Tag: Press Releases

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (July 3, 2024) – The West Palm Beach Arts & Entertainment District, in partnership with the West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority (DDA) announces the commencement of a new mural, “The Real Wild Life,” beginning on July 3. This vibrant piece, created by the talented local artist Kate Lynn Lewis, is set to become a stunning addition to Downtown West Palm Beach’s landscape. The artwork will be painted onto the west-facing wall of Duffy’s Sports Grill at 225 Clematis St. called the West Palm Beach Cultural Collective wall and will be completed in approximately 10 days.  

The mural celebrates the unique distinction that draws visitors from across the country to experience our natural wonders. It reminds us to fish in our abundant waters, kayak through serene channels, stroll along waterfront boardwalks, listen to the melodious calls of birds, and admire our iconic Art Deco architecture. 

Lewis’ style is best recognized by clean and hard lines, bold colors, and an emphasis on “impossible architecture” inspired by artists like MC Escher & Oscar Reutersvard. Her paintings can be found throughout the US and abroad, in and outside of municipal structures, arenas, offices, restaurants, and residences. 

Lewis has created more than 60 murals across the United States, and this is her first project for her hometown.  

“The DDA has encouraged and facilitated mural art throughout the downtown as a way to enhance the visitor experience and enrich the lives of those who live here through public art,” said Teneka James-Feaman, executive director of the West Palm Beach DDA. “We’re excited to be able to bring these new art experiences to our ever-growing and vibrant district.”  

Lewis has previously served as Google’s Artist in Residence for Chicago, designing artwork for the technology company and clients including Disney, Starbucks and United Airlines, among others.  

For more information about the DDA and the A&E District, please visit DowntownWPB.com or call 561-833-8873. 

About Arts & Entertainment District  
The West Palm Beach A&E District is a centralized collection of inspiring arts and entertainment venues; art and history museums; galleries; libraries; performing arts companies; and art education institutions. Situated in the heart of South Florida’s most progressive city, the District includes more than 20 distinct and distinguished cultural destinations that form a defining industry cluster. The A&E District enhances the appeal of West Palm Beach as a visitor destination, drawing attention to its status as a vibrant city illuminated by its beauty and range of creative expression. For more information about the A&E District, please visit DowntownWPBArts.com.  

About the Downtown Development Authority
The West Palm Beach DDA is an independent taxing district created in 1967 by a special act of the Florida Legislature. Its mission is to promote and enhance a safe, vibrant Downtown for our residents, businesses and visitors through the strategic development of economic, social and cultural opportunities. For more information about the DDA or Downtown West Palm Beach, please visit DowntownWPB.com or call the DDA at (561) 833-8873. 

Contact: Tony Theissen
rbb Communications
[email protected] 

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (July 1, 2024) – The West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority (DDA) has announced the launch of its new Downtown Ambassador program on July 1, with services provided by Block by Block. Using a phased approach, the first Ambassador service to launch will be the clean team, with a pressure washing team launching September 1 and the safety team launching on October 1. The five-year partnership with Block by Block combines multiple services into one provider that will better allow the DDA to address the growing needs of the downtown district.   

“By combining these services, the DDA will have more flexibility to quickly reassign resources as the needs of the downtown community change,” said Teneka James-Feaman, executive director of the West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority. “We will also have improved data collection through Block by Block’s integrated reporting system, which will allow us to identify any specific sections of downtown that might need increased attention.” 

The cleaning and trash ambassadors are focused on removing litter and debris throughout the district, including emptying trash cans, removing graffiti and assisting with events. Pressure washing ambassadors will be responsible for frequent cleaning of sidewalks and streets. Safety ambassadors will work with the City of West Palm Beach Police Department to improve the safety of residents, guests and employees in the downtown district and assist with homeless outreach efforts, while patrolling streets throughout downtown. All Ambassadors will be well versed in helping and answering any questions from downtown patrons. 

Over a more than 20-year history, Block by Block has developed an optimized operating model built on best practices, research and development and modern technology that has attracted partners in more than 100 locations across the United States.  

For more information about the DDA, visit DowntownWPB.com or call 561-833-8873. 

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About the Downtown Development Authority
The West Palm Beach DDA is an independent taxing district created in 1967 by a special act of the Florida Legislature. Its mission is to promote and enhance a safe, vibrant Downtown for our residents, businesses and visitors through the strategic development of economic, social and cultural opportunities.   

