Havana Hub – Havana, Florida

Tag: IHeartHavana

Who Named Havana, Florida?

Have you ever wondered who decided to call our town Havana?

The answer goes back to the early 1900s, when the railroad was helping transform the area and shade tobacco was becoming big business in Gadsden County.

According to local history, James Mathewson, a local schoolteacher, proposed the name “Havana.” The reason was simple: the shade tobacco grown around here was used for cigar wrappers, and the hand-rolled cigars made from local tobacco were considered comparable to those coming from Havana, Cuba.

The name stuck.

Havana was officially incorporated on December 5, 1906, and the town’s connection to tobacco would become a major part of its identity for decades.

Today, most people know Havana for antiques, art, historic buildings and small-town charm. But underneath all of that is a name that tells an important story about the crop that helped put this community on the map.

So now you know the answer…

James Mathewson named Havana. And he named it Havana because of the tobacco.

September 15, 2026
Here’s What You Missed, Havana.

If you stayed home this weekend, you missed a good one.

Havana was buzzing Saturday with WoodFest downtown and the Planters Exchange’s Out of the Attic Vintage Market at the Havana History & Heritage Museum.

At WoodFest, the Brown Family, Ryan and Paige won the pallet contest, and Katherine Klein took home the beautiful table from the raffle. Teresa Rever and Maria LaRue finished 2nd and 3rd respecively. Not a bad day at WoodFest!

Meanwhile, vintage hunters were digging through treasures at the Out of the Attic market, along with some delicious offerings from Doering’s Doughs who was among the local vendors.

And the fun didn’t stop in Havana. In Quincy, Anna Wescoat filled the house at Burned Beard Brewing, while Flea Across Florida brought out the bargain hunters and the Lake 38 Pro-Am put world-class waterskiing on the weekend schedule.

Woodworking. Vintage finds. Live music. Shopping. Watersports.

Pretty good reminder that there’s always something happening around here.

What did we miss? Drop your weekend highlights in the comments below.

September 14, 2026
WoodFest Is New… But That’s How Havana’s Traditions Begin

If you’ve been around Havana for a while, you probably think of certain things when you hear the word “tradition.” The historic downtown, shade tobacco, antique shops, PumpkinFest… The places and events that have been part of Havana for years.

WoodFest isn’t one of those… at least not yet.

Havana’s first WoodFest was held in 2022, bringing woodworkers, artists, vendors and handmade creations into downtown. It was a new idea built around something that has been part of the area’s history: wood and the timber industry.

Now, WoodFest is back for it’s fourth year. And maybe someday, people will have a hard time remembering Havana without it.

Havana WoodFest
Downtown Havana
Saturday September 12th 2026
10am-4pm

Remember When Havana Had…

One of the fun things about living in a town with as much history as Havana is realizing just how much has changed. Take downtown.

In 1959, you could stop by Spencer Scott’s IGA on 7th Avenue to buy your groceries. The store was located between Main Street and 1st Street West.

And if you wanted a night out, you could head over to the Havana Theatre on 7th Avenue near Main Street. (I am sure there are lots more you remember, let us know in the comments)

The Havana Theatre opened in 1940 and was a part of downtown Havana until it closed in the 1960s. The last movie reportedly shown there was The Day of the Triffids. The grocery store is gone. The theater is gone. The downtown Havana they belonged to has changed considerably. But that’s how small-town history works.

Businesses come and go. Buildings get new lives. New events appear on the calendar. And eventually, the things that once seemed completely ordinary become the stories we tell.

Maybe WoodFest Will Be One of Those Stories

WoodFest is still new. There isn’t decades of history behind it yet. But that’s how traditions start. Someone has an idea. People show up. They do it again the next year… and then again. Before long, something that was once new becomes part of the town.

So when you head downtown for WoodFest this Saturday, September 12th, 2026, take a look around. Enjoy the woodworkers, handmade creations, food and music. But also take a moment to think about the Havana that was here before. The grocery stores. The movie theater. The businesses. The people. And all the things that haven’t happened yet.

Because someday, WoodFest itself might be one of those things someone says:”I don’t remember a September without WoodFest”

What else do you remember Havana having that no longer exists?

