Best Spring Break Activities in Tallahassee
December 10, 2022 Tally Student Survival Parents, Students Social Share
Top Tallahassee Springtime Events
As Florida’s warm winter passes into an even warmer Spring, students and teachers are eager for a break—Spring Break! The beloved week-long break from school originated in Ft. Lauderdale but is now celebrated across the globe.
It’s no secret that Florida is one of the most popular destinations for Spring Break. Lucious beaches, sunny blue skies, and exciting cities like Tallahassee bring visitors from all over each year. Spring Break isn’t just for college kids, either. As students plan a trip with friends or go visit home, university cities like Tallahassee are left with locals and stragglers who want to stay on campus. On the bright side, this means Tallahassee is slightly less congested—which could be more enjoyable for those left during the break.
We’ve compiled a list of upcoming Spring events in and around Tallahassee to make your 2023 Spring Break one to remember. Looking for the best beaches to master that tan? Or maybe you’re more interested in Springtime festivals for the whole family? Whatever you’re into this Spring, follow along our list of Best Spring Break activities in Tallahassee.
First, let’s make it clear when each Tallahassee school has their Spring Break:
Spring Break by University/District
- FSU – March 13-17th, 2023
- FAMU – March 13-17th, 2023
- TCC – March 5-9th, 2023
- Leon County School District – March 13-17th, 2023
Cheer On Your College Sports Team
Sticking around campus this Spring Break? No need to worry, there are tons of events going on at Tallahassee colleges. Check out our list of FSU and FAMU sporting events going on this Spring Break to get you into the school spirit:
FSU Spring Break Sports
- 03/13 – 03/ 14 – Men’s Intercollegiate Golf
- 03/17 – 03/18 – Women’s Intercollegiate Golf
- 03/17 – Men’s baseball vs Boston College
- 03/18 – Men’s baseball v Boston College
FAMU Spring Break Sports
- 03/17 – 03/18 – Men’s Track & Field (at USF)
- 03/17 – 03/18 – Women’s Track & Field (at USF)
FSU Spring Football Game / Doak After Dark – Every year, FSU’s Spring football game is followed by a free concert. Doak After Dark is a beloved Noles tradition, with past performances from stars like Chris Janson, Vanilla Ice, and T-Pain! Anyone with a valid gameday ticket will receive free entry to the show in Doak Campbell Stadium. You and your friends can get ‘up close and personal’ with the headlining act with a field pass – allowing access to the field after the game. Are you ready to Doak after Dark?
Important: The 2023 headliner has yet to be announced, so stay up to date with their website for this year’s headliner announcement!
Event Time and Date: TBD
Address: 403 Stadium Dr, Tallahassee FL 32304
Sprint into Spring with these 2023 Springtime Races
In the Woods 30A 50K
Prepare those beach bodies with a pre-Spring Break race! The 2nd annual In the Woods 30A 50K has returned to North Florida, so it’s time to stretch out those legs for a massive run this Spring–50K to be exact. The event is run by The Rotorhead 30A Running Company, an organization founded in 2019 for the purpose of building community through fun events. The 50K begins at the Grayton Beach State Park Trailhead, and runners can choose to go solo or have up to two “running buddies” to participate in a running relay. Registration for the race comes with fun ‘race swag’ along with complimentary snacks and beverages. Prizes will be awarded to the top racers. Registration can be done online here and ends on February 24th, 2022.
Important: In the Woods 30A 50K is a trail run, meaning racers will be running along rocks, stumps, mud, and sand. Dress appropriately!
Event Time and Date: February 25th, 2023, race begins at 7am
Address: 357 Main Park Road, Santa Rosa Beach FL 32459
Springtime 10K Race
Part of Tallahassee’s Springtime Festival includes an annual 10K race, right in the heart of downtown! Runners can choose between one mile, a 5K, or a 10K, meaning all ages and skill levels are welcome. The races start on Suwannee Street next to Cascades Park, with the one-mile race beginning at 7:30am and both the 5K and 10K beginning at 8am. The race passes popular landmarks like Myer’s Park and the Capital City Country Club Golf Course, so you could call it a run with a view! Registration begins at 6:30 on April 1st, complete with a race day packet pickup. Come represent the Gulf Winds Track Club and the running community in Tallahassee this Spring.
Important: Streets will be closed for the race, so parking is only permitted in parking garages or limited street parking nearby. Those attending are suggested to arrive early for parking.
Event Time and Date: April 1st, 2023; Registration from 6:30-7:30am, races begin at 8am
Address: 605 Suwannee St, Tallahassee FL 32301
Work on Your Green Thumb with Springtime Gardening
TCC’s “Growing Plants for Fun and Profit”
If your ideal break consists of learning something new, Tallahassee Community College has some exciting courses being offered this Spring. The “Growing Plants for Fun and Profit” course is a practical guide to turn your love of plants into a business! For only $119, you’ll embark on a six-week course to learn how to market plants on a small scale, produce quality material, and how to market your product. Students can choose between instructor-led or go at their own pace. The course technically begins after their Spring Break, but we still think it’s a great way to make your Spring blossom!
