FROM YOUR TOURISM DIRECTOR
| |
|
Dear Friends and Visitors,
As summer begins to sizzle, the Sebastian River Area is buzzing with sunshine, salty breezes, and a season full of reasons to explore, connect, and unwind. June welcomes the summer solstice and longer days on the water, spontaneous day trips, and that unmistakable feeling of Florida freedom that keeps our visitors—and locals—coming back for more.
We’re still riding the wave of an incredible Concert in the Park season, and we want to thank everyone who came out to enjoy the music, food, and fellowship. Your energy and record attendance of over 1,150 people at a single concert made it one of our best years yet! We are looking forward to next year’s lineup and booking bands!
Last month we hosted and attended a number of events that we will review in this newsletter. One of our favorites was the City of Sebastian's Earth Day event where we attended and celebrated all of the reasons why life on earth is a precious gift. We facilitated the planting and potting of baby red mangroves as part of a new initiative that we will do every Earth Day. This was made possibe by donations of baby mangroves from the Marine Resources Council and StarBright Solutions, and donations of soil and pots from LagoonLife.org. Thank you to everyone who stopped by our booth and learned about why our area is a very special place on our Earth.
One of the most treasured parts of our community is the abundance of natural beauty that surrounds us. From winding rivers and protected wetlands to the gentle rhythm of waves along our coastline, the Sebastian River Area offers endless ways to connect with the outdoors from fishing, kayaking, boating, to bike rides and long walks. As the days grow longer and the temperatures climb, there’s nothing quite like cooling off with a refreshing dip in the ocean or an early morning paddle through the mangroves. With this in mind our spotlight this month is the Marine Resources Council.
Looking ahead, mark your calendars for one of our favorite summertime traditions: Grill Out Night on August 8th! It’s the perfect chance to beat the heat, support local businesses, and enjoy a night of community-wide fun and shopping.
So remember,whether you're launching a kayak, enjoying a local bite, or planning your next adventure, we hope June brings joy, connection, and discovery in all the ways that make the Sebastian River Area so special.
See you out there,
The Visit SRA Team
| | | | |
Gratefully yours,
Nicholas Sanzone
Tourism Director
Sebastian River Area Chamber of Commerce
| | | 15,000 copies printed annually! | | |
Tourism Partners
Secure your space in the 2025-2026 Visitor Guide!
Now is the time! We are beginning our design and layout and want you to get your ad in before all the ad space is gone.This year we are opening the ad space to all tourism businesses, with both member and non-member pricing. So, don’t hesitate lock in your ad space today!
This publication is sent to all five Visit Florida Welcome Centers and is distributed at over 15 events and numerous businesses each year.
If you want to see yourself in this publication, just print and send us the form below or you can email us at:
Tourism@sebastianchamber.com
| | |
|
🎣 Happy Father’s Day – June 15, 2025 🧢
Today, we honor the men who lead with heart, strength, and steady hands — the fathers, grandfathers, stepdads, father figures, and mentors who shape our lives with wisdom, courage, and care.
To every dad who taught us how to cast a line, fire up the grill, take the scenic route, and laugh through the ups and downs — thank you. 👨👧👦
Whether you're spending the day on the water, sharing stories over lunch, exploring a nature trail, or simply soaking in the summer sun with loved ones, we hope it’s a day full of joy and connection.
💙 Here’s to the guidance you give, the strength you share, and the love you show every single day.
Happy Father’s Day from all of us at Visit Sebastian River Area.
#FathersDay2025 #ThankYouDad #SebastianStrong
|
| |
TOURISM PARTNER SPOTLIGHT | | |
🌊 Spotlight: Dr. Laura Wilson & the Marine Resources Council
Building a resilient future for the Indian River Lagoon through science, collaboration, and community engagement.
Dr. Laura Wilson, Executive Director of the Marine Resources Council (MRC), brings a fresh scientific and community-centered approach to protecting the Indian River Lagoon. With a background in paleontology and over a decade in academia, Dr. Wilson traded fossils for the future, applying her long-term perspective to real-world environmental restoration.
