Author: Tom Sparke, Communications Manager
REEF Fest 2026 is a wrap, and what a weekend it was! From October 15–18, divers, snorkelers, scientists, and ocean lovers from near and far gathered in Key Largo for four days of seminars, socials, diving, and celebration. To everyone who joined us, whether in person or online, thank you. You are what makes REEF Fest so special, and together we celebrated not just marine conservation, but the collective impact of the entire REEF community.
A Weekend of Ocean Science
Our free seminar series brought an inspiring lineup of scientists and naturalists to the REEF Ocean Exploration Center. Kai Lopez introduced audiences to the reef fishes of the Florida Keys and the niches they occupy, drawing on 25 years in the water. Aisha Rickli-Rahman explored how forensic science is used to investigate wildlife crime and protect marine life. Dr. Jennifer Rehage of Florida International University took us into the diverse fish communities of the Everglades and South Florida. And the REEF team shared the latest from our citizen science and marine conservation programs.
Missed a talk, or want to watch one again? Recordings of this year’s seminars, along with talks from past years, are available on our Facebook page and YouTube channel.
Celebrating Together
Every evening offered a chance to connect with our ocean-minded community. We kicked things off Thursday with the Welcome Reception at the REEF Campus, gathered again Friday for the Happy Hour Social between seminars, and came together Saturday for the highlight of the weekend: the For the Love of the Sea Celebration. Guests enjoyed a festive waterfront evening of dinner, drinks, and a sunset over Florida Bay, while the silent auction raised vital support for REEF’s marine conservation programs. The weekend wrapped up Sunday with hands-on conservation activities in the Florida Keys.
Relive the Weekend
Browse the REEF Fest 2026 photo album on Flickr and feel free to download your favorites. If you joined us and haven’t already shared your thoughts, we would love your feedback, so please take a moment to complete our short post-event survey. Your responses help us make REEF Fest even better next year.
Thank You to Our Sponsors and Partners
REEF Fest is made possible by the generosity of our sponsors and partners. Special thanks to the Monroe County Tourist Development Council for their ongoing and longtime support of REEF Fest, to our Premier Sponsor and supporting sponsors, and to all of our Experience and Hospitality Partners who help our community explore the marine life of the Florida Keys.
Save the Date: REEF Fest 2027
Mark your calendar! REEF Fest returns to Key Largo October 14–17, 2027, and we can’t wait to celebrate the ocean with you again. In the meantime, many of you asked about REEF Field Survey Trips during the weekend, a fun way to explore amazing destinations with fellow ocean lovers while collecting fish sightings data that supports marine conservation. See what’s coming up in 2027 at www.REEF.org/trips.
Thank you again for being part of REEF Fest 2026. We can’t wait to see you next year!