For more information about the DDA or Downtown West Palm Beach, please visit DowntownWPB.com or call the DDA at (561) 833-8873.   

Contact:  Tony Theissen
rbb Communications
[email protected] 

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (May 21, 2024) – The West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority (DDA) Board of Directors has announced the appointment of Teneka James-Feaman to the position of Executive Director.  James-Feaman succeeds Raphael Clemente, who is stepping down to pursue a new opportunity. 

James-Feaman has been a dedicated member of the DDA staff since 2007 and has served as associate executive director since 2012. She brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the organization’s mission and operations. 

“The DDA Board is very thankful for all of Raphael’s remarkable contributions and achievements throughout his tenure. Raphael has been a visionary leader in placemaking and community development, guiding the DDA team to significant milestones. Under his leadership, we successfully recruited dozens of new businesses to the downtown area, established the West Palm Beach Arts & Entertainment District, launched the city’s first bike share program, and championed public art initiatives that resulted in nearly 30 large-scale murals. He also led crucial efforts to support local businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Rick Reikenis, Chair of the DDA Board of Directors. “As we transition to new leadership, we are confident that Teneka, with her strong connections and respected leadership, will continue to advance our mission and foster Downtown West Palm Beach’s growth and vitality.” 

During her time with the DDA, James-Feaman has helped strengthen the downtown community through a variety of improvements including establishment of ambassador teams responsible for beautification and stakeholder engagement, transportation programs aimed at reducing congestion and promoting transit and walkable streets, the development of placemaking opportunities  such as the popular Fern Street Chess Park, the addition of engaging murals  throughout downtown, and a regular schedule of events designed to unite and enrich the community. 

“Downtown West Palm Beach is thriving as we attract investments from national businesses, whether expanding or relocating here, while ensuring responsible growth that maintains the safety and walkability of our city for residents and visitors,” said James-Feaman. “I am excited for this new opportunity and look forward to working closely with our dedicated team as we continue to build and explore new opportunities for growth and impact in the “Center of Paradise.” 

James-Feaman earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida and a master’s in business administration from Nova Southeastern University. She honed her skills while working for organizations like the Palm Beach County Sports Commission and the American Cancer Society. In 2016, she was selected for the International Downtown Association’s Emerging Leader Fellowship Program, which focused on urban placemaking and management. Through her role with the DDA, she has played a pivotal role in cultivating business relations, overseeing marketing, and driving business development initiatives.    

The DDA is governed by a seven-member board of directors which includes downtown property owners, business owners, and/or residents. Board Members are appointed by the Mayor and approved by the City Commission of West Palm Beach.  

About the Downtown Development Authority
The West Palm Beach DDA is an independent taxing district created in 1967 by a special act of the Florida Legislature. Its mission is to promote and enhance a safe, vibrant Downtown for our residents, businesses and visitors through the strategic development of economic, social and cultural opportunities. For more information about the DDA or Downtown West Palm Beach, please visit DowntownWPB.com or call the DDA at (561) 833-8873. 

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (April 18, 2024) – The West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority (DDA) today announced a five-year partnership with Block by Block, combining multiple services into one provider that will allow the DDA to more efficiently address the growing needs of the downtown district. During a three-stage phase-in schedule, Block by Block will assume management of downtown’s safety, cleaning, and pressure washing services with a new team of ambassadors. 

“By combining these services, the DDA will have more flexibility to quickly reassign resources as the needs of the downtown community continue to evolve,” said Raphael Clemente, executive director of the West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority. “We will also have improved data collection through Block by Block’s integrated reporting system, which will allow us to identify any specific sections of downtown that might need increased attention.” 

Clean Team Ambassadors are dedicated to maintaining cleanliness throughout the district. Duties encompass emptying trash cans, removing graffiti, pressure washing sidewalks and streets, weed control, handbill removal, and more. Safety and Hospitality Ambassadors are trained to provide assistance and information to residents, visitors, and merchants. Acting as the eyes and ears for Downtown West Palm Beach, they will collaborate with the City of West Palm Beach Police Department to improve the urban environment for constituents, aid in homeless outreach, and conduct street patrols throughout downtown. 

“We at Block by Block are eager about getting to work in West Palm Beach. We aim to improve all the traits that make downtown West Palm Beach a great place to live, work, and play,” said John S. Koch, division vice president, Block By Block.  

Over a more than 20-year history, Block by Block has developed an optimized operating model built on best practices, research and development and modern technology that has attracted partners in more than 100 locations across the United States.  

