The 2025 World Ocean Celebration kicks off with the Youth Ocean Art Reception, a special evening celebrating young artists from the Overtown Youth Center, Breakthrough Miami, and The Motivational Edge. Through multiple workshops under the guidance of Miami-based artist Lauren Shapiro, students have integrated ecological education with art, craft, digital media, and performance. The reception marks the unveiling of their collaborative artwork, a testament to the power of creativity in fostering environmental awareness. (Public unveiling on June 7.)

*By invitation only.

Partners: Lauren Shapiro, Overtown Youth Center, Breakthrough Miami, The Motivational Edge

With the support of the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs and the Cultural Affairs Council, the Miami-Dade County Mayor and Board of County Commissioners.

Dive into adventure with our nearshore reef guided snorkel, an exciting opportunity to explore the vibrant marine life of the “Neon Reef”, a hidden gem just off the sands of Miami Beach. Led by a team of skilled guides, this immersive experience will deepen your connection to the ocean and its wonders. REQUIRED: strong swimming skills, personal snorkel gear, and prior snorkeling experience.

*Free with registration and signed waiver.

Partners: Urban Paradise Guild, Island Dreamer Sailing

Join us for a meaningful day of environmental action in one of Biscayne National Park’s most iconic locations! Volunteers will travel by boat to Boca Chita Key to help remove debris and protect the natural beauty and wildlife of this cherished coastal gem. Surrounded by turquoise waters and breathtaking views, you’ll make a direct impact on the health of our oceans while connecting with nature and fellow ocean stewards. Let’s work together to Keep Biscayne Beautiful and thriving for generations to come!

*Free with registration and signed waiver. ($25 deposit required to secure spot. Refundable following participation.)

Partners: Biscayne National Park Institute, Florida National Parks Association

Join us for an intimate and inspiring evening inside the enchanting Jewel Box in Miami, as we come together to celebrate our ocean and express our heartfelt appreciation to our sponsors, funders, and key partners. Enjoy cocktails and light bites while connecting with fellow ocean advocates, artists, and changemakers. Be inspired by a thought-provoking conversation between Shero of the Ocean, Shelby Thomas, CEO & Founder of Ocean Rescue Alliance, and ARTSail Founder, Ombretta Agró Andruff, as they discuss the power of storytelling, conservation, and innovation in protecting our blue planet. Let’s raise a glass to the impact we’ve made together and the exciting journey ahead!

*By invitation only.

Partner: YoungArts

Join us for an unforgettable evening as we honor the beauty and importance of our oceans with a spectacular live music performance by Donavon Frankenreiter! This iconic surfer, singer, and songwriter will bring his signature blend of laid-back acoustic surf rock to the stage, inspiring waves of good vibes in support of ocean conservation. The event will be a gathering of ocean lovers, environmental advocates, and music fans alike, all coming together to raise awareness for the protection and preservation of our oceans.

Opening performance by Piper & Thaddeus Foote.

*Ticketed.

Partners: Rhythm Foundation, Miami Beach Bandshell

Experience an evening of captivating tales where the ocean takes center stage! Be inspired as local storytellers from all walks of life share their personal experiences and adventures connected to the ocean. From thrilling encounters with marine wildlife to heartfelt reflections on the sea’s impact, this live storytelling event will inspire and entertain. Whether you’re an ocean lover or simply enjoy a good story, come be a part of this unforgettable night that celebrates our deep connection with the water. Don’t miss out on the chance to be moved by the power of ocean stories!

*Free with registration.

Partners: Miami-Dade Public Library System, The Traveling Ranger

Celebrate the incredible contributions of women leading the charge in ocean conservation! This inspiring event will feature a dynamic group of female leaders, scientists, and activists who are making waves in ocean advocacy and research. Hear their stories of perseverance, passion, and innovation as they discuss the challenges they’ve overcome and the important work they’re doing to protect our planet’s blue heart. Join us for an empowering evening that highlights the strength, vision, and dedication of these Ocean Sheroes!

*Ticketed.

Partners: Sheroes of the Ocean, 1 Hotel South Beach

Dive into a morning of ocean celebration and community connection! Join us on the beach at 35th Street for a robust lineup of family-friendly activities designed to inspire a deeper appreciation for our blue planet. Whether you're learning to swim or taking on the 1-mile swim challenge, flowing through beachside Pilates or participating in the ceremonial paddle-out, there’s something for everyone. Beyond the waves, engage in hands-on conservation efforts like a beach cleanup or a dune restoration, or explore immersive art installations and live performances that highlight the intersection of creativity and environmental stewardship.  This event is more than just a day at the beach—it’s a powerful statement of our collective commitment to ocean conservation, fostering connections between art, community, and the natural world.

WATER RECREATION AND ENGAGEMENT

• 8am-9am, Ocean Mile Exhibition Swim with Full Circle Coachinig << REGISTER HERE >>

• 8:30am-9:30am, Pilates on the Beach with Pilates for the People << REGISTER HERE >>

• 9am-10am, Ceremonial Paddle-Out with Surfrider Miami << REGISTRATION COMING SOON >>

• 9am-10am, Youth Ocean Swim Instruction with Breathe and Splash Swim School << REGISTER HERE >>

COMMUNITY SERVICE AND IMPACT

• 10am-12pm, Dune Restoration with Surfrider Miami and Frost Science MUVE << REGISTRATION COMING SOON >>

• 10am-12pm, Beach Cleanup with Clean Miami Beach, The International SeaKeepers Society, and VolunteerCleanup.org << REGISTRATION COMING SOON >>

 OCEAN ART AND EDUCATION

• 8am-12pm, Art Flags by Lauren Shapiro

• 8am-12pm, Youth Artwork by Lauren Shapiro, in collaboration with Breakthrough Miami, Overtown Youth Center, and The Motivational Edge

• 9am-12pm, Beach Blitz with Blue Scholars Initiative

• 9am-12pm, Microplastic Investigation with Oceana

• 9am-12pm, Reef Restoration Station with Rescue a Reef

• 9am-12pm, Collaborative Watercolor Mural with Big Blue & You

• 9am-12pm, Reef-Safe Sunscreen & Skin Care Awareness with Stream2Sea

• 9am-12pm, Water Quality Testing with the Blue Water Task Force and EarthEcho International

• 9am-12pm, Sea Turtle Conservation with Miami-Dade County Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces

🔹 What to bring: sun protection (hat, glasses, long sleeve shirt, beach umbrella), reef-safe sunscreen; reusable water bottle, no single-use plastic, please!

*Free with registration and signed waiver.

Partners:

Join us for a memorable evening of ocean-inspired art and film at the Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science. Start the night with a refreshing cocktail by the bay and enjoy the waterfront atmosphere before diving into a participatory performance led by artist Lauren Shapiro, where creativity and conservation come together in an interactive experience. Following the reception, settle in for a special screening of curated ocean-themed films from the San Francisco-based International Ocean Film Festival. These powerful and visually stunning stories from around the world will spark inspiration and deepen our connection to the sea.

*Ticketed.

Partner: International Ocean Film Festival

The 2025 World Ocean Celebration concludes in style with a World Ocean Day community event at the Philip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science. Learn about the work Frost Science and local conservationists are doing to save our coral reefs, protect our coastlines and raise awareness about the importance of clean, healthy oceans. You’ll hear from some amazing scientists about marine animals and plants, cleaning plastic from the oceans and much more.

*Free with museum admission.

Partner: Frost Science