The Palatka Post - Issue 8

ISSUE NO. 8

MAY 2026

THE PALATKA POST

INSIDE THIS ISSUE EVENTS & FESTIVALS

LOCAL SPOTLIGHTS

SPECIAL ISSUE: MAY HIGHLIGHTS

INDEX

TABLE OF CONTENTS 03 Special Issue: May 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: MAY HIGHLIGHTS

May in Palatka brings the start of summer Longer days, warmer evenings, and more time spent on the river. From the final Palatka Farmers Market of the season to the Blue Crab Festival, it’s the perfect time to get outside and enjoy it all.

Summer is almost here, and there’s no better place to be.

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Outdoor Fun & Local Favorites Spring days are perfect for exploring downtown shops, enjoying local eats, and spending weekends at markets, live music events, and community gatherings.

River Days & Blue Crab Season May is prime time on the St. Johns River, especially with blue crab season in full swing. Whether you're out on the water, casting a line, or just soaking in a sunset, there’s no better place to be.

Summer Energy Begins With the Palatka Farmers Market wrapping up the season and Summer Night Lights kicking off, May brings that first taste of summer with warm weather, longer evenings, and a laid-back, vibrant atmosphere.

Explore Upcoming Events in Palatka →

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THIS MONTH AT THE MARKET Sunshine & Community Month Market 1: Derby Day (May 2) • Kids crafts • Free balloon art • Live music • Springtime shopping & community vibes Market 2: Sweet Start to Summer (May 16) • Kids zone with coloring sheets • Free face painting • Live music • Celebrate the close of Season 1 Join us both Saturdays from 9 AM – 2 PM at the Putnam County Courthouse Lawn for two fun-filled 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!

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

May brings sunshine and laid-back summer energy to Palatka as the season shifts to river days, and blue crab season. Here’s what’s happening this month.

MAY EVENTS IN PALATKA

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Palatka Famers Market Putnam County Courthouse | May 2 & May 16th | 9:00 am - 2:00 pm At every May 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 | May 1 & May 15 | 7:00 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 | May 2 | 10:00 am Step aboard for a two-hour pontoon boat tour and experience the beauty of Palatka’s historic riverfront from the water.

72nd Annual Mug Race Palatka Riverfront | May 2 | 8:00 am The Annual Mug Race is back on May 2, bringing sailors from across the region to compete in this 38mile race down the St. Johns River from Palatka to Orange Park.

Bark in the Park The Ravine Gardens State Park | May 2 | 10:00 am Bark in the Park at Ravine Gardens with animals, dog biscuits, dog or animal jewelry, artwork, crafts , bakers, and more

Palatka Railroad Preservation Society Quarterly Open House Palatka Union Depot | May 9 | 10:00 am - 2:00 pm The Palatka Railroad Preservation Society is hosting a Quarterly Open House at Palatka Union Depot — a great opportunity to see inside the historic station and experience operating model railroads up close.

Berndt Ends Night Market Berndt Ends BBQ | May 9 | 4:30 pm - 7:30 pm Join Berndt Ends BBQ for their Night Market in May — an evening of local vendors, great food, and community vibes. Come shop, grab a bite, and enjoy a laid-back night out in Palatka

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The Larimer Soundstage: Shayla Nelson The Larimer | May 15 | 7:00 pm Experience incredible talent right here in Palatka and enjoy a night out filled with music and atmosphere

Opening Reception: Black & White - Group Exhibition The Larimer | May 16 | 10:00 am Featuring works created entirely in black, white, or grayscale, this exhibition highlights form, texture, light, and composition.

Sisco, Florida Bronson-Mulhulland House | May 16 | 11:00 am

Join the Putnam County Historical Society for a special program, “Sisco, Florida,” featuring Dr. Stephen Hale.

Madd Monsters Market of Mayhem Putnam County Fairgrounds | May 16 | 12:00 pm - 6:00 pm Vendors sell collectible / Horror & science fiction / pop culture / oddities / Movie & Tv items / retro Toys & more and more. Entertainment and music. Food trucks & cosplay..

Much Ado About Nothing The Larimer | May 17 | 2:00 pm & 7:00 pm A lively tale of love, rivalry, gossip, and unexpected twists. What starts as playful matchmaking quickly turns into a web of deception where nothing is quite as it seems.

Scenic Boat Tours at the Blue Crab Festival Palatka City Marina | May 23 | 12:00 pm | 1:30 PM | 3:00 PM | 4:30 PM | 6:00 PM

Hop aboard with Boathouse Riverfront for Scenic Boat Tours along the St. Johns River — the perfect way to take in the views while you’re in town.

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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

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VELCHOFF’S CORNER Pull up a chair and taste the difference at Velchoff’s Corner.

Serving up authentic Southern comfort food and classic American favorites, this local spot brings together timehonored Cajun recipes, fresh seafood, and quality ingredients in a warm, welcoming setting. Whether you’re gathering with family and friends or just enjoying a laid-back meal, Velchoff’s delivers a dining experience that feels just like home.

Located at 105 N. 2nd Street, Suite D, Palatka, FL

YOUR NEW FAVORITES LADY BUG’S GIFT SHOPPE & HOME DECOR Lady Bug’s Gift Shoppe & Home Décor brings charm, character, and unique finds to Downtown Palatka!

Locally owned and full of personality, this cozy shop offers a thoughtful mix of gifts, home décor, and seasonal pieces that add the perfect touch to any space. Whether you’re shopping for something special or just browsing, you’re sure to find something you won’t see just anywhere.

Located at 423 St. Johns Ave. Suite 1, 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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THE PALATKA MURAL TOURS

The Palatka Mural Tour highlights the incredible range of talent behind the city’s murals—from professional artists to first-time creators. Start with the audio introduction, then explore each mural to hear and learn the stories behind the artwork.

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ISSUE NO. 8

MAY 2026

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