The Chasco Fiesta, founded in 1922, and held every year since 1947, is the oldest annual festival in Florida. It is based on the fictional legend of Queen Chasco and King Pithla, a Spanish boy and girl who are captured by Calusa Indians - borrowing their names from the Pithlachascotee River that winds through New Port Richey.

Known to locals as simply "Chasco", the event extends across two weekends in March. The exact dates vary from year to year. The sentimental highlight of the festival is the crowning of the King and Queen, followed by a coronation ball. In homage to the Indian-themed legend, a Native American Festival is always a part of Chasco, and includes Ntive American dancers and demonstrations, encampment displays, and arts and crafts vendors.

Although the exact schedule may vary, Chasco normally starts with the Coronation on Friday evening, followed on Saturday with a huge street parade. On the last Saturday of the event, a boat parade is held on the Pithlachascotee River. The boat parade is the oldest such event in Florida.

Evening entertainment is held at the Sims Park amphitheater every day during the event, featuring many top-name musicians and groups. Each evening is themed, so that regardless of your favorite genre, you won't go away disappointed. Typical musical themes are classic rock, soul, bluegrass, jazz, rhythm and blues, oldies, and country. Most of the musical acts are free, but some require an admission fee.

A large carnival with games and thrill rides is always set up on the property next to Sims Park along the south side of Orange Lake. Arts and crafts vendors are present all nine days of the festival, as are a large variety of food vendors. Beer and wine is available on site. The local Sertoma chapter serves barbecue dinners, and holds a Guiness world record at Chasco for serving the largest number of barbecue meals at a single event.Activities & Facilities

Hotel or B&BRestaurantPlaygroundPicnic shelterDogs allowedArts/crafts vendorsZoo/animal displaysCarnival games/ridesLive musicShort hiking trailsPaved bike trails

• Chasco Fiesta official website
• History of the Chasco Fiesta

Note: The dates of annual events and festivals are subject to change from year to year. Before planning your trip, be sure to check the links above for the actual dates, times, and schedule of activities.