On Sunday March 30, 2026, the Florida Indian Heritage Association, Inc conducted its annual meeting at the St. Lucie County Fairgrounds in Fort Pierce, Florida. In attendance was the full Board of Directors and several members of the organization. After much deliberation and discussion those in attendance voted to suspend operations of the Thunder on the Beach Powwow at the Indian River County Fairgrounds in Vero Beach, Florida until further notice.

This decision did not come easy but with rising costs and a limited budget it has become financially unfeasible to continue to operate both powwows. Additionally, it has is believed the two events so close in proximity and time are affecting the success of both events.

Therefore, in order to save Florida’s longest continuous running powwow, the Board of Directors at its Annual Meeting decided to suspend operations of the Thunder on the Beach Powwow.

The Board of Directors wishes to thank the vendors, dancers, volunteers, and spectators who came out every year and supported the efforts of all those who planned and executed this great event. It is unfortunate that this action had to take place, but we felt it was the only appropriate action to ensure the continued success of the organization.