Nancy M. Graham Centennial Square

A Glimpse of West Palm Beach History

Tucked at the intersection of Clematis Street and Narcissus Avenue, Nancy M. Graham Centennial Square is the heart of community gatherings in West Palm Beach. The park honors Nancy M. Graham, a trailblazer who served as the city's first female mayor from 1991 to 1999.

Created to mark the centennial of West Palm Beach's incorporation back in 1894, this square isn't just a pretty face - it's a living piece of the city's heritage.

Courtyard plaza with trees and storefronts

Photo: Phillip Pessar (CC BY 2.0)

Cool Features (Literally)

The star of the show here is definitely the Centennial Fountain, a modern splash zone that draws everyone from toddlers to teens. With over 10,000 gallons of water pumping through 114 individually controlled jets and illuminated by 109 LED lights, it can create millions of color combinations that transform the space after sunset.

Don't worry about letting the kids splash around - the water is filtered, chlorinated, and sterilized, making it perfectly safe for play. On those scorching Florida days, there's nothing better than cooling off in the fountain's refreshing spray.

Beyond the fountain, you can find shaded walkways lined with swaying palm trees and plenty of seating options scattered throughout. Several picnic tables with umbrellas make this an ideal spot to enjoy a leisurely lunch outdoors.

What's Happening Here

The square really comes alive during its regular community events. Clematis by Night turns Thursday evenings into a mini-festival with live music that gets locals and visitors alike on their feet.

The Saturday Green Market is another highlight, spreading along the park with vendors selling everything from just-picked produce and fresh seafood to handmade crafts, clothing, and delicious prepared food. It's a fantastic way to spend a weekend morning.

Come holiday season, the square transforms into something truly special with the arrival of Sandi the Tree - an incredible Christmas tree sculpted from 700 tons of sand. This unique tradition gets more elaborate each year, complemented by synchronized light shows at the fountain and occasional seasonal attractions.

East section of the park near Flagler Drive

Photo: Phillip Pessar (CC BY 2.0)

Bringing Your Four-Legged Friends

Your leashed dogs are welcome to join you at the square. While you'll find bag stations for cleanup, just note this isn't a dedicated dog park - there aren't specific play areas or doggy water fountains available.

Finding Your Way

Nancy M. Graham Centennial Square sits conveniently close to other downtown attractions, including the Waterfront Commons area and the shops and restaurants that line Clematis Street.

You can find clean, well-maintained public restrooms on-site, open within the park's daily operating hours from morning until evening.

With its central location and various amenities, the square is a pleasant spot to relax while exploring downtown West Palm Beach.