THE WAIT IT ALMOST OVER!

Summer officially starts this Saturday at Nassau County’s 3rd Annual Opening of the Beaches at Main Beach Park in Fernandina Beach! Join us May 16 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. for a full day of FREE family fun, live music, food, nature experiences, kids activities, and beachside entertainment.

This year’s event once again partners with the Wild Amelia Nature Festival, bringing interactive exhibits, wildlife education, environmental demonstrations, a Children’s Entrepreneur Market, County Vision Plan engagement opportunities, and local organizations sharing information about nature, conservation, and our coastal environment.

LIVE MUSIC SCHEDULE
10:15 a.m. – Brian Ernst
11:35 a.m. – Laid Back
1:15 p.m. – Andria Shinn and the Loyal Souls
2:45 p.m. – The Honey Badgers
4:30 p.m. – The Boogie Freaks

COME HUNGRY!
Enjoy delicious eats and sweet treats from:
Jax Taco
Philly Boyz
Raphael’s Pizza
Voodoo Shrimp Shack
Ruby’s Waffle Bar & Creamery
Dixie’s Fair Funnel Cakes & Lemonade
Kona Ice
I Pie Something Sweet

Whether you’re dancing in the grass, exploring nature exhibits, enjoying live music, or grabbing a bite to eat with family and friends, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Bring your beach chairs, sunscreen, and your summer spirit, and come celebrate the season Nassau County style!

-Sabrina Robertson
​ Communications Officer

5/5/26 @ 2:30 p.m.

​Check out our brand-new promo video for the Westside Regional Park Grand Opening – Party in the Pines, happening Saturday, June 6, 2026, from 2:00–9:00 p.m. in Hilliard!

Come celebrate Nassau County’s newest premier park with a full day of live music, family fun, and outdoor activities. Enjoy performances by The Honey Badgers, Claire Wright, and Mark Broussard, all leading up to an exciting headlining show by Corey Smith.

Explore the park’s incredible 30+ foot playground, check out live pickleball demos and sports fields, shop local vendors, and grab a bite from a variety of food trucks. Kids can enjoy interactive play areas and yard games, while adults can relax or paddle the pond in a kayak. Don’t forget, dogs are welcome too, with a dog park and pet-friendly vendors on site!

Bring your family, invite your friends, and make plans to join us for an unforgettable Party in the Pines as we officially open Westside Regional Park.

-Sabrina Robertson
​ Communications Officer

Meet your headliners… The Boogie Freaks!

Bringing big disco energy and nonstop funk, The Boogie Freaks are a high-octane tribute to the grooviest era of music. With a wild backstory rooted in the golden age of Studio 54, this band blends over-the-top personalities with serious musical talent to deliver a show that’s as fun as it is unforgettable.

Frontman Rufus Barbarino leads the charge with powerhouse vocals and larger-than-life flair, backed by the smooth rhythms of drummer Shoogie Lovebone, the electrifying guitar of Mikey Baddaboom, and the funky basslines of Joey “J-Funk” Funkatoni. Together, they’ve traveled the world keeping disco alive, one dance floor at a time.

Get ready to sing along, hit the dance floor, and feel the funk, because when The Boogie Freaks take the stage, it’s a full-on party you don’t want to miss!

Click here to see a video of the Boogie Freaks.
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About the Event
Celebrate the start of summer at Nassau County’s annual Opening of the Beaches on Saturday, May 16, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Main Beach Park in Fernandina Beach. This free, family-friendly event features live music, kids’ activities, food vendors, and the Wild Amelia Nature Festival with interactive exhibits and wildlife experiences. It’s a full day of fun, community, and coastal vibes for all ages!

Get ready to turn up the volume for headliner Corey Smith, one of country music’s most electrifying independent artists. With more than 5 million Spotify followers and a reputation for playing over 100 shows a year, Corey brings unmatched energy and a die-hard fanbase wherever he goes.

