•  Vendor Registration is open for all events

OCTOBER 2024

Saturday, Oct. 12, 2024, Scarecrow Festival 9 am - 4 pm

Experience the most extraordinary Fall Festival of the year! Pumpkin Patch, Pumpkin Painting, Build Your Own Scarecrow, Pony Rides, Face Painting, Pharaohs Wildlife Kingdom, Costume Contest, Children’s Games with prizes, Children’s make and take Arts and Crafts, Live Entertainment, Vendors, Food Trucks, Traditional Craft Demonstrations, Blacksmith, Model Trains, Gigi the Stiltwalking Scarecrow (formerly a Ringling Brother's Clown), photo ops, ZHS FFA Petting Zoo, Pasco Sheriff’s Mounted Posse, all museum buildings open and more.

Entertainment Schedule:

Jacob and Joshua Brown (Sons of the River Junction Band) 9 am - 3 pm, live music- at the Gazebo in front of yellow 2 story house

Dancing Scarecrows 10 am &12 noon - at the Gazebo in front of yellow 2 story house

Costume Contest 10:45 am and 1:45 pm. All age groups at both times:Under 5 • 5-12 years • 13 years and up Prizes will be awarded at the Gazebo in front of the yellow 2 story house 

Sphere's Bubble Show : 11 am and 1 pm As seen on America's Got Talent - in front of the Citrus Packing House (Northwest corner of the museum).

Paw Patrol  (Chase and Marshall characters) 2 - 3 pm at the Train Depot - Take photos, meet and greet

Museum Concessions will offer burgers, hot dogs,grilled chicken, desserts, ice cream  and more! Cash Only

Visit the DAR Booth (Daughters of the American Revolution) They will be giving away Patriotic Bags, Photos with a Patriotic Scarecrow, 250 Word Search, Anerica 250 Ornament Kit and more! Learn about the American Revolution and America's 250th Birthday! They will be located next to the Yellow 2-story house.

Mabel Jordan Barn Children’s Games with prizes, Children’s make and take Arts and Crafts, (starting at 50 cents). They will also be giving out free Trick or Treat Bags, while supplies last). Mabel Jordan Barn is located behind the yellow 2 - story house.

$10 adults, $5 students, under 5 free. Tickets at the Gate only..Parking is free, parking donations appreciated, but not required.

Activities are a nominal fee, live entertainment and shows are included in admission.
Many activities and food are cash only.

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Saturday October 19, 2024, Mark Johnson, Emory Lester and Ken Taylor in Concert, 5 - 8 pm

GET YOUR TICKETS HERE

Get ready for a night of incredible music with Mark Johnson, Emory Lester, and Ken Taylor at the Pioneer Florida Museum & Village. These talented musicians are sure to put on a show you won't forget! Join us for a night of foot-tapping tunes and good vibes. Don't miss out on this one-of-a-kind outdoor concert experience! This event is a fundraiser for the Pioneer Florida Museum a 501(c)3 non-profit.

Mark and Emory's ‘Acoustic Rising’ was nominated for Instrumental Album of the Year by the International Bluegrass Music Assoc. in 2007. Mark and Emory performed on the Late Show with David Letterman and the Grand Old Opry! Emory has released nine solo albums. They both recently returned from a sold-out European tour. If you're a fan of bluegrass or acoustic music, you can't miss the chance to see these three incredible musicians perform together.

Ken Taylor is a skilled musician proficient in playing upright bass, electric bass, acoustic guitar, and lead and harmony vocals. Ken was a prominent bassist in New England, being a member of various bands including Central Turnpike, The Blackstone Valley Bluegrass Band, and Christmas in New England. He has also performed with other groups and ensembles in different music genres for many years. Since moving to Florida in October 2021, Ken has been actively involved in the music scene in Central Florida, performing with The Backwater Bluegrass Band from Ocala and The Soggy Bottom Bluegrass Bunch out of Brooksville, Fl.

Food and drinks will be available for purchase starting at 5 pm. The Barking Dogs, a local old-time music band, will begin playing at 5 pm as guests arrive, grab their food, and find a seat. Seating is limited, so feel free to bring lawn chairs for your comfort. Free Parking, rain or shine, no pets please.

Pre-sale tickets only. Membership and other museum passes are not valid for this fundraising event.

