Discover Florida’s Hidden Treasures at Our Vanishing Americana: Florida – Free Advance Screenings!

WEDU PBS is thrilled to invite you to two FREE advance screenings for Our Vanishing Americana: Florida! A moving documentary that takes viewers on a journey through the Sunshine State’s fading backroads, historic main streets, and beloved mom-and-pop landmarks.

About the Film

Our Vanishing Americana: Florida showcases photographer Mike Lassiter's quest to capture the essence of Florida’s Main Streets and includes 30 short stories from around the state. The film reflects a time when small-town institutions like general stores, barber shops, and local theaters were central to daily life and community connection. While some of these places still exist, many have faded away, leaving behind only memories and relics of a bygone era.  

Tune in for the Television Premiere 📺

Monday, June 23 at 9 p.m. on WEDU PBS

Be Among the First to Watch! 🎬

Join us for one of two special preview events before the film airs:

Tampa Advance Screening 📍

Thursday, June 12 | 6–8 p.m.
 WEDU PBS Studios – 1300 N. Boulevard, Tampa, FL
 Register Here >(Free, RSVP required)

Tarpon Springs Advance Screening 📍

Saturday, June 14 | 6–8 p.m.
 Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center – 324 Pine Street (inside City Hall), Tarpon Springs, FL
 Register Here >(Free, RSVP required)

Celebrate Florida’s Past, Present, and Future 🌴

Whether you’re a lifelong Floridian or just discovering the state’s heritage, Our Vanishing Americana: Florida will leave you inspired and nostalgic. Join us to honor the local stories and places that continue to shape our cultural landscape.

Admission is FREE for both screenings, but registration is required. Space is limited, so sign up early and don’t forget to tune in on June 23 at 9 p.m. on WEDU PBS for the statewide broadcast premiere!

Featuring Florida’s Most Charming Hidden Gems

Our Vanishing Americana: Florida highlights iconic locations from across the state:

• Owl Café / Gibson Hotel in Apalachicola
• Rodeo/Opera House/Wheeler’s Café in Arcadia
• Coney Island Drive-Inn in Brooksville
• Barthle Brothers Ranch in Brooksville
• Boyett’s Grove & Citrus Attraction in Brooksville
• Smallwood Store in Chokoloskee Island
• Citrus Tower in Clermont
• Star Fish Market in Cortez Village
• Bob Roth’s New River Groves in Davie
• Davidson of Dundee in Dundee
• Mcguire’s Barbershop in Dunedin
• Amelia Island Paint and Hardware in Fernandina Beach
• Goofy Golf in Fort Walton Beach
• Holley’s Bar-B-Q in Jacksonville
• Reececliff Family Diner in Lakeland
• Silver Moon Drive-In in Lakeland
• Singleton’s Seafood Shack in Mayport
• Chiapinni’s in Melrose
• Shealy's Skunkape Headquarters in Ochopee
• Angel’s Dining Car in Palatka
• Green’s Pharmacy in Palm Beach
• Port Theater / Cape San Blas Lighthouse in Port St. Joe
• St. Petersburg Shuffleboard Club in St. Petersburg
• Bradley’s Country Store in Tallahassee
• Helmet Sculptor / Sponge Diver / Dimitri’s in Tarpon Springs
• Magic Beach Motel in Vilano Beach
• Richloam General Store in Webster
• Suwanee Hardware in White Springs
• Andy’s Igloo & Drive-In in Winter Haven