Author: visitwakulldev

The first weekend in May is almost upon us, which means the annual Panacea Blue Crab Festival is right around the corner! The 44th staging of this great event will take place on May 4th-5th at Woolley Park in downtown Panacea, and it promises to be one of the most exciting community gatherings of the year. Find out how you can plan your excursion and get the most out of your trip to the Panacea Blue Crab Festival this year.

Enjoy one of Wakulla County’s most beloved traditions

What started out as a modest function to promote the Wakulla County crab industry in 1975 has grown into one of the most popular events in the area. The Panacea Blue Crab Festival has now been going strong for 44 years, and it has incorporated new traditions as it has blossomed.

What hasn’t changed is that this festival is still a wonderful celebration of the blue crab and its importance to our local area. Crabs have been a staple food of people living in and around Wakulla County for centuries, because they are abundant in the Gulf waters, easy to prepare, and—most importantly of all—delicious! The Panacea Blue Crab Festival is the perfect opportunity to honor this delicacy and enjoy an afternoon of fun.

Dine on fresh-caught crab and soak up all the fun

You’ll definitely have ample opportunity to sample some great fresh crab at the festival, but there will be plenty of other excitement for you to take in while you’re there. The event kicks off on the evening of Friday, May 4th, with the Free Gospel Sing starting at 6:30 PM in Woolley Park, adjacent to the gorgeous Dickerson Bay.

The celebration then begins in earnest on Saturday, with live entertainment, games, and competition taking place all day long. The mullet toss and the crab picking contest are always popular with attendees, so be sure to check them out. Several different area musical acts will be entertaining you throughout the festival, and there will also be plenty of children’s activities, food and beverage vendors, and arts and crafts available for sale.

Explore our beautiful county up close

The Panacea Blue Crab Festival is just one reason why Wakulla County is such a unique haven on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Our connection to the natural environment around us is irreplaceable, and all of the outdoor activities that are a part of life here demonstrate that fact. Whether you’re a hiker, angler, kayaker, or just a nature enthusiast, you’ll find plenty to love about Wakulla County. Check out our accommodations page to start planning your trip to the Panacea Blue Crab Festival today, and discover how you can turn your journey into a full-fledged natural adventure.

Get ready for one of the most anticipated events of the year, the Rock the Dock Fishing Tournament! This year’s event will take place the weekend of April 27th amidst the beautiful backdrop of Woolley Park in Panacea.

Test your mettle against some outstanding anglers

There are many reasons to love the Rock the Dock Fishing Tournament, but it’s definitely the fishing itself that is the star attraction. Anglers come from throughout the region to test their skills in the coastal waters of Wakulla County. You too can get in on the angling action by registering on the official tournament website to secure your spot.

Rock the Dock features several different divisions for anglers of all different levels of experience and skill sets. Some of the divisions that you can compete in include recreational (Offshore & Inshore), youth, and kayak. Lady Anglers weighing in an eligible fish will be entered to win $1000! Youth Anglers weighing in an eligible fish will be entered to win a G3 Boat/Motor & Trailer! Kayak Anglers weighing in an eligible fish will be entered to win a Kayak! Top performers in each division will receive cash prizes, trophies, or gift cards depending upon the category. In celebration of our 10th Anniversary, we are paying out an additional $10,000 in prizes this year!

Enjoy a full weekend of activities

Come for the fishing, stay for the fun in the outdoors. The Rock the Dock Fishing Tournament packs a ton of fun and entertainment into a single weekend in beautiful Panacea. The event officially kicks off with the annual Captain’s Meeting at 4:00 PM on Friday, April 27 at Woolley Park. Registration will be taking place from 4-7 PM for anyone who wasn’t able to register online. Make sure you make it to the Captain’s Meeting at 6:30 PM so that you will have all of the information you need for the start of the tournament on Saturday.

Dinner and a cash bar will immediately follow the Captain’s meeting, and the night will finish off with some fantastic live music provided by Old Soul Revival from 7-10 PM. Then, you can rest up and prepare yourself for full days of fishing on Saturday and Sunday!

