Photo Credit: Jeremy Scott
WakenMake Official Video Recap
Fool’s Paradise 2016 After Movie Produced By Human Being
Photo Credit: Keith Griner
Recap and Review
St. Augustine, Florida is considered one of the oldest cities in America. This historic waterfront town has a unique look and feel shaped by it’s Spanish influence. With narrow cobble stone streets, rich history and architecture, and a disproportionately high number of bars, it’s a fun town to get lost in.
The main event was held at The Saint Augustine Ampitheatre, a spacious covered outdoor venue which was crucial considering the torrential downpour that lasted for several hours on Friday evening. However it would take much more than April showers to prevent people from attending the funk party that continued long after the rain stopped. There were several food vendors on site as well as a beach just a short walk away for anyone needing to refuel or chill out between sets.
The late night shows were conveniently located at the Elk’s Lodge, right next door to the ampitheatre. After getting their minds blown by incredible musical acts such as Lettuce, GRiZ, Vulfpeck, and Chris Robinson’s Soul Revue each night, those who were lucky enough to get tickets to the sold-out shows could stumble over to the Elk’s Lodge and continue raging. This place resembled an old rustic hunt club, with a statue of a giant elk and all types of interesting animal memorabilia adorning the walls inside. I don’t know what kind of events normally go down in this place but I highly doubt it has hosted acts like Break Science, Vulfpeck, Goldfish, and the ridiculous jam out session that went down during the Fool’s of Funk Supergroup.
Fool’s Paradise offered various artist excursions for the fans who wanted to kick it with their favorite musicians, and explore some of the activities that St. Augustine has to offer. You could choose between Mini Golf with Lettuce’s Adam Deitch and Jesus Coomes, Sailing With Lettuce’s Shady Horns, or Crocodile Crossing Zip-line Adventure with Break Science’s Borahm Lee. Each night had a designated theme, Friday was a Beach Party, and Saturday was Pirates and Pranksters. The oldest city in America has never seen a gang of pirates cut rugs that hard before.
There were plenty of lodging options for festival goers who came from all over the states to experience this inaugural event. There were multiple VIP hotel packages available which included shuttles to and from the event, as well as a shirt and poster that you could have signed during the artist VIP Happy Hour on Saturday. For the more rugged attendees the official campgrounds were about a mile and a half away at the KOA campgrounds where affordable campsites and cabins were available, as well as a complimentary shuttle.
On Saturday, One lucky couple got married on stage with the entire crowd in front of them cheering, and Vulfpeck behind them playing wedding tunes and starting their 2nd set of the weekend. Other highlights included well known funk icons like Chris Robinson, George Porter Jr. (The Meters), Ivan Neville (Dumpstaphunk), Nikki Glaspie (The Nth Power), Eric Krasno (Lettuce/Soulive), Neal Casal (Chris Robinson Brotherhood) & The Shady Horns, and Snarky Puppy’s Cory Henry jamming out together during Chris Robinson’s Soul Revue. The late night set with the Fool’s of Funk was another sight to behold which included Adam Deitch, Adam Smirnoff, Cory Henry, Nigel Hall, Weedie Braimah, Eric “Benny” Bloom, and Ryan Zoidis.
Check out The Fool’s Paradise Facebook Page for a photo gallery, as well as additional information and press about the event. Hope to see you there next year!
Beginner’s Guide to Fool’s Paradise
Photo Credit: Jeremy Scott
- Connector.
Type of Event
Funk Festival!
#foolsparadiseFL
#funkfools - Connector.
- Connector.
Date / Duration
April Fool’s Day!
April 1st – 2nd - Connector.
Climate / Season
Spring / Hot : Temps ranging between 80 – 90 degrees F
On April 1 & 2, 2016, Lettuce, Purple Hat Productions, and Live for Live Music will host Fool’s Paradise, a funk-fueled beach extravaganza taking place in the heart of one of America’s most historic cities: St. Augustine, FL. The inaugural event, held at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre, will feature two explosive sets from New York funk masters Lettuce & Friends, along with: electro soul future-funk producer/saxophonist GRiZ; rising retro-soul stars Vulfpeck, and Chris Robinson’s Soul Revue ft. George Porter Jr. (The Meters), Ivan Neville (Dumpstaphunk), Nikki Glaspie (The Nth Power), Eric Krasno (Lettuce/Soulive), Neal Casal (Chris Robinson Brotherhood) & The Shady Horns. GRiZ and Lettuce have announced a special live band collaboration. Supporting acts include South Africa’s organic live house duo Goldfish and the progressive soul, R&B and gospel of The Nth Power, Brass Tracks and Marvel Years. With Snarky Puppy’s Cory Henry as an Artist-At-Large, you’ll never know what to expect!
