Blue Spring Adventures

2026 Manatee Festival
2026-01-25 | Blue Spring State Park, 2100 W. French Ave, Orange City, FL, 32763, United States
Make a splash in your winter plans with the beloved Orange City Manatee Festival. This crowd favorite brings live entertainment, arts and crafts, tasty local bites, and family friendly fun. The real stars glide in next door at Blue Spring State Park, where you can walk or kayak to see Florida’s gentle giants keeping cozy in the warm spring run.
Think of it as a weekend where your heart and the water stay warm. Stroll the festival, shop handmade treasures, then drift over to Blue Spring to check the manatee count. It is the perfect excuse to float into the new year with something unforgettable.
Why go

Easy shuttle to Blue Spring for premium manatee viewing
Live music and entertainment
Food vendors and a vibrant arts and crafts show
Family friendly activities
A chance to support local conservation partners

Pack your curiosity and a comfy pair of walking shoes. This is one festival where the good times really sea themselves out.
Festival Details

Full "Cold" Moon Boat Tours
2026-02-02 18:15 - 18:30 UTC
Experience the St. Johns River under the glow of the full moon. Enjoy a peaceful 30-minute evening cruise as your guide shares stories of the river’s wildlife and history beneath the shimmering “Cold Moon.”
Dates and Times:
January 3, 2026 at 5:45 PM
February 2, 2026 at 6:15 PM
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Valentine's Day Cruise
2026-02-14 17:45, 2026-02-14 18:15
Celebrate Valentine’s Day on the water with a peaceful evening cruise at Blue Spring. Settle in for a relaxing ride on the St. Johns River as the sun goes down and the scenery turns golden, creating a simple, romantic way to end the day.
Date and Times:
February 14, 2026 at 5:45 PM and 6:15 PM
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Full Moon Kayak Paddle
2026-05-31 19:30 - 20:30
Experience Blue Spring after dark with a guided Full Moon Kayak Paddle through the calm, spring-fed waters of the park.
Led by a guide, this special nighttime tour offers a peaceful paddle under the glow of the full moon with the chance to spot nocturnal wildlife along the way. It is a fun and memorable way to explore the water from a whole new perspective.
Space is limited to 10 guests, and advance booking is required.
Date: 5/31/2026
Time: 7:30PM
Pricing:
$70 per Person
Reserve Your Spot
Participants must be ages 14 and up. Guests 18 and older must present a valid photo ID. Comfortable clothing, a towel, and a light source or reflector are recommended.

23rd Annual Save the Manatee 5K
2026-11-15 08:00 - 11:00
Help welcome manatee season with the 23rd Annual Save the Manatee 5K at Blue Spring State Park.
This family- and dog-friendly run/walk brings participants together to support Save the Manatee Club while enjoying a scenic, flat course near the winter home of the manatee.

Event Details:

Date: Sunday, November 15, 2026
Packet Pickup: Begins at 6:30 AM
Race Start: 8:00 AM
Location: Blue Spring State Park, 2100 W. French Ave, Orange City, FL 32763
Pricing: In-person 5K registration is $40 and includes park admission.

Runners and walkers of all paces and ages are welcome. The race includes a finisher medal, shirt, and bib, with awards for top overall male and female finishers and age group winners.
Proceeds support Save the Manatee Club. Guests can view full event details, registration options, parking information, and packet pickup details through the event website.
Learn More and Register