September 10, 2026
Havana This Week… WoodFest, Vintage Finds, Waterskiing & a Whole Lot More

September 8–13, 2026

If you were thinking about staying home this weekend, you might want to rethink that.

There is a lot happening around Havana and Gadsden County this week, with Havana WoodFest, a vintage market, a major waterski competition, live music, and a Highway 90 treasure hunt all packed into Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

In other words… you have options.

WoodFest takes over downtown Havana

The big one in Havana this weekend is WoodFest 2026, happening Saturday, September 12, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in downtown Havana.

Havana Main Street is turning downtown into an open-air celebration of woodworking, craftsmanship and local creativity, with handmade wood art, furniture, gifts, demonstrations, food and more.

And if you’ve never been to WoodFest before, this isn’t just an event for people who know the difference between a planer and a jointer.

There will be plenty to see, eat and explore, and it’s a pretty good excuse to spend a Saturday walking around downtown Havana and checking out the local shops while you’re there.

WoodFest 2026
Saturday, September 12
10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Downtown Havana

Looking for something you can’t find at Walmart?

Also happening Saturday is the Out of the Attic Vintage Market at the Havana History & Heritage Museum.

The market runs alongside Woodfest and brings vintage and antique vendors onto the museum grounds. Be sure to catch, Doering’s Doughs inside soaking up the A/C and selling some delicious breads and sweets.

So yes, you can absolutely make a morning of it.

Grab some breakfast, go hunting for something you didn’t know you needed, walk downtown for WoodFest, grab lunch and do some shopping around Havana.

That’s a pretty solid Saturday.

Meanwhile, heading towards Quincy… the water is going to be moving

If you’ve never watched professional waterskiing in person, this is your chance.

The S-Lines Lake 38 Pro-Am returns to Lake 38 in Quincy on Saturday and Sunday, September 12–13.

The event brings elite professional slalom skiers from around the world to Gadsden County for a weekend of competition.

And perhaps the best part for spectators?

It’s free.

S-Lines Lake 38 Pro-Am
September 12–13
Lake 38, Quincy
Free admission

It’s one of those events that sounds a little unusual until you actually watch it… and then you understand why people get hooked.

Friday night: Anna Wescoat at Burned Beard

Before Saturday gets rolling, you can kick off the weekend Friday night at Burned Beard Brewing in Quincy with Anna Wescoat.

It’s a good excuse to grab some food, have a drink and listen to some live music without having to drive all the way into Tallahassee.

And if you’re already planning to spend Saturday in Havana or at Lake 38, Friday night gives you one more reason to start the weekend early.

And then there’s Flea Across Florida

If digging through old stuff looking for something awesome is your idea of a good time, don’t overlook Flea Across Florida.

The Highway 90 treasure hunt is happening Friday and Saturday, with Padgett’s Jewelers in downtown Quincy participating from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. both days.

The whole idea is basically a giant roadside treasure hunt… antiques, collectibles, yard-sale finds and those completely random things you didn’t know you needed until you saw them sitting on a table for five bucks.

You know how this works.

You leave the house looking for one thing and come home with six things you absolutely cannot explain.

So what’s the plan?

Honestly, Saturday could be a pretty great Gadsden County day without going very far.

Start in Havana for the Out of the Attic Vintage Market.

Stick around for WoodFest.

Grab lunch and wander through downtown.

Then head toward Quincy and check out Lake 38… or make Flea Across Florida your excuse to explore along Highway 90.

And if you still have energy left, there’s always Sunday.

Because this weekend is a pretty good reminder that you don’t necessarily have to drive to Tallahassee to find something interesting to do.

There’s a lot going on right here at home.

If you’re going to one of these events, tell us what you’re looking forward to… and if we missed something happening around Havana or Gadsden County this weekend, let us know in the comments so we can add it.

September 8, 2026
Havana This Week… Rain Delays, Big Weekends, and Looking Ahead

It’s been a busy stretch around town… and now the weather may make its presence known in a big way.

Cigar Days Recap

Another year of Havana Cigar Days is in the books… and once again, it brought a strong crowd downtown. From live music to vendors and cigar history on full display, it’s one of those events that reminds you what makes Havana, well… Havana.

