[Floridastateparks] Florida State Parks Newsletter - November 2005

[Strivelli, Michael]

FLORIDA STATE PARKS ONCE AGAIN NAMED "NATION'S BEST"
 BY NATIONAL PARKS AND RECREATION ASSOCIATION

Florida State Parks was once again awarded the National Recreation and Parks
Association's Gold Medal Award, honoring Florida as the "Nation's Best State
Park Service". The Gold Medal, a second for Florida's park system, was
presented at the 2005 National Recreation and Park Association Congress and
Exposition in San Antonio, Texas. 

"Winning the Gold Medal Award twice in the last five years is a remarkable
accomplishment for Florida State Parks, and I applaud the park rangers and
staff for making it possible," said Governor Jeb Bush. "By preserving natural
Florida lands as recreational and educational opportunities for more than
17.3 million visitors each year, we are protecting wildlife habitat and
offering more open space for families to enjoy."

The Gold Medal honors the nation's outstanding park and recreation agencies
for excellence in the field of recreation management. The State Park Award,
presented every other year, focuses on the achievements of state park system
and its programs providing recreational, educational and leisure services to
its citizens.

The Florida Park Service, managed under the Florida Department of
Environmental Protection, was a finalist in the National Recreation and Parks
Association Gold Medal award in 1997, and won the Gold Medal in 1999. This
year, the Florida Park Service's first opportunity to reapply since 1999, is
the only time a state agency has won the Gold Medal twice. Florida competed
with state park systems from Missouri, North Carolina and Tennessee for the
award.

"This designation is a reflection of the Governor and Cabinet's focus on
preservation and protection of Florida's environment," said Florida
Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Colleen M. Castille. "The
dedication of more than 1,000 park rangers and management staff is the
foundation of this prestigious award, and we could not have achieved this
without their support."

Florida's state park system is one of the largest in the country with 159
parks spanning more than 723,000 acres and 100 miles of sandy white beach.
>From swimming and diving in Florida's rivers and springs to birding and
fishing or hiking and riding on natural scenic trails, Florida's state parks
offer year-around outdoor activities for all ages. Battle reenactments and
Native American festivals celebrate Florida's unique history, while art
shows, museums and lighthouses offer a window into Florida's cultural
heritage.

NOVEMBER EVENTS
RURAL FOLKLIFE DAYS
Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park
<http://www.floridastateparks.org/stephenfoster/Events.cfm>  
Date: Thursday & Friday, November 3rd & 4th, 2005.
Description: 
--Home and Farm Traditions of North Central Florida--


Horse-drawn wagon rides, homemade jams and jellies, and making hand-churned
butter and lye soap are among the old-time traditions of Florida that will be
presented at Rural Folklife Days. 

The festival at Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park celebrates farm
and household traditions that remain a part of family and community life.
Area residents demonstrate how to preserve fruits and vegetables with home
canning, how to plait a cow whip by hand, and how to make a hand-sewn quilt.
This year's event includes storytellers Aunt Peggy and Jay, a demonstration
of hand-tied cast nets by Florida Folk Heritage Award winner Stuart Pacetti,
and traditional children's games. A cane grinder operated by a donkey will
press juice from sugar cane as Mary and Ivey Harris boil the juice down to
the consistency of dark syrup. 

School groups are encouraged to attend for a fun and educational day
revisiting how to make homemade peanut brittle or how a blacksmith forges
iron into tools. Among the educational activities are opportunities to try
quilting, play horseshoes and learn a local form of the checkers board game
known as pool checkers. Most of the demonstrations throughout the day are
designed to allow children to participate in the activity. Schools may
pre-register by calling 386-397-4478. 

Senior citizens are encouraged to attend to enjoy reminiscences and
participate in activities from earlier days. Visitors will be able to buy lye
soap, cane syrup and a variety of other candies, jellies and crafts made by
demonstrators at the festival. Food concessions also will be available. 
Fees: $3.00 per person. 
Contact: 386-397-4462.

