Celebrate music, art, literature, theatre, and dance for two weeks in the spring.
The Romanza Festivale of Music and the Arts presents two weeks of historical, cultural, and creative events celebrating music, art, literature, theater, and dance in St. Augustine. In May, the nation’s oldest city is jam-packed with art, performances, and historic tours—all in honor of St. Augustine’s historical and cultural heritage. "Romanza" means romance, and every year the Romanza Festivale falls in love with the local arts community. In 2026, most Romanza events occur between May 1 and May 17.
From small drum circles to crowd-pleasing concerts at Flagler College, these two weeks are packed with events celebrating artists of every kind—from plein air painting to world-renowned jazz performances. Check the Romanza Festivale Calendar to find the events that speak to the artist in you.
All Romanza events in May, 2026
Romanza Festivale presents more than 40 performances and shows, all concentrated within 17 days in May, and most at no cost to the public. This two-week celebration brings globally acclaimed performers to St. Augustine while highlighting local theatrical productions and art shows, and promoting local artists and musicians to a wider audience. Check this space for the current year's events.
Wednesday, May 6, 2026 | 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Enjoy hearing stories that span Florida's history.
Wednesday, May 6, 2026 | 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.
This special chamber music event features Korean culture.
Wednesday, May 6, 2026 | 7:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Enjoy an evening of music featuring the church choir with special guests.
Thursday, May 7, 2026 | 2:00 to 3:00 p.m.
Ambasador of Storytelling Award winners relate old and new Florida tales.
Thursday, May 7, 2026 | 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Wine, cheese, and a discussion about the art of writing historical fiction.
Thursday, May 7, 2026 | 8:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Enjoy Flagler College's music ambassadors and a cappella ensemble.
Friday, May 8, 2026 | 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Opera vocalists present songs about America's favorite pastime—baseball.
Friday, May 8, 2026 | 7:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
The Romanza Festivale presents the band's last concert of the season.
Friday, May 8, 2026 | 8:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.
Showcasing local and regional stand up comedians on second Fridays.
Saturday, May 9, 2026 | 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Florida School of the Arts students perform music from Broadway for Romanza.
Saturday, May 9, 2026 | 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
The local chorus ends their year-long America 250 trilogy with "The Way to Peace."
Sunday, May 10, 2026 | 7:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Two local vocalists present an intimate evening of story, song, and musical improvisation.
Two weeks of arts, entertainment, and exhibits, celebrating the creators among us.
Sponsored in part by Florida Arts and Culture, St. Johns Cultural Council, St. Johns County Tourist Development Council, and the St. Augustine Celtic Music and Heritage Festival, Romanza honors the cultural heritage of all those who have lived here. A select few events, including the Celtic Music and Heritage Festival, occur outside these two weeks in May.
St. Augustine offers food, fun, and festivities for the whole family.
Dine out before or after a Romanza event. Find local musicians and listen in their natural habitat (aka bar or restaurant). Visit some of the many historical properties in the area. Have fun at one of our local attractions. St. Augustine is a perfect place to enjoy for a day, a long weekend, or a two-week vacation.