In addition, a number of late night shows will be hosted by some of the most talented musicians in the industry! This includes Break Science, Vulfpeck, Goldfish and a very special performance by the Fools of Funk, featuring Adam Deitch, Adam Smirnoff, Cory Henry, Nigel Hall, Weedie Braimah, Eric “Benny” Bloom, and Ryan Zoidis. Late Night shows will take place at Elk’s Lodge after the Amphitheatre festivities are over. Very limited tickets remain for these late night shows!
THEMES
Friday: Beach Bums & Babes
Saturday: Pirates & Pranksters
RAIN OR SHINE
Fool’s Paradise is a rain or shine event. Come prepared!
Enjoy this playlist with many of the artists who will be performing at Fool’s Paradise
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
1. Getting There
2. Transportation
3. On Site Lodging
4. Off Site Lodging
5. On Site Amenities
6. Off Site Amenities
7. Packing Suggestions
8. Additional Tips, Tricks, and Resources
Getting There
(Click on the topics to expand and view details)
Gainesville is 1.5 hours west.
Orlando is 2 hours south.
- Below is a video with advice for how to coordinate and meet up with friends before or during a festival.
- Often times you can’t rely on your phones to work properly at these kind of events, so if it’s important to you to find your friends you should definitely arrange a meet up plan before hand.
- If you are able, I recommend arriving in St. Augustine by Thursday.
- This will give you a chance to get settled, and collect all supplies for the weekend before Friday when all of the action starts.
Transportation To & Around Fool’s Paradise
- All campers and VIP hotel package ticket holders will have wristbands that grant access to transportation to/from the event.
- This includes rides home from late night shows.
- Transportation will be going back and forth every 30 minutes.
- If Uber isn’t available here are some cab companies
1. A American Eagle Taxi
Taxis
Serving St. Augustine and the Surrounding Area
Phone number (904) 330-8653
2. Eco Ride
St. Augustine, FL 32095
Phone number (904) 827-7206
3. Green Taxi St Augustine
Serving Saint Augustine and the Surrounding Area
Phone number (904) 808-9995
4. First Coast Taxi
Airport Shuttles, Taxis
Serving St. Augustine and the Surrounding Area
Phone number (904) 825-9999
5. Heathers Executive Taxi
Augustine, FL 32084
Phone number (904) 392-1381
6. Any Occasion Transportation
Taxis, Airport Shuttles, Medical Transportation
Serving Jacksonville and the Surrounding Area
Phone number (904) 210-9096
7. Sax Taxi
Airport Shuttles, Taxis
Serving Saint Augustine and the Surrounding Area
Phone number (904) 800-6000
8. Heathers Executive Taxi
Airport Shuttles, Taxis
St. Augustine, FL 32086
Phone number (904) 429-4668
9. Abraxi Taxi
Taxis, Airport Shuttles
Serving Saint Augustine and the Surrounding Area
Phone number (904) 599-6666
10. Ancient Cab
Taxis
88 S Dixie Hwy
Saint Augustine, FL 32084
Phone number (904) 824-8161
Party Bus / Limosuine Services:
- The Amphitheatre, campgrounds, and late night venues are all within a 1.4 mile stretch of road, making it very easy to get around by foot.
- There is limited parking, and you’re going to be partying, so I would avoid getting a rental car unless you’re staying far from the venue.
