Cracker Day Celebrates Florida’s Cowboy Heritage
Discover Florida’s cowboy heritage at Cracker Day, an annual Elkton festival celebrating Florida Cracker cattle, horses, horsemanship and centuries of ranching tradition.
Each fall, that history comes to life at the Annual Cracker Day in Elkton, just outside St. Augustine. Hosted by the St. Johns County Cattlemen's Association, the longtime community tradition celebrates Florida's ranching heritage with Cracker horses and cattle, horse races and games, family activities, local vendors and plenty of barbecue.
The 67th Annual Cracker Day takes place Saturday, October 10, 2026, at the St. Johns County Fairgrounds.
What is a Florida Cracker?
The term "Florida Cracker" has a long history, but in Florida ranching culture it is closely associated with the state's early cattlemen.
Spanish explorers and settlers introduced cattle and horses to Florida beginning in the 1500s. Over generations, cattle ranching became an important part of life in the state. Florida cowboys became known for using long whips to help move cattle through the state's brush, wetlands and open ranges. The distinctive crack of those whips is commonly associated with the name "Cracker."
Florida's cattle culture predates the iconic cowboy traditions of the American West by centuries.
What are Florida Cracker cattle?
Florida Cracker cattle are a heritage breed descended from cattle brought to Florida during the Spanish colonial period.
Small, hardy and well adapted to Florida's heat and environment, the cattle developed characteristics that helped them thrive in the state's challenging landscape. Today, Florida Cracker cattle are recognized as an important part of the state's agricultural heritage, with preservation efforts helping protect the historic breed.
Florida Cracker horses share a similar story. Descended from horses brought to Florida by the Spanish, they became working partners for generations of Florida cattlemen.
Visitors can see this ranching heritage celebrated during Cracker Day.
What happens at Cracker Day?
Cracker Day combines Florida history with an old-fashioned community festival.
Horse competitions are at the heart of the event, with local riders of different ages competing throughout the day. Events include:
- Pole bending
- Pick-up race
- Cloverleaf
- Arena race
- Flat races
- Jackpot barrels
- Jackpot poles
Visitors can also enjoy pony rides, craft and market vendors, local products and food trucks.
The Cracker Day Market runs from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. and features vendors selling crafts, woodwork, local products and other goods.
A Florida tradition for the whole family
You don't have to know anything about horses or cattle to enjoy Cracker Day.
For visitors accustomed to Florida's beaches and historic attractions, the festival offers an opportunity to discover another side of the region—one shaped by agriculture, ranching and generations of Florida families.
Listen to the pounding of hooves, watch skilled riders compete and get an up-close look at traditions that have been part of Florida life for centuries.
And come hungry. Food vendors serve festival favorites throughout the day, including barbecue, snacks and sweets.
67th Annual Cracker Day — 2026
When: Saturday, October 10, 2026
Time: 8 a.m.–6 p.m.
Where: St. Johns County Fairgrounds, 5840 S.R. 207, Elkton, Florida
Admission: Free; parking is $5 per vehicle, cash only
Horse Games: Registration fees range from $5–$15
Gates open at 6 a.m. for competitors, with horse-game registration beginning at 8 a.m.
Cracker Day is hosted by the St. Johns County Cattlemen's Association.