Offshore racing fans from across the globe will converge on Englewood Beach this fall as the American Powerboat Association (APBA) World Championship serves as the grand finale of the 11th annual Englewood Beach Waterfest, set for October 10–12.
Waterfest, a nonprofit, volunteer-run organization, brings together speedboat racing and family-friendly water activities to showcase both the sport and the region’s natural assets. Each year, the event draws an average of 32,000 guests, highlighting its role as one of Southwest Florida’s premier attractions. The APBA Championship, a three-race series, will crown its champions at Englewood Beach, placing the spotlight firmly on Charlotte County with national and international recognition.
Named one of the Top 20 Festivals by the Southeast Tourism Society in 2023, Englewood Beach Waterfest has earned repeated acclaim for its blend of community spirit and world-class racing. Its success is made possible by more than 450 volunteers who work throughout the year to produce the event, reinforcing the area’s reputation for hospitality and enthusiasm for offshore racing.
Englewood’s coastal setting provides a unique racing environment, where conditions can shift from calm waters to challenging waves within the same weekend. Extraordinary safety measures are in place, including aerial and marine monitoring, fire department rescue boats, and dedicated support crews to ensure the wellbeing of both participants and wildlife.
Festivities will begin on October 10 with the Annual Block Party on Dearborn Street, where race teams complete inspections, qualifiers, and meet the public. Racing gets underway at 11 a.m. on Saturday, October 11, and continues through Sunday, October 12, culminating in an awards ceremony to honor the top three winners.
General admission tickets are priced at $35 for two days, with children under 12 admitted free. VIP experiences range from $150 for a single day to $250 for the full weekend.
Englewood Beach Waterfest will take place at 2100 North Beach Road in Englewood. More information, tickets, and volunteer opportunities are available at englewoodbeachwaterfest.com.