Budget Car Rental
4900 US-1
(904) 824-6372
Budget Rent A Car
Walmart Supercenter
2355 u.s. Highway 1 South
(904) 794-0708
Avis Car Rental
340 FL-16
(904) 825-2764
Budget Rent A Car
340 FL-16
(904) 825-1924
Avis Car Rental
4900 US-1
(904) 825-1505
Enterprise Rent-A-Car
4900 US Highway 1 N
(904) 823-1767
Avis Car Rental
Walmart Supercenter
2355 US Highway 1 South, Walmart (Inside)
(904) 797-4229
Hertz Rent A Car
4900 US-1
(904) 826-1374
Closed now
Click Here to visit the St. Augustine Greyhound’s website.
Camping and VIP Package Info
- General Camping is at the KOA Campgrounds, and it’s located 1.4 miles from the St. Augustine Amphitheatre.
- It’s currently sold out, although there are a few spots available for RV’s.
- Check out the St. Augustine KOA Camp Ground’s Website Here.
Stay at either the Hampton Inn, Hilton Garden Inn or the Castillo Real on St. Augustine Beach. Just minutes from town, these hotels are both located directly on the beach close to many restaurants, bars and shops.
These VIP packages include shuttle van to and from the hotel and venue, plus:
- 2-Day VIP Ticket(s) to Show (for each person in package)
- Free Access to the Late Nights on Fri + Sat! (for each person in package)
- Priority Access to Pit Area & Seating
- Discounted Beverages
- Exclusive Happy Hour with Artists
- Fool’s Paradise Poster & T-Shirt
- Hotel VIP Package for 2- $950 ($475 per person)
- Hotel VIP Package for 3- $1275 ($425 per person)
- Hotel VIP Package for 4- $1600 ($400 per person)
Off Site Lodging
St. Augustine Air BnB
St Augustine Couch Surfers
St Augustine Vacation House Rentals
On Site Amenities
- There will be:
The Muncher (New Orleans Style), SPORKS (delicious grub) - Pele’s Pizza brick oven digs)
- Vegan Hotdog cart
- Wingin It
- Ticos Tacos (Chef style tacos, burritos, nachos),
- Kenyan coffee and pastries,
- Big Island Bowl (Acai bowls)
- Hyppo (Local Organic frozen popsicles).
- You’re allowed to bring in your own sealed water bottles.
- There will be drinking fountains throughout the venue.
Off Site Amenities (Nearby)
- Click Here for a list and map of the top rated grocery stores in St Augustine.
1. PJ’s Asia One Market
4.5 star rating 6 reviews
$$ Grocery
425 State Rd 207
St. Augustine, FL 32084
Phone number (904) 429-7587
2. Publix Super Markets
4.5 star rating 8 reviews
125 Jenkins St
Saint Augustine, FL 32086
Phone number (904) 808-0514
3. Winn-Dixie
1.5 star rating 7 reviews
$$$ Grocery
1010 S Ponce De Leon Blvd
St. Augustine, FL 32084
Phone number (904) 825-2181
4. Publix
4.5 star rating 13 reviews
$$ Grocery, Drugstores
55 Ava Way
Saint Augustine, FL 32084
Phone number (904) 827-1448
5. Discount Groceries & More
5.0 star rating 3 reviews
$ Grocery
2185 A1A S
Saint Augustine, FL 32080
Phone number (904) 461-1002
6. Save A Lot Market
$ Grocery
2469 US Hwy 1 S
St. Augustine, FL 32086
Phone number (904) 797-5393
7. Camachee Island Seafood & Gourmet
2.5 star rating 3 reviews
Seafood Markets, Grocery
105 Yacht Club Dr
St. Augustine, FL 32084
Phone number (904) 814-8933
8. ALDI Food Market
$ Grocery
1777 US Hwy 1 South
Saint Augustine, FL 32084
9. Lil’ Champ Food Stores
1.0 star rating 1 review
$ Grocery
123 King St
Saint Augustine, FL 32084
Phone number (904) 824-5149
10. Winn-Dixie
4.5 star rating 2 reviews
$$ Grocery
3551 N Ponce De Leon Blvd
Saint Augustine, FL 32084
Phone number (904) 824-6233
Wells Fargo Bank
Bank
200 Plantation Island Dr S
(904) 417-1350
Opens at 9:00 AM
Harbor Community Bank
Bank
1975 A1A South
(904) 471-6300
Opens at 8:00 AM
BB&TBank
1200 Plantation Island Dr S #110
(904) 461-4312
Opens at 9:00 AM
Ameris Bank
Bank
South, 2060 Florida A1A
(904) 471-3224
Opens at 9:00 AM
Reunion Bank of Florida
Bank or ATM
2198 A1A S
(904) 201-6500
Opens at 8:00 AM
The Bailey Group
Health Insurance Agency
1200 Plantation Island Dr S #210
(904) 461-1800
Opens at 8:00 AM
Singular Payments
Financial Institution
1100 Plantation Island Dr S #210
(877) 829-7255
Opens at 8:00 AM
Bank of America Financial Center Bank
60 Cathedral Pl
(904) 819-1300
Opens at 9:00 AM
Bank of America Financial Center Bank
3750 A1A S
(904) 471-7111
Opens at 9:00 AM
Fidelity Bank
S, 1700 US-1
(904) 825-1800
Opens at 9:00 AM
Wells Fargo Bank
33 King St
(904) 495-0007
Opens at 9:00 AM
Packing Suggestions
- Think minimally here. It will be pretty hot during the day, so you won’t need too much to cover up with.
