STATE OF THE CITY
Progress with Purpose
2026
DaytonaBeach.gov
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Welcome Message: Mayor Derrick L Henry
3 4 5 6
Meet the Daytona Beach Elected Officials
Commission Incentive: Hired a City Auditor
Budget Overview
Signature Projects
8 13 16
Public Safety
Infrastructure & Development
Road Projects
28 23 20
Parks & Programs
Community
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City of Daytona Beach Mayor DERRICK L. HENRY WELCOME MESSAGE
As Mayor of Daytona Beach, I am proud to share the 2026 State of the City: Progress with Purpose . Last year, city leaders focused on sustaining momentum and making progress in key areas. I’d like to take this opportunity to showcase projects and initiatives that strengthened Daytona Beach for all residents by pairing infrastructure investment with neighborhood quality-of-life improvements. Signature capital projects such as building a new Fire Station No. 1, upgrading facilities at Jackie Robinson Ballpark, and restoring the Main Street Arch underscore the city’s commitment to public safety and to preserving history. We’ve strengthened oversight by hiring a City Auditor, who reports directly to the City Commission. We are continuing to elevate our community by modernizing transportation and utilities, enhancing parks and recreation opportunities and advancing public safety strategies that support a vibrant, welcoming community.
As we look ahead to 2026, let’s also remember we have a lot to celebrate! It’s our sesquicentennial, or the 150 anniversary of the city’s incorporation. th
MEET DAYTONA BEACH ELECTED OFFICIALS
DERRICK L. HENRY Mayor (386) 671-8007 HenryDerrick@DaytonaBeach.gov
MONICA PARIS Zone 1 Commissioner (386) 671-8001 MonicaParis@DaytonaBeach.gov
KEN STRICKLAND Zone 2 Commissioner (386) 671-8002 KenStrickland@DaytonaBeach.gov
QUANITA MAY Zone 3 Commissioner (386) 671-8003 MayQuanita@DaytonaBeach.gov
STACY CANTU Zone 4 Commissioner (386) 671-8004 CantuStacy@DaytonaBeach.gov
DANNETTE HENRY Zone 5 Commissioner (386) 671-8005 HenryDannette@DaytonaBeach.gov
PAULA R. REED Zone 6 Commissioner (386) 671-8006 ReedPaula@DaytonaBeach.gov
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City of Daytona Beach Auditor Abinet Y. Belachew HIRED A CITY AUDITOR COMMISSION INCENTIVE
Abinet Y. Belachew, CPA, CIA, CFE, CFF, CGFM, was appointed city auditor for Daytona Beach in September 2025. Belachew brought more than two decades of experience in financial management, auditing and oversight across federal, state, county and city governments. He previously served as director of finance and controller for the U.S. Agency for International Development, providing financial leadership for multi-million-dollar programs, and held senior roles in internal audit at city, county, state and federal levels. As city auditor, Belachew oversees fiscal performance, compliance and financial audits across city departments, assessing the reliability and integrity of financial and operational information, evaluating the efficiency and effectiveness of programs and services, testing internal controls to prevent waste and safeguard assets, verifying compliance with laws and policies, and advising staff to enhance knowledge of risk management and governance. The Internal Audit Office, under Belachew’s leadership, operates with the mission of providing independent and objective assurance and advisory services to enhance accountability, transparency and efficiency. Its vision is to be recognized as a trusted partner in promoting good governance by delivering value-added recommendations, embracing innovation and applying best practices to strengthen city operations and stewardship of public resources.
YOUR TAXES AT WORK A BREAKDOWN OF THE NUMBERS BUDGET OVERVIEW
The city’s new fiscal year began Oct. 1, and the adopted $379.8 MILLION BUDGET provides a comprehensive and balanced approach to funding the city’s operations. It is a responsible spending plan, a testament to our commitment to providing citizens with exceptional service. The adopted budget is balanced at a millage rate of 5.9300 mills. Increased valuations and record new growth, mainly from single-family residential construction, have provided for sustained budget conditions.
2025/2026 BUDGET
TAX BILL DISTRIBUTION
When you pay your annual property tax bill, the revenue is divided among several local agencies that provide essential public services. About 30% stays with the City of Daytona Beach to support police and fire protection, parks & recreation, road maintenance and other city operations. The remaining goes to Volusia County government, the School Board and other regional agencies that provide countywide services such as public education, libraries, environmental conservation and water management.
