New Weekend Event Features America's Oldest City's Art, Antiques and Architecture

ST. AUGUSTINE, FL – Art, antiques and architecture will be combined to create irresistible weekend getaway opportunities in St. Augustine Florida, America’s oldest city.

Beginning the weekend of September 28th, antique dealers, art galleries, and other merchants in the city’s San Marco District, will present Uptown Saturday Night, a festive atmosphere filled with St. Augustine shopping, St. Augustine sightseeing, hospitality and special deals.

Uptown Saturday Nights will continue throughout the fall on the last Saturday of each month. Area antique dealers are offering workshops covering a variety of antique related topics through out the weekends.

More than 30 of St. Augustine’s best art galleries are participating in an expanded version of the art communities First Friday Art Walk. Participating galleries will have extended hours on both Friday and Saturday nights with lively street music, hospitality, and new works by Florida artists.

“Both of these A+ Getaway Weekends combine two of our most popular monthly events into an experience that is perfect for art aficionados, antique enthusiasts and folks looking for fun. Additionally, our new architecture tours offer visitors a fascinating look at some of the most impressive Spanish Renaissance and Victorian structures in the United States,” said Glenn Hastings, executive director of the St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra & The Beaches Visitors and Convention Bureau.

Each A+ Getaway Weekend will begin on Friday evening with a self-guided walking tour that leads to more than 20 of the city’s finest art galleries. Each gallery hosts a free open house that offers visitors a chance to look at the latest art collection while enjoying wine and hors d’oeuvres. Local artists are often in attendance to explain their work. Combined with live music performed at numerous locations, the art walk transforms into a lively and colorful street festival.

“On Saturdays, the focus is on the incredible antique shopping opportunities that are available in America’s Oldest City. In the evening, the antique district concentrated along San Marco Avenue sparkles to life with lively street music and endless opportunities to shop for antiques, rare books – even authentic Spanish treasure,” explains Hastings.

A short walk away, additional antique discoveries can be made along Aviles Street – the oldest street in America. Each participating shop features an open house with wine and refreshments that add to the festive nighttime atmosphere.

For a complete listing of events in St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra and The Beaches, along with details on accommodations, dining and attractions visit http://www.getaway4florida.com or call 1.800.653.2489.