The fun continues on Saturday and Sunday – there will be vendors both days from Noon-6 PM. The weigh-in will be open from 2-6 PM on Saturday and 12-4 PM on Sunday.

Enter to win fantastic prizes

As mentioned previously, there will be cash and other prizes up for grabs in the various fishing divisions. However, you also have an opportunity to win a sleek 2018 Skeeter SX200 Bay Boat by Yamaha. Raffle tickets are $100 each, and the number of entries is limited to 300. You can contact Laurie Falk at Mike’s Marine to purchase tickets, 850-528-7610.

Book your accommodations early!

Don’t miss this great opportunity to enjoy a weekend of great fishing, and experience some of the natural wonders that define Wakulla County. While you’re here, we encourage you to take some time before and after the tournament to check out some of our other exciting attractions, such as the Gulf Specimen Marine Laboratory nearby in Panacea, the stunning St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge, or dining on plenty of fresh Gulf seafood at one of our many restaurants.

The Rock the Dock Fishing Tournament is one of the most popular events of the year in Wakulla County, so check out our accommodations page as soon as possible and start planning your stay. From campgrounds to quaint bed-and-breakfasts to full-service hotels, you can find whatever type of accommodation you need in Wakulla County to prepare you for a weekend of fishing success.

Do you like learning more about the natural environment around you in order to better understand our connection to it? Do you enjoy having time to experience family-friendly entertainment and great food? Do you simply want to get out of the house for a day and celebrate with a community of passionate individuals in the great outdoors?

If the answer to any of those is yes, then you need to come down to the 18th annual Sopchoppy Worm Gruntin’ Festival on Saturday, April 14th in the historic streets of Downtown Sopchoppy!

Worm Gruntin’??

Yes, you heard correctly. Worm gruntin’ is a time-honored tradition that involves using vibrations in order to coax worms to the surface of the earth. Worm grunters drive a stake into the soil and rub a piece of iron against it, causing the ground to vibrate and the worms to crawl to the top where they can be collected. Before you could just hop down to the bait store, worm gruntin’ was an important practice for fisherman, and it now survives as a unique skill practiced by experts in some areas.

A day of fun for everyone, except maybe the worms

In addition to live demonstrations by expert worm grunters and the worm gruntin’ contest, the festival will feature a 5K race in the morning—which travels through some of the most scenic natural areas in Wakulla County—live music and entertainment all day long, food, arts, and crafts from local vendors, and plenty of games for attendees of all ages. At the end of the day, you can celebrate along with everyone and show off your best dance moves at the Worm Grunter’s Ball. Whichever events you choose to participate in, the Worm Gruntin’ Festival is the perfect excuse for a spring getaway!

Experience more unique excitement in Wakulla County

The annual Sopchoppy Worm Gruntin’ Festival is just one of the many events and attractions that make Wakulla County such a unique community and environment. You really have to see it for yourself, so we hope that you’ll come for the fun of the Worm Gruntin’ Festival and schedule some extra time to immerse yourself in a few of our natural wonders. Whether you’re fanatical about fishing, hiking, nature photography, or you just want some time to relax in a serene natural setting, our beautiful slice of heaven is just what you need to recharge. Find the perfect place to stay today and start planning your Wakulla adventure!

The 11th Annual Stone Age and Primitive Arts Festival is coming up fast! This year, the festival will take place from Friday, Feb. 23 through Sunday, February 25 from 8:00 AM until 4:00 PM each day, at the Ochlockonee River State Park. Admission is only $4.00 per vehicle, so come out to have some fun and immerse yourself in some of our shared history.

Catch a rare glimpse into pre-history

We don’t have many opportunities to learn about what life was like for early humans, but the Stone Age and Primitive Arts Festival gives you a chance to gain a deeper understanding of their experiences before the advent of recorded history. Our ancestors had to make use of resources and tools provided by the environment in order to survive. These developments played a crucial role in our ability as humans to adapt, evolve, and eventually come to exercise control over the planet. This fun and fascinating festival celebrates our connection to generations long past, while allowing attendees to observe and take part in interesting and exciting activities.

