The Blessing of Animals originated in the 13th century in remembrance of St. Francis, the patron saint of animals and the environment, who believed that all animals should be treated with dignity and respect.

The event is FREE and features:

• Individual blessings for animal companions in the reconstructed 17th-century Franciscan church
  • Free certificates & online photos
• Crafts for children
• Living history
  • Historic cooking & blacksmithing demos
  • “How Was I important” Florida Native Animal identification game
  • 17th-century domesticated animal care chores activity
• Animal organization booths
  • Information
  • Pet adoptions
  • Marine animal touch tank exhibit (FSU’s Sea-to-Sea Adventures)
  • “Be a Bear” interactive activity (Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission)
  • Butterfly & caterpillar display (Florida Master Gardener Program UF/IFAS Extension)

Please bring pet food & supply donations for area animal shelters.

Animals must be on leashes or in carriers.

Mission San Luis is a pet-friendly site, so bring your animal companions year-round and enjoy the beautiful park setting and living history programs!