Ken Taylor, above

David Letterman Video link below.

 https://youtu.be/kCS5uIaTFDg?si=YC_8FqwefKcJUUSN&t=164

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Friday, Oct. 25, 2024, Florida Territory - a turn to the 20th Century Field Trip Day, 9 am - 1 pm

$8 admission for students and chaperones. Parking is free. Concession stand is open for food, drinks, snack, and desserts. Cash Only. This day will consist of self-guided tours for public, private, and home school students. Students pass through a series of living history stations. A living history event depicting Florida history at the turn of the 20th century, including Seminole history

Pre-registration required

Florida Territory Field Trip Day Registration 

Educational Resources for Florida History:

https://www.floridamemory.com/learn/classroom/history-day/

Lesson Plans:

https://www.floridamemory.com/learn/classroom/learning-units/seminoles/lessonplans/

https://www.floridamemory.com/learn/classroom/learning-units/railroads/lessonplans/

Seminoles Next Generation Sunshine State Standards  include, but are not limited to:
SS.4.A.1.1: Analyze primary and secondary resources to identify significant individuals and events throughout Florida history.
SS.4.A.3.10: Identify the causes and effects of the Seminole Wars.
SS.8.A.4.4: Discuss the impact of westward expansion on cultural practices and migration patterns of Native American and African slave populations.
SS.8.A.4.17: Examine key events and peoples in Florida history as each impacts this era of American history.
SS.8.A.4.18: Examine the experiences and perspectives of different ethnic, national, and religious groups in Florida, explaining their contributions to Florida's and America's society and culture during the Territorial Period.

Railroads Change Florida Sunshine State Standards include, but are not limited to:

• SS.4.A.1.1: Analyze primary and secondary resources to identify significant individuals and events throughout Florida history.
• SS.4.A.6.1: Describe the economic development of Florida's major industries.
• SS.4.A.6.3: Describe the contributions of significant individuals to Florida.
  Examples may include, but are not limited to, John Gorrie, Henry Flagler, Henry Plant, Lue Gim Gong, Vicente Martinez Ybor, Julia Tuttle, Mary McLeod Bethune, Thomas Alva Edison, James Weldon Johnson, Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings.
• SS.4.E.1.1: Identify entrepreneurs from various social and ethnic backgrounds who have influenced Florida and local economy.
  Examples are Henry Flagler, Walt Disney, Ed Ball, Alfred Dupont, Julia Tuttle, Vincente Martinez Ybor.
• SS.4.E.1.2: Explain Florida's role in the national and international economy and conditions that attract businesses to the state.
  Examples are tourism, agriculture, phosphate, space industry.

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 Saturday, Oct. 26, 2024, Florida Territory - A Turn to the 20th Century - Living History Event,  10 am - 4 pm

• Saturday event will feature bare handed Alligator handling demonstrations at 11am and 2pm
•  Catch a 16th Century arms exhibition featuring: Armed combat between conquistadors and privateers, the Spanish Tercio in combined arms, demonstration of matchlock muskets and more
•  Experience Seminole artistry and culture presented by members of the Seminole Tribe of Florida, featuring: dugout canoes, bead and bandolier bag work, native flute, Seminole stickball and 20th Century Seminole culture
• Learn about the War of 1812 and how it affected Florida
• Take in history from acclaimed authors, scholars and lecturers such as: Dale Cox, Dr. Annette Fromm and Patsy West

Pharaoh Gayles Video

https://youtu.be/j2qhsw5WTwc?t=107

THE DEMONSTRATION AND HISTORY:

For as long as native Americans have been living in Florida, they have been utilizing alligators for their meat and other body parts. Alligator handling demonstrations at 11am and 2pm

 

$12 adults, $10 seniors or veterans, $6 students, under 5 free, tickets at the Gate only.
Parking is free

“Funding for this program was provided through a grant from the Florida Humanities with funds from the National Endowment for the Humanities. Any views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this event do not necessarily represent those of Florida Humanities or the National Endowment for the Humanities.”

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NOVEMBER 2024

Friday, Nov. 15, 2024, Civil War - Living History Field Trip Day, 9 am - 1 pm

$8 admission for students and chaperones for field trip day. Parking is free.

Concession stand is open for food, drinks, snack, and desserts. Cash Only

This day will consist of self-guided tours for public, private, and home school students.

Students pass through a series of living history stations that reveal different aspects of the Civil War and life during the 1860’s. No battle reenactments on Friday School Field Trip Day. Some of the stations may vary. A complete list will be available the week before the event. The stations are typically some of the following examples:
◾Re-enactors in period dress/uniforms and in character
◾Encampments (Federal-Confederate)
◾Live music demonstrations of time period songs
◾Medical Hospital Units
◾Calvary Units
◾Food preferences and preparation, supplies, daily activities
◾Narrations by re-enactor soldiers about why they fight for the cause
◾Explanations about the different types of cannons and side arms
◾Blacksmith and wood wright demonstrations
◾Museum buildings open with tour guides, including the 1860's Overstreet House
◾Flags of Florida station/speaker

Pre-registration required

Civil War Field Trip Day Registration

Lesson Plans - https://www.floridamemory.com/onlineclassroom/floridacivilwar/lessonplans/

Florida State Standards Addressed by this field trip include, but are not limited to:
SS.4.A.5 - Crisis of the Union: Civil War and Reconstruction in Florida
SS.8.A.5 - Examine the causes, course, and consequence of the Civil War and Reconstruction including its effects on American peoples.
SS.912.A.2 - Understand the causes, course, and consequences of the Civil War and Reconstruction and its effects on the American people.