Founded in 1983 by Florida Tech professors concerned about the lagoon’s declining health, MRC formally incorporated in 1991. From its origins organizing the first “Action Assembly,” MRC has grown into a trusted voice for lagoon health. With Dr. Wilson's direction, the MRC is emphasizing that its mission isn’t just the 156 miles of lagoon but the whole 2,280-square-mile watershed.
Dr. Wilson’s first major initiative is Low-Impact Living (LIL) — a campaign that encourages residents to reduce runoff and nutrient pollution through everyday actions like installing rain barrels, planting natives, and reducing fertilizers. “Everyone can be part of the solution,” she says. MRC’s three current pillars of work include LIL, Shoreline Plantings (Restoration, Enhancement, Stabilization & Training), and Lagoon Watch — a citizen science program being updated with new nutrient testing and digital tools thanks to an Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Program (IRLNEP) grant.
Already in 2025, MRC has planted more than 250 mangroves, many on private shorelines, reflecting a growing wave of public stewardship. They are involved with collaborative projects like the restoration of Mollens Bird Island bring together MRC, FWC, Aquatic Preserves, Brevard Zoo and other agencies to restore and stabilize natural lagoon habitat.
Education remains central to MRC’s work. The Ted Moorhead Lagoon House in Palm Bay serves as an Indian River Lagoon National Scenic Byway welcome center and hub for community engagement, offering Lagoon at Noon lectures, homeschool programs, hands-on workshops, and field trips for all ages. MRC is also seeking funding for new exhibits, including an interactive wave tank.
A key event on the horizon is the Low-Impact Development (LID) Conference, returning October 29–30, 2025, with a field trip on October 28. Registration opens in August, and vendor, sponsor, and abstract opportunities are available. Dr. Wilson emphasizes the importance of partnerships and community — from the IRLNSB Byway and Restore Our Shores to civic groups and local governments. “We host meetings, collaborate on restoration, and always try to connect people with what inspires them — whether that’s mangroves, Low Impact Living, or water quality data.”
To anyone unsure where to start, her advice is simple: “Ask yourself what you’re passionate about — indoors, outdoors, dirty hands or clean spreadsheets — there is a place for you.”
In her role as Executive Director, Dr. Wilson remains optimistic. “What gives me hope is how the lagoon connects us all — from scientists and restoration crews to vacationers, families, and curious young students. Whether you live here, work here, or are just passing through, clean water is something we all depend on. It’s a shared resource that brings people together and protecting it has become a truly collaborative effort across this community.”
Website Link Facebook Link
| | CONCERTS IN THE PARK 2025 | |
Concerts in the Park Review: Glory Days 🎶🎸
On May 9th – Glory Days took the stage and delighted the crowd! Adding to the excitement, the Sebastian River Area Chamber of Commerce will gave away 10 raffle prize packs to lucky audience members. With every attendee receiving a free raffle ticket just for showing up, the giveaways add an extra layer of fun to the night. They played Rock Classics from the 60's-90's.
Of course, no concert is complete without great food! This seasons events featured a delicious variety of food options, including food trucks 40 South, Space Coast Tots, and Uncommon Crepes and Waffles along with JRV Mobile Hotdog Cart and the Sebastian Lions Club, ensuring everyone had something tasty to enjoy.
Want to see a video highlighting the Concert in the Park series, click here!
| | |
As always, a great big THANK YOU to all the sponsors who made this year’s Concerts in the Park series possible! Your support brings live music and community fun to Riverview Park, and we couldn’t do it without you!
We look forward to another great season of concerts next year starting January of 2026! If you are a band and would like to be considered for next years Concert in the Park Series please email tourism@sebastianchamber.com
| | |
This month we are spotlighting our Mural Trail Committee
The committee is looking for new members. Do you appreciate art and are you a member of the chamber? You could be part of this committee and make the Sebastian River Area more beautiful!
Mission Statement: It is the mission of the Sebastian River Area Public Murals Program to showcase the charm of our Sebastian River Area rich in history and modeled to promote tourism, community interactivity, and increased local business awareness.
