A Sunrise Tradition

As dawn breaks over the Gulf on Easter morning, Marco Island’s shoreline will once again become a place of reflection, music, and celebration. The 36th Annual Marco Island Easter Sunrise Service will be held Sunday, April 5, 2026, at 7:00 AM, continuing a tradition that has welcomed generations of residents and visitors alike.

In the early morning hours of Easter, you will see streams of people walking down the beach from every direction. An attendee said, “It's so magical, you know, just everything started like in the darkness and you just see all the boats racing, to get here on time, it's just so inspirational, and now the sun has risen.” Those staying in condos or at the hotels along the beach venture out to their balconies. By the time the service begins, the crowd swells with people of all faiths on the beach, in the water, and on balconies waiting to hear those first beautifully lifted notes of music herald the beginning of something special.

This unique community service takes place on the beach near the JW Marriott Marco Island, where the natural beauty of the sunrise has long been central to the experience. What began more than three decades ago as a simple gathering has grown into one of the island’s most enduring Easter traditions, drawing people from a wide range of churches and backgrounds.

Each year, the service brings together pastors from many local churches, reflecting a shared spirit of cooperation and community. The emphasis has always been on the unified message rather than denomination, offering a welcoming environment for longtime residents, seasonal visitors, and first-time attendees. “Easter tells us that death is not the end. The resurrection of Jesus is a turning point for all of us,” said an attendee.

This year’s service will feature special music by veteran songwriter and musician Matt Papa, a nationally recognized Christian artist whose worship music is widely used in churches across the country. Matt has carved a unique space for himself as one of the world’s top modern-day hymn writers. With songs like “His Mercy Is More,” “Christ Our Hope In Life And Death,” and “Come Behold The Wondrous Mystery, “ Matt tours regularly across the U.S. as a songwriter with Getty Music and frequently guests on their tours. A three-time Dove Award-nominated artist, Matt is on a mission to write songs that are singable, beautiful, and timeless. He currently serves as an artist-in-residence at Marco Presbyterian Church on Marco Island, FL, and most of all, is a husband and a father to five beautiful children.

In addition to this year’s featured artist, the service will also include talented supporting musicians from across the region and beyond. Violinist Jeff Leigh of Naples, Florida, will bring his expressive instrumental style to the morning’s worship, joined by acclaimed jazz pianist Will Fulkerson of Tallahassee, whose dynamic performances have been enjoyed throughout the Southeast. Nashville-based drummer Wendell Henry, an experienced performer known for his versatility across musical genres, will provide rhythm and energy for the service, alongside bass player Yohannes Tona of Minnesota, whose distinctive sound and artistry have earned recognition on stages across the country. Together, these musicians will help create a rich and uplifting musical backdrop for the uplifting Easter message.

Attendees are encouraged to bring a chair or blanket and arrive early to take in the peaceful atmosphere before the service begins. Street parking will be available, and Residents’ Beach parking will open at 6:00 AM for members only.

Over the years, Easter on the Beach has become more than a worship service — it is a shared moment that marks the season and connects the community, echoed by this attendee, “We are so blessed to live on this beautiful island. And so nice to see the community come together to celebrate Christ rising!” For many, it is a tradition passed down through families, while for others, it offers a memorable way to experience Easter morning on Marco Island.

The service is free and open to the public.