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Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024 Civil War - Living History Event, 10 am - 4 pm

Battle at 2 pm

Weapons, tactics demonstrations, period camps, living history presentations, blacksmith and carpentry demonstrations, crafters, sutlers, great food, and more!

$12 adults, $10 seniors or veterans, $6 students, under 5 free, tickets at the Gate only.

Parking is free

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DECEMBER 2024

Friday, Dec. 6, 2024, Dade City Christmas Parade, downtown Dade City, 7 pm

Dade City Christmas Parade - downtown Dade City
Parade route is on 7th Street in between MLK Blvd and Church Street.
More information and an application link on https://www.pioneerfloridamuseum.org (by September 30th) Check back here.
Applications will close the Monday before Thanksgiving (NO EXCEPTIONS) or when we reach capacity.
Sponsor opportunities: PioneerFloridaMuseum@gmail.com

PARADE SPECTATOR SAFETY
The most important part of parades is staying safe, creating memories and enjoying family fun. Safety checklist:
 Have a safety plan. Before you head out to the parade, talk to your children about parade safety, stay back off the roads during the parade, away from the floats, watch for vehicles, stay together, don’t fight over candy or beads. Be polite and courteous to other attendees.
 ALWAYS keep track of your children! Be as certain as humanly possible as to where they are and what they are doing. Always emphasize to your children that if they become lost or separated from family members, they can always approach a uniformed police officer for assistance! Point out any police officers to your kids as you make your way to your parade viewing spot. Designate an area where kids/family can meet you if you get separated.
 Plan a buddy system. If you are going to the parade with a large group of people, or you have a large family, set up a buddy check before you leave. Pair off members of the family in groups of two. Make sure there is always an older person with the youngest children. Let family members know that they must stay with their buddy and not separate for any reason.
 Stay charged. Before leaving your house, make sure everyone has charged their phones.
 NEVER attempt to run in front of a float or reach under one in an effort to grab any item, such as beads or candy! NEVER grab on to a float. NEVER get close enough to a float that the crowd may push you either into it or under it! NEVER throw ANY items: toward a float, parade entry, spectators, band or at any of the float riders. NEVER throw items from one side of the street to the next.
 Practice NIGHTTIME SAFETY. Be sure you are lit up. Consider purchasing glowsticks, reflective clothing or flashlights. Having a light to carry or wear may help ensure your kids are seen at night. Cross the roads at the corners or crosswalks. Assume vehicles cannot see you. Use sidewalks whenever possible.
 Please report any suspicious or unsafe activity immediately to the nearest police officer.
 No pets and no smoking please.
 HAVE PATIENCE, the streets will be very busy, especially after the parade. Be prepared to have to wait in line to get out on the road to leave. It seems like a long time, but most of the crowd is out of the area within 30 minutes.

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 Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024, Pioneer Christmas and Vintage Market, 10 am - 4 pm

Discover a treasure trove of unique vendors, offering the perfect Christmas presents for your loved ones. Indulge in delicious treats from our mouthwatering food trucks, while enjoying live entertainment, Pony Rides, Face Painting, Gnome Scavenger Hunt, Children’s Games with prizes, Children’s make and take Arts and Crafts, Traditional Craft Demonstrations, Blacksmith, Model Trains, photo ops, and photos with Santa. Our buildings are beautifully adorned with Christmas decorations. Engage with our knowledgeable docents, dressed in charming time period attire, and try your luck at winning a stunning quilt in our raffle drawing.

$10 adults, $5 students, under 5 free tickets at the Gate only.
Parking is free

 Vendor Registration is open for all events

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JANUARY 2025

Saturday, Jan. 11, 2025, Raising Cane and Moonshine Festival, 10 am - 4 pm

Sugar Cane Syrup and Moonshine Tasting event! Join us for live sugar cane syrup making at our fully operational cane mill. Southern Syrup-Makers Association Syrup Tasting Competition, where the finest syrups will tantalize your taste buds. Taste and vote for your favorite. A captivating presentation by US Sugar, delving into the fascinating world of Florida Sugar Cane. Explore our Moonshine Shed exhibition. Listen intently to local moonshine stories. Savor the flavors of FREE moonshine and rum samples, meticulously crafted by talented local distilleries. Live Entertainment, food and craft vendors, axe throwing, blacksmith demonstrations and more. All museum buildings are open, where history comes alive with every step. Discover the rich heritage of the region and gain a deeper understanding of the pioneers who shaped our community. $10 adults, $5 students, under 5 free tickets at the Gate only. Parking is free

