Today is March 4, 2026, and Greenacres, a vibrant city in central Palm Beach County, is buzzing with excitement as it celebrates its centennial anniversary. As part of its 100th anniversary of incorporation, the city is hosting a variety of events that showcase its rich history and diverse community. Since its founding in 1923 by Lawrence Carter Swain, Greenacres has grown from a small residential area into a thriving city with over 45,476 residents, making it the eighth-largest city in Palm Beach County.
To kick off the festivities, the celebration began back in December with community events that featured fair rides, an ice skating rink, and an impressive drone show. One of the highlights was the annual Fire Rescue chili cook-off held on March 1, which brought together local chefs and chili enthusiasts. Looking forward, the 100th Birthday Bash is set for May 24 at Samuel J. Ferreri Park, promising live music, local vendors, and, of course, a massive birthday cake to celebrate this remarkable milestone.
Community and Growth
Greenacres is not just about its history; it’s also a city on the move. With continuous growth, the city features five elementary schools, three middle schools, and one high school, catering to its diverse population. The commitment to community is evident in the ongoing improvements in neighborhoods and parks, with fourteen neighborhood parks available for residents to enjoy. City officials take pride in nurturing a strong community identity and providing efficient services that enhance the quality of life for all residents.
As a melting pot of cultures, Greenacres has seen its population diversify significantly since the early days. Today, approximately 43% of residents are foreign-born, with 45% identifying as Hispanic and 30% as Black, according to the 2020 census. This diversity is celebrated annually during the Fiesta de Pueblo, a festival showcasing Hispanic culture with performances and a Three Kings Parade. The city’s culinary scene reflects this rich heritage, with a variety of restaurants and bakeries offering authentic dishes from various Latin American countries.
Challenges and Future Vision
Despite its growth and vibrancy, Greenacres faces challenges, particularly in meeting housing demands. Rising unaffordability and a lack of new developments are pressing issues for city planners. To address this, there is a concerted effort to attract businesses and developers to revitalize outdated shopping plazas into multifamily housing. Over the next decade, city planners envision Greenacres transforming into a destination with a town center for shopping and dining, while still preserving its identity as a safe and affordable community for families.
As the city continues to evolve, it must adapt to the broader trends shaping urban development. Sustainable city planning and digital innovations will be crucial in meeting the needs of a growing population. With over 55% of people currently living in cities and that number expected to rise to over 68% by 2050, Greenacres is well-positioned to become a hub for workforce housing and economic growth, as county officials recognize its potential.
In summary, Greenacres is a city that has beautifully blended its rich history with modern growth and diversity. As it celebrates its centennial, the future looks bright for this community, with a commitment to improving the quality of life for its residents while embracing the challenges of urban development. For more details on the city’s history and upcoming events, check out the full article on the Palm Beach Post and visit the Greenacres 100 website.