Swampfest 2025

Swampfest was utterly chaotic! This BMX, motocross, and skateboarding festival in the middle of a Florida swamp, attracts some of the gnarliest riders in the action sports scene, which is partly why we felt compelled to attend and be a light (Matthew 5:16). This marks the third year that JSAW has dispatched a team to the event, and the celebrations were just as wild as before, despite the ban on fireworks. Luckily, everyone in our group managed to survive the weekend with only minor injuries and plenty of great stories to share. 

Despite encountering significant problems with our rental car service, we were able to make it to the event grounds in Waldo, FL the evening before things officially kicked off; this enabled us to settle in and get rested up before things got hectic.

We started bright and early on Friday by cooking up pancakes to give away to our fellow swampgoers; this has been our means of practically serving the community for three years now. By feeding our campsite neighbors, and whoever else comes by, we’ve been able to build relationships & have meaningful conversations. 

During the main events, we participated, spectated, and socialized with others. This provided ample opportunity for our team to pray over those who got injured riding, break up fights, help those who were overly intoxicated receive medical attention, and root for those who were risking their well-being on dangerous obstacles. 

In the evenings, we were able to connect with those looking for a break from the carnage. These moments were some of the most special, as we were able to engage in deeper conversations about Scripture, others’ experiences with church/religion, and the reality of Jesus’ divine nature. 

While we still have yet to baptize anyone in the swamp (something I am praying we get the opportunity to do next year), we were successful in our attempts to serve and point others towards the Lord. I am thankful that God has provided us with such unique opportunities, and I am excited to see what He has in store for us at Swampfest 2026.

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