Volusia County - 35.68% City - 29.82% School Board - 25.63% Downtown Development Authority - 4.91% Hospital Authority - 1.52% Saint Johns River Water Management District - 0.88%
36% 30% 26%
Mosquito Control District - 0.77% Ponce Inlet & Port Authority - 0.32%
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$379.8 MILLION 2025/2026 ADOPTED BUDGET
Personnel Services represent the largest portion of expenditures at 31.8%, reflecting the city’s investment in its workforce to deliver essential services. Operating costs and other expenses, which include budgeted reserves and interfund transfers, account for a combined 58.9% of the budget.
32%
30%
EXAMPLES: Budgeted Reserves & Interfund Transfers
Personnel Services - 31.81% Other Expenses - 29.48% Operating - 29.36% Dept Services - 5.59% Capital - 3.38% Grants & Aid - 0.36%
30%
* Other expenses are budgeted reserves (Including fiscal integrity reserves) & interfund transfers
// Grants & Aid
$159.6 MILLION GENERAL FUND EXPENDITURES
The General Fund is a government’s primary operating fund. It accounts for city services such as public safety, street maintenance, community services, parks & recreation, cultural activities and general government activities.
4%
4%
$159.6 MILLION
5%
Police - 34.2% Central Charges - 17.61%
34%
Public Works - 14.53% Fire - 13.45% City Manager’s Office - 4.71%
13%
GENERAL FUND DEPARTMENTAL EXPENDITURES
Arts & Entertainment 4.41% Parks & Recreation - 3.99% Business Enterprise Management - 2.17% Finance - 1.92% City Attorney’s Office - 1.17% Growth Management & Planning - 1.02% City Clerk’s Office - 0.42% Internal Auditor’s Office - 0.22%
15%
18%
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Project Funding: $49,699 (Engineering) $1,031,000 (Construction) SIGNATURE PROJECT Main Street Arch Restoration Project Status: 100% Complete
The Daytona Beach Main Street Arch, a cherished symbol of the city’s history, underwent an extensive restoration project to preserve its nearly 90-year legacy. The iconic arch, which has connected the boardwalk and pier since the 1930s, holds decades of memories for residents and visitors alike.
The project aimed to bring new life to the landmark while maintaining its original character.
Restoration began after engineers identified exterior cracking and deteriorated steel and concrete within the historic structure. Crews completed demolition and began formwork for new concrete beams and columns, restoring the arch’s structural integrity. The exterior was finished with new coquina to preserve the arch’s historic appearance.
While under construction, the arch was closed to the public, though the boardwalk and Main Street businesses remained accessible.
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Project Funding: $27,222,806 SIGNATURE PROJECT Fire Station No. 1 Project Status: 70% Complete | Under Construction
Construction of the new two-story Fire Station No. 1 remains on schedule and within budget.
The new two-story Fire Station No. 1 is a major investment in public safety and community services, designed to provide modern facilities for Daytona Beach’s firefighters and first responders. This state-of-the-art station will enhance emergency response capabilities, improve operational efficiency and better serve residents across the city. The facility features updated apparatus bays, advanced training spaces and modern living quarters to support firefighters on duty. Outdoor areas include improved access and parking, as well as site enhancements that complement the surrounding neighborhood. Strategic upgrades to utility connections and traffic access ensure the station will operate safely and efficiently for years to come. Once completed in spring 2026, Fire Station No. 1 will serve as a vital hub for emergency services, strengthening community safety while providing firefighters with the resources they need to respond quickly and effectively.
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Project Status: 90% Complete | Under Construction
Project Funding: $43,977,000.94 SIGNATURE PROJECT Jackie Robinson Ballpark
The city is honoring baseball history and Jackie Robinson’s legacy with major renovations at city-owned Jackie Robinson Ballpark. The project will transform the historic venue into a premier destination for players, fans and the community, preserving its legacy while providing modern amenities. Renovations include a new 30,000-square-foot, multi-story player development facility featuring home and visiting clubhouses, batting cages, umpire facilities, fitness and training spaces, dining areas, a multi-purpose community room and office space. This project ensures that Jackie Robinson’s historic contribution to baseball continues to inspire future generations, while positioning the ballpark as a centerpiece for minor league baseball and community events. Construction began in late 2024, with completion expected in early 2026, reaffirming Daytona Beach’s commitment to celebrating its history, supporting athletics and investing in world-class public spaces.
