Restaurants and retailers across Jacksonville are joining in the celebration of 450 years of French history in Jacksonville by offering special promotions and dishes including French-themed dining options during French Week, which is Thursday, April 26-Sunday, May 6. Olio Market, for example, will be offering French specials all week including a Tart-Tartan French apple tart. A list of participating restaurants and retailers is available at www.visitjacksonville.com/french-week.

There is still time for restaurants and retailers to sign up to participate in French Week. Register your commemorative activity today by emailing kkurycki@visitjacksonville.com or calling Katie Kurycki at (904) 421-9160. Participants will be featured on www.visitjacksonvile.com/french-week and all promotional materials and will receive a logo decal for display at their businesses.

On May 1, 1562, French Huguenot Captain Jean Ribault sailed into what is now known as the St. Johns River, which he named the River of May and we still reference today with “Mayport.”  Ribault met with the indigenous, Mocama-speaking Timucua Native-Americans on the north side of the river and claimed the land for France. Jacksonville commemorates this 450^th anniversary during French Week, April 26-May 6. Visit www.Commemorate450.coj.net for a list of all activities related to this historic event.