Time and Date: Instructor-led classes begin on Feb 15th or March 15th, 2023
Address: 444 Appleyard Drive, Tallahassee FL 32304
Tallahassee Gardening Club
Become a member of the community’s local garden club this Spring! The Tallahassee Garden Club has been around for nearly 100 years, with ongoing projects in support of Leon County School youth gardens, the Hope Community, and Live Oak Trail. The club has over 500 members, with groups of local planters, designers, environmentalists, and more. They’ve also got a monthly plant exchange every third Thursday of the month! So, what are you waiting for? Throw on some gardening gloves and go grow with the Tallahassee Garden Club!
Time and Date: New members can join at any time by filling out the application form; membership annual dues cost $40
Address: 507 N Calhoun St, Tallahassee FL 32301
Already a skilled gardener? Skip the classes and get straight to plantin’ with 30A’s list of most popular springtime plants in Florida:
Most Popular Springtime Plants in Florida
Azalea
Beach Sunflower
Purple Coneflower
Tickseed
Milkweed
Sing and Dance the Night Away at a Spring Concert
Willie Nelson & Family
Witness American country music powerhouse Willie Nelson and the rest of his band at Capital City Amphitheater. As a working musician for seven decades, Nelson has received nearly every award possible. It doesn’t look like he’s slowing down anytime soon! Willie Nelson is still very much in his artistic groove, having just released his newest album “Family.” You can experience it firsthand at his Spring Tallahassee concert. Tickets start at $45.
Event Time and Date: March 4th, 2023, doors open at 6pm
Address: 1001 S Gadsden St, Tallahassee FL 32301
Get the Led Out
If you’re a fan of rock, you do not want to miss this Spring concert! The Moon is hosting an evening with Get the Led Out this March. The night features an awe-inspiring performance, recreating and celebrating the sounds of Led Zeppelin. The event is 18+, or kids between 13-17 permitted with adult supervision. General admission tickets start at $25 and can be purchased online.
Event Time and Date: March 26th, 2023, doors open at 7pm
Address: 1105 E Lafayette St, Tallahassee FL 32301
TCC Jazz Band Spring Concert
Band Director Lisa M. Foltz presents the annual Spring Concert at Tallahassee Community College. Family and friends are welcome to join in the Turner Auditorium located on TCC’s campus. Treat your ears to an evening of live performances of jazz, rock, swing tunes, and the classic big band. The best part? The concert is completely free!
Event Time and Date: April 19th, 2023, performance begins at 7:30pm
Address: 444 Appleyard Drive, Tallahassee FL 32304
Perfect Your Tan at the Best Beaches Near Tallahassee
Panama City Beach Spring Break Events 2023
Spring Break wouldn’t be possible without Panama City Beach. Considered the “Spring Break Capital of the World,” Panama City Beach is the #1 student destination for celebrating Spring Break! Just over a 2-hour drive from Tallahassee, our Tally college kids will definitely want to make the trip over to the coast. Chill out on the 27 miles of sandy white beaches, or pull an all-nighter with their unbelievable events.
Students looking for the best nightlife in Panama City will be excited to hear about their weekly parties happening all of March 2023:
- World Famous Foam Party – Every Thursday this March, Hammerhead Fred’s is hosting the biggest foam party in the U.S.! Get wet and wild with 5,000 square feet of foam on March 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd, and 30th. Tickets can be purchased here, starting at $19.99.
- Ultimate Glow Paint Party – Every Friday this March, Hammerhead Fred’s is hosting a massive paint party you do not want to miss! Cover yourself in bright, neon paint and dance the night away with top electronic DJs and your 5,000 closest friends! Join the paint party on March 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th, and 31st. Tickets can be purchased here, starting at $19.99.
For all the music lovers out there, check out these upcoming Spring Break performances in Panama City:
- Diplo – One of EDM’s biggest DJs is set to perform at Harpoon Harry’s on March 7th, 2023! Tickets can be purchased here, starting at $29.99.
- Young Gravy – Billboard Hot 100 Artist Young Gravy has confirmed to play at Harpoon Harry’s on March 14th, 2023! Tickets can be purchased here, starting at $59.99.
- Diesel (AKA Shaquille O’Neal) – You may know him as the 7’1” NBA superstar, but Shaq has quickly turned into an entertainment icon as DJ Diesel. Dance along with the Hall of Famer at Harpoon Harry’s on March 16th, 2023! Tickets can be purchased here, starting at $29.99.