For more information about the DDA, visit DowntownWPB.com or call 561-833-8873. 

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About the Downtown Development Authority
The West Palm Beach DDA is an independent taxing district created in 1967 by a special act of the Florida Legislature. Its mission is to promote and enhance a safe, vibrant Downtown for our residents, businesses and visitors through the strategic development of economic, social and cultural opportunities.  
For more information about the DDA or Downtown West Palm Beach, please visit DowntownWPB.com or call the DDA at (561) 833-8873.   

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (April 2, 2024) – The West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority (DDA) has announced the appointment of Peter Cruise, Ph.D. as a member of the DDA Board of Directors. The appointment was made by West Palm Beach Mayor Keith James. Cruise is a downtown resident, long-time board member of the West Palm Beach Downtown Neighborhood Association and affiliate associate professor and founding executive director of the LeRoy Collins Public Ethics Academy at Florida Atlantic University.  

After serving in the U.S. Air Force, Cruise’s professional career started in West Palm Beach in the early 1980s, working at St. Mary’s Hospital, and the Palm Beach Blood Bank, and later at Martin Memorial Hospital in Stuart. Both his academic and professional careers have been focused on improving the ethical climate in public sector programs and organizations. 

Cruise currently serves on Boards of Directors for the Chamber of Commerce of the Palm Beaches, the Palm Beach County Medical Society’s Council of Ethical & Judicial Affairs, Nonprofits First, and Leadership Palm Beach County. 

The DDA is governed by a seven-member board of directors which includes downtown property owners, business owners, and/or residents. Board Members are appointed by the Mayor and approved by the City Commission of West Palm Beach. 

About the Downtown Development Authority 

The West Palm Beach DDA is an independent taxing district created in 1967 by a special act of the Florida Legislature. Its mission is to promote and enhance a safe, vibrant Downtown for our residents, businesses and visitors through the strategic development of economic, social and cultural opportunities. For more information about the DDA or Downtown West Palm Beach, please visit DowntownWPB.com or call the DDA at (561) 833-8873. 

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (March 21, 2024) – The West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority (DDA) is set to launch the first of three “reader’s theater” events as part of a series celebrating  Kahani: A Reader’s Theater, a format that transforms passive spectators into active participants by incorporating elements of storytelling, drama and community engagement. These outdoor readings and interactive plays, hosted by Pranati “Pranoo” Kumar, owner of Rohi’s Readery, are an open workshop for everyone to enjoy. The first event will take place on Saturday, March 30 at CityZen Garden, 400 Datura St., from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.  

In this event, participants will learn about the book The Celebration of Holi by Shelly Garg. Through engaging storytelling and colorful illustrations, the book captures the essence of Holi, a Hindu festival celebrated with enthusiasm and love. Readers will follow the characters as they play with colored powders, partake in festive dances, and come together to celebrate the triumph of good over evil. This delightful book not only entertains but also educates, offering a glimpse into the cultural significance and traditions of Holi. It is a perfect addition to children’s literature, fostering an appreciation for diversity and promoting the understanding of different cultural celebrations.  

“This is an opportunity for the public to support the local art community and take part in a unique experience when visiting Downtown West Palm Beach,” said Sherryl Muriente, public realm director for the DDA. “Our community is filled with creative individuals that curated these ideas to drive engagement and togetherness.” 

The second workshop takes place on May 4 and centers around the book Your Voice, Your Vote from acclaimed authors Leah Anderson and illustrator Keisha Morris, and the third event on July 20 will focus on the book Awesomely Emma by Amy Webb.  

“We aim to bring the vibrant stories of historically marginalized communities to life to reflect the richness of our various identities,” said Kumar. This project promotes inclusivity and contributes to a more connected and culturally enriched environment.” 

These events are free to attend, and those wishing to learn more can visit DowntownWPB.com/Kahani or call 561-833-8873. 

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About the Downtown Development Authority 

 The West Palm Beach DDA is an independent taxing district created in 1967 by a special act of the Florida Legislature. Its mission is to promote and enhance a safe, vibrant Downtown for our residents, businesses and visitors through the strategic development of economic, social and cultural opportunities.   

For more information about the DDA or Downtown West Palm Beach, please visit DowntownWPB.com or call the DDA at (561) 833-8873.   

