NEPTUNE BEACH, Fla. — Thursday's the one day a year thousands of people dressed as turkeys and pilgrims converge on the oldest bar in Duval County for Pete's Bar Thanksgiving block party in Neptune Beach.
This year, one couple has returned for a special reason.
“So 14 years ago, Thanksgiving morning, I came to Pete’s Bar and I met my husband, Joe," said Jenn Malzacher. "Now, we’re back to celebrate our 14-year ‘meet-aversary’ at Pete’s Bar and we brought our two kids.”
The couple says being back in the same spot feels nostalgic.
“It’s really awesome," Malzacher said. "This is exactly where we met, standing right here. He was walking out and I was walking in and the rest is history, so it’s very cool. We love this 'Petesgiving.'”
“I’m so thankful I met her today, 14 years ago,” said Joe Malzacher.
Whether it’s the beginning of your love story or a new family tradition, Pete's Bar is the place to be on Thanksgiving morning in Duval County.
“This is our first time we’re all doing it, but we’re going to start signing up every year!” said a member of the Monsale family, surrounded by about 10 other family members.
Pete’s Bar festivities begin right after Tony’s Turkey Trot for Brain Injury Awareness.
"We're very thankful for finishing and having our mimosas and bloody Mary's," said Turkey Trot racer Mary Farr. "Burn a few calories before we eat a lot.”
Happy Thanksgiving, First Coast!