Known for his raw, relatable songwriting and Southern storytelling, hits like “Twenty-One,” “If I Could Do It Again,” and “Drinkin’ Again” have made him a fan favorite across the country. From his grassroots beginnings to landing in the Billboard Top 20 with The Broken Record, Corey has carved out his own lane in country music, and he’s still going strong!

His latest album, Suburban Drawl, delivers a fresh, high-powered sound while staying true to the authenticity fans love. Don’t miss your chance to experience Corey Smith live as he closes out Party in the Pines with a performance you won’t forget.

About the Event
Party in the Pines marks the grand opening of Westside Regional Park in Hilliard, Florida, on Saturday, June 6, 2026, from 2:00–9:00 p.m. This free, family-friendly celebration features live music, food trucks, vendors, kids’ activities, a dog park, and more, offering something for everyone to enjoy in Nassau County’s newest premier park.
Event Page: https://nassaufl.co/WSRPGrandOpening.
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Corey Smith

4/28/26 @ 1:30 p.m. 

​The Nassau County Board of County Commissioners invites you to the grand opening of Westside Regional Park, Party in the Pines, presented by McCall Construction.

This can’t-miss celebration marks the official opening of Nassau County’s newest premier park with a full day of fun, entertainment, and activities for all ages. Families are invited to explore the park’s impressive playground, featuring towers soaring more than 30 feet high, along with yard games and interactive play areas designed for kids of all ages.
Guests can experience everything the park has to offer, including new sports fields, live pickleball demonstrations, a vibrant vendor market, and a wide variety of food trucks. Visitors can also take to the water with kayak paddling on the pond, offering a relaxing way to enjoy the park’s natural beauty.

Dog lovers are encouraged to bring their four-legged family members to enjoy the dog park and connect with pet-friendly vendors offering grooming, toys, treats, and more, making this a true family-friendly event, paws included.

The new amphitheater stage will feature live music throughout the day with performances by The Honey Badgers, Claire Wright, and Mark Broussard, culminating in a headline performance by Corey Smith to close out the celebration.

“This is more than just a park. It’s a place where our community can come together,” said Chair Alyson McCullough. “We’re proud to invite everyone out to celebrate this incredible new space and enjoy a day filled with fun, connection, and community spirit.”
Whether you come for the music, food, activities, or simply to enjoy a beautiful day outdoors, Party in the Pines is the place to be this summer.

The event will take place on Saturday, June 6, 2026, from 2:00–9:00 p.m. at Westside Regional Park, 615 Lakeside Loop, Hilliard, FL. For more information, please visit the event page at https://nassaufl.co/WSRPGrandOpening.

The BOCC extends its sincere appreciation to McCall Construction for its generous financial sponsorship and commitment to enhancing the quality of life in our community. Their support plays an important role in bringing events like this to life and creating meaningful experiences for residents. Additional thanks are extended to Prime AE, Kimley-Horn, Nassau Open MRI, and Ring Power/Cat for their valued support and partnership in making this event possible.

About Westside Regional Park
Westside Regional Park is Nassau County’s newest premier recreational destination, offering modern amenities, open green space, and opportunities for active outdoor living. Designed for residents and visitors of all ages, the park features athletic fields, walking trails, playgrounds, and gathering spaces that support health, wellness, and community connection. For sponsorship opportunities, please contact the Department of Strategic Advancement at (904) 530-6010.

-Sabrina Robertson
​ Communications Officer

4/23/26 @ 10:30 a.m.

​Summer starts here, and you’re invited to celebrate! Join Nassau County on Saturday, May 16, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Main Beach Park in Fernandina Beach for the annual Opening of the Beaches.

This FREE, family-friendly event is packed with ways to enjoy the coast, from live music and kid-friendly activities to hands-on nature experiences and beachside fun. The Wild Amelia Nature Festival will also be part of the day, bringing interactive exhibits, wildlife encounters, and plenty of opportunities to explore the natural side of our shoreline.

