FLORIDA PLACES AND DESTINATIONS - ARCADIA

Arcadia, Florida




Located in DeSoto County, Arcadia was named by The Rev. James Hendry in honor of Arcadia Albritton, a daughter of pioneer settlers who baked him a cake for his birthday. He appreciated it so much he named the city after her.

Today, Arcadia is home to countless opportunities for golf, canoeing, fishing, and horseback riding.

In fact, Arcadia is home to three rodeos. These events, which are managed by the local rodeo association, occur during the months of March, 4th of July holiday and in the Fall. The Arcadia All Florida Championship Rodeo is Florida's oldest rodeo. Established in 1928 it is known as the "Granddaddy of 'em all".




Another popular local event is the Watermelon Festival held during the month of May – the height of the watermelon harvesting season. The festival has a variety of pageants, contests and draws local tourists. The festival is part of the Florida Watermelon Association.

Arcadia also hosts DeSoto County's annual fair usually in the month of January. While traditional aspects of a fair or carnival are provided, the event also presents livestock shows consisting of swine and cattle, which are presented by the local FFA and 4-H.

Only four miles from Arcadia, The Peace River Canoe Trail is officially designated as part of Florida's Statewide System of Greenways and Trails. True to its name, it is a serene, slow-moving river with few signs of civilization. Whether you paddle for a day or a week, the Peace River's quiet isolation lets you leave big city worries behind. You may see a red-shouldered hawk soar high above moss-draped cypress trees. Turtles slide into the water as a paddler drifts by. Deer and turkey feed in the palmetto thickets. A black bear may wander to the river's edge. Wading birds walk along the bank looking for food while keeping an eye on a nearby alligator and otters play among the willows.

According to Greek mythology, Arcadia was a version of paradise. This seems to be Florida’s.


Photo: Visit Florida