St. Petersburg is often celebrated for its waterfront, arts, and sunshine, but beneath its modern identity lies a story spanning thousands of years. This Florida Humanities Gathering invites participants to explore the people, places, and ideas that have shaped the city, from Florida’s earliest Indigenous communities to the vibrant cultural destination it is today.

Through guided explorations, engaging presentations, and conversations with scholars and community leaders, participants will trace St. Petersburg’s history from those who first called this region home through the city’s emergence as a Gulf Coast community. Along the way, the Gathering will explore the communities, landscapes, and cultural traditions that have influenced the city’s development, offering a deeper understanding of how history continues to shape St. Petersburg’s identity.

Rather than presenting history as a series of isolated events, the Gathering reveals how each generation has left its mark on the landscape, creating a community continually shaped by resilience, creativity, and connection. Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of St. Petersburg’s past, a richer appreciation for its present, and new perspectives on the stories that continue to define Florida’s Gulf Coast.

This event will include walking and boat tours. Please let us know of any mobility issues. 

THIS GATHERING IS SOLD OUT! Please email Programs Manager Mara Utterback at mutterback@flahum.org to join our waitlist.