Seminole War Commemoration

The Seminole Wars Foundation, the West Point Society of North Florida, and the Florida National Guard Historian host the 18th annual commemoration of the end of the Second Seminole War in St. Augustine on Saturday, August 16, 2025, from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. The event features a parade and ceremony at the National Cemetery pyramids, both of which are open to the public, to honor those who perished in the conflict. This year's event includes a keynote lecture on Friday. Hosted by the Flagler College Lifelong Learning Institute, the lecture will be held at the Markland House. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.

The parade to the Dade Monument at the National Cemetery begins at 10:15 a.m., and the commemoration ceremony takes place at 10:45 a.m. Historical reenactors in period costumes participate in the parade, and the public is welcome to join them. This year's event features a reproduction caisson and cannon, period musicians, a musket volley, and participation by members of the Florida Masonic Lodges as they represent their attendance in the 1842 event.

Historical Context: In 1842, officers, soldiers, and musicians paraded through the streets of St. Augustine to commemorate the more than 1,400 fallen from the Seminole Wars.To honor them, three coquina pyramids were erected in the cemetery where some of the fallen were interred. These structures, collectively known as the Dade Monument after Major Francis L. Dade, serve as symbolic markers for the fallen.

Admission: The parade and commemoration ceremony are free and open to the public. Optional events on Friday and Saturday are available for $25.00. Guests can RSVP for these events by calling (904) 823-0696, or by emailing [email protected]

When: Saturday, August 16, 2025, from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. Optional event times vary, taking place on both Friday and Saturday. Doors open for the Friday evening keynote lecture at 6:30 p.m.

Where: St. Augustine National Cemetery, 104 Marine Street and Officers' Club at St. Francis Barracks, 82 Marine Street, St. Augustine, Florida 32084. Friday evening's keynote lecture takes place at the Markland House, located at 102 King St, St. Augustine, Florida 32084.

Parking: Parking is available in the Florida National Guard lot behind St. Francis Barracks at 106 Marine Street.