Florida is the only state in the U.S. with its own “embassy” in Washington, D.C. During the city’s annual Passport DC celebration, hundreds of visitors eager for a glimpse of home were welcomed. Known as “Florida House,” this nonprofit and nonpartisan organization sits steps from the U.S. Capitol and serves as a hub for Floridians and their guests.
While it’s not an official embassy in the diplomatic sense, it offers a warm welcome through hospitality, educational programming and a connection to the state’s Congressional delegation.
Florida House became a cultural showcase for Passport DC’s “Embassy Unlocked” event. Guests sampled fresh Florida citrus, admired vibrant artwork and mingled in a space filled with Sunshine State charm.
“I still live in Central Florida, but I come to D.C. regularly,” said Cecilia Gonzalez, a Central Florida resident who frequently travels to the capital. “When I have a chance to stop by while being on Capitol Hill, I come say hi, get some orange juice. Kind of like getting that sunshine while being back here up and down on the hill.”
