The Palatka Post - Issue 7

ISSUE NO. 7

APRIL 2026

THE PALATKA POST

INSIDE THIS ISSUE EVENTS & FESTIVALS

LOCAL SPOTLIGHTS

SPECIAL ISSUE: APRIL HIGHLIGHTS

INDEX

TABLE OF CONTENTS 03 Special Issue: April 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

Palatka Post | 2

SPECIAL ISSUE: APRIL HIGHLIGHTS

April in Palatka means spring in full swing The azaleas are still showing off, the days are longer and warmer, and the river is calling. It’s festival season, outdoor adventures, and weekends filled with live music, local markets, and time spent soaking it all in along the St. Johns From the energy of the Putnam County Fair wrapping up to the excitement of spring events and fishing on the river, April is all about getting outside and experiencing Palatka at its best.

Spring is here… and there’s no better place to be

3 | Palatka Post

Spring in Full Bloom 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

Explore Upcoming Events in Palatka →

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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? 5 | Palatka Post

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

7 | Palatka Post

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 1.5-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, and 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.

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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!

27th Annual Blueberry Festival 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.

9 | Palatka Post

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 Palatka Post | 10

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

11 | Palatka Post

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 Palatka Post | 12

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

TRAVEL DIARIES

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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 🌅

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15 | Palatka Post

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ISSUE NO. 7

APRIL 2026

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