Venue
Cascades Park is where Tallahassee began, surrounding a cascading stream that served as a catalyst for locating the Florida Capitol just a few blocks away. Over the years it has been used for various municipal purposes, including hosting minor league baseball, before its complete refurbishment and reopening in 2014. Click here for information regarding the Adderley Amphitheater at the park, and for directions and parking information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my dog?
Yes! Your furry friend will love Cascades Park. Please note that dogs are not allowed in the Capital City Amphitheater, including the grass area.
Can I bring a cooler?
Park rules do not allow coolers. However, there will be food and drink vendors at the park during the festival.
Is there a dress code?
No. However, the venue is outdoors, so be sure to check the weather and dress accordingly. It’s usually windy at Cascades Park. Don’t forget your hat and sunscreen!
Do I need a ticket to enter the park?
Tickets are needed for Friday, April 24, to see Earth, Wind & Fire in the Adderley Amphitheater. Get your tickets here. All performances Saturday and Sunday of Word of South weekend are free and tickets are not required.
Where can I park?
Please see the adjacent venue map for parking areas. All State of Florida parking lots and garages labeled here are free and open Word of South weekend starting 6pm Friday and through Sunday.
Where can I sit?
Word of South has open seating for all performances except the Friday night headliner, which requires a ticket. On Saturday and Sunday, blankets are welcome, as well as stadium seats or low-sitting beach chairs. Chairs will be provided at all stages this year, but you may want to bring your own to guarantee you have a seat.
Is the park wheelchair accessible? Is handicap parking available?
Yes, there is wheelchair accessibility throughout Cascades Park. Every parking lot has designated handicap parking, including the parking garages.
How do I access the AC Marriott Ballroom Stage?
This stage is located in the ballroom of the Marriott AC, the new hotel at Cascades Park. The Marriott may be entered through the hotel main entrance on Gadsden St. or the hotel plaza facing Gaines St. To access the hotel plaza, use the stairs directly behind the Amphitheater. (Need an elevator? Ask a festival volunteer for assistance.) The ballroom is on the same floor as the bar. Look for Word of South signage.
How do I access the Champions First Credit Union Stage on the AC Marriott Plaza?
This is located on the hotel plaza facing Gaines St. Take the staircase behind the Amphitheater up to the hotel plaza and you’ll see the stage. Look for Word of South signage. (Need an elevator? Ask a festival volunteer for assistance.)
How do I access the Flamingo Magazine Stage?
This is located in the Parkview Event space overlooking Cascades Park. The entrance is from the plaza facing Gaines St. Take the staircase behind the Amphitheater up to the hotel plaza and look for Word of South signage. (Need an elevator? Ask a festival volunteer for assistance.)
Where is Cascades Park located?
Cascades Park is located in the heart of downtown Tallahassee, FL. The address is 1001 S. Gadsden St., Tallahassee, FL 32301. Directions to Cascades Park: www.DiscoverCascades.com.
What if it rains?
In the event of rain, Word of South performances will be moved to alternate venues. Please check this website, Word of South social media pages, or the Word of South app for schedule and location changes.
I’m interested in volunteering – where do I sign up?
We’re so glad you asked! Please join us as a Word of South volunteer. Sign up as a volunteer.