St. Augustine loves a parade! Fourth of July, Christmas, St. Paddy’s Day…and this Sunday, we celebrate our Parada de los Caballas y Coches (the parade of Horses and Carriages), which is a perfect way to celebrate Easter!
(If you’re looking for something to do from 12 – 2, the St. Augustine Easter Promenade takes place in the gazebo on King Street. Outrageous hats and Easter outfits will abound, with prizes going to the best. If you packed a bonnet with you, feel free to join in the fun–the contest is open to everyone!)
But back to our parade.
St. Augustine’s Easter Parade is the second oldest parade in the country. This year marks the 59th year.
Each parade has its own attractions–the percussion of the marching bands, the beautiful young women waving from the back of cars or from atop the gorgeous horses, the floats manned by smiling residents. But I particularly love the Easter parade, because I love seeing the horses wearing their Easter bonnets.
The St. Augustine parade starts at the Old Jail at 3:00, and travels along San Marco/Avenida Menendez past the fort, then turns Right on Cathedral Street, then Right on Cordova, finally ending at the Visitor’s Center.
If you’re planning on driving in the Old City, remember that the parade route will close around 2:00–so it’s a good day to plan to walk!
Insider tip: My favorite place to grab pictures is along Cordova Street. It’s toward the end of the parade, and there aren’t throngs of people there, so you can get closer to the action.
See you there!