Participate in unique, live demonstrations

The practice of flint knapping dates back to some of the earliest days of mankind as we know it. At some point, an early human banged two rocks together to get a sharp edge, and then used that edge to cut something. The process of knapping caught on and spread throughout tribes, and it was refined until the humans had higher-quality tools that enabled them to hunt much more effectively.

At the festival you can watch live demonstrations of flint knapping by experts, and even take part yourself. You can also check out some of the other interactive demonstrations including deer hide tanning, and wood and antler carving. The festival website features a full schedule of the events that will be taking place.

Experience the thrill of primitive competition

The concept of competition stretches all the way back to the pre-historic era. The early humans may not have organized full-scale sports leagues, but our ancestors did learn to stage simple contests based around exhibition of a particular skill. The festival will feature several exciting competitions, such as atlatl dart (spear) throwing, primitive bow, and flint knapping.

Celebrate early humans’ connection to their environment

For the early humans, the natural environment was the source of everything, which makes Wakulla County the perfect location to host this distinctive event. The festival takes place against the scenic backdrop of the Ochlockonee River State Park, which is one of the many natural wonders that contribute to the ecological diversity of Wakulla County. We invite you to experience the Stone Age and Primitive Arts Festival, and also stay for awhile and discover other reasons why Wakulla County is such a special place.

The St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge is home to numerous events, classes, and presentations throughout the year. Check out the following selection of events, and visit the refuge’s website for a complete list and additional details.

First Sunday at the Refuge—Mar. 4, and Apr. 1

The first Sunday of every month brings something fun and informative to the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge. On the first Sunday of March there will be a tour of the town site of Port Leon, which was destroyed by a powerful hurricane in 1843. On April 1, you can come to learn more about the red-cockaded woodpecker, one of the most famous birds that inhabits the refuge.

Birding and Wildlife Observation Behind the Gates—Feb. 13

Matt and Cyndi Johnstone give you an expert’s vantage point of various species of wildlife behind the gates of the refuge. The wagon tour begins at 9:00 AM and lasts until noon. Seating is limited for this event, so advance registration is recommended.

St Marks NWR Photo Club—Feb. 17

It doesn’t matter whether you’re a professional photographer with a DSLR lens and a tripod, or just a nature-lover who likes to take pictures of interesting species and landscapes with your phone, you’re welcome at the monthly meeting for the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge Photo Club.

Fee Free President’s Day—Feb. 20

Celebrate our nation’s founding fathers by getting back to nature! On President’s Day, admission to the St. Marks NWR is free so everyone can enjoy the beauty of the surroundings and learn more about this rich and diverse ecosystem.

Shutterbugs—Mar. 3

This photography class focuses specifically on capturing the beauty of nature through smartphone cameras. So bring your phone and come to the Nature’s Classroom at 1:00 for tips, demonstrations, and chances to get a perfect shot for your Instagram page. Registration is required.

Tots on Trails—Mar. 8

It’s never too early to introduce the youngsters to the majesty of nature trails. Pre-school aged children will be led on a fascinating and fun nature walk with a ranger, beginning at 11:00 AM. Registration is required.

Birding Behind the Gates—Mar. 10

Don Morrow takes you into the refuge to look for a variety of species of birds and learn more about their contribution to the environment. Space is limited, so please register in advance.

This is just a sample of the many amazing events held at the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge. Start planning your visit to Wakulla County today, so that you can experience why the refuge is such an important and beloved part of our region!

To visit the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge’s website, click here.

Whether you’re a dyed-in-the-wool outdoors aficionado or a city person who wants to spend some time in the wilderness for a day, the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge Heritage and Outdoor (WHO) Festival will be your oasis. This incredible tradition continues for 2018, as locals and visitors alike gather together to celebrate the richness and diversity of wildlife in Wakulla County and beyond. This year’s festival is taking place on Saturday, February 3, 2018 from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM at the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge, so begin planning your full day of outdoor fun right now!

