About the 2010 Festival of States

The Festival of States events are held in celebration of St. Petersburg’s legacy and future, to be enjoyed by the total community, and to raise money for scholarships and art and music programs in Pinellas County Schools.

All events are produced by the Suncoasters, Inc. , a civic organization of more than 200 business professionals and civic leaders, in partnership with the City of St. Petersburg, our sponsors and other organizations.

History of the Festival of States

The St. Petersburg Festival of States dates back to 1896 with the George Washington birthday celebration parade, but it was Arthur L. Johnson who, in 1913, organized what is recognized as the Festival forerunner and was officially named the Festival of States in 1921. Residents and winter residents alike enjoyed parades, tournaments, dancing and fireworks. The Festival was produced by the City of St. Petersburg and the St. Petersburg Chamber of Commerce to provide incentive for winter residents to stay in the area a little longer. It was named the Festival of States for the 48 tourist societies, which the seasonal tourists organized by their home states, participating with floats and queens in the Parade. The festival’s success outgrew the Chambers staff by 1956, prompting business and civic leaders to form a not-for-profit organization to revitalize and produce the Festival of States. Named for Florida’s Suncoast, the Suncoasters represent more than 200 of the area’s most influential business professionals and civic leaders.

At a Glance

Provides scholarships to community-minded students through the Sungodess and Junior Sungoddess programs and financial support of art and music programs in Pinellas Country Schools through the Scholastic Arts and Writing and All County Music Fest events.
Improves the quality of life in the area.
Promotes tourism.

The Festival is governed by an executive board and operated by a full- time professional staff.

Festival of States Staff

Events / Marketing: Lisa DellaPenna
Finance Manager: Pat Erett

The Festival of States produces events in celebration of St. Petersburg’s legacy and future, to be enjoyed by the total community, and to raise money for schools in art and music programs and scholarships. This event is sponsored by the Suncoasters, Inc. in partnership with the City of St. Petersburg and other organizations.