Join us in Celebrating 75 Years of Florida History and Mermaid Magic at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
On October 13, 1947, the first show at the Weeki Wachee Springs underwater theater opened. It was the same day that Kukla, Fran, and Ollie first aired on that newfangled invention called television, and one day before Chuck Yeager broke the sound barrier. On that day, the mermaids first performed synchronized ballet moves underwater while breathing through the air hoses hidden in the scenery.
Seventy-five years later, Weeki Wachee Springs remains a Florida treasure. The springs itself is a natural wonder, and even today the mermaids perform to sold-out crowds, amazing children and adults alike. Weeki Wachee holds a special place in the hearts of many, especially those who performed there, over the years. There is a saying “Once a mermaid, always a mermaid.”
On Thursday, January 12, 2023, the 75th Anniversary Celebration will begin at 10:00 am with remarks by Park and County officials, followed by the unveiling of 28 life-sized mermaid statues, as well as a plaque recognizing the Adagio statue in front of the park as a National Historic Landmark. Refreshments will follow with opportunities to meet and greet the artists for the Mermaid Tale Trail.
Unveiling of the Mermaid Tale Trail Statues
To celebrate the 75th Anniversary at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, a mermaid sculpture trail was created as a legacy to the history of Weeki Wachee Springs, and a celebration of people and memories that have made it one of Florida’s most iconic attractions.
Each of the six-foot tall statues is hand-painted by an artist who calls Florida home and has a unique story to tell. Attendees at the 75th Anniversary Celebration will be the first and only people to see all of the statues at one location. Some statues are traditional and hark back to the old school, with nautical themes and references to Weeki Wachee, while others are wild and quite literally out of this world! Each of the artists will be at the celebration to talk to guests about their work, and the statues will remain at the park over the weekend. After the celebration the statues will be relocated to their permanent locations throughout Hernando County.
The Adagio Statue – Restored and Honored
The fountain statue that marks the entrance to Weeki Wachee Springs State Park has a history of its own right. The statue itself was created in 1966 and harks back to the earliest days of Weeki Wachee; the Adagio pose, created by two original mermaids, has been featured in almost every show since. A new plaque will be revealed at the celebration, recognizing its status as a National Historic Landmark.
Make your Plans for January 12-15, 2023
We can’t wait to celebrate this amazing milestone with Weeki Wachee’s fans, whether you are a returning visitor or just discovering its charms! Visit Weeki Wachee Springs State Park on January 12th for the unveiling ceremony and stay for the mermaid show. Can’t make it Thursday? The mermaid statues will be on display all weekend long.