Our Mural Trail
Take a virtual tour with us, click the link below to take the tour.
https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/e037156484ba48a9a325865ad8c21a08
To join the Mural Trail Committee please email tourism@sebastianchamber.com
New chamber souvenirs
We have post cards for sale at the chamber!
Art by: Carol Makris
Stop by and get yours today!
1 for $30 or 2 for $5
| | |
Pelican Cup Golf Tournament
May 3, 2025
Thank you to our event sponsors!
| |
34th Annual Pelican Cup Golf Tournament Fundraiser – May 3, 2025
The Sebastian River Area Chamber of Commerce hosted the 34th Annual Pelican Cup Golf Tournament Fundraiser on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at the beautiful Sandridge Golf Club in Vero Beach. This signature event brings together business professionals, community leaders, and golf enthusiasts for a day of networking, camaraderie, and friendly competition.
Below are a few photos from the event!
If you would like to see the event recap video click the link here.
| | |
2025 Earth Day Event
Mangrove Potting
Thank you to our planting sponsors!
| | |
Lagoon at Noon on June 3rd!
Join the Marine Resources Council for a live in-person and online event!
This month's presentation covers the Sebastian Inlet District - A Century of Inlet Management.
This small special district has maintained the Sebastian Inlet channel and its structures since 1919. This presentation will look at the evolution of the agency and the improvements at the inlet over the past century.
Given the limited seating in the Lagoon House and an increased demand for in-person tickets, there is a $5 in-person attendance fee. Please feel free to bring your own lunch. Coffee and cookies will be provided. Viewing Lagoon at Noon Presentations via Zoom continues to be free. We thank you for your continued support of our Lagoon at Noon Program.
Register here: https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/WebLink.aspx...
#lagoonatnoon #sebastianinlet #sebastian
| |
Paddle. Breathe. Be.
Celebrate the longest day of the year with intention and presence. Join us for a soul-soothing morning on the water, kayaking through the mangroves with Marc as your guide. Then, deepen your connection with a heart-centered mindfulness experience in nature led by Veronique. Attend one or both sessions. Each offers a unique pathway into presence and seasonal reverence.
The Details:
Date/Time: June 21st I 9 AM – 1 PM
Cost:
$80 – Mindfulness Practice & Kayak Tour
$55 – Kayak Tour Only
$30 – Mindfulness Practice Only
(ELC members get 10% off)
Location: Environmental Learning Center in Vero Beach, Florida
| | |
MARKETING OPPORTUNITIES
& PHOTO REQUEST
| | |
Boost Your Business in 2025 with the Chamber's Instagram Spotlights!
Take advantage of an exciting marketing opportunity to promote your business and connect with the community on social media! As consumer trends and digital platforms continue to evolve, Instagram has become a powerful tool for growth and visibility. The Sebastian River Area Chamber of Commerce invites our members to share photos showcasing your business—whether it’s products, services, team moments, or behind-the-scenes highlights.
| | | |
We’ll feature your photos on the Chamber’s Instagram page throughout 2025, helping you reach new audiences, stay ahead of trends, and expand your brand presence. This is your chance to align with shifting consumer preferences and shine in front of our growing online community.
Don’t miss out—send us your photos today and let’s tell your story together! 📸✨ #SupportLocal #ChamberSpotlight #2025BusinessGrowth
Email Tourism@sebastianchamber.com
| | |
SAVE THE DATE FOR
FUTURE EVENTS
| |
⚓ Mel Fisher Days 2025: Treasure Hunting for a Cause
Huge Live Auction Goes Live June 20 - July 20
Join us in Sebastian, Florida, from July 18–20, 2025, for Mel Fisher Days, a celebration of adventure, history, and community spirit. This annual event honors the legacy of legendary treasure hunter Mel Fisher and supports two vital charities:
- Michael Abt Jr. Have a Heart Foundation: Dedicated to preventing sudden cardiac arrest in youth through heart screenings, CPR training, and the placement of AEDs in schools.
- Wesley House Family Services: Committed to nurturing children and strengthening families across Monroe County with accredited programs and services.
All net proceeds from Mel Fisher Days benefit these organizations, making every activity a step toward positive change.
