KEY LARGO, FLA. – Reef Environmental Education Foundation (REEF) invites all to join a vibrant weekend of ocean conservation, citizen science, and community engagement at REEF Fest, taking place on October 16–19, 2025, in Key Largo, Florida.

This year’s event brings together free ocean conservation seminars, engaging social gatherings, and plenty of opportunities to connect with the marine world. Most REEF Fest events are free to attend, but pre-registration is requested. Visit www.REEF.org/REEFfest to register and see the full event schedule.

Ocean Seminars
Free educational seminars will be held on Friday, Oct. 17, and Saturday, Oct. 18 at the REEF Ocean Exploration Center in Key Largo. Guest speakers include scientists, underwater photographers, and more. This year's seminar speaker lineup includes:
• Sam Muka, Associate Professor, Stevens Institute of Technology, who will highlight how coral reef tanks and hobbyists are influencing coral conservation and scientific understanding.
• Brendan Talwar, Ph.D., Postdoctoral Scholar, Scripps Institution of Oceanography, who will discuss long-term trends in shark and ray observations and conservation implications.
• Nat Gibb, Cave Explorer, Underwater Photographer & Videographer, who will share her cave diving stories, imagery, and passion for subterranean exploration.
• Corey T. Callaghan, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, University of Florida, who will explain how citizen science and open data streams are transforming ecological research across marine and terrestrial environments.

For full talk summaries and speaker bios, visit www.REEF.org/REEFfest/seminars.

Socials and Nature Tours
• Thursday, Oct. 16, 5:00-7:00pm - Open House: Explore the new Ocean Exploration Center, meet the team, and enjoy light refreshments. Free and open to the public.
• Friday, Oct. 17, 5:00-6:00pm (following afternoon seminars) – Happy Hour Social: Unwind with snacks and drinks at REEF Campus following afternoon seminars. Free and open to the public.
• Saturday, Oct. 18, 5:00-8:30pm – For the Love of the Sea Celebration: A festive evening featuring dinner, open bar with local craft beer, wine, and signature cocktails, silent auction, and a beautiful sunset over the bay. Tickets can be purchased online for $125 per person. Visit www.REEF.org/REEFfest/registration to purchase tickets.

Diving and Snorkeling: Explore the Florida Keys Your Way
REEF Fest is an excellent opportunity to explore the amazing marine environments of the Florida Keys. Attendees can choose from trusted partners offering unique excursions, including fish survey dives, reef clean ups, and coral planting. These trips can be booked directly with dive and snorkel operators. A listing of suggested REEF Fest Experience Partners can be found online at www.REEF.org/REEFfest. On the morning of Sunday, Oct. 19, attendees may join in a guided walking tour of a nature trail at John Pennekamp State Park.

About REEF
Reef Environmental Education Foundation (REEF) conserves marine environments worldwide. Our mission is to protect biodiversity and ocean life by actively engaging and inspiring the public through citizen science, education, and partnerships with the scientific community. For more information, visit www.REEF.org.

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