2ND ANNUAL SUGAR CANE FESTIVAL
Florida Caverns State Park
<http://www.floridastateparks.org/floridacaverns/Events.cfm>  
Date: Fri., Sat., Sun., Nov. 4, 5, & 6
9 AM-3 PM c.s.t.
Description: Celebrate the sights, sounds and smells of one of the sweetest
things on earth: Sugar Cane! Enjoy learning how the early settlers of Florida
thrived in the rural areas, as you watch living history interpreted by park
staff and volunteers.
Fees: Park admission is $4.00 per vehicle up to 8 people.
Contact: (850) 482-9599

ANNUAL CIVILIAN CONSERVATION CORPS FESTIVAL 
Highlands Hammock State Park
<http://www.floridastateparks.org/highlandshammock/Events.cfm>  
Date: Saturday - Nov 5, 2005
8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Description: It's the 20th Annual Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Festival!
Plan for a great day of family fun for all! The festival honors the men of
the CCC's, who in the 1930's & 40's, voluntarily joined this civilian "army"
and began to work on conservation projects throughout the United States.
Their work also helped clear the way for the beginning of Florida's state
parks. Event highlights include; children's activities, arts & craft vendors,
antique car show, folk music, live animal exhibits and FREE tram tours &
hayrides.
Hank Mattson, the Cracker Cowboy Poet, will spin yarns from early Florida
days. The Time Travelers will highlight life in the early 1800s, including
living accommodations, cooking skills, and daily survival tactics. The
Friends of Highlands Hammock State Park will offer tram and hayride tickets
for just a $1.00 per person. The Peace River Electric Company will present
their "Electric Junction" safety demonstration. The Hammock Inn will be open
and serving smoked chicken dinners, BBQ pork sandwiches, sausage & peppers,
smoked turkey legs, hot dogs, their famous Peanut Butter and Wild Orange
pies, waffle cones, sundaes and banana splits.
This would be a great weekend to camp at the park- contact Reserve America
for your reservations EARLY- 800-326-3521
Attention: Crafters/Vendors/Reenactors -Contact event coordinator, Dorothy
Harris, at (863) 634-7695 for a vendor packet and/or additional information. 
Fees: Park entrance fee of $4.00 per vehicle applies for participants not
registered in campground applies.
Contact: Contact the park at 863-386-6094 

WETLANDS TOUR
Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park
<http://www.floridastateparks.org/wakullasprings/Events.cfm>  
Date: Saturday, November 5th 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon
Description: Explore the area floodplain and lean about the plant and animal
life that depend on this environment for their existence. Make a day of it
with breakfast before or lunch afterwards at the historic Wakulla Springs
Lodge. Dinner reservations suggested.
Fees: Free with Park Admission
Contact: (850)224-5950

FIRST SATURDAY COFFEEHOUSE
Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park
<http://www.floridastateparks.org/stephenfoster/Events.cfm>  
Date: Saturday, November 5th, 2005. 7:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m.
Description: 
-- Red Cross worker speaks on life, love and music --


This month's First Saturday Coffeehouse held at Stephen Foster Folk Culture
Center State Park will be hosted by Carolyn Pardue. 

Carolyn Pardue, a Red Cross worker and former lobbyist, will emcee the
evening, which features an open microphone for musicians, storytellers, and
other folk entertainers. Pardue is a long-time supporter of traditional arts
in Florida. Audience members are likely to hear traditional ballads, original
songs, stories of long ago and recent history, or even see a buck dance or a
juggling comedian. 

Anyone interested in signing up to perform at the Coffeehouse should do so at
the venue, which opens at 6:30 p.m. 
Fees: This event is free.
Contact: For more information call 386-397-4462.

CIVIL WAR FORT GARRISONS
Fort Clinch State Park
<http://www.floridastateparks.org/fortclinch/Events.cfm>  
Date: Nov. 5 & 6
Description: Soldiers will be manning the fort during the following times:
Saturdays 9 AM - 5 PM Sundays 9 AM - 12 PM
Fees: Park Admission Fee is $5.00 per vehicle (limit 8 people per vehicle).
Pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, passengers in vehicles with a
holder of an Annual Individual Entrance permit. Admission Fee $1.00 per
person. Single Car Occupant - $3.00 Motorcycle Fee (one or two persons) -
$3.00 Admission fee allows visitors admittance to the beaches, trails, pier,
and picnic area.
Contact: (904) 277-7274

HIGH SPRINGS CRUISERS ANTIQUE CAR SHOW
O'Leno State Park <http://www.floridastateparks.org/oleno/Events.cfm>  
Date: Saturday, November 5, 2005. 9:30 am to 4:00 pm.
Description: Enjoy viewing many antique cars sponsored by our local High
Springs Cruisers car club and other area car clubs, and just watch or learn
to square dance while you're here with the Square Wheels dance club. Food and
fun for the whole family!
Car show from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Dancing sessions from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Fees: Free with park admission.
Contact: For more information call 386-454-1853.

