The 16th Annual Thunder On Cocoa Beach, presented by Powerboat P1 and sponsored by KelTec, has announced its return to the Space Coast, May 15-18, 2025. The event will kick off the Powerboat P1 race season, to be held in various cities across the United States.

“We are thrilled to kick off our racing season once again at Thunder on Cocoa Beach," said Thomas Covington of Powerboat P1. "This event is a cornerstone in the offshore powerboat racing world, and we anticipate fierce competition as teams push their limits to claim the trophy at this prestigious race.”

Thunder on Cocoa Beach remains one of the biggest events on the Space Coast, with the Economic Development Council of Brevard County, FL, estimating 100,000 in attendance over the four-day event held in May 2024. The best viewing areas are between Shepard Park, Lori Wilson Park and Coconuts on The Beach will remain. Throughout the weekend, race teams from around the world will be displayed in the Port Canaveral parking lot, which is open and free to the public.

Although attendance was at an all-time high, the traditionally popular parade down A1A, followed by a Downtown Block Party, is facing funding challenges due to escalating costs of putting on this event. “Our race site has grown significantly over the years, making Cocoa Beach a premier race site on the schedule and a destination event for both race teams and race fans," said Race Chairman Kerry Bartlett. "However, to provide the necessary resources to ensure public safety and essentials to produce the Downtown Street Party event, we will need to raise a significant amount in additional sponsorship support to continue to hold the Downtown Street Party event next year.”

Thunder on Cocoa Beach is the season opener for Powerboat P1’s 2025 season, receiving national and international television coverage. Net proceeds from the event benefit I Am a Freedom Fighter, a non-profit that empowers organizations that prevent, identify, rehabilitate, and support survivors of human trafficking by raising money for them and providing training for the community.

Any organizations or companies that wish to sponsor and help save the Downtown Street Party should contact Kerry Bartlett at (321) 863-5228.

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