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PUBLIC SAFETY
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Over the past year, the city has expanded safety and security initiatives downtown, including additional patrols and camera coverage. PUBLIC SAFETY Downtown Safety and Security Initiatives
DBFD Marine Unit
The Fire Department launched Marine 1, a 26-foot firefighting vessel designed to strengthen emergency response and fire protection along the city’s waterways. The state-of-the-art landing craft expanded the department’s capabilities on the Halifax River and surrounding areas. Firefighters completed specialized training, including earning a Florida Safe Boater card and finishing a department-led 40-hour program with annual competency evaluations. The acquisition was funded through a combination of American Rescue Plan Act dollars allocated by several members of the City Commission (Stacy Cantu $250,000, Quanita May $50,000, Ruth Trager/Monica Paris $10,000) and a $75,000 grant from the Florida Inland Navigation District, marking a significant investment in public safety and marine readiness.
Security Cameras Added on Main Street
High-tech security cameras were installed along Main Street, with additional sites identified for future deployment. City staff used existing infrastructure to install and configure cameras at Halifax Avenue, Peninsula Drive, Atlantic Avenue and the Main Street Bridge, with live feeds streamed to the beachside police substation on Grandview Avenue. The $68,000 project was funded through American Rescue Plan Act dollars allocated by Zone 2 City Commissioner Ken Strickland.
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PUBLIC SAFETY Enhancements to the Police Officers’ and Firefighters’ Pension Plan Personnel expenditures accounted for 31.8% of the city’s total budget and 54.3% of the General Fund, reflecting the city’s continued investment in its workforce. The adopted budget included a 3% salary increase effective October 2025 and an additional 2% increase effective April 2026 for eligible employees, along with the establishment of a minimum living wage of $35,360 annually, or $17 per hour, for entry-level positions. To support recruitment and retention of sworn public safety personnel, the city approved a 3% increase effective October 2025 and an additional 4% increase in April 2026, as well as enhancements to the Police Officers’ More than 100 people received assistance during the Daytona Beach Drug Abuse Response Team’s (DART) Streetwalk along the Ridgewood Avenue corridor, which focused on addressing substance abuse and mental health needs. Coordinated by Community Paramedicine Officer Travis Anderson, the outreach coincided with a resource fair at 316 North St. that provided health screenings, recovery services, basic necessities and mental health support, with representatives from more than 15 community partners canvassing the area from Beville Road to Mason Avenue, including the Daytona Beach Fire and Police departments, SMA Healthcare, Halifax Health, the Volusia-Flagler Homeless Coalition and several local recovery and health organizations. and Firefighters’ Pension Plan, including a higher maximum pension benefit and an extension of the Deferred Retirement Option Program to eight years. These actions reinforced the city’s commitment to competitive compensation and its reputation as an employer of choice. DART Streetwalk
INFRASTRUCTURE & DEVELOPMENT
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INFRASTRUCTURE & DEVELOPMENT
$54.3 Million in Forgivable Loans for Water & Sewer Projects
The city secured more than $54 million in forgivable state loans to strengthen and modernize its water and wastewater systems, enhancing resiliency before, during and after major storms. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection tentatively allocated $19.17 million from the Clean Water State Revolving Fund and $35.14 million from the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund, for a combined total of $54.3 million. The funding came through the Supplemental Appropriation for Hurricanes Helene and Milton and Hawai‘i Wildfires, a federal program providing support for communities impacted by recent natural disasters.
City Island Seawall
The city began the first phase of seawall reconstruction around City Island, covering the area from Orange Avenue to Magnolia Avenue. The project is supported by more than $900,000 in grant funding, with design and permitting costs totaling approximately $196,000. Seawall sheet pile installation commenced at the end of the year, with the contractor completing over 100 linear feet of sheet pile in Section A near Jackie Robinson Ballpark. The project will enhance the structural integrity and resiliency of the island’s shoreline for years to come.
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INFRASTRUCTURE & DEVELOPMENT The city demolished two obsolete water towers on the beachside. Crews removed the top section of the Thames Avenue water tower and then began demolition of the water tower at Fire Station 3 on University Avenue. Water Tower Demolition Electric vehicle charging stations have been strategically placed throughout the city. The stations are located in downtown on Beach Street and Magnolia Avenue, City Hall, the Florida Tennis Center, Cherry Cultural & Educational Center and Breakers Oceanfront Park. Users need to download the user-friendly Blink mobile app on Google Play or the Apple Store and create an account to charge their cards. Electric Car Chargers
Water Meter Replacement Program
The city’s multi-year project to replace more than 15,000 residential water meters, nearly half of all meters in Daytona Beach, moved forward on schedule.
