Preparations for Englewood Beach Waterfest are in full swing and you can feel the buzz growing. Organizers are lining up some exciting additions for the Family Conservation Center, Mote Marine Laboratory’s “Radical Reefs” exhibit, a butterfly encounter, plus hands-on booths from Lemon Bay Conservancy.
Coming off the record-breaking 2025 APBA Offshore Powerboat Championship, Waterfest, Inc. is set to return October 8–11, 2026. Last year’s races drew huge crowds. Forty-one boats battled it out over two days, roaring through tight heats with the Gulf backdrop setting the stage. It wasn’t just about the adrenaline, local businesses, civic groups, and hundreds of volunteers made their mark. Families explored educational exhibits, sampled what local shops and restaurants offer, and got a crash course in safe boating and marine conservation.
“Our championship spotlighted skill, teamwork, and community pride,” said Jay Henderson, Board of Directors President. “We hosted thousands, lifted up our small businesses, and showed off Englewood’s natural beauty. Our volunteers brought the event to life. Next year? We’re aiming even higher.”
Veterans and new contenders kept fans riveted, delivering photo finishes and memorable performances. Race officials ran a tight ship, well-organized courses, clear timing, and prime viewing spots for both onshore crowds and boat spectators. Racers and fans praised the logistics, sightlines, and all-around hospitality.
Ray LaBadie, Waterfest Board 1st Vice-President, summed it up: “This event shines because of our race teams, their families, and everyone who traveled here. Our dedicated board, generous sponsors, and especially 500 volunteers—without their energy, passion, and commitment, Waterfest wouldn’t be this incredible.”
Ralph Young, Board 2nd Vice-President and Race Director, added: “We’re ready to keep the momentum going—2026 Waterfest, October 8–11, will be even bigger.”
Money raised at the championship funds ongoing Waterfest programs, covering future spectator events, competitions, and education initiatives built to highlight and protect Englewood’s waterways. The Waterfest team remains dedicated to promoting responsible recreation, marine conservation, and deepening community ties, all through events that bring visitors and locals together.
Englewood Beach Waterfest, Inc. is a Florida-based nonprofit, staging races, shows, and forums for water sports fans. Their mission? Host high-quality events, boost the local economy, and foster environmental awareness.
2026 Waterfest brings a packed schedule:
– Pirate Poker Run: Saturday, September 12
– Paddle for the Pass Cleanup: Saturday, October 3
– Inflated Invitational Beach Race: Friday, October 9
– Waterfest Block Party: Friday, October 9
– APBA Offshore Championship: Saturday and Sunday, October 10 & 11
Mote Marine Laboratory will set up five exhibits for Waterfest’s Family Conservation Center
Fin-Tastic Friends — Get to know sharks and rays, backed by Mote’s latest research.
Florida Watersheds — Encounter local wildlife and learn how you can help preserve our watersheds.
Marine CSI — Step into the shoes of Mote’s rescue team. Touch real dolphin bones, inspect skulls, and solve marine mysteries.
Spineless Sea — Meet sea stars, squids, horseshoe crabs, and more. Explore their wild adaptations and why they need protection.
Radical Reefs — Unravel whether corals are plants, animals, or minerals. See how Mote scientists are working to protect and restore coral reefs.
And there’s more: Butterfly Encounter, Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Lemon Bay Conservancy, Lemon Bay High School AquaLab and Marine Club, Peace River Wildlife Center, PRSAR, Restore Our Oceans, SWFL Sea Turtle Rescue, Venice Photo Booth, and Wildlife Center of SWFL/Venice.
Kids can jump into face painting, crafts, and games. It’s all free.
Want your family to dig deeper into marine life and conservation? Then don’t miss the Family Conservation Center during Waterfest, October 10 & 11, 2026, at Englewood Beach. Bring everyone, there’s something for all ages.
Click here for more information about the activities at Mote Marine Laboratory.
Click here for more information about Englewood Beach Waterfest.
