FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Palm Harbor Hero Fest Returns May 2nd with Expanded Evening Celebration Honoring Veterans & First Responders

Palm Harbor, FL — January 26, 2026— Following a powerful and record-breaking inaugural year, Palm Harbor Hero Fest returns on Saturday, May 2nd, from 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM, bringing the community together once again to honor local veterans, first responders, and the organizations that support them.

After welcoming thousands of attendees, more than 120 vendors, dozens of sponsors, live entertainment, and raising funds for seven nonprofit organizations in its first year, Hero Fest is building on that momentum with an expanded evening format designed to enhance the experience for families, supporters, and honorees alike.

This year’s event will feature live music, local food and beverage vendors, interactive experiences, community partners, and special areas dedicated to honoring veterans and first responders — creating a meaningful celebration rooted in gratitude, connection, and community pride.

This year, Hero Fest is excited to collaborate with Crabby Bill’s, the largest merchant in Downtown Palm Harbor, creating a one-of-a-kind entertainment experience. In addition to serving as one of Hero Fest’s premier VIP locations, Crabby Bill’s will be hosting its annual Rock the Harbor event simultaneously. This unique partnership allows for two stages of live entertainment, two VIP experiences, and expanded programming throughout the event footprint, giving attendees even more ways to celebrate, connect, and enjoy the day.

“Hero Fest was created to be more than a festival — it’s a heartfelt thank-you to the people who serve and protect our community every day,” said Lacy Empkey, event producer and founder of In Alignment Collective. “After seeing the overwhelming support last year, we’re incredibly excited to bring Hero Fest back with a new evening atmosphere that allows even more people to attend, connect, and celebrate our heroes together.”

David Vargas, President of the Pinellas County Veterans Association, added, “Hero Fest directly supports the mission of organizations working year-round to serve veterans and first responders across Palm Harbor and throughout Pinellas County. What makes this event so powerful is that it turns local community support into lasting, county-wide impact — funding critical programs, increasing awareness, and strengthening the network of care our heroes rely on every day.”

The extended event hours allow for a stronger focus on live entertainment, community engagement, and shared moments of recognition, while maintaining the family-friendly environment that made the inaugural event such a success.

Hero Fest is made possible through the collaboration of community volunteers, nonprofit partners, local businesses, public safety departments, and supporters who believe in honoring service and giving back. Proceeds from the event will once again benefit nonprofit organizations serving veterans, first responders, and their families throughout Pinellas County.

As planning continues, organizers invite sponsors, vendors, volunteers, and community members to get involved and be part of a growing tradition that celebrates service, sacrifice, and unity.

Event Details

Hero Fest
Date: Saturday, May 2, 2026
Time: 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Location: Downtown Palm Harbor, Florida

For more information, sponsorship opportunities, or ways to get involved, visit herofestfl.com. 

Media Contact:
Lacy Empkey
Founder, In Alignment Collective
Lacy@inalignmentcollective.com