FROM YOUR TOURISM DIRECTOR
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Dear Friends and Members,
Welcome to January and the start of a new year in the Sebastian River Area. Where winter means sunshine, blue skies, and endless opportunities to relax and explore. As we step into 2026, our community is delighted to welcome seasonal residents and winter visitors who choose to spend their colder months enjoying Florida’s warm breezes and coastal charm.
January is peak season in the Sebastian River Area, and for good reason. Mild temperatures make it the perfect time to be outdoors—whether you’re strolling along the riverfront, paddling the Indian River Lagoon, spotting manatees and migrating birds, biking the Indian River Lagoon National Scenic Byway, or enjoying fresh local flavors at our waterfront restaurants. This is the season when visitors quickly feel like locals and every day invites a new adventure.
Looking Back at 2025, tourism continued to be one of Florida’s most powerful economic drivers in 2025, building on record-breaking visitation and spending in 2024. According to the latest Visit Florida economic impact study, travel and tourism generated an estimated $133.6 billion in economic impact in 2024, supported 1.8 million jobs, and contributed nearly $34 billion in state and local tax revenue savings that help reduce the tax burden for Florida households. Out-of-state visitors spent nearly $135 billion on lodging, dining, attractions, and other travel-related experiences, underscoring both the strength of Florida’s visitor economy and its importance to communities large and small across the state. Early 2025 visitation data also shows continued strong demand, with tens of millions of travelers arriving in the first months of the year, reinforcing Florida’s ongoing appeal as a top destination for domestic and international visitors alike.
Looking ahead to the New Year also brings fresh opportunities to connect and grow. At the Chamber, we’re excited to support our local businesses, strengthen partnerships, and highlight the experiences that make this area a favorite winter escape. We invite you to explore, engage, and take advantage of the many events, attractions, and member-to-member offerings that make the Sebastian River Area such a welcoming destination.
As 2026 unfolds, we look forward to a season filled with connection, discovery, and appreciation for the natural beauty and friendly spirit that define our community. Whether you’re here for a few weeks or the whole season, we’re glad you’re part of the Sebastian River story.
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Gratefully yours,
Nicholas Sanzone
Tourism Director
Sebastian River Area Chamber of Commerce
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Tourism Partners
Tourism partners don't forget
to stop by our office and pick up a box or two for your business.
If you want to see yourself in this publication email us.
Tourism@sebastianchamber.com
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TOURISM PARTNERS SPOTLIGHT | |
Inside the Sebastian River Area Chamber of Commerce Familiarization (FAM) Tour 2025
The Sebastian River Area Chamber of Commerce FAM Tour was designed with one clear goal in mind: to tell the story of our destination through authentic experiences, meaningful connections, and the people who bring this community to life. Bringing together tourism leaders, media partners, elected officials, creatives, and local advocates, the tour offered a full day immersion into the places, landscapes, and stories that define the Sebastian River Area and the surrounding Treasure Coast. Serving as driver, narrator, and guide for the day was Nicholas Sanzone, Tourism Director for the Sebastian River Area Chamber of Commerce, who connected each stop through local history, insight, and storytelling. “This tour isn’t just about showing locations,” Sanzone shared. “It’s about explaining why these places matter to visitors, to residents, and to the future of our community.”
A Strong Start Along the River
The tour departed from the Chamber in the morning and made its first stop at Riverview Park, where the Indian River Lagoon set the tone for the day. With sweeping water views and passing boats, the group was introduced to the central theme of the tour: the relationship between land, water, and community that defines life in the Sebastian River Area.
Joining the group was Melissa from Visit Florida, who viewed the experience through a statewide tourism lens. "What's special here is how naturally everything connects,” she noted. “The outdoors, the culture, the people—it all flows together.” Also on board was Britney, CEO of the Sebastian River Area Chamber of Commerce, who emphasized the importance of collaboration and authentic storytelling. “This tour reflects exactly what we want visitors to feel,” Britney said. “Welcomed, inspired, and genuinely connected to our local businesses and community.”
Surf Culture, Local Flavor, and Lagoon Stories
The next stop at Wabasso Surf Shop brought the group into the heart of Florida’s surf culture, with a focus on the iconic Sebastian Inlet. Stories of waves, coastal energy, and outdoor adventure illustrated why this stretch of shoreline attracts surfers and visitors from around the world. Media partners like Jack from Cumulus Radio’s “The Rocket” immediately saw the storytelling potential. “There’s something here for everyone,” Jack said. “Adventure, food, culture—it’s the kind of place listeners want to hear about.”
At Beach Bites, fishing stories shared by Jake and a quick snack break highlighted the way food and fishing culture intersect in everyday life along the coast. Grant from Coastal Angler Magazine connected deeply with this portion of the tour. “This region is a dream for anglers,” Grant shared. “And the focus on conservation makes it even more compelling.” The tour continued along the scenic Jungle Trail, through the Hammock Preserve, and out to Jones Pier, where the Indian River Lagoon took center stage. Guests learned about the lagoon’s biodiversity, its importance to eco-tourism, and why conservation is essential to the region’s future. Grace from ChoZen Retreat reflected on the peaceful energy of the area. “You can feel the calm here,” she said. “These natural spaces create an instant sense of grounding.”
