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Plan Ahead for the Englewood Beach Waterfest
Southwest Florida is known for its gorgeous waterfront, and what better way to enjoy that waterfront than at the Englewood Beach Waterfest? Whether you live in the area or are in town to look at Englewood homes for sale, this event is a must-see. Last year's event was canceled due to COVID-19 concerns, but the festival is back and better than ever for November 18th - 21st, 2021. Here are the other key details about each of the activities at the festival.
- Powerup Pre-Race Party: 260 Maryland Ave., Englewood, FL 34224
The Powerup Pre-Race Party kicks off Englewood Beach Waterfest on November 18th. It is scheduled for 5 - 10 pm at The Lighthouse Grill. There's a cash bar, and guests can choose dishes from a special pre-race menu. You can also listen to live music, meet some of the drivers who will compete over the weekend, and chat with other fans. - Waterfest Block Party: 262 S. Indiana Ave., Englewood, FL 34223
The Waterfest Block Party is another great way to get excited about the upcoming water sports competitions. It takes place on Friday, November 19th, between 5 and 9 pm at the Englewood Shopping Center. There will be food for sale, delicious drinks, and live music to enjoy. Throughout the evening, the race boats will parade through the shopping center, giving you the chance to see them up-close. - OPA Racing World Championships: Beach Rd., Englewood, FL 34223
This is the highlight of Englewood Beach Waterfest! The OPA Racing World Championships are scheduled for Saturday, November 20th, and Sunday, November 21st. The gates at Englewood Beach will open at 9 am both days, and the races begin at 10 am.
The OPA Championships bring numerous powerboats to the water off the coast of Englewood. You can watch them power along at incredible speeds over 150 miles per hour. There are various purses they compete for throughout the day. For example, in previous years, the drivers have competed for a $10,000 Geico Triple Crown Purse. In 2019, there were 75 boats overall. A similar number is expected for 2021. Races should conclude around 4:00 pm each day.
You can purchase Waterfest tickets online for $20 per person or pay $25 per person at the gate. Tickets are for both days and include parking and bus transportation to Englewood Beach. Children under 12 get free admission with the purchase of an adult ticket. - The Family Conservation Center: Englewood Beach
The Family Conservation Center along Englewood Beach will also be open during Waterfest. Here, you can learn about sea creatures, including horseshoe crabs, sea turtles, coral reefs, alligators, and various birds.
The Family Conservation Center also hosts a number of fun kids' activities. Kids can have their faces painted, help build a boat, create sand art, or go on a sea-themed scavenger hunt. There's even a photo booth where you can snap a memorable photo with your favorite sea creature. - Cantina and Food Court: Englewood Beach
There will be several tents on the beach throughout Waterfest. These tents will serve as a food court where local restaurants will prepare various seafood and regional dishes. There's also an on-site bar serving beer, wine, and the signature Raceday Cocktails.
Life on the water is something to celebrate in the Englewood area. If you're looking at Bradenton homes for sale or Sarasota homes for sale, we recommend stopping by for this annual event. Our real estate agents would be happy to help you find the perfect home nearby. Contact us to learn more about our services.