- Try to choose clothing this is comfortable, breathable, and made of lightweight materials such as polyester.
Blog Posts:
8 Items to Bring to Every Festival
You Tube Videos:
Music Festival Necessities Pt. 1
Music Festival Necessities Pt. 2
Here’s part of the packing list for those of you who are camping:
OUTDOOR ACCESSORIES
Backpack / Camelbak or Fanny Pack
- Often times your campsite may be far from the music. In order to avoid walking back and forth to your campsite multiple times a day, you’ll probably want some kind of bag to carry some of your necessary belongings including:
- Phone/Camera + Waterproof case
- Portable Charger + Cord
- Reusable Water Bottle / Flask
- Headlamp / Flashlight
- Festival Schedule
- Cash
- ID
Protection From the Sun
- At an outdoor festival often times there’s little protection from the the sun which is beating down on your face and skin directly for hours on end. There are several ways you can minimize your sun and heat exposure:
- Hat / Visor
- Polarized Sunnies + Croakies
- Sarong, Bandana
- Natural Sunblock
- Chapstick + SPF
- Tapestry/Umbrella
- SPF/Omni-tech Clothing
Rain Gear and Waterproof Bags
- You never know when you’re going to be caught in a sudden downpour. If you want to avoid getting completely soaked, or ruining your electronics, I recommend you always bring:
- Rain jacket
- Waterproof phone/ camera case
- Waterproof Bags
Portable Battery Pack and Chargers
- These are extremely useful if you need to charge your electronics such as a GoPro or smartphone to take pictures or videos, or if you have cell phone service and want to meet up with your friends.
- Another useful gadget is this multi- connector USB cord. The one I had was kind of cheap and a few hook ups broke, but it was still very useful. I’ve found that the multi-cord isn’t compatible with all of my gadgets and some plugs, it may be better as a back-up.
GoPro and Accessories
- I personally like to take lots of pictures and videos at festivals. Go-Pros make it so that you can enjoy whatever you’re doing without having to fumble around with a camera.
- There are multiple mounts, straps, and automatic settings that you can utilize and take great quality pics and flicks without having to push a button.
- The battery life doesn’t last long however, so I definitely recommend purchasing extra batteries, and having those charged up before you leave for the event. Remember to turn it off when you’re not filming!
- The following accessories are very useful:
- LED Screen
- Waterproof case
- Extra SD cards
- Extra batteries
- Straps and Mounts
Headlamp or Flashlight
- It’s crucial to have one of these at a festival.
- Whether looking for something in your tent, roaming through treacherous campsites in the dark, or venturing into the dreaded portapotties, you can’t depend on your dilated pupils for sight.
- I prefer a headlamp because you can just wear it around your neck or head and you can have your hands free to do things when you do need it.
- Always put it in the same spot in your bag or tent so you can find it easily when it gets dark.
Digital Watch w/ Indiglo
- You need to know the time to ensure that you don’t miss out on your favorite show, or meeting up with your friends.
Reusable Water Bottle / Camelbak
- Staying hydrated is probably the single most important thing you can do for your well-being at a festival. You can go a long time without eating food, but you need water!
