Palatka Azalea festival. Worth the trip? (allergy, live in, gardens)

[Lawstudent]

Our time here is growing shorter by the day. We were wondering if the trip to Palatka is worth it. I know there are gardners amongst you who could also tell me if the azaleas will be cooperating. I have seen some here and there. Help us out is it worth the trip?

[riveree]

The azaleas are in bloom right now in Jax, so they should be blooming well in Palatka too.

It's been 8 or 9 years since I went to the Azalea Festival, so a lot may have changed, but as I remember it there isn't too much there...not a lot of interesting booths or vendors.

What I found interesting is the Ravines themselves, which you could do at any time (but if you go to the festival, you should leave some time to see the Ravines). The terrain of the Ravines is very different than what you normally see in this part of Florida. You can do some nice hiking through here (easy hiking...sneakers will suffice). With the azaleas in bloom, it's a bonus.

If you have nothing else planned, it might be a nice way to spend the day. Plenty of interesting photos could be taken in Downtown Palatka and in the Ravines. There is a nice park right on the river, so it's another way to see the Saint John's too.


Florida Azalea Festival - Palatka, Florida

Main Page - Ravine Gardens State Park » Florida State Parks

[Snippet2]

We live in the area, and the azaleas are in full bloom and beautiful. We are expecting a freeze tonite though but shouldn't be a problem. The festival itself is just the usual vendors, etc. I wouldn't travel just for that, BUT Ravine Gardens State Park, always beautiful, is especially nice at this time of year with the azaleas in full bloom. I'm not sure where you're traveling from, but a worthwhile trip would include taking in Ravine Gardens as well as the festival. Enjoy

[Lawstudent]

Thanks for the heads up. Its between the azalea festival or Bike week in Daytona. Talk about two polar opposites. Stop and smell the flowers or hold your breath behind a Harley. I think Daytona is going to win this battle.

[riveree]

I've been to Bike Week......I think I could have a better conversation with the azaleas.

[Ocklawaha]

No question in my mind, if you enjoy nature and some really unique ravines, the Ravine Gardens State Park during the festival is unbeatable. Year by year it can be somewhat different, as the flowers bloom at slightly different times. Catch it at just that right moment of the right year and it's an explosion of color. You'll want your camera, a picinic or nearby vendors, good walking shoes.

If you have allergys to bee sting, keep in mind they love the flowers, so be ready. I've never been stung there, but have seen my share of bee's.

Be ready for colors... and more colors...

Ocklawaha