Event Highlights:
- Engaging activities for all ages
- Educational exhibits and presentations
- Opportunities to learn about maritime history and treasure hunting
Website Link
| |
Grill Out Night – Eat Around the World! 🌍
Spices in the air, evening breezes, and flavors you won’t find on any map!
On Friday, August 8th, join us for Grill Out Night, where the world comes to Sebastian one bite at a time. This year’s theme, Eat Around the World, invites you to explore a patchwork of tastes, aromas, and cultural flair brought to life by our incredible local vendors.
From sweet and smoky to bold and unexpected, each stop on your journey offers something new to savor. Whether it’s grilled, glazed, or served with a secret family twist—you'll want to try it all.
🗺️ Chamber and citywide locations
🎉 Great eats • Family fun • Community spirit
🕓 Friday, August 8th |
Starting at 5:00pm and going until the stars come out at 8:00pm
Vendor signups begin soon so save the date!
| | | | |
Vero Beach Museum of Art Named One of the Nation’s Best-Attended Small Museums
VERO BEACH, FL—Vero Beach Museum of Art is one of the nation’s best-attended small museums, ranking first among museums with budgets under $12 million, not located in a city with high tourist traffic. Those insights come from the latest report published by Remuseum, an independent research project promoting innovation among art museums across the United States, demonstrating an outstanding ability to maximize impact with available resources.
The distinction, based on the number of visitors Vero Beach Museum of Art attracts as a percentage of its regional population, represents one of the more successful examples among the dataset of 153 American art museums included in the Remuseum study. The museum ranks 13th among the full dataset of museums.
“This recognition highlights the dedication of the Vero Beach Museum of Art’s Trustees, staff, and supporters to fostering innovation in art education, providing family and community access programs, and presenting world-class exhibitions,” said Brady Roberts, Executive Director. “Through intentional public engagement and service, we’ve continued to strengthen museum visitation year after year.”
According to Remuseum, nationally, the average percentage of museum visitation to Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) population is 17%. Vero Beach Museum of Art outperforms most art museums—small or large—in this measure, attracting 45% regional visitation.
“Many museums that previously focused on their national or international reputation are realizing that their real impact lies in serving the people of their own communities. These museums measure success in the percentage of their local population they can attract as visitors, and among them, no smaller museum is doing better than the Vero Beach Museum of Art, which has developed a program that its community clearly finds both relevant and engaging.” Stephen Reily, Remuseum’s Founding Director.
Located on the Treasure Coast, the Vero Beach Museum of Art is one of Florida’s leading visual arts institutions. Its permanent collection of American and international art from the mid-19th century to the present includes significant works across numerous media. The Museum will celebrate 40 years in 2026 and, in 2027, will open a new facility, doubling its gallery space and providing new venues for its innovative arts education and community access programming.
| | |
The Cultural Council’s Art in Public Places program has been exhibiting works of art around the county since 2015. Our five venues include the IRC Courthouse, IRC Administration Complex, the Intergenerational Recreation Center, Vero Beach City Hall and Indian River Distillery. Local artists who are Cultural Council members have the opportunity to exhibit their art for the public to enjoy in places that might otherwise be left baron. Approximately one month before an exhibit is installed, artists are sent a “call to artists” as an invitation to submit their work, sometimes relating to a theme. Juried selections are displayed for a three- to four-month rotating period of time.
Learn more by visiting their website by clicking here.
| | |
20TH ANNUAL WATERLILY CELEBRATION
SATURDAY, JUNE 14, 2025 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
| | |
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS 8:30 AM | GATES OPEN Take advantage of the early opening of the Garden to view night-blooming varieties as you take a self-guided stroll through the Garden.
8:30 AM – 2:00 PM | 20TH ANNUAL WATERLILY PHOTO CONTEST On display in the historic Hall of Giants. Vote for the “people’s choice” award.
9:00 AM & 10:15 AM | WATERLILY REPOTTING DEMONSTRATION IN ROYAL PALM GROVE Learn about the various types of waterlilies and their growing periods and blooming patterns. Guests will also be educated on the important role these plants play in maintaining the well-being of McKee’s ponds and waterways.
