National Florida Day

National Florida Day is an annual state recognition day celebrated on January 25. The holiday serves as a dedicated time to honor the history, unique culture, and natural beauty of the 27th state to join the United States.

History of National Florida Day

National Florida Day was established in 2017 as part of a broader initiative to recognize each state in the order of its admission to the Union. While Florida officially became a state on March 3, 1845, the late January date was chosen for this specific modern observance. The history of the region predates statehood by centuries, beginning with indigenous tribes like the Calusa and Timucua who inhabited the peninsula for thousands of years. In 1513, Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León landed on the eastern coast and named the territory “La Florida,” meaning “land of flowers,” in honor of the lush landscape and the Easter season.

Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, Florida was a site of significant colonial struggle, changing hands between Spain, Great Britain, and France. St. Augustine, founded by the Spanish in 1565, remains the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the continental United States. After years as a territory, Florida was finally admitted to the Union during the administration of President John Tyler. The state later became a global leader in the aerospace industry, hosting the first moon landing launch at Cape Canaveral in 1969, which forever linked Florida’s identity to scientific discovery.

Why is National Florida Day important?

This day is significant because it highlights the immense biodiversity and environmental importance of the Sunshine State. Florida is the only place on Earth where alligators and crocodiles coexist in the same ecosystem, specifically within the Everglades. The state’s 663 miles of beaches and over 175 state parks provide essential habitats for rare species like the Florida panther and West Indian manatees. Observing this day encourages the conservation of these delicate coral reefs and wetlands that protect the coast from storms.

The holiday also recognizes Florida’s role as a major economic driver for the country. It produces over 70% of the United States’ supply of oranges and is a top producer of grapefruit and strawberries. Culturally, Florida serves as a melting pot of Latin American, Caribbean, and Southern influences, reflected in its world-renowned culinary scene and art festivals. By celebrating National Florida Day, citizens acknowledge the state’s transition from an agricultural frontier to a global destination for tourism, space exploration, and diverse cultural heritage.

• It commemorates the rich 400-year history of the oldest city in America
• It highlights the state’s status as a leader in global space exploration
• It celebrates the unique wildlife found only in the Florida Everglades
• It recognizes the agricultural importance of the citrus and strawberry industries
• It promotes the preservation of the longest coastline in the continental U.S.

How to Celebrate National Florida Day

One of the most popular ways to celebrate is to enjoy the state’s famous agricultural products. Many people mark the day by preparing a fresh key lime pie—the official state pie—or a bowl of strawberry shortcake, which is the official state dessert. Because of the warm January weather, hitting the beach for a picnic or a swim is a common tradition for residents. Visiting a local orange grove or a farmers’ market to sample fresh juice allows participants to support the local farmers who sustain the state’s economy.

Outdoor enthusiasts often spend the day exploring one of Florida’s many natural wonders, such as the springs in Central Florida or the hiking trails in the northern Panhandle. In historic cities like St. Augustine or Pensacola, museums often hold special exhibits to showcase colonial-era artifacts and stories of early settlers. On social media, fans of the state share “fun facts” and photos of vibrant sunsets or tropical landscapes using the hashtag #NationalFloridaDay. It is a day to appreciate the “Sunshine State” lifestyle, whether you are a lifelong resident or a winter visitor.

• Enjoy a slice of key lime pie or strawberry shortcake
• Visit a Florida state park to spot manatees or alligators
• Explore the historic streets and colonial architecture of St. Augustine
• Drink a glass of fresh-squeezed Florida orange juice
• Take a trip to a local beach to enjoy the Gulf or Atlantic waters

National Florida Day Dates Table