IRONMAN TRIATHLON
St. Andrews State Park
<http://www.floridastateparks.org/standrews/Events.cfm>  
Date: November 5, 2005
Description: The Friends of St. Andrews, Inc. along with the Ironman North
America Triathlon, Inc. hosts the run portion only of this event within the
boundaries of the park.
Fees: Entry is free the day of the event only to Participates. 
Contact: 850 233-5140

QUIKSILVER KING OF THE PEAK SURF CONTEST 
Sebastian Inlet State Park
<http://www.floridastateparks.org/sebastianinlet/Events.cfm>  
Date: November 5 & 6, 2005, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Description: Professional surfing event with $10,000.00 in prize money.
Fees: Free, normal entrance fees apply
Contact: www.quiksilver.com

2ND ANNUAL WALK THROUGH TIME QUILT SHOW
Dudley Farm Historic State Park
<http://www.floridastateparks.org/dudleyfarm/Events.cfm>  
Date: Saturday, November 5th 2005. 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Description: Walk through time as you view quilts from yesterday through
today. Stop and listen to mini lectures and watch teaching moments as music
from yesterday is played. Hand quilting demonstrations will be given with an
opportunity to try your hand at quilting. 
Dudley family quilts will be featured at the Visitor Center and in the Farm
house. 
Sponsored by the Quilters of Alachua County Day Guild and Dudley Farm's
Domestic Skills Group.
Fees: Regular park entrance fee of $4.00/vehicle.
Contact: For more information call 352-472-1142.

THE BARNACLE - FIREFLY LAWN PARTY
The Barnacle Historic State Park
<http://www.floridastateparks.org/thebarnacle/Events.cfm>  
Date: November 6, 5-7 PM
Description: Join The Barnacle Society for a lovely party at twilight on the
lawn of The Barnacle. Music and refreshments provided. Reservations required.
Please call (305) 442-6866 for information and how to receive an invitation.
Fees: Special event fee. Reservations required.
Contact: (305) 442-6866

CELEBRATE WAKULLA SPRINGS
Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park
<http://www.floridastateparks.org/wakullasprings/Events.cfm>  
Date: Sunday, November 6th, 3:30 p.m.
Description: Come experience award winning musicians and photography on the
lawn of the historic Wakulla Springs Lodge. Florida Fold Heritage Singer
Jeanie Fitchen, Florida's Environmental Troubadours Dale Crider & Carrie
Hamby Renowned Florida Nature Photographer John Moran will share their songs
and images. Velma Frye will perform a interactive ceremony blessing the
spring. The event is sponsored by Friends of Wakulla Springs and Heart of the
Earth. Proceeds will be used for education, outreach and protection of the
spring. Children will be entertained by Rodger 'Safari Man' Tripp. Heavy hors
d'oeuvres will be prepared by Wakulla Springs Executive Chef. Bring a blanket
or chair.
Fees: $25.00 per person (Chldren under 12 free)
Contact: 850-224-5950

ARTS YBOR - WHERE HISTORY MEETS THE ARTS
Ybor City Museum State Park
<http://www.floridastateparks.org/Yborcity/Events.cfm>  
Date: Wed - Nov 9 and Dec 14, 2005
6 - 9:00 PM
Description: Ybor City's galleries, boutiques and restaurants participate in
the inaugural Ybor gallery night. Special shows, artist's receptions and
musical performances take place at Arnold Martinez Gallery, Brad Cooper
Gallery, Hoffman-Porges Gallery, Hillsborough Community College-Ybor Art
Gallery, Mermaid's Slipper, the city's Ybor Art Studio in Centennial Park,
and HandMade in Florida Craft Gallery. The Ybor City State Museum and the
Columbia Restaurant Centennial Museum will also be open. Visitors may park
for free in the Palm Avenue and Centro Ybor parking garages using Arts Ybor
passes available at the participating businesses. For more information and a
map of participating businesses, go to the Visitor Information Center at 1600
E. 8th Ave. or call 813-248-3712, ext.1.
Fees: Free to the public
Contact: Contact the park at: 813-247-6323 

