From adventures with wildlife to Christmas extravaganzas, the communities of Wakulla once again filled the year with numerous one-of-a-kind festivals, events, and gatherings.
Winter was a celebration of nature and the history of early man
The St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge Wildlife Heritage and Outdoor Festival is always one of the most anticipated events of February, and this year, nature lovers gathered again to participate in wildlife-themed activities, learn about different animal species from experts, and enjoy the spectacle of one of the most beautiful natural areas in the country.
Also in February, residents and guests took part in the annual Stone Age and Primitive Arts Festival, also known as Knapfest. This exciting event taught attendees how early humans lived, hunted, and competed when the land was their only resource.
Worm gruntin’ and championship fishing stole the show in April
On April 14th, families came together in Sopchoppy for the 18th edition of the Worm Gruntin’ Festival. Witnessing the traditional method of coaxing worms to the surface using vibrations from iron and wood was a unique experience for all who attended. On the last weekend of April, anglers from around the country competed for prizes and bragging rights at the Rock the Dock Fishing Tournament in Panacea’s Woolley Park.
The Panacea Blue Crab Festival was the highlight of mid-spring
There’s nothing quite like enjoying fresh-caught crab on a warm spring day, and this year’s Panacea Blue Crab Festival from May 4th to 5th was a weekend to remember for seafood lovers everywhere. Not only did guests feast on succulent crab preparations whipped up by local chefs, but they also enjoyed incredible live entertainment and competitions like the crab-picking contest.
Fireworks lit up the Sopchoppy sky for the 4th of July
Patriotic pride was on full display everywhere you looked at the annual Sopchoppy 4th of July Celebration. The festive parade and live entertainment had everyone feeling proud to be an American all day long, and once the sun set the event was capped off by a fireworks display as grand as the nation itself.
Majestic monarch butterflies made their annual pilgrimage in October
Wakulla County residents and guests were treated to a torrent of beautiful orange-and-black as millions of monarch butterflies stopped briefly in the Florida panhandle during their annual migration south. The Monarch Butterfly Festival held at the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge was a tremendous opportunity to learn more about these amazing insects and enjoy unique wildlife exhibitions as well.
Holiday celebrations abounded throughout Wakulla County in December
This year, we were lucky enough to have incredible holiday festivals to get everyone in a merry mood. Kids and adults alike had numerous opportunities to enjoy parades, visit with Santa Claus, and even play in the snow.
More fantastic events just like these await you in 2019 when you decide to visit Wakulla County. Start planning your vacation today, and decide which festivals and celebrations you want to be a part of in the coming year.
