Tallahassee, Florida, is home to events all year around, but the spring and fall seasons in particular are packed with things for families to do, see and experience. From the competition of the Red Hills Horse Trials and the African Music and Dance concert early in the year to the Exotic Bird Fair and November's North Florida Fair, families will find a variety of activities in this northern Florida city.
April in Florida is the time for the Tallahassee Scottish Highland Games and Celtic Festival, organized by the Scottish Games Council. Even if you don't share the heritage, you can share the excitement of the games. Athletes compete in events such as the caber toss, the hammer throw and the stone throw. Pipe bands play at parades held throughout the event. Demonstrations include herding by sheep dogs and ax throwing. Musicians take the stage, offering traditional songs, vocals and instruments. Vendors provide souvenirs, food, clothing, jewelry and photos related to the Scottish and Celtic theme. One ticket price covers a full day of events, and younger children enjoy free admission.
North Florida Fairgrounds
441 Paul Russell Road
Tallahassee, FL 32305
tallahasseehighlandgames.com
The Tallahassee Festival of Books & Writers Conference may sound like an adults-only affair, but the program is tailored in part to children's interests. The festival offers a puppet show and a Children's Storyfest. Tweens may appreciate the Poetryfest and the street magicians. Panel discussions are held, and visiting authors read and sign books. Attendees can purchase new and used books. The festival is free, but a registration fee is charged to attend the conference, which includes sessions on issues and ideas related to professional writing. Registration forms are available at the Tallahassee Writers Association website.
Monroe Street Conference Center
2714 Graves Road
Tallahassee, FL 32303
twaonline.org
At the end of October, the Tallahassee Museum conducts its annual Halloween Howl. Over a period of two days, the museum becomes a haunted haven for children of all ages. Both scary and not-so-spooky trails are designed to meet the needs of different age groups. Wander the Monster Maze, or visit Sleepy Hollow Farm. Come dressed up, and enter the costume contest. The event includes games, contests and music performances. Members receive reduced admission, and family memberships are available. Member benefits include passes to the museum and free access to other museum events.
Tallahassee Museum
3945 Museum Drive
Tallahassee, FL 32310
850-575-8684
tallahasseemuseum.org