The new meters feature advanced technology that provides more precise readings and detailed consumption data. Older meters often underreported usage, so some customers saw increases in their bills after replacement, reflecting more accurate measurements rather than rate changes.
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INFRASTRUCTURE & DEVELOPMENT Daytona Beach’s street sweepers turned heads with a bold new look as part of the city’s ongoing branding efforts. Local company Hawkeye Brothers custom- wrapped all four sweepers in the “Sweep Squad” design. The sweepers are on the streets cleaning while proudly showcasing the city’s identity. Branded Street Sweepers
Lift Station No. 5 and No. 34
The city completed the $8.7 million rebuild and upgrade of Lift Station 5 at 647 Shady Place, one of its oldest and most critical wastewater facilities, serving 12 lift stations in southeastern Daytona Beach and the City of South Daytona. The project included a new electrical building, pumps, and an emergency generator in a sound-attenuating enclosure, along with enhanced security features such as eight-foot fencing and decorative landscaping, providing increased capacity, operational flexibility and reliable service. Work is also progressing steadily on the replacement of Lift Station 34, a major master lift station at 510 Ora Street serving much of Daytona Beach’s northern beachside. Built in 1986, the $10.9 million project includes a new wet well, pumps, piping, and an electrical/office building designed to blend with the neighborhood. Crews are preparing to install below-ground infrastructure and a gravity main, with demolition of the existing station expected early this year. The Lift Station 34 project remains on schedule for completion in April 2026.
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ROAD PROJECTS
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ROAD PROJECTS Citywide Road Resurfacing and Restoration Program The City of Daytona Beach is entering the sixth year of its Citywide Road Resurfacing and Restoration Program, which has repaved nearly 168 lane miles to improve safety and roadway durability. Since the program began, nearly 34.4% of the city’s road network has been improved through milling and resurfacing, 1.8% through full-depth reclamation, and 188 sidewalk ramps have been upgraded for ADA compliance. These efforts continue to enhance mobility and maintain safe, reliable infrastructure. This year’s $4.88 million program will resurface 22 lane miles, with a full list of streets available at www.DaytonaBeach.gov/RoadRepaving.
East International Speedway Boulevard Revitalization
The long-awaited transformation of East International Speedway Boulevard (ISB) reached completion. This collaboration between the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and the City of Daytona Beach has redefined safety, accessibility and aesthetics along the eight-block stretch from the Halifax River Bridge to State Road A1A. Key improvements include widened travel lanes and sidewalks, a raised median, underground utilities, enhanced crosswalks and landscaping. These improvements create a safer, more functional corridor for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians. Volusia County’s beach approach upgrades added parking, lighting, bike racks, sidewalks and a new restroom building.
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ROAD PROJECTS
The Florida Department of Transportation started a resurfacing project on State Road A1A in Daytona Beach on a 3.5-mile stretch from International Speedway Boulevard to Milsap Road. FDOT A1A Resurfacing Project
Main Street Streetscape
The city continues to advance plans for a streetscape improvement project along historic Main Street, with strong community engagement shaping the vision. A successful public meeting drew approximately 75 residents, business owners and community stakeholders to review preliminary design concepts and share feedback. Concepts explore enhancements to sidewalks, lighting, parking, landscaping and pedestrian spaces along the Main Street corridor from the Halifax River to the Atlantic Ocean. The proposed improvements are intended to create a more vibrant, walkable and welcoming destination while preserving the historic character of Main Street. The city has completed sidewalk and pedestrian upgrades in the Derbyshire neighborhood, improving safety and accessibility. ADA enhancements were made at key intersections, raised crosswalks installed on Vine Street and Brentwood Drive, and new sidewalks added along Vine, Sixth, Brentwood, Third, Fourth and Fifth streets. These improvements create a safer, more connected route for residents and visitors. Derbyshire Area Sidewalk and Pedestrian Improvements
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PARKS & PROGRAMS
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PARKS & PROGRAMS Sunnyland Press Box
Construction of the new two-story press box tower, including first-floor concession and storage areas and new sidewalk/bleacher pads, is now complete. The tower has been repositioned behind home plate for an improved view and will support Bethune-Cookman University’s softball program and local recreational use.
Project Cost: $276,090
Bethune Point Park Playground Equipment
Renovations to the playground at Bethune Point Park, 11 Bellevue Avenue, are complete. Designed for children ages 5-12, the updated playground features two slides, swings, a new rubber safety surface and refreshed landscaping. The improvements enhance recreational opportunities while maintaining the park’s existing amenities, including a picnic area, boat ramp, fishing pier, skateboard park and baseball fields.
