SPECIALISSUE: APRILHIGHLIGHTS
AprilinPalatkameansspringinfullswing
Theazaleasarestillshowingoff,thedaysarelongerandwarmer,andtheriveris calling It’sfestivalseason,outdooradventures,andweekendsfilledwithlive music,localmarkets,andtimespentsoakingitallinalongtheSt.Johns FromtheenergyofthePutnamCountyFairwrappinguptotheexcitementof springeventsandfishingontheriver,Aprilisallaboutgettingoutsideand experiencingPalatkaatitsbest. Springishere…andthere’snobetterplacetobe
Spring in Full Bloom
Explore Upcoming Events in Palatka →
April keeps the color going as azaleas linger and Palatka shifts into full spring mode. With the Florida Azalea Festival wrapping up, the energy carries on with beautiful weather and vibrant scenery all around town
Festival Season & River Days
From the Bartram Frolic & Festival to weekends spent along the St. Johns River, April is made for getting outside Whether you're exploring trails, hopping on a tour, or enjoying the riverfront, there’s something happening everywhere you turn
Outdoor Fun & Local Favorites
Longer days mean more time to explore downtown shops, grab a bite at local favorites, and spend your weekends at markets, live music events, and community gatherings
THIS MONTH AT THE MARKET
April Hop Into Spring
Market 1: Easter Bunny Bash (April 4)
• Easter Bunny meet-and-greet
• Market egg hunt
• Spring-inspired décor & vendors
• Live music, face painting & family fun
Market 2: Farm Friends Day (April 18)
• Petting zoo experience
• “Farm to Family” educational station
• DIY birdhouse craft
• Interactive, hands-on fun for all ages
Join us both Saturdays from 9 AM – 2 PM at the Putnam County Courthouse Lawn for two springfilled market days you won’t want to miss
We’re always looking for volunteers and vendors to help make these markets possible check the links below to get involved!
WANT TO BE APART OF THE MARKETS?
April brings excitement and adventure to Palatka as the Bartram Frolic & Festival takes center stage alongside peak fishing season on the St Johns River. Here’s what’s happening this month.
APRIL EVENTS IN PALATKA
Palatka Famers Market
Putnam County Courthouse | April 4 & April 18 | 9:00 am - 2:00 pm
At every March market, kids can enjoy yard games and activities while parents shop local vendors, discover unique finds, and enjoy the community vibe
Sunset River Cruises
Palatka City Dock | April 3 | 6:30 pm
Step aboard for a 15-hour pontoon boat tour and experience the beauty of Palatka’s historic riverfront from the water.
Morning River Cruises
Palatka City Dock | April 4 & April 18 | 10:00 am
Step aboard for a two-hour pontoon boat tour and experience the beauty of Palatka’s historic riverfront from the water
Spring Ranch & Market Day
James Ranch | April 11 | 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Farm-To-Table Spring Market & Ranch Day, Family Fun and Shopping
Michele Renaud - Exhibition Opening Reception
The River Center | April 11
This exhibition offers visitors an in-depth look at Renaud’s artistic style, creative process, an evolving body of work Through carefully curated pieces, the exhibit showcases her unique perspective and contribution to the local arts community
Family Art Workshop - April Showers
The Larimer | April 11 | 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 | April 11 | 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Meet the artists, explore current exhibitions, and enjoy an evening of art and community in downtown Palatka.
Putnam Studio Tours
The Larimer | April 17 - 19
Kick Off event Friday April 17, 5p - 8p at The Larimer
Studio Tours: Saturday April 18 & Sunday April 19 from 10a - 5p
The Putnam County BBQ Festival
Palatka Riverfront | April 18 | 11:00 am
Smoke in the air, sauce on deck, and the grills are hot! There will be Cash prizes, Live performances, Special guest judges, FREE admission Come hungry and help support veterans housing
Palatka Wine Stroll
Downtown Palatka | April 24 | 5:30 pm - 9:00 pm
Join us for the Palatka Wine Stroll, an unforgettable evening in the heart of downtown!
27 Annual Blueberry Festival th
Bostwick Community Center | April 25 | 8:00 am - 3:00 pm
Blueberry everything! Come join us for vendors selling food, arts, crafts, blueberry ice cream, pies and more!
Vets Freedom Fest
Putnam County Fairgrounds | April 25 | 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Our festival to recognize and honor veterans came as an outgrowth of the annual “Festival of Freedom” that honors veterans by giving them a free dinner
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
EVENT
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
NIKO’S PIZZA
Niko’s Pizza serves up classic comfort and crowd-favorite flavors right here in Palatka! Locally loved and familyfriendly, this go-to spot offers everything from fresh, cheesy pizzas to hearty subs, wings, and Italian favorites made to satisfy every craving. Whether you’re grabbing a quick slice or sitting down with the family, Niko’s is always a solid choice!
Located at 804 FL-19, Palatka, FL
YOUR NEW FAVORITES
DECOR WITH A TWIST
Decor with a Twist brings charm, character, and one-of-a-kind finds to Downtown Palatka! Locally owned and full of personality, this boutique offers a beautiful mix of seasonal décor, everyday home accents, and unique antique pieces that add the perfect touch to any space Whether you love modern, vintage, or a little bit of both, you’re sure to find something special you won’t see just anywhere
Located at 214 St Johns Avenue, Palatka, FL
Discover Palatka through our travel diaries featuring must-see spots, local favorites, and hidden gems
TRAVEL DIARIES
BARTRAM GUIDED TOURS
PALATKA, IT’S BARTRAM TOUR SEASON
Ready to experience Palatka like never before?
As part of the Bartram Frolic & Festival, we’re bringing you guided tours on the St Johns River and beyond designed to immerse you in the beauty, history, and adventure of North Florida.
Seats are limited and these will fill up fast secure your spot and make it a weekend in Palatka
