Tide Fest, 2026

The Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve (GTMNERR) hosts Tide Fest 2026 from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. on Friday, September 25, 2026. This annual event, formerly known as Estuary Fest, celebrates National Estuaries Week and offers educational activities for all ages. 

The Tide Fest is free and timed to coincide with a teacher-training day when St. Johns County students aren't in school. 

GTMNERR is one of 29 national estuarine research reserves in the United States, devoted to protecting the natural biodiversity and cultural resources within the nation's estuaries as well as providing educational programs and conducting research.

Tide Fest 2026 is your opportunity to enjoy the beauty of Florida's coastal ecosystems while learning about the vital role estuaries play in our environment. The event is held at the GTMNERR Visitor Center and offers fun learning activities.

Want to support GTMNERR and have a fun night? Attend their fundraising event, Shuck Yeah! on Friday, September 18, 2026.

Admission: Free

When: 1:30 to 4:00 p,m. on Friday, September 25, 2026

Where: GTMNERR Education Center, 505 Guana River Road, Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida 32082

About GTMNERR: The Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve is a protected stretch of land consisting of wetlands, estuaries, and more on Florida's East Coast that actively works to maintain and preserve Florida's natural landscape. GTMNERR's volunteers and employees are dedicated to preserving an unspoiled, undeveloped natural treasure, supporting a vibrant ecosystem and its subsystems.