The Mission San Luis hosted the "Giving thanks" festival. Guests saw first hand how Spanish and Apalachee Indians prepared food in the 17th century.

The Park's staff gave demonstrations on how to incorporate spices, roasted nuts and chicken in traditional dishes. Children were also able to help prepare some of the foods.

"We have a number of cooking demonstrations. Some of the different foods and things we're not used to," said interpreter, Brent Newman. "Here we're showing some different ways they processed acorns and hickory nuts."

Wade Young visited the festival and he said he admires 17th century cooks. "What is interesting is the ability to survive in an environment and do it without. We take for granted so many things," he said.

Most of the food prepared at the Mission San Luis Saturday was for display only. But guests were encouraged to try to prepare these meals at home.