Havana Market Last Weekend

The Havana Market wrapped up its April run last Saturday with a solid turnout. Vendors lined the streets, folks were out enjoying the weather… and downtown stayed buzzing most of the day. It continues to be one of the most consistent drivers of foot traffic for our small businesses.

Car Show Moved to Sunday

If you were planning for the car show this weekend, there’s been a change…

Havana Car Show has been moved to Sunday (May 3) due to the much-needed rain expected this weekend.

From Havana Main Street:

“Due to the weather this weekend, we have some updates on our events.
The Havana Summer Fun Stroll has been CANCELLED!
The Havana Car Show has been moved to Sunday (May 3rd). Show hours are 1pm–4pm. Car load-in will take place from 11:30am–1pm.”

Not the worst problem to have… we could definitely use the rain.

Reggae Fest This Weekend – Canceled!

Also happening this weekend is the Havana Reggae Festival, bringing live music and good vibes to town. If the weather cooperates, it should be another fun event.
This event has been canceled due to weather…
Saturday, May 2nd, 2026 1pm-4pm
8583 SALEM ROAD
QUINCY, FL 32353

New Exhibit at the Museum

The Havana History & Heritage Museum is kicking off a month-long Miccosukee exhibit starting May 1. In partnership with the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida, the exhibit will feature artifacts, storytelling, and displays highlighting the history, culture, and present-day life of the Miccosukee people.

If you haven’t stopped by the museum in a while… this is a good reason to make the trip.
Miccosukee Exhibit
May 1st – May 31st
204 2nd Street NW Havana, FL

Around Town

Rain is in the forecast and honestly… it’s been needed. It may shuffle a few plans, but it’s also a welcome sight for yards, gardens, and just about everything else around here.

That’s the snapshot this week… a little rain, a few schedule changes, and plenty still going on around town.

Burned Beard Brewing in Quincy has Bingo tonight, and every Thursday night from 6:30pm-8pm

April 30, 2026
Bryant Elected to Havana Town Council; Swearing-In Set for April 30
Havana voters have selected a new representative for Town Council Group 4 following the April 28 municipal election.

John N. Bryant was elected with 78.85% of the vote, defeating Robert Mosby, who received 21.15%. The seat was previously held by Councilman Landon Seymour.

Bryant brings decades of experience in public service to the role, including more than 40 years in policy, management, legislative, and budget work with the State of Florida. He is also a graduate of the University of West Florida and has pursued graduate studies in public health.

In pre-election responses, Bryant said his decision to run was rooted in a desire to serve the community in a more formal capacity, citing his involvement as a local volunteer and his connection to Havana.

Key Issues Identified During the Campaign

During the campaign, Bryant pointed to several ongoing challenges facing Havana, including:
- Aging water and sewer infrastructure
- Support for fire and police services
- Access to healthcare and community services
- The need to recruit and retain a qualified town manager
He also emphasized the importance of maintaining relationships with local businesses and seeking additional funding sources such as grants to support town operations.

Mosby, a military veteran who moved to Havana in 2017, focused on community involvement and expressed interest in playing a role in shaping the town’s direction.

Swearing-In and Upcoming Decisions

According to a notice from the Town of Havana, a Special Council Meeting is scheduled for April 30 at 6:00 PM at Town Hall (711 N. Main Street).

The meeting agenda includes:
- Swearing in council members for seats 4, 6, and 7
- Appointment of a council member to fill Seat 5
- Selection of the Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem for the coming year
All meetings are open to the public.

What Comes Next

With the Group 4 race decided, attention now turns to the vacant Seat 5 position. While no official action has been taken, Robert Mosby may be considered for appointment, with a decision expected during the upcoming council meeting.

Bryant is expected to be sworn in at that meeting and begin his term immediately following.

Havana Hub extends congratulations to John N. Bryant on his election and looks forward to covering the work of the Town Council in the months ahead.
April 29, 2026
Havana Sunday Spotlight – Ida-Belle’s Southern Kitchen

This week’s Sunday Spotlight shines on Ida-Belle’s Southern Kitchen… a Havana-grown business rooted in tradition, hospitality, and a whole lot of heart.