 Vendor Registration is open for all events

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FEBRUARY 2025

Saturday, Feb. 1, 2025, Farm Festival and Quilt Show, 10 am - 4 pm

Join us for the 36th annual Farm Festival and Quilt Show. Southern Draft Horse Associations Draft Horse Pull, starting at the stroke of noon. Witness the sheer power of these magnificent creatures as they compete in two weight classes: Lightweights (3400lbs and under) and Heavyweights. There is also stunning display of local quilts at our Quilt Show. Marvel at the intricate designs and craftsmanship, and if you're feeling lucky, enter your own quilt for a chance to win a ribbon. Live Entertainment, Vendors, Food Trucks, Traditional Craft Demonstrations, Blacksmith, Model Trains, Pasco Sheriff’s Mounted Posse, all museum buildings open and more.
www.pioneerflroidamuseum.org $10 adults, $5 students, under 5 free, tickets at the Gate only. Parking is free, parking donations appreciated, but not required.

Friday, February 28, 2025, Cracker Cowboy - Field Trip Day, 9 am - 1 pm

$8 admission for students and chaperones. Parking is free. Concession stand is open for food, drinks, snack, and desserts. Cash Only. This day will consist of self-guided tours for public, private, and home school students. Students pass through a series of living history stations. A living history event depicting Florida Cracker Cowboys.

Pre-registration required

Cracker Cowboy Field Trip Day Registration

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MARCH 2025

Saturday, March 1, 2025, Cracker Cowboy Day, 10 am - 4 pm

Step right up, folks! Get ready to be transported back in time. Florida's cracker cowboys had a truly remarkable way of herding cattle, using the sound from their trusty whips. Picture this: a 10-12 foot braided leather whip cracking through the air, creating a thunderous sound that could be heard for miles around. It's no wonder these cowboys earned the nickname "crackers." Intrigued? Well, join us on this unforgettable day to learn more! Whip cracking presentation, blacksmith exhibition, heading and heeling roping demonstration, children's roping and a petting zoo. The first 100 children to the petting zoo will get a free cowboy/cowgirl hat. (While supplies last), axe throwing. For those Yellowstone TV fans, take photos with our cardboard cut-out of Rip Wheeler at the Train Station. Cow camps, cowboy music, Cowboy Poetry (very popular), cracker cows, cracker horses, food, wonderful vendors, live entertainment and more.
$10 adults, $5 students, under 5 free tickets at the Gate only.
Parking is free

 Vendor Registration 

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Saturday, March 8, 2025, Cracker Cowboy Dinner, 6 pm - 10 pm

Y'all ready for a good time at the Cracker Cowboy Dinner? Saddle up and join us for a cowboy feast with amazing entertainment. Get ready to dust off your boots, grab your favorite hat and prepare for an unforgettable evening filled with cocktails, live entertainment, dancing, charity auction and a delightful grilled steak or chicken dinner under the twinkling stars. Please join us at the highly anticipated Cracker Cowboy Dinner. Tickets start at $100 per person. Tickets will go on sale Sept. 1, check back here. Sponsor and VIP opportunities: PioneerFloridaMuseum@gmail.com.

We sincerely thank you for considering supporting our cause. By joining us, you will not only be part of an incredible evening, but you will also be contributing to the preservation, education, and celebration of Florida's rich pioneer history. Let's come together and make a difference! Don't miss out on this extraordinary event. Mark your calendars, spread the word, and get ready to have an amazing night.

Membership and other museum passes are not valid for this fundraising event.

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APRIL 2025

Saturday, April 5, 2025, Jelly Bean Fling, 10 am - 4 pm

The Jelly Bean Fling is a spectacular Spring Festival with Pony Rides, Face Painting, Children’s Games with prizes, Children’s make and take Arts and Crafts, Live Entertainment, unique Vendors, Food Trucks, Traditional Craft Demonstrations, Blacksmith, Model Trains, photo ops, FREE photos with the Easter Bunny, and Easter Egg Hunt for children.  All museum buildings are open, where history comes alive with every step.

$10 adults, $5 students, under 5 free. Tickets at the Gate only. Parking is free.

  Vendor Registration 

Friday, April 25, 2025, World War II - Living History Field Trip Day, 9 am - 1 pm

$8 admission for students and chaperones. Parking is free. Concession stand is open for food, drinks, snack, and desserts. Cash Only

This day will consist of self-guided tours for public, private, and home school students. Students pass through a series of living history learning stations.

Pre-registration required 

World War II Field Trip Day Registration

Saturday, April 26, 2025, World War II  - Living History Event, 10 am - 4 pm

Step back into an immersive WWII Homefront experience. More information closer to the event.

$12 adults, $10 seniors or veterans, $6 students, under 5 free, tickets at the Gate only. Parking is free

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Annual Membership Meeting

Monday, September 16, 2024, 6 pm

Main Building at the Pioneer Florida Museum

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