Based on recommendations from the Florida Folklife Council, the Secretary of State confers Florida Folk Heritage Awards annually. The awards are given to outstanding folk artists and folk culture advocates who have made long-standing contributions to the folk cultural resources of the state. Established in 1985, the program parallels the National Heritage Fellowships.

Each June, the Division of Historical Resources formally announces the award program and solicits nominations through a statewide news release and letters to interested individuals and organizations. Nominations received by October 1 are considered in the selection of the award recipients for the following year. Inquiries about guidelines and nominations for the Florida Folk Heritage Awards should be directed to the Florida Folklife Program, Bureau of Historic Preservation, 500 S. Bronough Street, Tallahassee, FL 32399-0250; (800)847-PAST.