CRAZY WORLD OF CYPRESS HAY RIDE
St. Sebastian River Preserve State Park
<http://www.floridastateparks.org/stsebastian/Events.cfm>  
Date: Thursday, November 10, 2005, 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Description: Ride on a tractor-pulled hay ride to discover the unique world
of cypress trees as they struggle to survive in swamps and harsh conditions.
No pets, please. 
Fees: Free adminission, but there will be a fee for the tour.
Contact: For reservations please call 321.953.5004.

ALAFIA FAT TIRE FESTIVAL 
Alafia River State Park
<http://www.floridastateparks.org/alafiariver/Events.cfm>  
Date: November 11-13, 2005 
Description: Join the SWAMP Mountain Bike Club for 2-days of off-road
adventure at Alafia River State Park and Balm Boyette Scrub Nature Preserve.
Festival activities and amenities will include: guided rides for all skill
levels, beverage and snacks available on all rides, breakfast, lunch & dinner
on Saturday, breakfast on Sunday, camping (two nights) adjacent to the event
headquarters, local bike shop displays and bike mechanic services, factory
reps with demo bikes, event SWAG, live musical entertainment on Friday &
Saturday night, night ride (Friday). An entry pass will be provided to
pre-registered guests prior to the event. Registration will be limited to the
first 275 applicants. Camp sites are available to the first 175 requests. For
additional information please log on to Swamp Club <http://www.swampclub.org>
or call the SWAMP Hotline at 813-689-5109. 
Fees: For additional information please log on to SwampClub.org
Contact: 813-672-5320

SUWANNEE DULCIMER RETREAT
Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park
<http://www.floridastateparks.org/stephenfoster/Events.cfm>  
Date: November 11th and 12th, 2005
Description: 
Friday
Registration Begins at Noon * Group Orientation: 1:00 p.m.
Workshop One: 1:30 p.m. * Workshop Two: 3:00 p.m.
Concert: 7:00 p.m.
Saturday
Workshop Three: 9:00 a.m. * Workshop Four: 10:30 a.m.
Open Jam Sessions: 1:30 p.m.
Workshop Five: 3:15 p.m. * Concert: 7:00 p.m.


Dulcimer Retreat and Workshops
Come enjoy a weekend of music and fun at the Suwannee Dulcimer Retreat on
November 11 & 12, 2005 at the Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park
in historic White Springs, Florida. The weekend offers workshop sessions
taught by foremost mountain & hammer dulcimer players from throughout the
United States. In addition, there will be concerts on Friday and Saturday
evenings at 7:00 pm that will feature your favorite dulcimer players Lois
Hornbostel, Bill Taylor, Susan Boyer Halley, David Beede, Jan Milner, Doug
Felt, Aaron O'Rourke, Walt Michael and Sally Anderson. The entire retreat
costs $65.00, which includes entrance to both Friday and Saturday concerts
and workshops. 

Build a Mountain Dulcimer
North Florida's master dulcimer builder, Jon Williams, will teach a dulcimer
building class the week preceding the Florida Dulcimer Retreat. The class
costs $345.00 which includes instruction, materials and the use of tools. The
dulcimers will be made of solid cherry with a choice of tone woods for the
tops. You can build an instrument to play at the retreat. The class begins on
Sunday, November 6, 2005 at 10:00 a.m. and runs through Friday, November 11,
2005. For more information call Jon Williams at: 386-454-4999. 

Fees: Workshop fees apply.
Contact: For information call Jon Williams 386-454-4999.

