Event
Torchlight Tours
Fee:
The ticket price is $15 per adult and $5 per children under 16. Children 5 and under $1.Location: LAT/LONG: 30.000000, -81.000000
Fort Matanzas Visitor Center - Tour Check-in location
Dates & Times
Date:
Time:
Type of Event
Description
On Saturday, March 2, 2024, join a park ranger to take a step back in history! As you step off the ferry boat at Fort Matanzas, you take on the role of a shipwreck survivor. The year is 1783 and you are being taken to the fort by British soldiers to find shelter for the night. Prepare to interact with the soldiers and sailors on duty, protecting the British Empire.
In 1783 the decision was made to reinforce Fort Matanzas. As the other British colonies (1st 13 US States) continue their revolt against the crown, St. Augustine became more important to the British in their attempt to maintain their hold on the colonies in North America. The reason for this was that Florida remained loyal to Great Britain during the American Revolution, and thus Saint Augustine became an important military post for housing soldiers and harboring refugees fleeing from persecution in the colonies in rebellion against the United Kingdom. As the time of open rebellion continued, the British began to bolster their defenses in East and West Florida.
Tours depart the dock at 6:00, 6:45, 7:30, & 8:15. Each tour last approx. 45 minutes and includes a cannon firing. You must check in at the park’s Visitor Center 15 minutes before your tour to confirm your reservation. Photo ID and online receipt is required. The ticket price is $15 per adult and $5 per children under 16. Children 5 and under $1. There are 30 seats available per each tour.
Beginning February 16, 2024, tickets must be purchased online by visiting recreation.gov and searching for “Fort Matanzas National Monument”. Advanced online purchasing only. Ticket sales close Saturday March 2, 2024 at 5:00pm Tickets can NOT be purchased during the event.