Council on Culture & Arts

Today, Tallahassee commemorates Emancipation Day. On May 20, 1865, General Edward M. McCook declared the Emancipation Proclamation in effect from the steps of the Knott House in downtown Tallahassee, and newly freed citizens gathered at Bull`s Pond (now Lake Ella) in joyful celebration.

This important tradition continues to this day at the Knott House at 11:30 a.m. for a special program and reading of the Emancipation Proclamation, followed by a free lunch and activities in Lewis Park. All are welcome.

For more info, visit 20thOfMay.com.

🐾 Big news for wildlife conservation in Tallahassee! The Tallahassee Museum has officially welcomed four newborn endangered red wolf puppies, born to mother Rue and father Ace.

Red wolves are considered the most endangered canid in the world, with fewer than 300 individuals in existence today. This new litter marks a massive milestone in the Tallahassee Museum’s nearly four-decade commitment to the American Red Wolf SAFE Project, helping to bring this critical species back from the brink of extinction.

To ensure the pups grow up healthy and retain the natural wild instincts needed for potential future release, the museum`s animal care team is keeping a safe distance and monitoring the den entirely via cameras.

While the puppies will remain tucked away in their den, visitors can look forward to seeing them explore the outdoor habitat later this summer.

Head to the link in our bio to read the full story behind this incredible local milestone and learn more about the science of saving the red wolf.

Head to the steps of the Knott House Museum this May 20th to commemorate Emancipation Day. This annual community tradition features musical performances, keynote speakers, and a powerful reading of the Emancipation Proclamation starting at 11:30 AM in Lewis Park.

Plan your day at 20thOfMay.com.

Emancipation was proclaimed in Tallahassee on May 20, 1865, eleven days after the end of the American Civil War and two years after President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation freed those enslaved in Southern states. The Proclamation was read by Union General Edward M. McCook from the steps of the Knott House, effectively ending slavery in the state of Florida. For this reason, Emancipation Day is traditionally celebrated on May 20 in Florida.

Bradley’s Country Store is a living piece of history, remaining virtually unchanged since it opened in 1927. Located on a scenic canopy road just north of Tallahassee, the store is a multi-generation family business known for its traditional smoked sausage and coarse-ground grits.

The atmosphere is defined by the original wood-plank floors, shelves stocked with specialty gifts, and the sprawling oaks that shade the front porch. It is a grounded, essential stop for anyone exploring Tallahassee.

📍 Location: 10655 Centerville Road
🌭 Signature Item: Bradley’s Country Smoked Sausage (mild, medium, or hot)
🍦 The Experience: Grab lunch and a cold soda and enjoy the rockers on the front porch.
🏺 History: Listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

May is National Bike Month, and we`re inviting you to discover a side of Florida that might surprise you. Not all of Florida is flat! Tallahassee`s rolling hills and diverse terrain make it a premier destination for cyclists of all levels. Whether you`re looking to shred singletrack through pine forests, tackle technical descents, or cruise flowing trails with plenty of berms and switchbacks, our mountain biking scene delivers the kind of elevation and excitement you won`t find elsewhere in the Sunshine State.

Explore Tallahassee`s Trails ⤵️
🔗visittallahassee.com/blog/tallahassee-mountain-biking-trails/ (link in bio)