The project is funded in part by a $187,406 grant from the Daytona Beach Racing and Recreational Facilities District.
Resurfacing to the basketball courts at Henry Lee Park and Suburbia Park is completed. Crews painted and striped both courts. The courts’ perimeters were backfilled for safety and rims were replaced on the backboards. Henry Lee Park and Suburbia Park
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The city received a $375,028 grant from the Racing and Recreational Facilities District to upgrade Midtown Recreation Complex Playground at Cypress Park, part of a $419,028 project approved by the City Commission. New playground equipment for ages 2–12 and outdoor fitness features has been installed, along with colorful pour-in-place surfacing, drainage improvements and ribbon curbing. ADA-compliant sidewalks will be added next, enhancing access. PARKS & PROGRAMS Midtown Rec Complex Playground Equipment
Project Funding: $375,028 – Racing & Recreational Grant $44,000.30 – Rec/Parks/Cultural Impact Fees = $419,028.30
Dog lovers can now bring their furry friends to the sands of world-famous Daytona Beach. A 1.7-mile stretch of dog-friendly shoreline between Williams Avenue and Seabreeze Boulevard officially opened to the public, and leashed dogs are welcome on this section of the beach during daylight hours. Dog Beach Opened The Cherry Cultural & Educational Center is now equipped with a brand-new 275 KW generator. This $266,891 project included a concrete foundation pad, new automatic transfer switches, underground conduits and wiring and a 250-foot natural gas line. This is the first generator ever installed at the Cherry Cultural & Educational Center and will provide a reliable, uninterrupted power source. Generator Installed at the Cherry Center Project Funding: $266,891 DaytonaBeach.gov Return to Table of Contents
PARKS & PROGRAMS Lenox Playground Fall Zone & Dog Park Shade Replacement Lenox Park received significant upgrades for both play and pet areas. The Dog Park was re-sodded with fresh hybrid grass and fence repairs were completed, providing a healthier, more durable space for dogs and their owners. At the playground, a new ADA-compliant fall zone with a pour-in-place safety surface and perimeter ribbon curb was installed, funded by a grant from the Racing & Recreational Facilities District. These improvements enhanced safety, accessibility and enjoyment for the community.
Project Funding: $26,267
Midtown Digital Signage
New signage was added to the Midtown Recreation Complex, on George Engram Boulevard. The digital sign displays programs offered at the Cherry Cultural & Educational Center, emergency alerts and events throughout the city. Other directional signage was installed for the Cypress Aquatic Center, MLK Walking Trail and the Midtown Recreation Complex entrance. The project was funded through American Rescue Plan Act dollars allocated by Zone 6 City Commissioner Paula R. Reed. With the help of ProQuest Pest Control of Volusia County, crews sealed off vacant areas in the stands at Daytona Stadium on LPGA Boulevard to ensure the bats safely relocate without harm. Since bats naturally fly out at night, once the openings are sealed, they’ll find new roosting spots. Daytona Stadium Bat Removal Project Funding: $26,267
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PARKS & PROGRAMS The Veterans Memorial Plaza officially opened April 2025. Located on the northwest corner of the Tom Staed Veterans Memorial Bridge, the plaza includes flags for each military branch, memorial plaques, and engraved bricks, along with amphitheater-style seating for reflection. The $1.4 million county-owned project was led by former County Councilman Josh Wagner and funded through the Volusia ECHO program, the Daytona Beach Racing and Recreation Facilities District, the Rotary Club of Daytona Beach and private donations. Veterans memorial Plaza Opened
MLK Sculpture in Huger Park
The city unveiled a new sculpture honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at Dr. James Huger Park. The memorial features a bronze bust mounted on a concrete base, positioned to face Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. The sculpture serves as a lasting tribute, offering inspiration to both pedestrians and drivers. Residents can visit the park from sunrise to 10 p.m. seven days a week.
The project was funded through American Rescue Plan Act dollars allocated by Zone 3 City Commissioner Quanita May.
