A new memorial space honoring beloved pets will officially open in Palm Coast this weekend as S.M.A.R.T. (Saving Missing Animals Response Team) of Flagler County hosts a ribbon cutting ceremony for The Rainbow Bridge.

The event takes place Saturday, January 17, 2026, at 10 a.m. at Holland Park, located at 18 Florida Park Drive North in Palm Coast. The community is invited to attend, and pets are welcome.

The Rainbow Bridge was created through a partnership between S.M.A.R.T. of Flagler County, East Coast Animal Hospital, and the City of Palm Coast. The memorial is designed as a permanent space where families can honor pets who have passed away and reflect on the joy those animals brought into their lives.

The ceremony will include an official ribbon cutting, a Rainbow Bridge proclamation from city officials and community leaders, and recognition of sponsors who helped make the project possible. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet teams from SMART of Flagler Dog Rescue and East Coast Animal Hospital. Light refreshments will be served.

Community members can participate in the memorial by purchasing a custom-engraved tag to be placed on The Rainbow Bridge. Each tag will display a pet’s name, creating a lasting tribute and a meaningful place for reflection.

Caroline Johnson, founder of SMART, spoke about the significance of the project. “This is a beautiful way for our community to come together—remembering the pets we’ve loved while supporting the lifesaving work that continues every day,” Johnson said.

For more information about The Rainbow Bridge Project and how to participate, visit https://smartflagler.com/rainbow-bridge-project-2/.