St. Johns County highlights community events from youth triathlon to beach movie nights

Wayne Larson, director of public affairs for St. Johns County, opened a County Conversations podcast episode by introducing Ryan Kaine, the county's director of parks and recreation, and asking him to outline the department's public events and programs.

Kaine said the department runs a range of largely free community events, many aimed at families and youth. He singled out a recent youth "Try Tri" held at the Solomon Calhoun pool that drew about 180 athletes, calling it an introductory swim-bike-run experience designed for kids rather than a full-distance triathlon. "The transitions is really the neat thing to watch with the kids," Kaine said, describing parents' enthusiasm and the relaxed, supportive atmosphere.

Kaine credited the Parks Foundation as a major partner in staging events and programming, noting the foundation is a separate nonprofit that helps expand offerings for county residents. He listed recurring events that bring the community together, including movies in the park (the department staged a beach screening of the film Jaws to mark its 50th anniversary), Easter egg hunts, a Martin Luther King breakfast and basketball tournament, kite day, trunk-or-treat, "Kids Got Talent," and family and color runs.

Beyond single-day events, Kaine emphasized both organized and self-guided outdoor opportunities at lesser-known county park facilities: kayak launches for paddle sports, nature paths, and fishing programs for families, women and youth. He advised listeners to check the county website for full schedules and registration details.

The episode closed with Larson thanking Kaine and encouraging listeners to follow county social channels and visit the St. Johns County website for event listings and program updates.