As Summer Wraps Up in Ponte Vedra Beach, Here’s Your Fall Bucket List

As summer winds down and the kids head back to school, Ponte Vedra Beach settles into a new rhythm. It is still Florida hot, but the humidity is finally easing up, making those fall weekends feel a whole lot more comfortable. Before long, that perfect crisp breeze will be here to stay. This season offers a chance for everyone to reset their routines while still enjoying all the fun and beauty that fall has to offer. To help you make the most of it, here are the top five must-do activities for your fall bucket list.

Cheer on the Jaguars at the Season Home Opener

The Jacksonville Jaguars kick off their home season on Sunday, September 7, facing off against the Carolina Panthers at EverBank Stadium. If you’re up for the excitement and don’t mind the heat, there’s nothing like being part of the live crowd where the energy, the cheers, and the thrill of game day create an unforgettable experience. Just remember to stay hydrated and arrive a little early to soak in the tailgating vibes with fellow Jaguars fans.  If you can’t make it to the home opener, you can always attend another home game this fall season.

Fall on the Farm Grounds at Congaree and Penn

As the air turns a little crisper and evenings start to feel just right, there’s no better place to enjoy the season than Congaree and Penn. From late September through early November, you can wander the pumpkin patch, explore the farm, and enjoy live music and food trucks on select evenings — the perfect way to spend a cozy autumn day or night. It’s about an hour drive from Ponte Vedra Beach, but one that’s well worth it for the experience.

Our team recently visited Congaree and Penn and spoke with the general manager about their incredible farm-to-table process and dedication to fresh, local ingredients. To learn more, check out our Discover Ponte Vedra series by visiting our website LisaSellsPonteVedra.com and selecting the “Where to Live” tab.

Experience Oktoberfest at the Beach

If you’re a local, you know Beaches Oktoberfest is a staple fall tradition here in Jacksonville Beach and this year, it’s happening October 10th and 11th at the Seawall Pavilion. What started as a small gathering has grown into North Florida’s largest Oktoberfest celebration, and it’s still just as fun and festive as ever.

This year, you can look forward to all your favorite activities — authentic German beer and cuisine, live music, stein hoisting competitions, bratwurst eating contests, local art showcases, a beach clean-up, and a dedicated Kids Zone so everyone can join in.

So whether you’re raising a stein with longtime friends or bringing the family for a fun day out, Beaches Oktoberfest is a chance to come together, celebrate our community, and enjoy another unforgettable weekend by the beach.

Spooktacular at the Jacksonville Zoo

As evenings grow cooler and Halloween approaches, families in the area look forward to one of the season’s most magical traditions, Spooktacular at the Jacksonville Zoo. Imagine wandering through softly lit paths, surrounded by the sounds of laughter and the gentle rustle of leaves, as your little ones eagerly collect treats during the zoo’s festive trick-or-treat trail.

On select evenings in October, the zoo transforms into a Halloween wonderland filled with pirate adventures, bounce houses, and live entertainment that keeps the whole family smiling. It’s the perfect way to create lasting memories, combining the excitement of Halloween with the wonder of wildlife all wrapped up in a safe, fun environment. Don’t forget to grab your tickets early on the Jacksonville Zoo’s website. This is one fall tradition you won’t want to miss.

Dare to Explore Haunted St. Augustine

If you’re craving a little thrill this fall, there’s no better place to find it than in the historic streets of St. Augustine. Just a short drive from Ponte Vedra, this centuries-old city is filled with legends and ghost stories that come alive after dark.

Climb aboard the Ghosts & Gravestones trolley and get ready to dive into St. Augustine’s eerie past. As you roll through the narrow, lantern-lit streets, you’ll hear tales of haunted landmarks, restless spirits, and the city’s dark secrets. You’ll make stops at some of the most infamous spots, including the old jail and historic cemeteries, where the stories feel all too real.

Whether you’re a true ghost hunter at heart or just love a good scare, this unforgettable tour is a fun and slightly spooky way to see a different side of St. Augustine. It’s the perfect adventure to add a little mystery and excitement to your fall season if you’re brave enough to hop on board.

Embracing Fall in Ponte Vedra Beach

As longtime residents of Ponte Vedra Beach know, this community is special—not just for its beautiful beaches but for the rich traditions, local charm, and welcoming spirit that make every season feel like a celebration. Fall offers a chance to slow down from the summer rush, enjoy cooler weather, and reconnect with family, friends, and the vibrant culture around us.

Whether creating new family traditions or enjoying the season as an empty nester, fall in Ponte Vedra Beach and beyond is the perfect time to have fun, embrace the crisp air, golden light, and cozy moments that make this community so special. It’s an invitation to savor seasonal flavors, explore new experiences, and create lasting memories that stay with you long after the season ends.

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