Spend the day playing, learning, and soaking up the sunshine, then kick back with great food, local vendors, and live entertainment. Enjoy performances from Brian Earnst, Laid Back, Andria Shinn and Loyal Souls, The Honey Badgers, and wrap up the day with headliner The Boogie Freaks.

Don’t forget to stop by the County’s engagement tent to get a look at what’s ahead, including updates on the Comprehensive Plan and Vision 2050.

From sandy toes to sunset tunes, it’s a full day of fun for all ages. Grab your crew and come celebrate the start of summer, Nassau County style!
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-Sabrina Robertson
​ Communications Officer

4/19/26 @ 9:00 a.m.

At its regular meeting on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, the Nassau County Board of County Commissioners approved a proclamation recognizing April 19–25, 2026, as National Playground Safety Week in Nassau County.

The proclamation underscores the Board’s commitment to the safety and well-being of the community’s children, noting that playground-related injuries affect hundreds of children across the United States each year. With the arrival of spring and summer, when outdoor play increases, the Board is encouraging parents, guardians, and caregivers to take extra precautions by actively supervising children and ensuring they use age-appropriate equipment.

In alignment with the National Program for Playground Safety, Nassau County is promoting best practices such as proper supervision, the use of impact-absorbing materials, and routine inspection and maintenance of playground equipment to help reduce injuries and create safer play environments.

The proclamation was accepted by Jay Robertson and presented to Jason Brown, who was recently recognized for completing an extensive playground safety certification course. His achievement reflects the County’s ongoing commitment to maintaining high safety standards across its parks and recreational facilities.
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Through this proclamation, the Board reaffirms its dedication to ensuring that Nassau County’s playgrounds remain safe, well-maintained spaces where children can play, explore, and thrive.

-Sabrina Robertson
 Communications Officer

4/14/26 @ 8:30 a.m.

​We want to keep you informed about an important update at the Goffinsville Park boat ramp.

As part of ongoing efforts to improve the ramp and address challenges boaters have experienced with strong river currents, an underwater inspection recently uncovered significant erosion at the end of the ramp. This type of damage isn’t visible from the surface, and while the ramp has continued to function, its long-term stability is now a concern.

Because safety is our top priority, we’ve made the difficult decision to temporarily close the boat ramp beginning tomorrow, April 15, 2026, until repairs can be completed. While we know this is an inconvenience, this step is necessary to ensure the safety of everyone using the facility. The repair process, including design, permitting, and construction, is expected to take approximately nine to twelve months. In the meantime, boaters can continue to access the water at the Holly Point Boat Ramp, located just south of Goffinsville.

We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to make these important improvements and provide a safer experience for all users. If you have any questions, please contact Nassau County Facilities Maintenance at (904) 530-6120.

-Sabrina Robertson
​ Communications Officer

4/8/26 @ 6:00 a.m.

​On March 19, our Parks & Recreation staff showcased their skills at the Florida Recreation and Park Association (FRPA) North Florida Turf Rodeo, held at the Clay County Fairgrounds. This exciting event brings together Parks & Recreation professionals from across the region to compete in hands-on challenges that simulate real-world maintenance tasks, from precision mowing to equipment handling and safety exercises.

A big congratulations to Heinrich Deetlefs, who earned 2nd place in the Zero Turn Mower Barrel Race, and to James “Jimmy” Canfield, who finished 3rd in the Zero Turn Slalom Relay! Their performances demonstrate not only skill and teamwork, but also the professionalism and dedication of our Parks & Recreation team.

Participation in the Turf Rodeo goes beyond competition. It provides valuable professional development, helps staff refine equipment and turf management techniques, reinforces safety practices, and fosters networking and idea-sharing with peers across Florida. These experiences translate directly into better-maintained, safer, and more enjoyable parks for the residents of Nassau County.

We’re proud to see our team representing the County with excellence, bringing home both awards and insights that will benefit our community for years to come.