MEDIA CONTACT:
Slatkow & Husak Public Relations
Sarah McKenna
[email protected] (772) 214-7209

HARMONY IN ACTION: SUNFEST 2024 CELEBRATES MILESTONE 40th FESTIVAL WITH MUSIC, ART AND COMMUNITY IMPACT

A festival beyond entertainment, SunFest is “Helping Neighbors”

(West Palm Beach, Fla.) – SunFest, West Palm Beach’s iconic waterfront music and art festival, is not just about entertainment; it’s a powerful community-building event. Marking its 40th anniversary on May 3-5, SunFest 2024 will celebrate the historic milestone by bringing back initiatives that underscore its nonprofit status and community focus. “Helping Neighbors,” The Palm Beach Post Pathfinders Awards Program, Kids Day, fundraising opportunities for local nonprofits and volunteer opportunities make SunFest standout among other music festivals and have earned it 40 years of accolades as Florida’s favorite waterfront event.

“As we celebrate our 40th anniversary at SunFest, we’re reminded of the deep connection and sense of pride we share with the Palm Beach County community,” said SunFest Executive Director Dianna Craven. “Through our SunFest 365 initiatives, we’re not just hosting a festival, but nurturing a legacy that strengthens and unites our community.”

Underwritten again this year by Florida Power & Light Company (FPL), SunFest’s “Helping Neighbors” program is an annual community outreach program that donates 700 tickets to area charities for distribution to individuals who otherwise might not be able to attend the festival. Since the inception of the “Helping Neighbors” program, SunFest has given away thousands of tickets to underserved Palm Beach County residents, serving over 50 agencies each year. The application deadline is February 28, 2024 and applications are available at SunFest.com/sunfest-365. Thanks to FPL’s support, more Palm Beach County residents can experience a weekend of music and art in downtown West Palm Beach.

“At Florida Power & Light Company, we believe in the power of community and the strength that comes from lifting each other up,” said Pam Rauch, vice president of external affairs and economic development at FPL. “By supporting the Helping Neighbors program at SunFest of Palm Beach County, we aim to create a space where everyone, regardless of their circumstances, can come together, enjoy the festivities, and build connections that enrich our shared community spirit.”

Each year, SunFest awards a college scholarship to a high school senior in the area of instrumental music. The recipient of the SunFest Music Scholarship receives $1,000 a year for four years. Applicants must be graduating high school seniors from a public, private or charter high school in Palm Beach or Martin County, planning to major or minor in music, and have an overall grade point average of 2.5. Students cannot self-apply but must be nominated by their high school and will submit a completed application package through the Pathfinders of Palm Beach and Martin Counties scholarship program. For more information about the Pathfinder Awards visit pathfinderawards.org.

As a community partner, SunFest has a tradition of opening the festival early on Friday to welcome over 250 children, all with special needs of varying degrees. With sponsorship from Gehring Group, a Risk Strategies Company, activities, gifts, music, food and loving attention are offered to each child as they enjoy SunFest without the crowds in their very own way. This program has continued to grow and has embraced thousands of special needs children since its inception 21 years ago.

Over the past 10 years, SunFest has helped local nonprofit organizations raise more than $1 million for their causes. Participating nonprofits recruit their own volunteers for SunFest and get paid for their time during the festival, while exposing their mission to SunFest attendees.

“SunFest’s collaboration with Friends of Foster Children allows us to raise funds and awareness of the needs of foster children in Palm Beach County,” said Friends for Foster Children Executive Director Jane Richardson. “With SunFest’s support, we are given an extraordinary platform to speak about our mission to thousands of people. Sunfest is truly a highlight of Friends of Foster Children’s year.”

SunFest’s success hinges on its incredible volunteers. As the festival gears up for 2024, it invites more individuals to join its team. Last year, over 2,100 volunteers contributed an impressive 19,500 hours, not only during the festival but throughout the year. Volunteers enjoy perks such as free admission, parking, meals and an official SunFest t-shirt, all while experiencing the beauty of West Palm Beach’s waterfront.

From its roots as the 10-day Royal Palm Festival, SunFest has evolved into a three-day extravaganza of music, art and community connection. After four decades, the festival’s heart remains the same – a celebration of community spirit and togetherness. Many volunteers return each year, drawn by the festival’s enduring commitment to the West Palm Beach community.

