We know you’ve seen them scrolling through the news: headlines beginning with “Florida man,” followed by a statement that makes you cock an eyebrow in disbelief, confusion, or both.
First popularized in 2013, the term “Florida man” refers to “people performing irrational or maniacal actions in the US state of Florida.” Now, the meme has almost become a source of pride for Floridians as a way to embrace the uniqueness of living in the Sunshine State.
Enter: The Florida Man Games, a celebration of Florida culture like no other that markets itself as “the wildest live athletic competition on Earth.” The second annual games will be held Saturday, March 1, 2025 at the St. Johns County Fairgrounds in St. Augustine.
Throwing elbows may not be acceptable in a Publix aisle, but it’ll be both expected and encouraged during the Florida Man Games’ Hurricane Shopping Brawl event.
Photo courtesy of @stufftodoinstaugustine
To succeed in these games, you don’t need to be the epitome of peak athleticism. You just need to be willing to give your all in events like the Weaponized Pool Noodle Mud Duel, Florida Sumo Cage Match & Beer Pitcher Chug, and, new this year, Hurricane Party Prep: Grocery Aisle Brawl. You have to see photos from last year’s event to believe them.
Beyond providing a space for citizens to let their Floridian freak flags fly, the organization also prides itself on its charitable efforts, donating $20,000 to Jimmy Jam Community Outreach following its inaugural event in February 2024 that garnered an audience of 5,000. Yes, 5,000.
Think you have what it takes to bring the championship belt home to Lakeland? Assemble three to five team members and send in your audition video before Sunday, Sept. 1 — only 12 teams will be accepted from around the state, with just one team allowed per city. Vendor opportunities are also available.
We might be biased, but we think a Polk County team could sweep the competition if given the chance. After all, other counties are great — but only one has Grady Judd.
