Home » Home » WATCH: Surfers for Autism Set to Bring More Than 200 Athletes to Cocoa Beach Surf Festival

WATCH: Surfers for Autism Set to Bring More Than 200 Athletes to Cocoa Beach Surf Festival

By  //  June 19, 2026

Event set for Saturday, June 20,  8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Alan Shepard Park in Cocoa Beach

WATCH: Surfers for Autism CEO Moose Brown talks with Steve Wilson about their Cocoa Beach Surf Festival to be held on Saturday, June 20,  8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Alan Shepard Park in Cocoa Beach. Over 200 athletes, and hundreds of family members, volunteers, and supporters will be in attendance. Brown talks about the nonprofit, Surfers for Autism, the Surf Festival, and much more in this exclusive interview. (Coverage is provided by the Friday Night Locker Room’s Steve Wilson and Orville Susong)

The Surfers for Autism Cocoa Beach Surf Festival will take place Saturday, June 20, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Alan Shepard Park, where athletes, families, and volunteers will gather to celebrate the power of surfing and inclusion.

BREVARD COUNTY • COCOA BEACH, FLORIDA — More than 200 athletes with autism and other developmental challenges will have the opportunity to experience the thrill of riding the waves during the annual Surfers for Autism Cocoa Beach Surf Festival on June 20 at Alan Shepard Park.

The event, scheduled from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., is expected to draw hundreds of family members, volunteers, sponsors, and supporters to Cocoa Beach for a day focused on inclusion, empowerment, and community.

During an exclusive interview with Friday Night Locker Room host Steve Wilson, Surfers for Autism Chief Executive Officer and founder Moose Brown discussed the organization’s mission, the impact of the upcoming festival, and how the nonprofit continues to change lives through surfing.

Brown said the Cocoa Beach Surf Festival remains one of the organization’s signature events, offering participants a unique opportunity to enjoy the ocean in a supportive, safe environment.

“Watching a child catch their first wave and seeing the confidence it builds is something special,” Brown explained during the interview.

“For many families, it’s an experience they never thought possible.”

More than 200 athletes with autism and other developmental challenges will have the opportunity to experience the thrill of riding the waves during the annual Surfers for Autism Cocoa Beach Surf Festival on June 20 at Alan Shepard Park.

Founded to provide individuals on the autism spectrum with access to surfing and beach activities, Surfers for Autism has grown into a nationally recognized nonprofit organization.

The group hosts surf camps and festivals throughout Florida and beyond, relying heavily on volunteers and professional surfers who donate their time to help participants enjoy the water.

The Cocoa Beach event will transform Alan Shepard Park into a celebration of acceptance and achievement.

Athletes will be paired with experienced surf instructors and volunteers who help guide them through the surfing experience, whether they are first-time participants or returning surfers.

Brown noted that the organization’s mission extends far beyond surfing.

“We use surfing as the vehicle, but the real goal is confidence, social interaction, and creating memories for families,” Brown said. “Many of these kids face challenges every day, and this gives them an opportunity to shine.”

“We use surfing as the vehicle, but the real goal is confidence, social interaction, and creating memories for families,” said Surfers for Autism Chief Executive Officer and founder. “Many of these kids face challenges every day, and this gives them an opportunity to shine.”

The event also serves as a gathering place for families who often find support and encouragement from others facing similar experiences. Parents, siblings, and caregivers can connect while athletes enjoy the beach and surf activities.

Volunteers play a critical role in the festival’s success.

Hundreds are expected to assist with everything from registration and beach operations to helping participants in the water. Community support from local businesses and sponsors also helps ensure the event remains free for participating families.

Brown emphasized that the atmosphere at the festival is unlike any other sporting event.

“It doesn’t matter how big the wave is,” he said. “Every athlete is celebrated when they come back to shore. It’s about accomplishment, joy, and being part of something bigger.”

The Cocoa Beach Surf Festival has become a highly anticipated annual event on Florida’s Space Coast, attracting participants from across the state and beyond.

Organizers expect another strong turnout this year as families return to one of the area’s most inspiring community events.