Florida Wildlife Federation 90th Birthday Celebration At Alaqua June 7th

The wild places of Florida and the animals that call them home are taking center stage this summer as two premier advocacy organizations team up for a massive milestone. Alaqua Animal Refuge is throwing open its gates to host The Wild Within: Florida Wildlife Federation 90th Birthday Celebration. This free community event takes place on Saturday, June 7, 2026, from noon to 3 p.m. at Alaqua’s beautiful 100-acre home in Freeport.

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The afternoon event bridges the worlds of domestic rescue and wilderness preservation. The celebration's theme, The Wild Within, speaks directly to a core philosophy shared by both organizations: the domestic animals sleeping on our rugs and the native wildlife thriving beyond our fences are part of the exact same continuum. Organizers believe that once people recognize this connection, empathy transforms into real-world protection.

The partnership is a natural extension of a long-standing relationship. Alaqua Founder Laurie Hood has lent her voice and leadership to the Florida Wildlife Federation’s board for nearly a decade, creating a powerful bridge between local animal welfare and statewide conservation efforts.

“People often think of domestic animals and wildlife as separate worlds, but they are deeply connected," Hood said. "Serving on the Florida Wildlife Federation’s Board for more than eight years helped me understand that protecting Florida’s wildlife, land, and water ultimately benefits all living creatures. That’s why hosting the Federation’s 90th Birthday Celebration at Alaqua feels so meaningful. It embodies the spirit of ‘The Wild Within,’ recognizing that our love for animals can inspire a broader commitment to conservation and create new opportunities to protect the natural world for generations to come.”

The refuge grounds will come alive with activity throughout the three-hour festival. Families can wander through a curated collection of conservation partners and local vendors, interact with educational displays highlighting nine decades of wild Florida history, and listen to storytelling moments with special guests. Live music will fill the afternoon air from 1 to 3 p.m., and a silent auction will give supporters a chance to take home unique items while funding critical environmental initiatives.

Since its founding in 2007, Alaqua Animal Refuge has grown into a premier, nationally recognized destination for rescue, rehabilitation, and education. As a member of the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries, the no-kill facility uses its expansive acreage to provide safety and second chances to thousands of animals annually while teaching the next generation to be kinder, more empathetic stewards of the earth.

The Wild Within Event Details

• When: Saturday, June 7, 2026 (Noon – 3 PM)

• Where: Alaqua Animal Refuge, Freeport, Florida

• Admission: Free and open to the public

• Highlights: Live music, local vendors, educational storytelling, and a conservation silent auction.

Discover more incredible wildlife events and community gatherings across Walton County by visiting the SoWal Events Calendar.