St . Augustine Amphitheatre
We ’ ve Got the Beat
It ’ s been said that music gives a soul to the universe . If what they say is true , Florida ’ s Historic Coast is brimming with spirit .
The St . Augustine Amphitheatre , ranked the # 2 amphitheatre in the U . S . and # 3 in the world by Pollstar Magazine , is situated in tranquil Anastasia State Park .
The Amphitheatre welcomes top national and international touring acts such as Jason Isbell , John Legend , Emmylou Harris , Buddy Guy and Indigo Girls .
This outdoor concert venue is an intimate setting with just under 5,000 seats . Popular with locals are the unique Front Porch sessions and Backyard events , featuring rising stars and regional musicians . These are often free or low cost .
If you ’ re looking for a more intimate venue , head to Ponte Vedra Concert Hall . North of the nation ’ s oldest city along scenic A1A , the concert hall hosts award-winning artists spanning every musical genre including Jim Messina , Graham Nash and Lee Ann Womack . It has standing room for 900 and offers family-friendly events as well as comedians and theatrical performances .
Step off St . George Street for a free concert under the lantern-lit boughs of a centuries- old Oak Tree . The Colonial Oak Music Park is a casual outdoor entertainment space that delivers all genres of music — from acoustic to rock , bluegrass to country , reggae to folk . There ’ s plenty of local and regional talent to entertain year-round .
Florida ’ s Historic Coast is a haven for musicians . There is no shortage of live music at hundreds of bars , restaurants and pop-up stages . In the summer months , weekly free concerts take place in St . Augustine ’ s Plaza de la Constitucion and the St . Johns County Ocean Pier Park .
Rising Appalachia , Sing Out Loud Festival
September ’ s Sing Out Loud Festival offers weekends of free entertainment for residents and visitors alike .
No matter what you add to your Historic Coast itinerary , live music is bound to cross your path .
BOTTOM PHOTO : KIM REED , TOP PHOTO : MICHAEL LEGRAND
20