- Buying bottled water is expensive and wasteful, do yourself a huge favor and be sure to alway have a water bottle or camelbak at all times.
Handheld or Battery Powered Fans
- Once you start bringing a fan with you to a festival or show, your life will change forever. It’s incredible how refreshing a little breeze is when you’ve been dancing your ass off for hours on end in the middle of a muggy sea of people.
- It’s also a fun dancing prop and a great way to make friends. Everyone near you who catches the residual breeze will love you.
Lightweight Clothing and Microfiber Towels
- Festivals last all day for multiple days. During this time you’ll be doing a lot of walking, dancing, and sweating in a variety of conditions.
- Be sure to wear clothes and materials that are lightweight and comfortable such as polyester and omni-cool.
- Besides overall comfort, these will dry much more quickly and hold way less odor than their heavy, cotton counterparts.
- The same goes for microfiber travel towels which take up a lot less space in your luggage.
DIY Pirate Costume (For Women)
DIY Pirate Hair and Make-up (For Women)
DIY Pirate Costume (For Men)
Additional Tips Tricks and Resources
Mini Golf with Lettuce’s Adam Deitch and Jesus Coomes
The Fiesta Falls Mini Golf Course is elaborately planted with Florida greens, ocean views, and waterfalls. Putt putt around a sunken pirate ship with Lettuce’s Adam Deitch and Jesus Coomes, while you make the most of your Florida vacation. Everything is provided, including ice cream at the end!
Sailing With Lettuce’s Shady Horns
Kick back, relax and soak up the sun with Eric “Benny” Bloom and Ryan Zoidis on the Schooner Freedom Charters! Join the jokesters on a two-hour nautical adventure at sea. Bring a pair of binoculars and look for dolphins, turtles, and birds, or take the helm for an unforgettable sailing experience. Beer will be provided, though you can always bring more. Space is limited!
Sold Out! –
Crocodile Crossing Zip-line Adventure with Break Science’s Borahm Lee
The Alligator Farm houses every species of Crocodilian in the world as well as birds, mammals, and other reptiles. Zip through the treetops and conquer aerial obstacles with Break Science’s Borahm Lee. After the course, you are free to roam the park for as long as you’d like. Learn more about what the Alligator Farm and Crocodile Crossing has to offer on their website.
FAQ
What airport is closest to the venue?
Jacksonville is 1 hour north.
Gainesville is 1.5 hours west.
Orlando is 2 hours south.
What if I need a ride to/from the airport?
Call (904) 824-9400 AT LEAST 24 hours in advance to reserve a ride from the Airport Express of St. Augustine. We recommend giving them as much of a heads up as possible.
Is the venue GA?
Yes, the venue is all GA, despite what Ticketmaster reflects. The only section that is not GA is a section of seats in front of the soundboard, reserved for VIP ticket-holders.
Does the GA ticket grant admission the late night concert series?
No, late night tickets are separate from the Fool’s Paradise event. Limited tickets for all late-night shows remain.
Is there re-entry to the venue?
Yes, you can come and go to the event as you please, as long as it’s during the duration of the ticket day/s you have purchased.
Do I need to purchase a ticket for my child?
Most shows do not require parents to purchase tickets for children under the age of two. Please bear in mind the child will not have a seat and must remain on the parent’s lap throughout the show. If a seat is desired for the child an additional ticket must be purchased at the regular price.
What else does VIP entail?
VIP tickets grant you priority access to the pit, reserved seating area in front of the soundboard, discounted alcoholic beverages, artist happy hour, and AJ Masthay design poster and t-shirt.
Is VIP worth it?
Depends. Are you funky or are you fresh?
Is the camping ticket separate from the event ticket?
Yes, the camping pass is separate from the event and includes a spot for camping and transportation to and from the event.
Does everyone need their own camping ticket?
Yes, one camping pass per person.
What if it’s just me and one other person sharing a tent?
See above.
Who gets transportation?
All campers and VIP hotel package ticketholders will have wristbands that grant access to transportation to/from the event. This includes rides home from late night shows. Transportation will be going back and forth every 30 minutes.
Is there parking?
There is limited parking in the venue lot. We recommend keeping the roads safe and taking taxis when needed.
