The Port Richey Events Committee voted to hold the Seafood Festival and associated fishing tournament on Saturday, March 14, 2026, directed staff to start sponsorship and vendor outreach, and discussed vendor fees, possible beer tent permitting, and Chamber partnership for vendor administration.

Explore Orange proposed a family‑friendly Mardi Gras festival for Feb. 7, 2026 at the Riverfront Boardwalk and Pavilion featuring a second‑line march, kids' parade, food vendors, a beer garden, and music headliner Wayne Toups; staff said they will return with a motion to request up to $60,000 from hotel‑occupancy tax reserves.