SunFest is produced by SunFest of Palm Beach County, Inc., a private 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. SunFest of Palm Beach County, Inc. consists of a 21-member board of directors; 25 committees; over 2,100 volunteers; a full-time, year-round staff of 4; and approximately 80 corporate sponsors. SunFest is funded in part by the Palm Beach County Tourist Development Council through the Palm Beach County Cultural Council. SunFest is also sponsored in part by the State of Florida through the Division of Arts and Culture and the National Endowment for the Arts. The festival has provided a springtime soundtrack along its outdoor, palm-lined ¾ mile setting for nearly 40 years, and includes a variety of performers and upbeat, more-than-just-music offerings for sunseekers to reunite with friends.

To be considered as a participating nonprofit for the 2024 event, contact [email protected]. For general information about SunFest 2024, volunteer or sponsorship opportunities, please visit www.SunFest.com or email [email protected].

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WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (February 23, 2024) – The West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority (DDA) is making art accessible to all through Flamango Vending beginning on Feb. 29 at Clematis by Night. Artwork from more than 25 local artists will be available through Flamango Vending, a uniquely repurposed and redesigned snack vending machine hosted and curated by local 1909 entrepreneur Meghan McKenna. 

The available small-scale pieces of art and hand-made items will range in price up to $50 and will include prints, original artwork on canvas, textiles, art kits, accessories, jewelry, and much more.  

As part of the ribbon cutting ceremony at 6 p.m., the public can take part in a Mallow Canvas community art making experience, where participants will create a one-of-a-kind mural using a giant marshmallow as the canvas in commemoration of opening day. Participants will be able to color the marshmallow canvas with edible markers, edible paint, stencils, and more. While the large canvas won’t be consumable, there will be edible mallow coloring kits available for purchase.   

After its debut at Clematis by Night, Flamango Vending will relocate to the Garden District Taproom courtyard and other public spaces throughout the year as a hidden gem of the Downtown district.    

“This is an opportunity for the public to support the local art community and take part in a unique experience when visiting Downtown West Palm Beach,” said Sherryl Muriente, public realm director for the DDA. “Our community is filled with creative individuals that curated these ideas to drive engagement and togetherness.” 

“Not only am I thrilled to see my vision of an art vending machine come to life, but I’m grateful for the opportunity to showcase the talents of local creators, artists, and makers who deserve recognition,” said Meghan McKenna, creator of Flamango Vending. “I’ve had this idea for a while, inspired by my own unique vending experience, but I didn’t have the means to bring it to life. With the support of the DDA, Flamango Vending has become a reality.” 

Flamango Vending is part of a larger placemaking initiative by the DDA, with the goal of activating public spaces and engaging the public in contributing to the community’s health, happiness and wellbeing. Placemaking projects have already made a significant impact in Downtown West Palm Beach with efforts such as the Fern Street Chess Park, Trojan Rocking Horses, Que Bacano, Motivational Mondays, and more.  

For more information about the DDA, visit DowntownWPB.com or call 561-833-8873. 

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About the Downtown Development Authority 

The West Palm Beach DDA is an independent taxing district created in 1967 by a special act of the Florida Legislature. Its mission is to promote and enhance a safe, vibrant Downtown for our residents, businesses and visitors through the strategic development of economic, social and cultural opportunities.   

For more information about the DDA or Downtown West Palm Beach, please visit DowntownWPB.com or call the DDA at (561) 833-8873.   

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (January 17, 2024) – The West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority (DDA) is bringing homegrown ideas to life in 2024. The DDA has selected four finalists out of 29 submissions in its search to fund unique ideas for placemaking experiences in Downtown West Palm Beach. Each finalist will receive up to $5,000 to support their project. The grants are funded through a partnership between the DDA and the Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties.  

“This is an opportunity for the DDA to support community voices that bring new ideas and strengthen our connections in the outdoor spaces downtown,” said Sherryl Muriente, public realm director for the DDA. “Our community is filled with creative individuals that curated these ideas to drive engagement and togetherness.” 

The four placemaking ideas selected for funding include:  

• Flamango Vending – This project calls for the installation of an affordable art vending machine to debut on Leap Day, February 29th during the City of WPB Clematis by Night. The vending machine will lower the barrier of becoming an art collector and bring attention to 16 local Palm Beach County artists and their talents. Artwork will be available for purchase for pricing between $6-$40, making art accessible to all. This project is hosted and curated by Meghan McKenna, a local 1909 entrepreneur. 
• Kahani’s Outdoor Theater – This project brings the vibrant stories of historically marginalized communities to life through a compelling reader’s theater and the joy of inclusive critical literacy. It involves collaboration with local community members, from toddlers to seniors, to curate a powerful experience that reflects the richness of identities. Kahani’s Outdoor Theater format allows for a dynamic presentation, incorporating elements of storytelling, drama, and community engagement. Three outdoor readings and interactive theater plays will be hosted by Pranati “Pranoo” Kumar, owner of Rohi’s Readery, as an open workshop for everyone to enjoy at CityZen Garden on March 30, May 3, and July 20, 2024. 

