Vilano Beach Main Street will host Vilano Fest 2018 in the Vilano Beach Town Center April 20-21, continuing an annual tradition that celebrates the community and heritage of the barrier island community.
The event includes the Dish N Fish, Music Fest, the Sea Turtle Soiree (1920’s themed Party on the Vilano Pier) and the Vilano Beach Tour of Homes. The culinary competition returns by popular demand with local food vendors, student culinary teams, dancers, bands and acoustic music set for Saturday’s events. Beach 105.5 and WFOY will be on hand for live coverage during the events. The objective is to create a fun-filled weekend for visitors and residents with proceeds benefitting ongoing Main Street improvement projects for lighting and safety in and around Vilano and the North Beaches near St Augustine.
The weekend kicks off with the Sea Turtle Soiree on Friday, April 20, from 6 to 10 p.m. This year, local act Ramona and its eight-piece band will entertain guests with hits from the 20s and the Motown era. A newly added happy hour at 6 p.m. features local artist Amy Hendrickson. Lighted tents on the end of Vilano Pier will provide a magical environment over the Intracoastal Waterway. With catered gourmet food and a wide spectrum of spirits, the evening will showcase the ‘tastes’ of the 20s. Period attire is encouraged.
“There’s nothing like this!” said Andy Hill, chair of the Soiree. “Our first event last year exceeded all expectations. When you combine energy of this community with the unique setting of a pier party over the water, add a full eight-piece band, gourmet food and drinks – it’s amazing.”
Music Fest on Saturday, April 21, features an afternoon of local entertainment with local food vendors and food trucks. All food stations compete in a slider cook off, and artists such as Dewey Via and Sam Pacetti are returning in the nine-act line up. This event takes place at the Town Center from noon to 8 p.m.
Also on April 21, The Tour of Homes from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. features eight stops, one of which includes a refreshment center with tastings offered from local restaurants such as The Reef, Dessert First Bistro and more. The home tour features historic and modern homes throughout the Vilano Beach community, showcasing Art Deco, Florida Vernacular and new homes with inland and sea views. Souvenir tour booklets detail each property and its history. Old Town Trolley will transport event attendees from stop to stop.
Visitors can enjoy a discounted bundled weekend package for $75 before March 1 while tickets last. After March 1, tickets return to normal pricing: The total weekend package is $85, and individual prices are $70 for the Soiree, $20 for the Tour of Homes and $5 for Music Fest.
There are still vendor spaces available, sponsorship opportunities, advertising in the Tour Booklet and volunteer slots available. To participate as a volunteer, vendor or sponsor, email Sallie O’Hara at Sallie_OHara@vilanobeachfl.com or call (904) 540-042. Visit www.vilanobeachfl.com to register online; click on the “featured” events for more details.
