International Archaeology day @Weedon Island

Saturday, October 18, 2025
Pop-Up Exhibits from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Archaeology Talk from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.

📣Join us for International Archaeology Day! International Archaeology Day is a celebration of archaeology and its contributions to society.

⚱️Explore a one-day exhibit of pre-Columbian artifacts from the Tampa Bay region and beyond! Archaeologists will illustrate the use of early stone and shell tools and their importance to indigenous people. Bring in found or inherited items such as spear points, tools, and pottery sherds for expert identification.

🌿Discover how indigenous Floridians used native plants in the pop-up “Florida Native Plants Through Time” exhibit. Exhibit designer and plant expert, Ben Metcantade, will also demonstrate how to make fiber-thread from our native yucca plant! Enjoy native plants, books, and resources on sustainable design and the importance of pollinators.

🎤Learn about the fascinating relationship between botany and archaeology in a special presentation from Dr. Christopher A. Kiahtipes, Associate Curator of the University of South Florida Herbarium. Using herbaria as a lens, Dr. Kiahtipes will discuss the intellectual, ethical, and curatorial challenges both disciplines face—especially in the context of our digital culture.

The following organizations will be on-site with information on their archaeology programs and how to get involved:

• Alliance for Weedon Island Archaeological Research and Education
• Central Florida Gulf Coast Archaeological Society
• Florida Public Archaeology Network
• University of South Florida