HIGHLANDS ART LEAGE FINE ARTS & CRAFTS FESTIVAL
Highlands Hammock State Park
<http://www.floridastateparks.org/highlandshammock/Events.cfm>  
Date: Friday - Nov 11 and Sat - Nov 12
9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Description: Your invited to the 39th Annual Highlands Art Leage Fine Arts &
Crafts Festival. Founded in 1966 the Highlands Arts & Crafts Festival is a
free, outdoor celebration of the arts. There is something for all tastes and
ages at this downtown event. The day is filled with continuous music, good
food and artists booths lining our charming circle park and downtown streets
of historic downtown Sebring. 
Fees: Free access to the public. Various fees apply to the different venues.
Contact: Contact the League at: 863.385.5312

EXPERIENCE OLD FLORIDA HIKE
St. Sebastian River Preserve State Park
<http://www.floridastateparks.org/stsebastian/Events.cfm>  
Date: Saturday, November 12, 2005, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Description: Join a Florida Master Naturalist on a 2-mile hike through
vanishing Florida ecosystems. No pets, please
Fees: Free admission but there will be a fee for tour. 
Contact: For Reservations, please call 772.589.5050.

CREATUREFEST
Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park
<http://www.floridastateparks.org/wakullasprings/Events.cfm>  
Date: Saturday, November 12th, 7:00 p.m.
Description: Come sit under the stars and watch the classic horror film
"Creature From the Black Lagoon" on a large screen. The under water scenes
from the movie were filmed at Wakulla Springs over fifty years ago. "Movie
Food" will be available at the nearby concession stand. Another classic movie
"Invasion of the Body Snatchers" will also be shown. The event is sponsored
by the Friends of Wakulla Springs and the Tallahassee Film Society.
Fees: $5.00 per person--$15 per carload
Contact: 850-224-5950

CAMELLIAS IN THE GARDEN: DESIGN, PLANTING, & CARE
Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park
<http://www.floridastateparks.org/maclaygardens/Events.cfm>  
Date: Saturday, November 12th @ 11:00 a.m.
Description: Enjoy an interesting and informative workshop on Camellias. A
tour of Maclay Gardens concludes the program.
Fees: Park entrance fee only
Contact: Bea Cotellis (850)922-2459

GET HOOKED ON FISHING
St. Sebastian River Preserve State Park
<http://www.floridastateparks.org/stsebastian/Events.cfm>  
Date: November 12, 2005, 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. 
Description: Join Park Manager, Dustin DeVos, a 25-year professional angler
and television host, as he shares his knowledge of saltwater to freshwater
fishing.
Fees: $4 per person, kids under 12 free
Contact: joy.coll at dep.state.fl.us

MOONLIT WALK ON THE WILDSIDE AT TOSOHATCHEE
William Beardall Tosohatchee State Reserve
<http://www.floridastateparks.org/tosohatchee/Events.cfm>  
Date: November 12, 2005, 5:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m.
Description: Come out to Tosohatchee for a rare opportunity to experience the
nocturnal natural world under the full moonlight. This ranger-led walk is
suitable for all age groups. Appropriate hiking gear, insect repellant and
water are recommended. Pre-registration is required as this tour is limited
to 50 people. Participants should meet at the parks honor fee station. To
make your visit even more adventurous, register to camp in one of the
primitive (tent only) campsites. Cost for camping is $4.00 per person per
night. Reservations are required at least two weeks in advance and space is
limited. To register for this special event or to make camping reservations,
please call the reserve office.
Fees: $3.00 per vehicle entrance fee 
Contact: Contact park for more information.

OCALI COUNTRY DAYS
Silver River State Park
<http://www.floridastateparks.org/silverriver/Events.cfm>  
Date: November 12 & 13, 2005
Description: This annual weekend event is one of Ocala's most popular. Put on
by the Marion County School Board, it is the annual fundraiser that keeps the
Silver River Museum & Education Center able to continue the educational
committment to the youngsters of the county. Presentations and displays
center around Central Florida at the turn of the century. (Not THIS century,
but last!) This is a great family event with demonstrations and artisans, and
lots of fun for the kids.
Fees: Park entry fee waived; $4.00 per person for event.
Contact: deborah.wilson at dep.state.fl.us

MYAKKA CANOE & KAYAK RACE
Myakka River State Park
<http://www.floridastateparks.org/myakkariver/Events.cfm>  
Date: Saturday - Nov 12, 2005
Distance Race @ 9 AM, Short Race @ 9:15 AM
Description: 100% of the proceeds go towards resource management and to help
restore the globally imperiled Florida Dry Prairie habitat and to preserve
the Wild & Scenic Myakka River.
Race-day registration and packet pick-up from 8 - 8:50 AM at the South
Pavilion. Entrants can enjoy fruit, juice, coffee and water and browse the
vendor tents before and after the event. RACE LIMITED TO 100 ENTRANTS.

