Secretary of State Cord Byrd has invited the public to attend the 20th anniversary of the Blessing of Animals at Mission San Luis. The event will take place on Saturday, October 5, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Pets on leashes or in carriers are welcome and will receive blessings from local clergy. Admission is free.
“For 20 years, Mission San Luis has hosted Blessing of Animals, a popular Tallahassee tradition,” said Secretary Byrd. “Generations of families have experienced this special day celebrating the timeless bond we share with our animal friends.”
Mission San Luis continues the tradition started in the 13th century in remembrance of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals and the environment.
Certificates and online photos of each blessing will be provided at no cost. Animal organizations will also be present to share information about their work supporting animals in Tallahassee and nearby areas.
Guests can enjoy pet-themed crafts and activities, with staff dressed in period attire interpreting the site's history. Donations of pet food and supplies for local animal shelters are encouraged.
For more details, visit MissionSanLuis.org or call 850-245-6406.
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About Mission San Luis:
Florida’s Apalachee-Spanish Living History Museum was the western capital of Spanish Florida from 1656 to 1704. The Mission recreates early 1700s life with interpreters in period dress, reconstructed buildings, exhibits, and archaeological research. Managed by the Florida Department of State with support from Friends of Florida History, Inc., it is Tallahassee’s only National Historic Landmark. Located at 2100 West Tennessee Street in Tallahassee, it is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., welcoming pets on leashes year-round.