2023.7.4 / Happy 4^th of July

4^th of July in StA is a big event.  The town is draped in Red, White, and Blue; everyone is showing their patriotism. 

The festivities start at 6PM with The All Star Orchestra concert at the Plaza. Fireworks begin at 9:30.  It is a 20 minute show choregraphed to music.  The Bridge of Lions is closed for the fireworks as is Avenida Menendez.  Last year it was packed with pedestrians and from the crowds already out I expect the same this year.  If you are driving in, be prepared for rerouting of traffic and delays getting in and out of the city.  There are shuttles you can take to avoid some of the congestion.  

On my walk this morning (it was early – 7:30), people have already started claiming their spots on the Bayfront for the fireworks.  The good news for us is we are right in the heart of it, we can walk down when we want, and we don’t need to worry about parking or the traffic on the way out of town after the festivities.  

It was quiet on my walk.  I saw that the fireworks barge was anchored at the bay and the Port-a-Potties were set up. They are at the Plaza and by the River and Fort near the Castillo de San Marcos.  I also saw a herd of manatees, about six of them.  Tried to get a photo but it’s not a great shot.  And I saw two manatees yesterday.  Someone said they saw a pod of dolphins earlier, so envious.  LOVE dolphins.

July 4^th is the beginning of the summer festivities, kids are out of school, the streets are full of tourists, and the beaches are beautiful.  Summer is definitely here in StA with afternoon temperatures in the 90’s and the heat index making it feel like the 100’s.  Our Alexa devise alerted us this morning that there was a heat advisory in effect until 7:30PM.  If you are out celebrating in our beautiful city today, remember to stay hydrated and wear your sunscreen!

Ciao,

Phil and Dee