Mail entry and acknowledgement form with check payable to:
Friends of Myakka River, Inc.
Attn: Canoe and Kayak Race
13207 State Road 72, Sarasota, FL 34241
941-361-6512

Kayak Raffle runs from July 1, 2005 to November 12, 2005. Winner will be
drawn and announced November 12th at the 2nd Annual Myakka River Canoe and
Kayak Race. You need not be present to win. See the kayak (12 foot Pungo 120
Duralite) and buy your tickets at Myakka River State Park Ranger Station or
at Economy Tackle/Dolphin Dive. Raffle tickets - $5.00. 100% proceeds from
this raffle go to habitat restoration at Myakka River State Park. 
Fees: Pre-registration by 10/15/05 $30.00 (guarantees correct t-shirt size).
After 10/15/05 - $35.00. Includes free entry to Myakka River State Park day
of race.
Contact: Friends of Myakka River, Inc. - 941-361-6512

WWII HISTORY IN WALTON COUNTY
Topsail Hill Preserve State Park
<http://www.floridastateparks.org/topsailhill/Events.cfm>  
Date: Saturday, November 12th at 9:00 AM
Description: As the face of modern war shifts from relying on ground troops
to launching missiles, learn about the history of missile development right
here in Walton County. Join Park Ranger Curt Moore as he presents his slide
show of the fascinating history that took place on Topsail Hill Preserve
State Park. Park at the Day-Use area on Hwy 30A and take a short walk with
park staff to the clubhouse.
Fees: Park entrance fee
Contact: NA

COCONUT GROVE'S MAD HATTERS ART FESTIVAL
The Barnacle Historic State Park
<http://www.floridastateparks.org/thebarnacle/Events.cfm>  
Date: November 12 & 13, 11 AM - 5 PM
Description: The Mad Hatters Art Festival will debut along Coconut Grove's
tree-lined sidewalks, as well as in delightful nooks and crannies of the
center Grove and on the grounds of The Barnacle Historic State Park. A total
of thirty to fifty visual artists can be found throughout the Grove as well
as acoustic musicians, prizes, contests, activities for children, shopping
and dining deals, and lots of good old-fashioned fun. The Barnacle joins the
Grove Merchants Group, Inc. in cooperation with the signature arts festivals
and events of Coconut Grove, artist organizations, the Chamber of Commerce,
and the City of Miami and The Coconut Grove Business Improvement Committee to
help make this event possible. 
Fees: Free with regular $1 per person park admission.
Contact: (305) 442-6866

HISTORY OF THE AMERICAN SOLDIER
Fort Clinch State Park
<http://www.floridastateparks.org/fortclinch/Events.cfm>  
Date: Saturday, November 12, 2005.
Description: After hours program saluting Veterans. This is a timeline event
with men portraying soldiers from each major military conflict in U. S.
history. 
Sorry, no pets are allowed at this event. 
Fees: FREE with the admission of one canned food item. 
Contact: For more information call 904-277-7233.

