Capitol Courtyard transformed into a vibrant showcase of local culture, cuisine, and entertainment
ST. JOHNS COUNTY, Fla., March 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — St. Johns County showcased its culture, businesses, and strategic priorities at the Florida State Capitol on Feb. 5 during the highly successful St. Johns County Legislative Day (SJC Day), giving state lawmakers an immersive, firsthand look at one of Florida’s most dynamic counties. Legislators, residents, and visitors alike experienced a day of celebration highlighting the County’s unique blend of history, natural beauty, and thriving local businesses. The St. Johns County Office of Public Affairs captured the historic day on video.
All five members of the St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners (SJC BCC) – Commissioners Clay Murphy (Chair), Ann Taylor (Vice Chair), Christian Whitehurst, Sarah Arnold, and Krista Joseph – traveled to Tallahassee to advocate for the community’s needs as a unified front. County leadership met with Florida representatives, including Sen. Tom Leek, Rep. Judson Sapp, Rep. Sam Greco, and Rep. Kim Kendall, to discuss its 2026 Legislative Action Plan.
Held in the Capitol Courtyard from noon to 6 p.m., SJC Day transformed the space into a lively, interactive showcase. Attendees enjoyed authentic St. Johns County cuisine, farm-fresh produce, one-of-a-kind beverages, and the County’s signature attractions, including historic sites and parks, local colleges, and recreation venues.
The event featured a dynamic lineup of live entertainment throughout the day. Music by the Scotty Barnhart Quartet, led by three-time Grammy Award winner Scotty Barnhart, energized the courtyard during early and mid-afternoon sessions, while the beloved Venardos Circus wowed attendees with circus acts and performances. The Steve Taff Band brought the event to a festive close in the late afternoon.
St. Johns County leaders and elected officials opened the day with remarks on the courtyard stage on the steps of the Old Capitol and engaged with attendees to emphasize the County’s priorities, culture, and economic opportunities. The event also included interactive demonstrations from local farms, parks, golf courses, and cultural institutions, allowing attendees to taste, see, touch, and experience the full range of what St. Johns County offers.
“St. Johns County Legislative Day is a chance to show our state leaders the heart of our community – our people, our culture, and our economy,” said Clay Murphy, Chair of the SJC BCC. “From our historic landmarks to our local businesses, this event lets legislators experience firsthand why our County is such a special place to live, work, and visit. Our quality of life is second to none.”
Dozens of community members, businesses, and organizations contributed to the success of SJC Day, ensuring that legislators from Florida’s 67 counties could experience firsthand the County’s thriving economy, rich history, and exceptional quality of life.
St. Johns County Legislative Day is part of ongoing efforts to put faces, places, and purpose behind the policy decisions made in Tallahassee. By showcasing the County’s culture, industries, and community initiatives, the event fosters partnerships, advocates for local priorities, and highlights why St. Johns County remains the leading destination on Florida’s historic coast.
“SJC Day is a celebration of everything that makes St. Johns County unique,” said Joy Andrews, County Administrator. “Seeing our residents, organizations, and businesses come together in Tallahassee to share our story with lawmakers was inspiring. It’s a display of the pride we have in our County and the incredible community that makes it thrive.”
St. Johns County planned SJC Day in partnership with the St. Johns County Chamber of Commerce, the City of St. Augustine, and the City of St. Augustine Beach. For a full list of event partners and sponsors, visit www.StJohnsCountyDay.com.
St. Johns County is already planning the next SJC Day. Follow the official social media accounts on Facebook and Instagram, and stay tuned for the upcoming announcement.
Stay informed of more St. Johns County news by subscribing to our e-newsletters, and learn how we’re shaping our community’s future by advancing the SJC Strategic Plan through the Office of Public Affairs.
Media Contact:
Tyler Jarnagin, Public Affairs Manager
Phone: 904-814-9214
Email: tjarnagin@sjcfl.us
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SOURCE St. Johns County