Owner and Havana native knows this community well… because it’s home. Having grown up right here, it was only natural to build something meaningful in the same place that helped shape her.

Ida-Belle’s Southern Kitchen officially launched in 2021, following the closing of her brick-and-mortar restaurant. But instead of stepping away, she leaned in… falling even deeper in love with the hospitality industry and finding new ways to serve others through food and connection.

And if there’s one thing she wants people to know… there are no shortcuts. Everything is done the way her family did it… with care, intention, and pride in every detail.

While catering remains her most popular service, there’s a growing demand for her private chef experiences… and that’s where she really feels her work shines. Cooking for smaller groups allows her to focus not just on the cuisine, but on creating meaningful, intentional moments around the table. That said… she still loves being part of big celebrations like weddings and corporate events.

When asked about her best-selling offering, it comes back to that same idea… the private chef experience. It’s personal, it’s elevated, and it’s where her passion for both food and hospitality truly comes together.

Even after transitioning away from a physical restaurant, the support from Havana hasn’t gone anywhere. She still feels it… and carries that gratitude with her every day. It’s also why she makes a point to support other local businesses whenever she can… because she knows just how much that community support matters.

Behind the scenes, there’s a lot that people don’t always see. She pours everything she has into her work and her clients… so while she may come across as energetic and outgoing, the days can be long and exhausting. Over time, she’s learned how important it is to find balance… to step away when needed and make space for self-care, even in small ways.

When she does get a break, you’ll likely find her spending time with others in the hospitality world… swapping stories, decompressing, and building connections with people who truly understand the grind. It’s part networking, part therapy, and a whole lot of mutual support… a reminder that even in a group of self-described “misfits,” there’s a strong sense of community.

Ida-Belle’s Southern Kitchen is more than just great food… it’s about connection, tradition, and showing up for people in a meaningful way… one meal at a time.

April 27, 2026
Havana This Week… A Full Saturday and Then Some

If you’ve been waiting for a weekend to get out and enjoy Havana and the surrounding area, this is it… from history and markets to cycling, farming, and a few laughs nearby, there’s something happening in every direction.

Cigar Days at the Shade Tobacco Museum

Step into Havana’s roots as the Havana Heritage and History Society hosts Cigar Days at the Shade Tobacco Museum. This event brings the area’s tobacco heritage to life with demonstrations, storytelling, and a look back at the industry that helped shape our town.

When: Saturday, April 25… activities throughout the day (check event page for full schedule)

Havana Market… New Location This Month

The Havana Market returns for its regular fourth Saturday, but with a change of scenery. This month, vendors will be set up on the grassy area just north of the Planters Exchange near the railroad tracks.

You’ll still find your usual mix of local honey, baked goods, produce, handmade crafts, and community spirit… just in a slightly different spot.

When: Saturday, April 25… 10am-2pm

Havana Hills Bike Ride

Cyclists will be rolling through town for the Havana Hills Bike Ride, known for its scenic routes and those famous North Florida hills. It always brings a great energy to the area as riders and visitors pass through.

When: Saturday, April 25… early morning start times with staggered rides

Reminder… Foraging and Farm Day

Don’t forget about the upcoming foraging and farm day at Whitetail Hollow Farms. This is a hands-on experience focused on wild edibles, farm exploration, and slowing things down for a bit.

It’s a great outing for families or anyone curious about connecting more with the land.

When: April 25th starting around 9:30am….

Around the Area… Worth the Drive

Comedy Night in Quincy

Head over to Quincy for a night of laughs at Bwembya’s Market as their Last Laugh Fridays comedy series continues. A fun and easy way to change up your Friday night routine.

When: Friday evening 4/24… 6-10pm

Final Friday in Chattahoochee

Take a short drive to Chattahoochee for their Final Friday event. Expect live music, vendors, and a relaxed community atmosphere to wrap up the week.

When: Friday, April 24… evening hours

A Weekend Worth Showing Up For

This is one of those weekends where you can fill your whole schedule without going far… history in the morning, the market before lunch, bikes rolling through town, and options Friday night in neighboring communities.

Get out, support local, and enjoy it… Havana is going to be buzzing Saturday.

