Celebrate Tallahassee's 200 Years as Florida's Capital City at the Bicentennial Festival

History Comes Alive at Cascades Park on Nov. 10

November 08, 2024

On Sunday, Nov. 10, join the City of Tallahassee and Friends of the First Florida Capitol in celebration of our city's history as Florida's Capital City at the Bicentennial Festival at Cascades Park. The free community event marks the 200th anniversary of the first legislative session in Florida.
Kicking off at 1 p.m., festivities will bring the past to life. Activities include performances by Theater with a Mission and family-friendly interactive exhibits on Centennial Field from community organizations representing the 1600s through 2024 and beyond.

Festival attendees will want to stroll through the First Florida Capitol, a replica of the log cabin constructed to house Florida's early government. Built by volunteers in partnership with Big Bend Habitat for Humanity, the cabin will be open to the public for tours each weekend through spring 2025.

At 4 p.m., play a role in making history by joining Tallahassee Mayor John Dailey, St. Augustine Mayor Nancy Sikes-Kline, Pensacola Mayor D.C. Reeves, Florida Senate President-Designate Ben Albritton, Florida House Speaker Paul Renner, Leon County Commission Chair Carolyn Cummings and other leaders for the dedication of the Capitol replica and unveiling of a historical marker commemorating the Bicentennial.

"Tallahassee has a remarkable history and important role as Florida's Capital City. The replica of our state's first Capitol recognizes our past and building it from the ground up has united passionate community members in their love for Tallahassee," said Mayor John Dailey, who spearheaded the initiative. "Together, we will reflect on our past, celebrate our present and look to the promise of our future."

Community members of all ages are invited to enjoy this historic occasion with local organizations, food trucks and artisans throughout the afternoon and indulge in a free ice cream social throughout the day as the cherry on top of the festivities.

Visit FirstFloridaCapitol.org/Festival to find more details about the festival, including a schedule of entertainment and parking information.