TO: Development Services Management Group
FROM: Allie Behrman, CPRP, Special Events Manager
THROUGH: Terrence R. Moore, ICMA-CM
DATE: March 26, 2026
Title
DELRAY IN THE SKY DRONE SHOW: RECOMMENDATION OF THE DEVELOPMENT SERVICES MANAGEMENT GROUP OF THE CITY OF DELRAY BEACH, FLORIDA, TO THE CITY COMMISSION FOR AN IMPACT EVENT KNOWN AS "DELRAY IN THE SKY DRONE SHOW" TO BE HELD ON JULY 29, 2026, AT OLD SCHOOL SQUARE AND ON NE 2ND AVENUE FROM THE ALLEY TO THE GARAGE BOLLARDS AND ON SWINTON AVENUE FROM ATLANTIC AVENUE TO 1ST STREET.
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Recommendation
Recommended Action:
The Development Services Management Group (DSMG) is asked to make a recommendation to the City Commission regarding the Impact Event known as Delray In the Sky Drone Show to be held on Wednesday, July 29, 2026. This event is deemed an Impact Event due to a requested closure of the major roadway of Swinton Avenue from Atlantic Avenue to 1st Street and also the expected attendance is over 3,500 people in one calendar day.
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Background:
The Parks and Recreation Department submitted a Special Event Application on March 5, 2026 for the Delray In the Sky Drone Show to be held Wednesday, July 29, 2026 at Old School Square and on NE 2nd Avenue from the alley way to the garage bollards and Swinton Avenue from Atlantic Avenue to 1st Street. The police department stated that Swinton Avenue must be closed for the event. This event was previously held in 2025. There was such a big turnout for the event in 2025 and some blind areas for viewing that there needs to be road closures for viewing and vendors. The event will feature a 15-20 minute show that will be accompanied by music and sound effects. 500 drones will be in the visual display. The event will take place from 6pm - 9pm and is expected to have 5,000 people in attendance. The event will also feature food trucks/tents, live music and games.
Special Events Technical Advisory Committee (SETAC):
SETAC reviewed and recommended approval of the event.
No special conditions beyond the standard permits were recommended by SETAC.
Funding Source/Financial Impact:
This is a city event so all costs will be absorbed by the city.
Timing of Request:
This is an impact event and must go before commission for approval.