Florida’s Adventure Coast Visitors Bureau is thrilled to announce the unveiling of The Mermaid Tale Trail, created in conjunction with the Hernando County Fine Arts Council, Brooksville Main Street, and dozens of artists from the area.

Florida’s Adventure Coast Visitors Bureau Announces the Unveiling of The Mermaid Tale Trail on January 12, 2023

This legacy project coincides with the 75^th anniversary of Weeki Wachee Springs State Park – Home of the World-Famous Mermaids. In honor of the Park’s anniversary, 27 mermaid statues will be placed throughout the entire county, creating a trail of public art in the form of mermaids.

The original statue was hand sculpted, and her face cast from an actual Weeki Wachee Mermaid. Each statue was then hand-painted by a juried artist, creating a one-of-a-kind work of art that will be included on a trail throughout Florida’s Adventure Coast, Brooksville-Weeki Wachee.

Festivities will begin at 10 AM, January 12, 2023, with remarks by Park and County officials, along with the unveiling of the mermaid statues, and a dedication plaque recognizing the Adagio statue and Park as National Historic Landmarks. 92-year-old, Dianne Wyatt McDonald, one of the first mermaids who performed on opening day in 1947 and co-creator of the Adagio pose, will be present for the dedication. Afterward, there will be opportunities to meet and greet the artists for The Mermaid Tale Trail.

“We’re delighted to unveil our newest trail of public art while celebrating the 75^th Anniversary of Weeki Wachee Springs, one of Florida’s original and most iconic attractions, and the inspiration for The Mermaid Tale Trail. The historic mermaids have been the muse of many artists over the decades, today we honor that inspiration by unveiling the first of the statues that will form a trail of Mermaids leading visitors throughout Florida’s Adventure Coast,” said Tammy Heon, Manager of Tourism for Florida’s Adventures Coast Visitors Bureau.

About Florida’s Adventure Coast Visitors Bureau

Florida’s Adventure Coast, Brooksville – Weeki Wachee offers authentic experiences of the Sunshine State at its natural best. A wonderland of outdoor adventures, active family fun, centuries of history, Southern hospitality, and vibrant local color, offers a one-of-a-kind visit you won’t soon forget. Enjoy water adventures, land adventures, attractions, parks, and more. Visit us at FloridasAdventureCoast.com to begin your adventure!