St. Andrew’s State Park
Just around the corner from Panama City Beach is St. Andrew’s State Park. There is a TON of fun stuff to get into at the 1,200-acre park: bike on the 2-mile paved path, take a boat trip, swim along the mile-and-a-half long beaches, and even camp overnight! Entrance fee is $8 per vehicle. If you’re looking to get out into nature this upcoming Spring Break, St. Andrew’s State Park is the perfect outdoor escape.
Important: Purchase single-day admission tickets online here. Visitors will not be allowed entry if park is at maximum capacity.
Hours: Open daily 8am-Sundown
Address: 4607 State Park Ln, Panama City FL 32408
Grayton Beach State Park
Just over a two-hour drive from Tallahassee is the Grayton Beach State Park, known as the “Nationally ranked nature wonderland with something for everyone!” For a $5 vehicle fee, guests can use amenities like the pristine beach, Western Lake, and nature trails. Go hiking, kayaking, or bird watching to fully experience the beauty of North Florida’s nature. Bring the whole family and stay overnight in one of their picturesque cabins!
Hours: Open daily 8am-Sundown
Address: 357 Main Park Road, Santa Rosa Beach FL 32459
Blossom into the Spring Spirit with the 2023 Spring Festivals
Springtime Tallahassee Music Festival
One of Tallahassee’s biggest annual events returns this Spring! The Springtime Tallahassee Music Festival is a weekend long community event. The fest is located at Kelman Plaza, where the Beer Garden will open at 5:30pm, followed by live music beginning at 6pm. Food and beverages available for purchase. Keep a lookout on their website for the Headliner announcement, coming soon! Best part? It’s completely free! Check out these other Springtime events happening over the weekend:
Jubilee in the Park
Experience the sights, sounds, and activities of one of the top festivals in the Southeast! Experience various vendors of arts & crafts, food, and boutiques from around the community. Held in downtown Tallahassee at Chain of Parks on April 1st, 2023, the event will run from 9am-5pm.
The Grand Parade
Witness over 100 colorful floats, marching bands, and dance groups at the annual Grand Parade! The parade will take place on April 1st, 2023begin at 10:30am, starting from Monroe Street down south past the Florida Capital and ending on Madison Street.
Event Time and Date: The Springtime Festival takes place from March 31-April 1st, 2023. Event begins Friday at 5:30pm.
Address: Several locations around Downtown Tallahassee.
Chain of Parks Art Festival
Last year’s event was voted the #1 Florida art festival and the #7 nationwide art festival according to Sunshine Artist magazine. With that high praise, how could you not want to attend? LeMoyne Arts Center hosts Florida’s premiere outdoor fine art festival at Chain of Parks. The art fest will feature over 150 artists from all over the U.S. displaying works of paintings, sculptures, jewelry, and even chalk art! Live entertainment will take place on the main stage, located in the Center Court on Calhoun. Have the kids with you? Stop by The Village—an interactive children’s area with pop-up studios and art projects for the whole family. The 23rd annual art festival is free to attend! So plan to get artsy this Spring.
Event Time and Date: April 15th 10am-5pm, April 16th 10am-4pm
Address: 125 Gadsden St, Tallahassee FL 32301
Tallahassee Pridefest: Pride in the Plaza
Tallahassee’s biggest pride event is back with Pridefest 2023! Not only is Pride a lot of fun, it’s also for a great cause—to help promote the visibility and positive representation of the LGBTQ+ and transgender community. Join Pridefest in the heart of downtown Tallahassee at Kleman Plaza, where they’ll have live music all day, food vendors, a Kid Zone, and more! Pridefest is free to attend, welcomes all ages, and is a family-friendly event. So put on your most colorful, rainbow attire and get ready for the 2023 Pridefest.
Event Time and Date: April 15th, 2023, event runs from 12pm-5:30pm
Address: 306 S. Duval St, Tallahassee FL 32301
Word of South
Tallahassee’s literature and music festival has been a staple in the community since its birth in 2015. The event brings together a unique blend of musicians, writers, and other creatives. The goal is to showcase musicians who are authors, authors who write about music, and everything in between. They’re especially proud of their “mu-aushups” – a fun way to pair together authors and musicians, some who have never even met before! The festival will also feature live musical performances ranging from jazz, country, HipHop, bluegrass, and R&B. Bring the little ones along for the day, the fest will have kid programs and music performances as well! Not only is Word of South educating and entertaining, it’s also completely free to attend.
Important: Word of South features an extra special performance from Ben Folds and the Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra, tickets starting at $27 and can be purchased here.
Event Time and Date: April 22-23rd, 2023, Friday concert begins at 7pm, Saturday 10:30am-5:30pm, Sunday 12:30pm-5pm
Address: Cascades Park, 1001 S Gadsden St, Tallahassee FL 32301
Looking to explore more of Tallahassee? Tally Student Survival offers the inside scoop on the best food & fun in the area, along with a calendar to keep you up to date with all of Tally’s upcoming events.