Celebrating Big Cypress

The Alliance for Florida’s National Parks will host its annual Big Cypress Celebration on Oct. 10, 2026, at Burns Lake Campground in Big Cypress National Preserve, and is inviting businesses and community partners to participate as event sponsors.

“Big Cypress Celebration is about connecting people directly with one of Florida’s unique and most important ecosystems,” said Lulu Vilas, CEO of The Alliance for Florida’s National Parks. “Through events like this, we’re able to support hands-on education programs and conservation efforts that ensure these places remain accessible and protected for future generations.”

The event, scheduled from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., combines adventure and learning and features a variety of hikes led by experienced guides. Participants of all ages can enjoy live music from Gator Nate, nature-based activities and more. This year, The Alliance is marking a special milestone: Big Cypress National Preserve turns 52 on Oct. 11, the day after Big Cypress Celebration.

The Big Cypress Celebration serves as a key fundraising event for The Alliance, and proceeds directly support education, exploration, conservation as well as visitor engagement programs across Big Cypress National Preserve as well as Biscayne, Dry Tortugas and Everglades National Parks.

Sponsorship levels range from $1,000 to $5,000 and include a variety of engagement opportunities, such as event tickets, on-site brand visibility, recognition in The Alliance’s communications and participation in event activities. Additional sponsorship opportunities, including naming rights and year-round support, are also available.

Contributions help expand access to programs like the Swamp Water And Me Program (S.W.A.M.P.), the Big Cypress education initiative that introduces students to conservation science and the importance of protecting Florida’s national parklands.

The Alliance for Florida’s National Parks is the official philanthropic partner supporting Everglades, Biscayne and Dry Tortugas National Parks, and Big Cypress National Preserve. The nonprofit organization provides opportunities to support education, exploration and conservation programs in Florida’s national parks, and is devoted to filling the gaps in government funding, providing critical monetary support to the essential programs provided by each of the parks. For more information, visit FloridaNationalParks.org.