Designed as a Spring Break vacation for all those with disabilities, the 11th annual Boating & Beach Bash will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, March 10 at Spanish River Park in Boca Raton.

A free, fun-filled day for those adults, children and Wounded Warriors with disabilities, their family members and caregivers, the Bash has attracted participants from as far away as Rome, Italy and all across the United States.

It started in 2009 with 350 participants, a handful of volunteers and three boats. By 2012, it had grown to 4,500 attendees, 500 volunteers and 24 boats.

The 10th anniversary in 2018 saw nearly 6,000 guests take part in the event that featured entertainment from Ketchi Okwuchi, a finalist from “America’s Got Talent.”

Okwuchi will return again this year and will be joined by 18-year-old X Factor finalist Rion Paige, a country-and-western musician/singer.

“We couldn’t be happier to have two young stars who demonstrate through their amazing talent that people with disabilities have so much to contribute to our enjoyment,” said Jay Van Vechten, the Bash’s executive director. “Each year the Bash grows in so many ways – with our entertainment, support, visitors, features and sheer fun factor.”

Also appearing on the Bash Stage will be the visually impaired ‘Lighthouse for the Blind Gospel Choir’ of Miami and soloist Natalia Sulca, who has been blind since birth.

A new twist this year will be an “Open Mic” session for others who have a disability and would like to appear on the Bash Stage. Those interested are asked to email a time slot request and background information to: info@boatingbeachbash.com

The Bash embraces the estimated 20 percent of Florida residents – 25 percent in Palm Beach County – who live with physical and/or intellectual challenges/disabilities that are seen or unseen.

Boat rides, beach access and a whole host of activities await participants at Spanish River Park, Boca Raton’s largest oceanfront park. The park has grassy picnic areas, covered shelters, walkways and playgrounds that are situated under a canopy of lush tropical trees. It also features easy access to the large public beach for those with disabilities.

IF YOU GO

WHO: American Disabilities Foundation, Inc.

WHAT: 11th annual Boating & Beach Bash for People with Disabilities

WHERE: Spanish River Park, 3001 N. Ocean Blvd. (State Road A1A), Boca Raton, FL, 33431

WHEN: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, March 10, 2019

ACTIVITIES: Boat rides, beach access, food, sporting events, ponies for petting, costumed action heroes, wheelchair yoga, Kids Fun Zone, music, dance parties

ADMISSION: Parking, lunch, boat rides, concerts and all Bash-related activities are free for those with disabilities, their family members and caregivers

PARKING: If arriving in a vehicle that has a disability permit tag or placard, buses or vans transporting individuals with disabilities use South Entrance at Spanish River Park and go to well-marked designated drop off/pick up area. Volunteers, vendors/exhibitors and all other vehicles use North Entrance to park

OPEN MIC: Those who would like to take part in the first ‘Open Mic’ on the Bash Stage should request a time slot and share background information to the email: info@boatingbeachbash.com

CONTACT: 561.715.2622

ONLINE: boatingbeachbash.com