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COMMUNITY
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Daytona Beach schools are celebrating major achievements following the Florida Department of Education’s latest ratings. All schools in the city were identified as proficient, earning an A, B or C grade. COMMUNITY Schools receive an “A” rating
Artesian Market at YSG
Zone 5 City Commissioner Dannette Henry initiated a new monthly Artisan Market at the YSG Cultural & Educational Center. Set in the center’s courtyard, the market featured homemade, homegrown, and handcrafted items, including fresh produce, baked goods, vibrant plants and flowers, and handmade crafts, art and accessories. The inaugural market provided a lively community atmosphere where residents could explore unique finds from local artisans. The city installed new interpretive signage along Daytona Beach’s Black Heritage Trail, made possible by a $50,000 grant from the Florida Department of State’s Division of Historical Resources. The signs mark 18 historic sites and add a 19th stop at the Mary McLeod Bethune statue at the Riverfront Esplanade, highlighting important people, places and events that shaped Daytona Beach and the nation over the past 150 years. The sites include National Register listings, historic buildings, Black churches, a national historic landmark, an archaeological park and key community centers. Each sign features a QR code linking to digital content, providing deeper insight into the city’s Black heritage. The project, originally identified in the Midtown Master Plan, preserves and celebrates Daytona Beach’s rich history while educating and inspiring residents and visitors for generations. Black Heritage Trail signage installed
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The Mayor’s Honor Program returned for its third year to recognize the academic achievement and exceptional character of students across Daytona Beach’s elementary and middle schools. The popular program is embraced by principals, teachers, parents and, most importantly, the students it celebrates. The celebration begins with a red-carpet welcome, followed by a limousine ride to a special lunch with Mayor Derrick L. Henry. Each honoree receives a certificate and a goody bag to commemorate their achievement. COMMUNITY Mayor’s Honor Program Continues
DB University: Citizens Academy
Residents had the opportunity to discover how the City of Daytona Beach operates behind the scenes through the Daytona Beach University: Citizens Academy. The nine-week program offered an in-depth look at how municipal services are delivered, from how water flows from the plant into homes to how Parks & Recreation plans and maintains green spaces. Participants learned directly from senior city staff in key departments, including Police, Fire, Public Works, Growth Management, Utilities, Parks & Recreation, Code Compliance and the City Manager’s Office. The program provided hands-on activities, interactive discussions, and networking opportunities with fellow residents, offering an inside look at how the city serves the community.
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Last year, the city brought back the Midtown Music Concert Series at the renovated Daisy Stocking Park, 555 Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Blvd. The monthly concerts featured jazz, R&B, blues, soul and funk, beginning at 7 p.m., and offered free admission, creating a lively community gathering space and celebrating the city’s vibrant music culture. Line dancing took take place at 6:30 p.m., before each concert. COMMUNITY Midtown Music Concerts Started in January
Produced a Storm Guide
To help families stay safe, the City of Daytona Beach created a 2025 Hurricane Preparedness Guide. The 22- page booklet includes information on receiving emergency notifications, safety tips, evacuation zone information, a removable supply checklist with important phone numbers and more. A limited number of guides were printed and distributed to residents.
To see the 2025 Hurricane Preparedness Guide: www.DaytonaBeach.gov/StormGuide
MMB’s Birthday Celebration
The city celebrated the 150th birthday of Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, a trailblazer whose legacy continues to inspire the community. The event at the Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune statue brought together city leaders, Bethune-Cookman University and community members to honor her extraordinary life. From heartfelt speeches to moments of reflection, the evening was a memorable celebration in the heart of Daytona Beach.
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COMMUNITY Fourth of July Parade and Veterans’ Ceremony
The city hosted Independence Day festivities with aveterans ceremony and parade.
The celebration began with a veterans’ ceremony at 9 a.m. by the Clock Tower on the Boardwalk, honoring local U.S. Navy veteran Harold Holloway, who served two tours in Vietnam and dedicated his retirement to supporting fellow veterans. The annual Main Street Parade followed at 10 a.m., featuring nearly 30 participants, including veterans’ organizations, military units and city police and fire representatives. Evening concerts at the Daytona Beach Oceanfront Bandshell highlighted the celebrations. On July 4, the Eagles tribute band Alter Eagles performed, followed by fireworks over the Atlantic Ocean. The events on Fourth of July are an initiative of Zone 4 City Commissioner Stacy Cantu. Dashing Through Daytona Weekend: Christmas Party and Parade The city hosted a festive Children’s Christmas Party, organized by Zone 6 City Commissioner Paula R. Reed in partnership with the Daytona Tortugas, which featured games, activities and special appearances. The holiday celebrations continued with the annual Christmas Parade along Beach Street, along Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Boulevard to Jackie Robinson Parkway, featuring festive bands, floats and performances by local community groups, drawing an estimated 5,000 attendees, up from 3,500 the previous year.
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GUIDE
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STATE OF THE CITY 2026 DaytonaBeach.gov Progress with Purpose
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