ANNUAL GAMBLE PLANTATION CAR & TRUCK SHOW
Gamble Plantation Historic State Park
<http://www.floridastateparks.org/gambleplantation/Events.cfm>  
Date: Saturday - Nov 12
9 AM - 4 PM
Description: Join us for our annual Car and Truck Show hosted by the Manatee
Classic Cruisers Club. This event has grown each year with over 250 vehicles
last year. A variety of classic, custom, and restored autos and trucks are on
display for all to enjoy. Food will be available. Admission into event is
free; mansion tours available at regular tour price.
Fees: Admission is free for the event
Contact: Contact the Park at: (941) 723-4536

3RD ANNUAL CORAL CREEK - CAPE HAZE ESTUARY PADDLE
Charlotte Harbor
<http://www.floridastateparks.org/charlotteharbor/Events.cfm>  
Date: Sunday, November 13 (Alternate date in the event of bad weather is
Sunday, November 20.)
Launch 8:00 AM and return by 12:30 PM
Description: Join the Friends of the Charlotte Harbor Aquatic Preserves on
their annual canoe/kayak paddle at Cape Haze in celebration of National
Estuary Day. Explore the East Branch of Coral Creek or the shallow mangrove
shorelines of Gasparilla Sound and Cape Haze Aquatic Preserves. Highlights
include seagrass beds, oyster bar communities, and the opportunity to view
our magnificent coastal birds. Advance registration is required.
Fees: Paddle fee is $20 per adult; children under 16 are free, but must be
accompanied by an adult in a double kayak. 
Contact: Contact: 941-575-5861

EXPERIENCE OLD FLORIDA HIKE
St. Sebastian River Preserve State Park
<http://www.floridastateparks.org/stsebastian/Events.cfm>  
Date: Thursday. November 17, 2005, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Description: Join a Florida Master Naturalist on a 2-mile hike through
vanishing Florida ecosystems. No pets, please.
Fees: Free admission but there will be a fee for the tour.
Contact: For Reservations, please call 772.589.5050.

SWAMP TROMP: GET WET AND WILD
St. Sebastian River Preserve State Park
<http://www.floridastateparks.org/stsebastian/Events.cfm>  
Date: Friday, November 18, 2005, 9:00 a.m. - 11:30 p.m.
Description: Hike through a cypress strand swamp and into the center of a
cypress dome. Expect water to be from 1 to 2 feet deep. Bring a dry change of
clothes, shoes and socks, including underwear. Discover the way old Florida
used to be and learn how vanishing wetlands impact your life. No pets,
please. 
Fees: Free admission, but there will be a fee for the tour.
Contact: For reservations please call 321.953.5004.

BARNACLE UNDER MOONLIGHT - FOUR SHILLINGS SHORT
The Barnacle Historic State Park
<http://www.floridastateparks.org/thebarnacle/Events.cfm>  
Date: November 18, 6-9 PM
Description: This month concert features Celtic music under the moonlit skies
of South Florida. Bring a blanket or lawn chair. Picnics and children
welcome. No pets. No alcohol.
Fees: $5.00 - 10 years and older
Contact: (305) 442-6866

TWILIGHT CRUISE AND DINNER
Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park
<http://www.floridastateparks.org/wakullasprings/Events.cfm>  
Date: Saturday, November 19th 5:30 p.m.
Description: Escape the Tallahassee crowds with a romantic evening cruise
down the scenic Wakulla River followed by a delectable dinner at the historic
Wakulla Springs Lodge.
Fees: $28.00 per person--Reservations required
Contact: (850)224-5950

KORESHAN STATE HISTORIC SITE THEATER FESTIVAL
Koreshan State Historic Site
<http://www.floridastateparks.org/koreshan/Events.cfm>  
Date: Saturday, November 19 - Noon until Sunset 
Description: Theater on the Green - Family entertainment featuring
professional and amateur local theater groups. Lawn seating - bring chairs &
blankets. Tickets available at the Ranger Station. 
Fees: Family - Parent/Guardian w/children - $25.00
Adult - $10.00 - children under 12 - $5.00 
Contact: Call the park at: (239) 992 - 0311 

7TH ANNUAL TAMPA CIGAR HERITAGE FESTIVAL
Ybor City Museum State Park
<http://www.floridastateparks.org/Yborcity/Events.cfm>  
Date: Saturday - November 19, 2005
10:00 AM - 6:00PM
Description: The 2005 Tampa Cigar Heritage Festival returns, continuing a
Tampa tradition. Come join the fun and ambience of Ybor City for a day of
activities celebrating the rich cigar heritage that once made Ybor City the
"cigar capital of the world". Join thousands of cigar enthusiasts at the 7th
annual festival featuring cigar vendors and cigar related items, a VIP
experience in the museum courtyard, live entertainment, a sports pavilion,
and activities at the Ybor City Museum State Park, including cigar rolling
demonstrations, guided tours, family-focused entertainment and food. This
community festival is free, but we ask for a suggested donation. 
Fees: Free to the public
Contact: Contact the Park at: 813-247-6323

