News Summary
Tallahassee is lively this summer with a range of events, including music festivals, art receptions, and community celebrations. Key highlights include the 47th Annual Swamp Stomp music festival, Infinity Con, and local band performances. While the city enjoys these festivities, the Leon County Schools faces a budget deficit, prompting concerns over educational staffing. The summer offers a mix of entertainment and community engagement opportunities, making it an exciting time for residents.
TALLAHASSEE – This summer season, the city of Tallahassee is bursting with life, as various entertainment events replace the typical mid-summer lull. From music festivals to local celebrations and art showcases, there is something for everyone to enjoy throughout the summer months.
The 47th Annual Swamp Stomp music festival will kick off on Saturday, July 12, from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Tallahassee Museum. Celebrating Americana, bluegrass, and folk music, the festival offers a variety of performances from well-known local musicians, including Frank Douglas, Bruce Graybeal, and Del Suggs, who will close out the event at 8 p.m. Ticket prices for the Swamp Stomp are set at $15.50 for adults, $11 for children, while members can attend for free.
On the evening prior, the House of Music Tallahassee will host blues musician Selwyn Birchwood at 8 p.m. on July 11. Tickets for this performance are priced at $25 in advance, $30 on the day of the show, and $35 for front section seating. Birchwood’s newest side project features Grammy-winning artist Bobby Rush, drawing an audience eager to experience live blues music.
For fans of science fiction and gaming, Infinity Con will be held at the Tucker Civic Center on July 12, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and July 13, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets for this two-day event are available for $32 for adults and $25 for children. Attendees can look forward to a selection of artists, writers, and cosplay activities, all arranged within themed zones, including the exciting area known as The Forge.
Alongside these major attractions, live performances continue to resonate in the local music scene. The Rhythm Remedy band will perform at the Sound Bar on Friday, July 11, starting at 7:30 p.m., with a cover charge of $10. Additionally, the Boom Chick Ramblers will play at The Bar on Saturday, July 12, while ElevenOFive takes the stage at the Sound Bar on Sunday, July 13.
Local venues like Blue Tavern will also participate in the vibrant summer activities by hosting various events, including happy hour performances and a Songwriters in the Round event on July 11, featuring talents such as Tiffany Hewitt-Brown. Additionally, the Tallahassee Swing Band will celebrate its 36th anniversary with a dance event at the American Legion on July 15, offering free dance lessons starting at 6:30 p.m.
Those interested in dance and film can look forward to a variety of other events, such as the Contra Dance featuring Angela DeCarlis & the Greasy String Band, as well as screenings of the film Block Pass at the Challenger Learning Center IMAX.
The Venvi Art Gallery is set to hold an art reception for its new exhibit, “Painters do Sculpture,” on July 11 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., showcasing the works of artists Ray Burggraf and Mark Messersmith. Additionally, community celebrations, including honoring the legacy of John Gorrie with a “Celebration of Ice!” performance and the 2nd Saturday Old Time Jam, will occur over the weekend.
While the community is gearing up for these summer festivities, Tallahassee’s educational sector is facing serious financial challenges. The Leon County Schools district is anticipating a budget deficit of $12.5 million for the upcoming school year, leading to the proposed elimination of 50 to 60 positions. Superintendent Rocky Hanna has expressed concern over the effect of federal funding freezes and declining student enrollment on the district’s finances. Despite these challenges, the district aims to prioritize student education, which may result in cuts to non-classroom staff to safeguard classroom personnel.
In the midst of economic constraints, LCTA President Scott Mazur has underscored the importance of focusing on teachers and educators during this difficult period. This highlights the broader contemporary issues facing the community while exciting entertainment opportunities abound.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Controversy Erupts Over Trump Appointee’s Legal Allegations
A New Green Revolution: Communities Embracing Urban Gardening
Tallahassee to Host Expanded Infinity Con
Domi Station Revamps Summer Incubation Program
Russia’s Largest Attack on Ukraine Hits Hard
Shooting at Lake City Block Party Leaves Two Injured
Leon County Reports Improved Waste Collection Service
Tallahassee Remembers Officer Ernest Kearns Ponce de Leon
Catastrophic Flooding in Texas Claims Over 100 Lives
Texas Faces Tragedy After Devastating Flash Floods
Additional Resources
- Tallahassee.com: Top 5 Fun Things to Do This Weekend
- Tallahassee.com: Essential Summer Calendar
- WALB: Artists Flock to Tallahassee Art Festival
- WJHG: Leon County Schools Cuts Staff
- MySuncoast: Tragic Accident in Tallahassee
- Wikipedia: Tallahassee
- Google Search: Events in Tallahassee
- Google Scholar: Tallahassee events
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tallahassee
- Google News: Tallahassee news