9:00 AM – 2:00 PM | PLANT SALE VENDORS Aquatic Plant Sales, Aroids & Orchids, Bromeliads, Wire Art & Wood Crafts, and Handmade Baskets (Spanish Kitchen and Café Patio)
9:00 AM – 5:00 PM | PLEIN AIR ARTISTS Watch artists who will be creating original works of art throughout the Garden.
9:30 AM – 12:00 PM | ASK THE EXPERT Q&A Feel free to ask our plant experts any questions you have about growing aquatic plants, bromeliads, and orchids.
| |
The Comedy Zone, comedy club in Vero Beach - Riverside Theatre | |
The 2024-2025 Musicals and Plays will return in October!
| | | |
BACKSTAGE TOURS
SEE EVERYTHING BEHIND THE RED CURTAIN.
Get an entertaining, story-filled tour backstage and see the set designs and props up close. Meet some of the talented people that make it all happen. Learn more about how the shows are created and brought to life on stage. The tours last roughly one and a half hours. The cost is $5 per person / Free for Members ($500 or more donors).
On select Fridays throughout the year, choose 10am or 2pm. Tour fee is $5.
Email us or Call for more info 772-231-6990. Tickets on sale now below.
| |
‘COMEDY ZONE’ GENERAL INFORMATION:
- Comedy Zone is a great night out with friends, for Date Nights, Birthdays, Office Parties and to celebrate Special Occasions.
- No drink minimum & free parking! Recommended for ages 18 and up.
- Shows may contain coarse language and adult content and are approximately 80 minutes.
- Comics are subject to change without notice. All sales are final.
-
Purchase tickets only from our box office at 772-231-6990, this website, or our ticket website my.RiversideTheatre.com. Do not use 3rd party ticket sites.
| |
GUIDED PONTOON BOAT CRUISE
Volunteer Orientations - 1st Thursday of every month
Wild Wednesdays - every Wednesday
Chair Yoga - every Wednesday
Unplug + Play - every Saturday
Walking Meditation - every 4th Sunday
Kayak Excursions - dates on flyer
Morning and Sunset Cruises
Click here for Dates and Times
Location: Environmental Learning Center
255 Live Oak Drive, Vero Beach, FL 32963
| | |
GAME NIGHT
Every Other Wednesday
6 PM - 8 PM
920 US Hwy 1, Sebastian
| |
Every Tuesday and Thursday
10 AM - 3 PM
7500 US1, Vero Beach
Every Wednesday
12 PM - 3 PM
Location: Sebastian Elks Lodge #2714
731 S. Fleming St. Sebastian
| |
KARAOKE
Every Thursday
6 PM - 10 PM
1109 Indian River Drive, Sebastian
| |
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT
Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
1405 Indian River Drive, Sebastian
| |
DJ CUE & BROOKLYN BAD BOY
Every 1st Saturday
6 PM - 9 PM
1550 Indian River Drive, Sebastian
| | | | |
With so much to do throughout our community, be sure to stay informed with all the events!
Calendar Link
| |
Florida’s Premiere Destination
The Indian River Lagoon National Scenic Byway promotes an environment where travelers are surrounded by a unique and diverse habitat with special places and breathtaking scenery that inspires a sense of calmness and creates unforgettable memories.
Plan Your Trip
Indian River Lagoon National Scenic Byway Interactive Map
https://www.indianriverlagoonbyway.com/
| |
Discover Simple Pleasures and Authentic Treasures
with our Destination Videos
| |
|
Explore how Marketing Partnerships with the State’s Official Tourism Marketing Corporation can shine a light on your business, grow the State’s tourism economy, and help your business reach so many of the visitors that utilize VISITFLORIDA.com as a resource for travel planning.
Visit Florida Link
| | | |
CONTACT US FOR MORE INFORMATION
Sebastian River Area Chamber of Commerce & Pelican Porch Visitor's Center
700 Main Street, Sebastian, FL 32958
(772) 589-5969 | cthibault@SebastianChamber.com | www.SebastianChamber.com
| | | | |
