St. Augustine, recognized as the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the continental United States, is highlighting its Hispanic heritage during Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from September 15 to October 15. The city’s Spanish roots date back to its founding by Pedro Menéndez de Avilés in 1565 and are still visible in its architecture and cultural landmarks such as the Castillo de San Marcos and the Bridge of Lions.
Landmarks including the Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine, Government House, Casa Monica, The Alcazar (now Lightner Museum), and The Hotel Ponce de Leon (now Flagler College) serve as reminders of the region’s Hispanic influence. These sites reflect centuries-old urban planning focused on community and environmental adaptation.
St. Augustine’s approach to tourism incorporates this history into a model that supports local businesses, educates visitors, and preserves resources. Throughout September, several events will take place to celebrate Hispanic culture:
The Avilés Street Festival on September 5 and 6 features live music, flamenco dancing, sword dueling, art displays along Avilés Street—the oldest European street in the U.S.—and access to historic sites such as Ximenez-Fatio House and Father O’Reilly Museum. Admission is free. More information can be found at www.ximenezfatiohouse.org.
Founder’s Day on September 6 commemorates St. Augustine’s founding with reenactments at Mission Nombre de Dios and a recreation of what is considered the first Thanksgiving meal at Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park. While the event at Mission Nombre de Dios is free, park admission applies for the Fountain of Youth event.
Daily St. Augustine History Walks offer two-hour tours exploring different parts of the historic district at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., covering colonial landmarks and cultural sites. Tickets are $30 for adults; children attend free (www.statruehistory.com).
Other opportunities include visiting sites like Aviles Street, Charlotte Street, St. George Street, Spanish Military Hospital Museum, Ximenez-Fatio House, Father Miguel O’Reilly House Museum or taking guided tours in Spanish through St. Augustine Land & Sea Tours by electric cart or boat.
Fort Mose Historic State Park represents another aspect of this heritage as it was established in 1738 as the first legally sanctioned free Black settlement in what is now the United States—founded by people who escaped enslavement from British colonies and were granted freedom by Spain for their allegiance.
A replica of Fort Mose now stands after three decades of planning; annual events such as Battle of Bloody Mose reenactment honor those who fought for freedom.
The city’s culinary scene also reflects its Hispanic roots with restaurants like Columbia Restaurant offering Cuban and Spanish dishes; Asado Life providing Argentinian grilling experiences; La Cocina at The Cellar Upstairs featuring international specialties; Spanish Bakery & Cafe serving traditional foods; and Paladar Cuban Eatery bringing Cuban cuisine to local diners.
Nearly one-fifth of St. Augustine residents identify as Hispanic or Latino—a demographic that plays an active role across professions including arts, education, business leadership, public service, and activism.
During Hispanic Heritage Month—and throughout the year—local organizations hold festivals, art exhibitions, concerts, and food events celebrating Latin American cultures’ diversity within St. Augustine.
Florida’s Historic Coast comprises historic St. Augustine along with Ponte Vedra Beach’s golf resorts and other communities such as Hastings and Elkton plus miles of Atlantic beaches between Daytona Beach and Jacksonville.
Visitor information can be found at www.FloridasHistoricCoast.com or through social media channels including Instagram (@FloridasHistoricCoast), Facebook (OfficialStAugustine), Twitter (@FlHistoricCoast), or by calling 1-800-653-2489.
