The Palatka Post - Issue 5

ISSUE NO. 5

FEBRUARY 2026

THE PALATKA POST

INSIDE THIS ISSUE EVENTS & FESTIVALS

LOCAL SPOTLIGHTS

SPECIAL ISSUE: FEBRUARY HIGHLIGHTS

INDEX

TABLE OF CONTENTS 03 Special Issue: February Highlights

11 Local Spotlights

07 Events & Festivals

13 Travel Diaries

This month at a glance

What’s Happening Around Town

Businesses & People to Watch

Exploring Palatka

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SPECIAL ISSUE: FEBRUARY HIGHLIGHTS

February in Palatka brings cooler days, azaleas getting ready to burst into color, and anticipation building for the Azalea Festival, our favorite sign that spring is on its way.

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Local Favorites for February Fuel up at favorite diners, cafés, and waterfront spots before a day of exploring downtown or enjoying festival activities along the riverfront.

Tournament Time on the River February brings competitive action to the St. Johns as anglers test their skills in fishing tournaments that showcase why our river is a true destination for outdoorsmen.

Countdown to Azalea Season Azaleas are budding and the city is getting ready for its signature spring celebration. February sets the stage for the Azalea Festival, one of Palatka’s most beloved traditions.

Explore Upcoming Events in Palatka →

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THIS MONTH AT THE MARKET February — Sweetheart Season This month at the Palatka Farmers Market is all about love, community, and four-legged cuteness!

❤️ Love Local Market

Celebrate Valentine’s season by shopping small and supporting local makers, bakers, growers, and artisans. Kids can get their face painted, and create their own Valentine cards while parents browse booths for sweet gifts, handmade treats, and unique treasures you won’t find anywhere else.

🐾 Paws & Hearts Pet Adoption Day

Our furry friends deserve love too! Meet adoptable pets from Putnam County Animal Services, enjoy a Bandana craft in our kids zone, along with a Balloon Twister! Maybe even find your new best friend. Plus, shop pet-themed vendors, treats, and accessories to spoil the ones already at home.

February markets bring family fun, local shopping, and that signature community charm that makes downtown Palatka feel warm — even in winter.

We’re always looking for volunteers and vendors to help make these markets possible — links below to get involved!

WANT TO BE APART OF THE MARKETS? 5 | Palatka Post

February brings excitement and anticipation across Palatka as festival season and fishing tournaments take center stage. Here’s what’s happening this month.

FEBRUARY EVENTS IN PALATKA

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Palatka Famers Market Putnam County Courthouse | February 7th & February 21st | 9:00 am - 2:00 pm At every February market, kids can enjoy yard games and activities while parents shop local vendors, discover unique finds, and enjoy the community vibe.

The Palatka Bluegrass Festival Rodeheaver Boys Ranch | February 12th - February 14th Experience three days of bluegrass music with a covered pavilion, camping, RV hook-ups, food and craft vendors, and fun for the whole family. Children welcome.

Susan Hunter - Featured Artist Exhibition | Opening Reception The Larimer | February 13 this exhibition showcases Susan Hunter’s unique artistic voice and body of work, offering visitors an opportunity to experience her creative vision up close.

Palatka Railroad Preservation Society Quarterly Open House Event David Browning Railroad Museum | January 10th | 10:00 am - 2:00 pm Come out and check out the David Browning Railroad Museum, it is only open once a quarter so this is your opportunity to explore and connect with other railroad enthusiasts !

Ranger Read Along - Guess How Much I Love You Ravine Gardens State Park | February 14th | 10:00 am Families will design and personalize a keepsake project while learning how art can inspire kindness and community support.

Family Art Workshop - Sweet Sensations The Larimer | February 14th | 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm Celebrate creativity and connection with a Valentine-inspired art workshop focused on color, texture, and heartfelt designs.

Larimer Art Gallery Exhibitions The Larimer | February 14th | 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm Meet the artists, explore current exhibitions, and enjoy an evening of art and community in downtown Palatka.

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The Larimer Soundstage: Joey Anderson The Larimer | February 15th | 5:00 pm - 7:30 pm A unique concert experience in which the songwriter and the craft of songwriting is the focus.

Florida Z Fest February 25th - 28th Florida Z Fest is the ultimate Nissan/Datsun/Infiniti enthusiast event happening in North Florida!

Florida’s 77th Annual Azalea Festival Downtown Palatka | February 27 - March 1 a beloved spring tradition in Palatka, celebrating blooming azaleas with live music, arts & crafts, family fun, and small-town charm along the St. Johns River.

The Liberty Tree of Putnam Dedication Triangle Park | February 28th | 1:00 pm Join the Sons and Daughters of the American Revolution and the Palatka Sunrise Rotary Club for the dedication of a Triangle Park memorial honoring those who fought for our nation’s freedom.

SPECIAL ISSUE:

GET FEATURED Our community calendar highlights the events that make Palatka special — and we want to include yours. Submit your event to be featured on our website and in future editions of The Palatka Post.

SUBMIT YOUR EVENT 9 | Palatka Post

SPECIAL ISSUE:

From unique boutiques to beloved bites, our Local Highlights spotlight the businesses that keep Palatka vibrant. Share your favorite merchant or dining spot for a chance to be featured on our website and in The Palatka Post.

LOCAL SPOTLIGHTS

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MUSSELWHITE’S SEAFOOD & GRILL Musselwhite’s has been serving our community since 1998—and it shows in every bite. From daily specials and rotating sides to seafood cooked to perfection, there’s always something to crave.

Not a seafood fan? No worries their soups and non-seafood options never disappoint either. A true local favorite, year after year.

Located at 125 S Highway 17, East Palatka FL

YOUR NEW FAVORITES NICOLE’S SALON & SPA NiCole’s salon and Spa is a welcoming, full-service salon & spa where you instantly feel at home.

Friendly faces, great conversation, and top-notch services. From hair and nails to skincare, microblading, waxing, and more. Come for the beauty services, stay for the warm, feel-good vibes.

Located at 210 St. Johns Avenue, Palatka FL

Discover Palatka through our travel diaries—featuring must-see spots, local favorites, and hidden gems.

TRAVEL DIARIES

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RIVERFRONT PARK Riverfront Park is a vibrant gathering place along the St. Johns River, offering open green spaces, scenic waterfront views, and room to relax or play.

Whether you’re casting a line, taking a stroll, letting the kids run free, or stretching out for a sunset yoga session, it’s the perfect spot to soak up Palatka’s riverfront charm.

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ISSUE NO. 5

FEBRUARY 2026

@VisitPalatka www.VisitPalatka.com · info@VisitPalatka.com