Who do I call for a ride?
Here are some local taxi numbers:
• First Coast Taxi: (904) 825-9999
• Abraxi Taxi: 904-599-6666
• Eco-Ride: (904) 827-7206
• SaxTaxi 904-800-6000
• Uber & Lyft are also available in the area.
How will parking work?
There will be event parking, but space is limited. We don’t recommend driving your car.
What events will there be aside from music?
There’s more to look forward to than just the music, as Fool’s Paradise is also offering exciting Florida excursions with your favorite artists! Whether it’s mini-golf with Lettuce’s Adam Deitch and Jesus Coomes, a crocodile crossing and zip-lining adventure with Break Science’s Borahm Lee, or a sailing escapade with Ryan Zoidis, Eric “Benny” Bloom, and Adam “Shmeeans” Smirnoff, you’ll be rocking your Saturday alongside the best. More information here.
When does the music go until?
The St. Augustine Amphitheatre shuts down music at 10:30pm.
What can I do after that?
When the music ends at the Amphitheatre, some late night ragers are going down across the street at the Elk’s Lodge. The full late night lineup includes Vulfpeck and Break Science on Friday, as well as Goldfish and The Fools of Funk supergroup on Saturday. More information and a very limited supply of tickets can be found here.
Also happening less than two miles down the road is “Fool Moon,” a late-night offering at St. Augustine music scene staple (and grilled cheese emporium), Planet Sarbez. Both nights will feature blowout sets by Jacksonville powerhouse Herd of Watts; on Friday they’ll be joined by Gainesville reggae-funk monsters Morning Fatty, and on Saturday MANẎFEST will kickstart the night, with Orlando’s rock machine The Groove Orient shutting it down. More information can be found here.
What items are allowed/prohibited for venue?
What to bring when you come to a concert at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre
Your funkiest self
Seat Cushions
Poncho or Jacket
Blankets
Palm-size Point & Shoot Camera
Sunscreen
Bug Spray
Sealed water bottles
What NEVER to bring to a concert at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre
Backpacks
Hula hoops
Outside Food or Drinks
Umbrellas
Large Cameras with Detachable Lenses
Strollers
Weapons or items construed as weapons (e.g. guns, knives, sticks, fireworks)
Video Cameras
Audio Recorders
Musical Instruments
Gifts for the band
Chairs
Alcoholic beverages or illegal drugs
Animals (except guide dogs)
Skateboards or inline skates
Personal property that is a potential hazard to others (e.g. chains, wallet chains or jewelry with spiked edges)
Will there be food?
Yes, several food trucks will be there catering to all dietary needs. That means you, vegans.
There will be: The Muncher (New Orleans Style), SPORKS (delicious grub), Pele’s Pizza brick oven digs), Vegan Hotdog cart, Wingin It, Ticos Tacos (Chef style tacos, burritos, nachos), Kenyan coffee and pastries, Big Island Bowl (Acai bowls), and Hyppo (Local Organic frozen popsicles).
Will Lettuce and GRiZ really be playing together?
Yes. For the first time ever, renowned electronic pioneer GRiZ and funk powerhouse Lettuce will join forces! The exciting full-band collaboration will take place during the second half of GRiZ‘s Friday evening set on 4/1. Lettuce will help GRiZ close out the headlining set on the first night of the two-day event.
What is a Vulfpeck?
Vulfpeck is a half-Jewish German-American rhythm section based in Los Angeles. Originally studio musicians at Vulf Records, Jack Stratton, Theo Katzman, Woody Goss & Joe Dart have released five albums under Vulfpeck. If more information is needed, come see them perform twice at Fool’s Paradise.
Which day should I go?
Both.
Backpacks
Hula hoops
Outside Food or Drinks
Umbrellas
Large Cameras with Detachable Lenses
Strollers
Weapons or items construed as weapons (e.g. guns, knives, sticks, fireworks)
Video Cameras
Audio Recorders
Musical Instruments
Gifts for the band
Chairs
Alcoholic beverages or illegal drugs
Animals (except guide dogs)
Skateboards or inline skates
Personal property that is a potential hazard to others (e.g. chains, wallet chains or jewelry with spiked edges)