West Palm Beach officials announced today that LagoonFest 2026 will not take place as scheduled on Saturday at the Downtown Waterfront on Fern Street. The cancellation comes after city emergency management teams warned of unusually high water levels that could lead to flooding during the event.
Safety cited as top priority
Mayor Keith James, speaking at a brief press conference, emphasized that the safety of residents, visitors, and festival staff is the city’s foremost concern. “We love our community gatherings, but we cannot risk the well‑being of our families for entertainment,” James said. He added that the decision was made in consultation with the Palm Beach County Office of Emergency Management and the U.S. National Weather Service, both of which flagged a potential surge linked to the ongoing king‑tide cycle.
Impact on the community
LagoonFest, a popular summer celebration featuring live music, food vendors, and family‑friendly activities, draws thousands of locals and tourists each year. The event’s cancellation will affect local businesses that rely on the festival’s foot traffic, including restaurants, craft vendors, and nearby hotels. The West Palm Beach Chamber of Commerce issued a statement expressing disappointment but praised the city’s precautionary approach, noting that “protecting our community’s health and safety is always the right call.”
No rescheduling planned
City officials confirmed that the festival will not be rescheduled for later in 2026. The waterfront venue is slated for a series of public works projects later this year, and the city wants to avoid further logistical complications. Organizers are encouraged to explore alternative dates for future editions, and the city will work with them to identify a safe location for next year’s celebration.
What residents can do
Residents who purchased tickets are advised to contact the festival’s ticketing partner for refunds. The city’s website will host a FAQ page with details on refunds, future event updates, and safety resources related to king‑tide flooding. In the meantime, officials urge citizens to stay informed about local weather alerts and to heed any evacuation orders should conditions worsen.
Looking ahead
While LagoonFest will not proceed this year, the city remains committed to providing vibrant community events that celebrate West Palm Beach’s culture and waterfront lifestyle. Officials highlighted upcoming initiatives, such as the planned summer concert series at the nearby Clematis Street plaza and a series of family‑focused activities at the Palm Beach County Parks and Recreation Department.
For real‑time updates, residents can download the WPBF 25 News app or follow the city’s official social‑media channels. The city’s emergency management office will continue to monitor water levels throughout the weekend and will issue any necessary advisories.
Original reporting: WPBF (Treasure Coast / Hearst) — read the source article.
