A weekend of waterfront adventure, hometown tradition, and community connection returns to the heart of historic DeFuniak Springs.

LakeFest is Coming May 15 & 16, 2026

In DeFuniak Springs, LakeFest has become far more than a weekend event. It is a celebration of community, outdoor adventure, and the rare beauty surrounding Lake DeFuniak.

Each year, families, visitors, musicians, vendors, and local organizations gather for a weekend filled with live entertainment, water activities, food, and hometown traditions. Hosted at historic Chipley Park, the festival creates an atmosphere that feels exciting.

Children laugh as inflatable ducks race across the water. Families line Circle Drive waiting for the parade to pass by. Friends gather beneath the majestic trees while live music drifts across the lake at sunset. Kayaks glide across calm water as crowds cheer from the shoreline.

These are the moments that transform a community event into a lasting memory.

At the center of it all is Lake DeFuniak, the natural landmark that has long defined the city’s historic district. The lake and surrounding park provide a setting unlike almost anywhere else in Florida, giving LakeFest a character all its own.

The event was created to celebrate safe, family friendly recreation while encouraging people to reconnect with both nature and one another.

One of the festival’s most anticipated attractions is the hydroflight and wakeboard entertainment, where professional athletes perform high energy stunts above the water while spectators gather along the shore in amazement. At the same time, many of the festival’s most meaningful moments come from the traditions that feel unmistakably local, including the fish fry, farmers market, parade, car show, and performances from community groups.

LakeFest succeeds because the community helps create the event.

Residents and visitors are encouraged to participate through cardboard boat races, paddle activities, camping, vendor booths, classic car displays, and volunteer opportunities. That spirit of participation gives the festival its energy and authenticity.

For visitors, LakeFest offers an opportunity to discover the charm of historic DeFuniak Springs. For locals, it serves as a reminder of what makes the community special. For children experiencing it for the first time, it may become the kind of tradition they remember for years to come.

As LakeFest continues to grow, its heart remains the same. It is a celebration of community pride, outdoor recreation, and the simple joy of gathering beside the water.

Check out the Schedule of Events on the official LakeFest Website.