Christmas in Wakulla
Gear up and get jolly for a string of Christmas celebrations throughout Wakulla County this December.
Sixth Annual Trick or Treat Story-Walk
Break out your costumes and candy buckets – the sixth annual Trick or Treat Story-Walk is back and taking place on Saturday, October 30! Hosted by the Wakulla County Public Library and Parks and Recreation, this free event will take place at Azalea and Hudson Parks from 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Sopchoppy Mullet Festival
Looking for something fun to do over the weekend? Make the trip to Sopchoppy for the First Annual Sopchoppy Mullet Festival, November 13. This free festival will be a celebration of the local Mullet community, creative entrepreneurs, local small businesses, and the vibrant community. Sopchoppy is so excited to share its beauty and charm with visitors from all over Florida.
Evening Cruise & Dinner on the Water
Mark your calendars for Saturday, October 30 to enjoy a relaxing early evening cruise on the beautiful Wakulla River, followed by a delectable dinner buffet in the historic Lodge at Wakulla Springs.
A Timeless Glimpse into Florida’s Elegant Past
A magnet for millions, the Lodge at Wakulla Springs is hosting a special tour of the property on Thursday, October 14 at 6 p.m. Meet our rangers in the Lodge lobby to see the beauty of “North Florida’s castle.” The Lodge features Mediterranean Revival Architecture and hints of art deco detail throughout its walls, making it one of the most beautiful buildings of its period. While the inside is sure to take your breath away, the landscape will blow you away too. Surrounded by 6,000 acres of pristine forest and overlooking one of the world’s largest and deepest freshwater springs, the Lodge is an elegant place to spend your evening.
Make sure to secure a dinner reservation following your tour at the Edward Ball Dining Room. As an exclusive offer, ask your tour leader for a coupon that will grant you a free featured appetizer with your dinner purchase. Enjoy an array of southern specialties featuring the highest-quality cuts of meat, seafood, and seasonal farm-to-table creations. Your dining experience will be made even more special by a view of the Springs right from your table.
Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind opportunity to tour the beautiful Lodge at Wakulla Springs. It truly provides a glimpse into Florida’s elegant past. Come meet up with our park rangers to take your tour Thursday, October 14 at 6 p.m., and don’t forget the Lodge’s unique dining experience after your tour! Reservations are required, so make sure to call (850)-421-2000 or (855)-632-4559 to make yours today.
Sopchoppy’s 47th Annual Fourth of July Celebration
Join us on Saturday, July 3, for Sopchoppy’s 47th annual Fourth of July Celebration in Myron B. Hodge Park. This family-friendly celebration began in 1973 when Bill Stephens, also known as “Mr. Sopchoppy”, began organizing the event along with some of his friends. Now, the City of Sopchoppy joins together every year to continue this tradition thanks to the combined efforts of our volunteers and sponsors.
This day of fun will begin at 10 a.m. sharp in Downtown Sopchoppy with the Bill Stephens Americana Parade going down Rose Street. From there, the Myron B. Hodge City Park will be opening at 11 a.m., followed by opening ceremonies at noon. Admission to the event is a $2 donation.
Throughout the day you can enjoy browsing through food vendors, arts and crafts booths, exhibits, and live entertainment. Don’t forget to stop by Visit Wakulla’s booth for some special Wakulla goodies! There are also plenty of kid-friendly booths to keep the whole family entertained all day long. When it’s time to relax, find yourself a spot on the banks of the Sopchoppy river and listen to the live music from groups such as The Southern Steele Band, Michael Miller Band, and more, who will be playing throughout the day. Once the sun sets, settle in and get ready for our famous fireworks display that you will not want to miss. In our opinion, it’s the best way to end one of our best celebrations of the year, and we hope you’ll join us to celebrate!
For more information, visit the Wakulla County Chamber.
If you’re interested in getting involved in the event, visit Sopchoppy.org.
Florida State Park Fee Changes
To help the Florida Department of Environmental Protection continue offering their award-winning visitor experiences and maintain pristine outdoor retreats, the state park system will implement changes to its fee schedule for camping, cabin reservations, and related utility fees beginning on Wednesday, May 5, 2021.
Entry fees for Florida’s state parks and trails will remain the same, but changes will be made for utility fees collected from day campers. These fees are currently collected from daytime visitors who take advantage of park utilities, but this will also be extended to those staying in cabins and overnight campsites who use electric and water.
Park fees are collected into the State Park Trust Fund and appropriated to support park operations and maintenance. They cover any increased utility costs, as well as repairs and improvements made to the park utility systems.
The new fee schedule is as follows.
Reservation Fee: $6.70
Non-refundable reservation fee per reservation for reservations online or using the call center; fee collected at the time of reservation; reservation fees do not apply to primitive sites. (No change in fee.)
Cancellation Fee: $17.75
Cancellation fee assessed for each reservation cancelled; visitors canceling on the day of arrival assessed a cancellation fee and the first night’s use fee. (No change in fee.)
Transfer Fee: $10
Visitors charged a transfer fee when making reservation change. (No change in fee.)
Utility Fee: $7
Non-registered, day-use sites per unit per day, all campsites with electric and water service and all cabins. Does not apply to primitive tent sites or to sites that do not use electric.
For more information, view the original press release here.
2021 Snapper Season
Friday, June 4 establishes the beginning of red snapper season in the Gulf of Mexico, one of the most thrilling times of the year for anglers around the country. Keep reading to make you know all the ins and outs of this season to make the most of your time on the Gulf.
Our Longest Season Yet
Beginning on Friday, June 4, anglers will be able to take advantage of 55 days to get out on the open water and catch some red snappers. Governor Ron DeSantis announced in a Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission press release that this year’s season will run from June 4 – July 28, 2021 with a potential reopening this fall, if there’s available quota.
According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission this will be the longest red snapper season in the Gulf of Mexico yet. It is still a limited window, however, so make sure that you’re prepared to catch one of the most popular species of fish in the region.
Have a Successful Season
Wakulla County already has everything you’ll need to set yourself up for a successful snapper season. Local boat ramps, some directly into the Gulf of Mexico, are available to ensure that you will have convenient access straight to the open water and local marinas and tackle shops, in the heart of Wakulla County, are ready to restock your supplies all summer long.
Shell Island Fish Camp and Marina is one of the most popular spots for anglers in Wakulla County. It is locally owned and operated since 1942 and is a full-service marina that offers a wide range of marine services and products. The Marina also has lodging available right next to the hub of all snapper action and their boat ramp has direct access into the Gulf.
Spend a Summer of Snapper Success in Wakulla County
Come to Wakulla County for the red snapper and stay for the marvels of the relaxing boating community surrounding them. After spending your days on the open water, enjoy endless environmental explorations from scenic hiking trails to beachside horseback riding, sure to guarantee a snapper season for the book’s.
