Summit on the Circle
Summit on the Circle 2025
The Inaugural Gathering
The inaugural Summit on the Circle marked the beginning of a new cultural tradition in DeFuniak Springs, welcoming more than 150 attendees for a weekend dedicated to history, storytelling, and community connection.
Held along the historic shores of Lake DeFuniak, the 2025 Summit featured a dynamic mix of engaging speakers, live music, cultural discussions, and shared meals. Attendees explored topics ranging from Southern culture and historic preservation to storytelling, faith, and thoughtful dialogue, all within a setting that encouraged connection and reflection.
The success of the inaugural Summit affirmed the community’s interest in meaningful cultural experiences and laid the foundation for what is now an annual event. As Summit on the Circle continues to grow, it remains rooted in its original purpose: celebrating the stories, traditions, and conversations that bring people together.
A Look Back at the 2025 Summit
April 4-6, 2025
The inaugural Summit on the Circle welcomed guests for a full weekend of performances, conversations, workshops, and lakeside gatherings. Events included:
Friday Evening
- Opening performance by Opera Cowgirls at the Chautauqua Theater
- After-party with performers at Sweet Southern Comfort Cafe
Saturday Experiences
- Morning welcome with coffee and refreshments
- Pinhole Photography Symposium with Yvonne LeBrun
- Southern Conversations and storytelling with humorist Shelby Hofer
- Talks on historic houses and preservation with Brent Hull
- Culinary Conversation featuring Gulf Coast oysters with Chef Irv Miller
- Southern Cemeteries Exploration
- Southern Soirée with a pig roast and live music by Tim Jackson
Sunday Gatherings
- Southern Social Etiquette Spotlight
- Southern Short Stories with Shelby Hofer
- Circle Stroll with live music on porches around Lake DeFuniak
These experiences set the tone for a weekend rooted in curiosity, creativity, and community.
We hope to see you there!