-Sabrina Robertson 
​ Communications Officer

Nassau County is ready to welcome summer in a big way and invites residents and visitors alike to celebrate at the annual Opening of the Beaches on Saturday, May 16, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Main Beach Park in Fernandina.
 
This FREE, family-friendly tradition transforms the shoreline into a vibrant hub of activity, offering a full day of live music, interactive experiences, and coastal adventure. Adding to the excitement, the Wild Amelia Nature Festival will take place alongside the event, bringing more opportunities to explore wildlife, conservation, and outdoor discovery.  From hands-on nature exhibits to engaging environmental education, attendees will have the opportunity to connect with the natural beauty that makes Nassau County’s beaches so special.
 
Guests can also stop by the County’s engagement tent to learn about key initiatives shaping Nassau County’s future, including the Comprehensive Plan update and the adopted 2050 Vision Plan.
 
Throughout the day, visitors can enjoy a wide variety of food and beverage vendors, shop local, and soak in a lively atmosphere filled with entertainment. The main stage will feature a lineup of talented local performers, including Brian Earnst; Laid Back; Andria Shinn and Loyal Souls; The Boogie Freaks; and the headlining band, The Honey Badgers!
 
“The Opening of the Beaches is one of Nassau County’s most anticipated events of the year,” said Chair Alyson McCullough. “It’s a chance to celebrate our incredible coastline, connect with our community, and kick off the summer season in a fun and meaningful way.”
 
Whether you're a lifelong resident or visiting for the weekend, this signature event offers something for everyone, sun, music, nature, and a true sense of community.
For more information, including event updates and the full entertainment schedule, visit: https://nassaufl.co/2026BeachesEvent

4/1/26 @ 9:15 a.m.

Get ready to splash into fun! The Nassau County Board of County Commissioners is excited to announce that the splash pad at Nassau Crossing Park is now open for the 2026 season.

Open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., the splash pad offers a fun, family-friendly way to beat the Florida heat.

Designed with sustainability in mind, the splash pad operates using a 6,000-gallon recycled water system that continuously filters and reuses water, reducing waste while supporting conservation during dry summer months.

Bring the family, stay cool, and enjoy this refreshing community amenity all season long!
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If you notice any issues, please contact Nassau County Parks & Recreation Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. For after-hours and weekends, please call (904) 430-3156.

-Sabrina Robertson
​ Communications Officer

3/25/26 @ 8:30 a.m.

​The Goffinsville Boat Ramp will be temporarily closed the afternoon of March 30th to allow for routine inspections of the bulkhead, boardwalk, and floating structures. These inspections are conducted to identify any signs of damage or deterioration and to ensure the continued safety, stability, and longevity of the ramp and dock area.

We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to maintain this important public access point. Please plan accordingly and consider alternative boat ramps during this time.

-Sabrina Robertson
 Communications Officer

2/24/26 @ 8:45 a.m.

​Thank you to the nearly 100 wonderful community members who joined us on February 21 for an evening of laughter, friendship, and fun. Guests enjoyed a complimentary dinner, dancing, games, and most importantly, great fellowship with friends old and new.
Events like this are a reminder that community isn’t just a place, it’s the people who show up, share stories, and make memories together. We are so grateful you chose to spend your evening with us, and we can’t wait to see you again at the next gathering. 

-Sabrina Robertson 
 Communications Officer

2/20/26 @ 9:15 a.m.

​The Countdown is Over — Senior Sweetheart Dance is TOMORROW! 

Nassau County seniors 55+ are invited to join us for an evening of fun, fellowship, and plenty of dancing!
Enjoy:

• A delicious meal
• A photo booth to capture the memories
• Games
• Music & dancing
• Great company and community connection

Best part? It’s completely FREE!
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Saturday, February 21, 2026 from 5:00-8:00 p.m.
Callahan Multipurpose Building
543350 US Highway 1, Callahan

Grab a friend (or make a new one) and come celebrate with us — we can’t wait to see you on the dance floor!

-Sabrina Robertson 
 Communications Officer​