Today is June 2, 2026, and if you’re in Hastings or nearby, get ready for a month packed with activities and events that will keep you entertained and engaged! First off, some fantastic news: the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has officially removed the Wood Stork from the federal endangered species list. This decision comes after a remarkable recovery of their population, a bright spot for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. It’s been a long journey since the stork numbers plummeted from about 20,000 nesting pairs in the late 1970s to just 5,000—the result of habitat destruction, not hunting. Thanks to 40 years of dedicated conservation efforts, these birds are thriving again!
Now, let’s dive into the happenings around St. Augustine. June is loaded with exciting events, from music festivals to athletics and even some arts and crafts shows. The Field to Fork: Voices of Hastings Food Story exhibition is ongoing at Hastings Main Street, running until June 21. If you’re into archery, mark your calendars for June 2, when both the Youth Archery Club for ages 12-17 and the Adult Archery Club for 18 and older take place at the St. Johns County Fairgrounds. Just remember—registration is required!
Art, Nature, and More
On June 4, there’s a Nature Journaling event at the GTM Research Reserve that promises to spark your creativity and connection with the outdoors. Then, don’t miss the Sunset Fishing event at Usina Boat Ramp on June 5; again, you’ll need to register. Speaking of June 5, it’s a busy day with the First Friday ArtWalk kicking off at 4 p.m. and the Lightner Museum opening a new exhibition titled “The American Traveler,” which will run through August 16. Such a perfect way to soak up some culture!
On June 6, get ready to explore the beauty of our natural surroundings with a Guided Exploration Hike at GTM Preserve from 9 to 11 a.m. If you’re looking for something a bit more active, the WAVE program at Anastasia YMCA will focus on self-defense techniques, so wear comfortable shoes! Plus, River City Wrestling Con at the Renaissance Resort is sure to be a hit for wrestling fans over that weekend.
And if magic is more your speed, check out David Magnifico’s show at Third Space Improv on June 6. There’s really something for everyone! For the young ones, the Girls Fish Camp from June 8-12 at San Sebastian River Park is sure to be a memorable experience.
Community Celebrations and Special Events
As we roll through the month, a couple of notable events stand out. The Fort Mose Annual Golf Tournament on June 14 is perfect for those who love to swing clubs, while the Flag Day Celebration at VFW Post 239 will be a heartfelt tribute on June 14. The Lincolnville Museum is hosting a series of enlightening presentations, including “The Significance of Quilting to the Underground Railroad” on June 17 and “The Soul of Blackness” on June 19. These events add depth and richness to our community’s cultural tapestry.
And let’s not forget about the St. Augustine Music Festival from June 19-21 and June 26-28 at Cathedral Basilica! It’s a fantastic opportunity to enjoy some local talent in one of the most beautiful settings imaginable. As the month wraps up, you can participate in the Battle of Bloody Mose at Fort Mose State Park on June 27, a nod to our local history.
For those who enjoy a bit of nightlife, the Night Market at St. Augustine Amphitheatre on June 16 from 5 to 9 p.m. will offer a mix of local food, crafts, and entertainment. And don’t miss the Drag Queen-a-Palooza on June 19 at Third Space Improv for an evening filled with colorful performances and fun! The excitement just doesn’t stop in St. Johns County.
So, whether you’re a nature lover, a foodie, or just looking for a fun night out, June in Hastings has something for everyone. Be sure to check out the full list of events and activities here.
And about those Wood Storks? They’re not just a success story; they symbolize the resilience of nature and our commitment to protecting it. While they’re off the endangered list, ongoing efforts will continue to monitor their population and ensure their habitats remain secure. You can read more about this incredible conservation success here.