X-COUNTRY MARATHON, HALF-MARATHON & 5K 
Alafia River State Park
<http://www.floridastateparks.org/alafiariver/Events.cfm>  
Date: November 19, 2005 - 7:30 a.m
Description: Enjoy the rolling hills and tall grasses of Alafia River State
Park as you race on the wide open trails. This off-road race comes just
before the Florida marathon season. Try the full marathon or sample the
Half-Marathon or 5K courses. Come run with us! For additional information
please log on to Tampa Races <http://www.tamparaces.com> 
Fees: For additional information please log on to www.tamparaces.com.
Contact: 813-672-5320

EAST COAST SURFING ASSOCIATION
Fort Pierce Inlet State Park
<http://www.floridastateparks.org/fortpierceinlet/Events.cfm>  
Date: November 20, 8:00 am

Description: Join us for a fun day at the beach and get a chance to view
surfers from Florida and other states in action, competing for valuable
championship points. The events are sponsored by the East Coast Surfing
Association. Dates are subject to change due to wave or weather conditions.
No pets are allowed on the beach. 
Fees: Park entrance fee.
Contact: (772) 468-3985

ANNUAL 5K TURKEY TROT
Highlands Hammock State Park
<http://www.floridastateparks.org/highlandshammock/Events.cfm>  
Date: Thursday November 24, 2005 (Thanksgiving Morning)
Race begins promptly at 8:00 a.m. (participants should arrive by 7:30 a.m.
for same-day registration)
Description: Pre-registration is recommended! This run/walk is a fund-raiser
hosted by the Friends of Highlands Hammock and is held on the park's "loop
drive." This paved one-way drive travels under the dense hardwood hammock.
Expect full shade and cool temperatures. (Entry donation varies with choice
of commemorative T-shirt.) 
Fees: Park entrance is free for race day participants
Contact: Contact the park at (863) 386-6099 

PADDLE-THON
Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park
<http://www.floridastateparks.org/werner-boyce/Events.cfm>  
Date: November 26th starting at 8am
Description: We tried this earlier in the year but the weather wasn't good.
We are going to try again for November 26th starting at 8am. Participants
should contact the park at (727) 816-1890 for registration and directions to
launching area. There is no entrance fee however, the CSO has event t-shirts
available for any donations of $10.00 or more. We are asking participants to
try and get sponsor/donations from the community for each mile they paddle.
The event is a paddle event (kayaks/canoes) that will go from Werner-Boyce
Salt Springs State Park in Port Richey to Honeymoon Island State Park In
Dunedin. Twenty miles total or you can pull out at 3 miles or 10 miles. All
proceeds from this event will go through the park's CSO to provide signage,
maps, primitive camp areas, and brochures for the 20 plus miles of
canoe/kayak trails planned for the park. 
Fees: There is no entrance fee.
Contact: Call the park at (727) 816-1890

THE ENDANGERED BEACH MOUSE
Topsail Hill Preserve State Park
<http://www.floridastateparks.org/topsailhill/Events.cfm>  
Date: Saturday, November 26th, 9:00 AM
Description: It's a new moon within the Topsail Dunes and the Beach Mice are
scurrying about. Come and be apart of this Beach Mouse interpretive program
and learn about their habitat and behavior. Park at the Day-Use area on Hwy
30A and take a short walk with park staff to the clubhouse. 
Fees: Fee with park admission fee
Contact: NA

THANKSGIVING CONCERT
Manatee Springs State Park
<http://www.floridastateparks.org/manateesprings/Events.cfm>  
Date: Sat. Nov 26th 2005
Description: Free with park admission. Great music in a great setting. Bring
the family and enjoy local musicians in a family setting. Bring a lunch and
enjoy the day.
Fees: Admission Fee $1.00 per person. Events are free with park admission
unless otherwise indicated. 
Contact: (352) 493-6072


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