April 23, 2026
Havana Sunday Spotlight – Doering’s Doughs

Doering’s Doughs has become a familiar (and delicious) part of the Havana community, known for its fresh-baked breads, creative treats, and the kind of quality you can taste in every bite. What started as a simple idea has grown into a beloved small business, built on early mornings, dedication, and a whole lot of flour.

Four years ago, Missy Doering moved to Havana because she loved the idea of raising her kids in a small, close-knit community. Not long after, Doering’s Doughs was born, originally inspired by a simple goal: to make her children delicious treats made with good, honest ingredients. That same care still goes into everything she bakes today.

This past week marked a special milestone as Doering’s Doughs celebrated its three-year anniversary. In that time, it has grown from a small venture into a local favorite, with best sellers including challah breads, sourdough loaves, muffins, and cookies. Missy’s personal favorite is a sharp cheddar sourdough loaf, toasted with butter. It is simple and hard to beat.

At the heart of it all is a genuine love for people. “I put 100% love into everything I make,” Missy shares, “but my favorite part has truly been meeting the community.” She is also passionate about supporting other local businesses and often brings out-of-town guests to experience the charm of downtown Havana. “There’s so much kindness here. You can really feel it.”

If you have not had a chance to try Doering’s Doughs yet, or just need another excuse, you can find them at the market this Saturday. It is the perfect opportunity to grab your favorites, try something new, and support a local business that continues to grow and dream.

The best way to reach Doering’s Doughs is by text, email, or Facebook.

Something that might surprise people about Missy is that she is also a photographer. When she is not baking, she loves spending time gardening or being with her husband, kids, and dog, soaking up the same sense of home and community that inspired her business in the first place. Simple, heartfelt, and rooted right here in Havana. That is Doering’s Doughs.

April 20, 2026
Havana This Week: Seafood, Safety, and Sold-Out Music

There’s a lot happening around Gadsden County and Havana this week… from a new seafood spot opening its doors to a sold-out night of live music and some new tools to help keep our community safe.

Here’s what’s going on around town.

Grant’s Crabs 850 Opens in Havana

It’s officially go time, Havana.

Grant’s Crabs 850 is opening early so you don’t have to wait.

Soft Opening
Wednesday, April 16
Thursday, April 17

Grand Opening
Saturday, April 18

Located at 309 S Main Street, Grant’s Crabs 850 will be serving a full menu featuring fresh blue crabs, shrimp, corn, and potatoes loaded up and covered in their signature “Stuttah Buttah.”

If seafood is your thing, you may want to stop by and check them out this week.

New Safety Message Trailers Arrive

The Havana Police Department recently received some new portable message sign trailers that will help share safety messaging around town.

According to Town Manager Kendrah Wilkerson, the trailers were made possible thanks to grant funding secured by Chief Kenny Lewis.

Thank you as well to the Town of Havana crews who helped unload and get everything set up.

The trailers will be used to display traffic alerts, safety reminders, and other important messages for the community.

Anna’s Sold-Out Show at Burned Beard

It’s going to be a packed house at Burned Beard Brewing this week as the talented Anna Wescoat performs to a sold-out crowd.

This show is the first in a series of fundraising concerts Anna is hosting this year to help support the release of new music.

She’ll be joined by friends and fellow local musicians Keal Franklin and Eric Durrance.

Wescoat says, “So grateful to have a place like Burned Beard Brewing in our community, they are so supportive of local music and original music at that, and I’m thrilled to be able to support them in turn by holding this show at their restaurant.”

Tickets for the show sold out quickly, but you can still get involved through a raffle for a signed guitar. Reach out to Anna on Facebook for more information.

Spring Fling

The First Presbyterian Church of Havana at 213 First Ave. NE is having it’s Spring Fling with live music and skits April 19th at 5:00pm – Enjoy a covered dish dinner after the entertainment.

Around Town

Spring is in full swing in Gadsden County… and with new businesses opening, live music filling the air, and community improvements rolling out, there’s plenty going on around town.

If you have events, announcements, or local happenings you’d like included in a future edition of Havana This Week, send them our way.

We’ll see you around town, Havana.

April 16, 2026