Jacksonvilles Beaches Info Blog

For anyone who was at the beaches this weekend there was lots to see and there will be lots more to see and do over the coming months. My family and I were there on Sunday to enjoy the sun and of course the annual parade. We try to go every year but only make it every few years or so. We love going to parades and want to share that we our children. There are not that many parades schedule any more and the beaches is one that you can be at the beach, feel the ocean breeze, watch all the beach people, and then enjoy the parade itself. Below you will find pictures of the parade from beginning to the end.

It was fun and loud and my grand daughter’s first time. There were clowns goofing off, pretty princesses waving from convertibles, military men and women marching, fire engines blaring, pirates cavorting, cannons booming, dancers dancing and one high school band marching. Apparently, this year’s theme was loosely based on the “Blues Brothers”. It was kind of ketchey but cute none the less. The biggest drawback as with any of the parades I have been able to see lately is there were not enough bands. I think the thing that makes a good parade is the marching bands from our local schools. I think that they should all participate in as many parades as possible to show off their stuff. It would be great if they were spaced out like three floats and then a band, three floats or organizations and a band etc.

And what can you say about the Shriners. They are loud and outrageous and always good in a parade. This year they were a little bit laid back. Maybe it’s just me but they didn’t have as many Shriners there as they usual have in parades and they are getting a little bit on the old side. Are there any new Shriners coming up in the ranks? Did the Jacksonville Beach Opening Parade not merit they usual contigent of Shriners in our area? And sadly, the ones that were there, the equipment looked to be getting a little ragged. This organization has been doing good in our area for all the years I can remember. They volunteer for a lot of things and I don’t know what all they do besides the Shriner’s Hospital for Children any more.

Take advantage of our natural resource this year. We may not be able to afford to go on big vacations this year but a quick weekend get-away to our local beaches may be a way to go. All you need is a little picnic, some sunscreen and a towel and you are all set. There are public access parking next to the beach up and down the First Coast. You can even catch the bus to the beach by taking the Atlantic Blvd or Beach Blvd Bus for $1.00 per person each way. If you have a couple of bucks for gas and the entrance fee you can go to one of the beach parks. Take some time and spend a few hours this weekend with your family.