street closures begin around 8:30 AM. For a front-row seat (especially near the Bayfront), aim to be in place by 8:15 AM.
Best Photo Spot: The intersection of Avenida Menendez and Castillo Drive offers a stunning backdrop of the fort and the bay.
Parking: The Historic Downtown Parking Facility (next to the Visitor Center) is the best option but fills up instantly. Consider parking north of the Old Jail and walking down San Marco Ave.
What to See: Look for the Easter Bunny at the end of the parade and the Royal Family in their ornate, hand-sewn regalia.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is the parade free to attend?

Yes, the St. Augustine Easter Parade is free for all spectators to enjoy along the public route.

2. How long does the parade last?

The parade typically lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours from start to finish.

3. Are there public restrooms available?

Yes. Public restrooms are located at the Visitor Information Center (at the end of the route) and at the Plaza de la Constitución (middle of the route).

4. Is it a rain-or-shine event?

Generally, yes. St. Augustine events proceed in light rain. However, because horses and delicate costumes are involved, heavy storms may cause delays or cancellations. Check the St. Augustine Royal Family Facebook page for live weather updates.

5. Is the route wheelchair accessible?

Yes. The route follows public city streets and sidewalks. The Bayfront (Avenida Menendez) and the Visitor Center area offer the flattest surfaces and best accessibility for wheelchairs and strollers.

6. Can I bring my dog?

While the city is pet-friendly, the parade features loud marching bands and horses, which can be stressful for animals. If you bring a pet, keep them on a short leash and stay back from the horses for safety.