• The Fantastical Walk – This project brings the community together to create a green parade of personal-sized paper mâché fantastical creatures inspired by Hispanic folklore tradition of sculpting colorful hybrid flora and fauna characters, which will be worn, pulled, or carried by individuals or groups of friends and families in a walk-through downtown. This interactive project aims to celebrate the diverse creative spirit of the community, while highlighting the importance of sustainability. It will include three workshops during the summertime with artist Mayling Pao to create floats by repurposing materials like found objects and recyclables, while engaging people together creatively. The Fantastical Walk will be held in October 2024. 
• The 2025 Lantern Festival – Focused on the Lunar New Year (Year of the Snake), this hands-on lantern making project, facilitated by local Palm Beach State College student Lanzhi Wang, will be a conduit for cultural education and creative expression, highlighting the significance of Asian heritage. The project includes a series of monthly workshops from October 2024 to January 2025 where participants will indulge in traditional paper cutting artwork, lantern making, and poetry to be exhibited in the 300 block of the Clematis St. alleyway during the festival while celebrating with traditional music, dance, and food from the Asian culture. 

The goal of placemaking is to activate public spaces and engage everyone in contributing to the community’s health, happiness and wellbeing. Placemaking projects have already made a significant impact in Downtown West Palm Beach with efforts such as the Fern Street Chess Park, Trojan Rocking Horses, Que Bacano, Motivational Mondays, and more.  

For more information about the DDA, visit DowntownWPB.com or call 561-833-8873. 

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About the Downtown Development Authority
The West Palm Beach DDA is an independent taxing district created in 1967 by a special act of the Florida Legislature. Its mission is to promote and enhance a safe, vibrant Downtown for our residents, businesses and visitors through the strategic development of economic, social and cultural opportunities.   

 For more information about the DDA or Downtown West Palm Beach, please visit DowntownWPB.com or call the DDA at (561) 833-8873.   

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (January 9, 2024) – Share the SunFest stage with a super star! With showstopping headliners Cole Swindell, Nelly and Third-Eye Blind confirmed for 2024 with more national talent to be announced at the end of the month, SunFest is inviting local bands and other performers to join the lineup for the festival’s 40th year along downtown West Palm Beach’s picturesque waterfront. Back again with three days of music and celebration, SunFest will run from May 3 through 5.

The summer-loving festival, known for its connection to the community, is partnering with local nonprofit 1909 to seek out Florida bands to play original material alongside national acts in 2024. Volunteers from the SunFest Entertainment Committee and 1909 will work together to assess applications and discover the best Fresh Local Artists in the Sunshine State. Sponsored by Florida Power and Light, over 700 bands apply each year for a chance to perform at the iconic venue. Florida musicians can apply to perform original compositions alongside nationally acclaimed acts in the 2024 lineup by applying at www.sunfest.com/how-to-perform. The deadline for submission is January 19, 2024.

“We believe our hometown talent has contributed heavily to the value of our beloved, growing community,” said Danielle Casey, Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer of 1909. “We’ve watched local bands play on these stages and then get offered to join regional and national tours. We’re so grateful to once again be able to provide this incredible opportunity.”

The Fresh Local Artists selected will have the opportunity to perform at SunFest 2024 and a few lucky musicians could open for prominent evening entertainers. All South Florida including the Treasure Coast native bands will be considered.

“This application is also for groups seeking to perform on our new Community Stage, with 20 spots available across categories like dance, vocal, performance art and bands,” said Executive Director Dianna Craven. “Additionally, there are eight spots open on the Ford and Ideal Nutrition Stages, welcoming a diverse range of Fresh Local Artists. It’s really special for us to provide a platform for these local artists to do what they’re passionate about and celebrate our community on this 40^th anniversary milestone.”

To apply or learn more about being a featured local performer, please visit www.SunFest.com/how-to-perform. For more information about SunFest 2024 or sponsorship opportunities, please visit www.SunFest.com or email [email protected].