Let's all take a moment to be thankful to live in such a great place with so many interesting things to do. My role here is to look for and curate a list of interesting activities to do with your family, your partner or whoever you keep company with, including yourself, since your own company can be the best company. Here's a list of things I'd highly recommend you visit and experience in our beaches community this week.
Atlantic Beach
The Mayport Waterfront Market returns to Mayport Village on Saturday, July 18, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. It's held on the third Saturday of the month, not weekly, along the St. Johns River with local vendors, artisans and food trucks.
Enjoy some laughs and improv comedy at First Coast Comedy on Mayport Road. The main event show for all ages is at 7 p.m., and the 21-and-up show is at 9:30 p.m.
Bedlam on Mayport Road has live music Sunday from 3 to 6 p.m., followed by stand-up comedy at 8 p.m. There's also a food vendor in the parking lot serving hot dogs and Philly cheesesteaks.
Neptune Beach
The Neptune Beach Farmers Market is held at Neptune Beach Elementary, 1515 Florida Blvd. in Neptune Beach, every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The market moved from Jack Russell Park in Atlantic Beach to its current Neptune Beach location.
On Tuesday, July 21, the Salty Soirée hosts free arts and crafts for kids and their families from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. No registration needed, just drop in. Salty Soirée is a party supply and events company worth knowing about if you're ever planning one.
Soak up some beach vibes with Lifted Riffs at the Lemon Bar on Saturday, July 18, from 4 to 7 p.m.
The Treehouse Art Space is hosting musicians Alexa Wildish and Hannah Delynn for a roots and indie music showcase on Saturday, July 18. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and the show starts at 7:30 p.m. BYOB.
BrewHound Dog Park + Bar has movie night every Thursday at sunset, with coffee and drinks available. It's a great place to hang out.
Jacksonville Beach
The Beaches Green Market is held on Penman Road in Jacksonville Beach every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
On Friday, July 17, from 4 to 8 p.m., Green Room Brewing hosts its Green Room Market with local arts, crafts and sweet treats. Green Room is one of the original beach breweries, with a friendly staff and great beer. Worth stopping by to check out the market and the rest of what they offer.
Wick N Twisted offers youth candle making (adults can join in, too) on Tuesday, July 21. It's a hands-on experience for kids ages 7 to 17, from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Silent disco returns to the Jacksonville Beach Pier on Friday, July 17, from 7 to 10 p.m.