Celebrate the true spirit of the outdoors in a stunning natural environment

Nature, in all its many forms, has been an important part of life in Wakulla County for thousands of years, going all the way back to Native American culture in the area. This connection continues through to today, and the annual WHO Festival is held to celebrate all of the ways in which wildlife enriches our community.

From a variety of animal demonstrations to nature-themed educational displays and hands-on activities, the WHO Festival is a unique opportunity for you to immerse yourself in your natural surroundings, and learn more about what makes this area so special. And it all takes place amongst the spectacular wilderness of the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge. St. Marks NWR is one of the most treasured natural areas in the region, and it is home to a dizzying array of flora and fauna that live together in a complex ecosystem. It’s the perfect place to host a celebration of the great outdoors.

Enjoy a full day of family-friendly entertainment

Each year the WHO Festival is packed with plenty of events and activities for every member of the family. Wildlife experts from organizations such as Ducks Unlimited, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission, and the Apalachee Audubon Society will be on hand with educational displays and live demonstrations. There will also be exciting activities happening, including the wildly popular kid’s turkey calling contest. You’ll also have a chance to relax and enjoy some live music, browse the wildlife-themed wares of local vendors, and enjoy some food and beverages.

Stay and experience more of the natural beauty of Wakulla County

The true purpose of the WHO Festival is to connect people with nature, which is why it’s perfectly at home in Wakulla County. After you enjoy everything there is to see and do at the WHO Festival, spend some more time exploring the wonders of Wakulla County and discover why the bond between the people of the community and the natural environment that surrounds them is so enduring.

2017 was another banner year in beautiful Wakulla County, and our calendars were packed with wonderful events and exciting festivals that stretched from beginning to end!

February brought appreciations of history and wildlife

At the 10th iteration of Knapfest, attendees got to experience life as it was in the stone age (with modern comforts, of course). There were demonstrations of primitive tool making and arts and crafts, and even some exciting historical competitions such as archery and atlatl throwing. Meanwhile, nature aficionados gathered at the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge Wildlife Heritage and Outdoor Festival to celebrate the diversity of wildlife in Wakulla County.

The beginning of spring means worm gruntin’ and fishing

April brings warmer temperatures and longer days, and it’s also prime time for the annual Sopchoppy Worm Gruntin’ Festival. Folks at the festival got to see this traditional practice of coaxing worms out of the ground with vibrating wooden stakes first-hand.

Also in April, the Rock the Dock Fishing Tournament was a blast for anglers and spectators alike. Big fish were reeled in, prizes were awarded, and guests enjoyed hours of live entertainment.

Sopchoppy pulled out all the stops for a 4th of July celebration

The yearly 4th of July celebration in Sopchoppy is a favorite tradition amongst locals, and this year’s edition lived up to the hype. The day of fun and national pride was capped off by a fireworks spectacular that lit up the Florida sky.

September was a time to check out aircraft and automobiles

The Wings And Wheels Fly-In may be one of the newer traditions in Wakulla County, but it is quickly becoming a must-see event. On September 30th, attendees gathered at the Wakulla County Airport to view beautiful aircraft and automobiles, enjoy a day outdoors, and immerse themselves in fun activities and games.

The arrival of fall was synonymous with stone crabs and butterflies

This past October, locals and visitors alike came together to mark the opening of Florida stone crab season at the St. Marks Stone Crab Festival. These delicious crab claws can only be harvested during certain times of the year, and the festival honors this season by incorporating delectable recipes, educational displays, and more.

Also, the monarch butterflies bathed the sky in orange during their annual migration in late October. The Monarch Butterfly Festival at the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge was a way for people to watch these beautiful insects fly through in droves and celebrate their importance to the ecosystem.

Panacea celebrated the majesty of the Christmas season

2017 in Wakulla County came to a spectacular close at the annual Christmas in Panacea. Guests enjoyed snow machines, a fantastic parade, and a visit from Santa himself as they celebrated the holiday season, and looked forward to the new year.

If you’re ready to see what exciting events are in store for Wakulla County in 2018, schedule some time to come visit us in the new year. No matter what season you visit, you will always find unique celebrations, friendly locals, and our stunning natural environment to enjoy.