ManateeFest 2024

Manatee Lagoon's 8th anniversary was celebrated on Saturday, February 3, 2024

“The eighth annual ManateeFest at Manatee Lagoon not only broke records, but also strengthened bonds with the community. ManateeFest 2024 highlighted the outstanding collaborative efforts between Manatee Lagoon - An FPL Eco-Discovery Center and our community partners."

Sponsored by FPL SolarTogether, this year’s event was a resounding success, with unprecedented attendance and engagement. The free, family-friendly event on Saturday, Feb. 3, attracted nearly 10,000 visitors throughout the day. Guests of all ages enjoyed face painting, recycling relay races, insightful coastal chats, mini golf, mascot dance parties and more!

People crowding around vendor booths for information and activities during ManateeFest 2024.
People crowding around vendor booths for information and activities during ManateeFest 2024.

 

Mia the Manatee dances with kids at the Main Stage during ManateeFest 2024.
Mia the Manatee dances with kids at the Main Stage during ManateeFest 2024.

 

“ManateeFest 2024 not only celebrated our beloved Florida manatees, but also highlighted our team’s dedication to the community,” said Zack Greenberg, manager of Manatee Lagoon. “Through events like these we are able to connect with the community and share our conservation initiatives and educational programs that are available to the public.”

This year’s event exceeded expectations thanks to support from the Manatee Lagoon staff, the FPL Community Relations Team from across the state, dedicated volunteers from across FPL and Friends of Manatee Lagoon and community partners.

We are looking forward to ManateeFest 2025! Check back for more information as we approach next year’s event. Vendor and Exhibitor registration will open in September 2024.

Event Recognitions

ManateeFest has been recognized from The Florida Festivals & Events Association (FFEA) consecutively for the last four years! Notably, ManateeFest 2023 earned four SunSational Awards.

SunSational Award2021%20WINNER%20logo%20-%20SunSational.png2022 SunSational Award Winner logo2023