Florida Stories, Beachfront Hospitality, and Hidden Treasures
As the tour traveled along Jimmy Buffett Highway and through Indian River Shores, Florida stories unfolded beach markers, music legends, and the laid-back coastal lifestyle that defines the Treasure Coast. Mayor Fred Jones of the City of Sebastian spoke proudly about the community. “Sebastian’s charm comes from its people and our connection to the ocean, the river, the land and to eachother. This tour captures that perfectly.” Before transitioning into the region’s arts and cultural landmarks, the group made a memorable stop at Ocean Breeze Inn & Suites, a welcoming beachfront property in Vero Beach. With the Atlantic Ocean just steps away, attendees toured the property and viewed several of the thoughtfully designed guest rooms, each offering comfort, convenience, and uninterrupted access to the beach.
This stop highlighted the vital role locally owned accommodations play in shaping the visitor experience. Ocean Breeze Inn & Suites demonstrated that a stay here is about more than a place to sleep, it’s about fully immersing yourself in the coastal lifestyle, from ocean views and sea breezes to easy beach access that invites guests to slow down and stay awhile.
Adding a uniquely interactive element, Nicole from the Mel Fisher Treasure Museum joined the group on the beach for a brief metal-detecting adventure. As she shared stories of historic shipwrecks, lost cargo, and real discoveries made along Florida’s coastline, attendees were invited to try their hand at treasure hunting. With detectors sweeping the sand, a few small “treasures” were uncovered turning Florida history into a hands on, unforgettable experience.
The moment perfectly captured the spirit of the Treasure Coast, where adventure, history, and nature intersect in unexpected ways.
Arts, Culture, and Creative Expression
Following the beachfront experience, the tour shifted to the cultural side of the destination with a guided visit to the Vero Beach Museum of Art, led by Suzanne. This stop showcased the region’s thriving arts scene and reinforced that creativity and culture are an essential part of the Sebastian River Area experience. The group then continued to Riverside Theatre, where guests explored one of the area’s premier performing arts venues and learned how live theater and cultural programming enrich both resident life and visitor appeal. Oscar at the theatre invited us on stage and behind the sceens to see all of the work and passion that goes into creating a performance that captivates an audience. Both of these tours were fantastic!
Hospitality, Good Spirits, and Business Connections
Lunch at Costa d’Este offered a relaxed pause in the day, blending oceanfront elegance with warm hospitality. Shortly after lunch, Andrew from Bankers Life joined the group, bringing a business and community investment perspective. “There’s real momentum here,” Andrew noted. “Experiences like this show why people choose to live, work, and visit this area.”
The afternoon continued with “good spirits” stops at American Icon Brewery and later Pareidolia Brewing Company, highlighting how local breweries and gathering spaces contribute to the region’s social fabric. Representing neighboring communities, Robert from the City of Fellsmere emphasized the value of regional collaboration. “Tourism works best when communities support each other,” he said. “This tour shows how connected we all are.”
Conservation, Creativity, and Capturing the Story
A guided visit to the Environmental Learning Center (ELC) brought the focus back to conservation and education, offering hands on insight into eco-tourism and the importance of protecting the Indian River Lagoon. Throughout the day, the experience was captured from every angle. Fred Jones owner and opperator of Fred Drones provided sweeping aerial views of waterways, coastlines, and trails, while Czar from Perceived Media documented candid moments on the ground. The day concluded at the Island Root local Kava bar, ending on a note of good vibes, reflection, and connection.
More than a sightseeing tour, the Sebastian River Area Chamber of Commerce FAM Tour was a shared experience shaped by the people who participated. By bringing together tourism leaders, media voices, elected officials, creatives, and community partners, the Chamber created an experience that will continue to ripple outward through stories, coverage, and inspired visitors.The FAM Tour demonstrated a simple truth: the story of the Sebastian River Area is best told through the people who experience it, one destination, one day, and countless stories waiting to be shared.
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A Magical Evening at Light Up Night 2025
The holiday season kicked off in dazzling style with Light Up Night 2025 on December 5th! Presented by the Sebastian River Area Chamber of Commerce, this cherished community tradition brought holiday cheer, laughter, and festive spirit to residents and visitors alike.
From 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM, over 50 local businesses across the Sebastian area lit up the night with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and warm hospitality. Families and friends strolled from shop to shop, enjoying complimentary treats, refreshments, and exciting door prizes. Participating businesses went above and beyond, offering fun activities for all ages and creating a truly magical evening for the whole community.
This year, the Chamber proudly presents five awards to businesses that went the extra mile in spreading holiday cheer. Their creativity, dedication, and festive spirit helped make the night unforgettable. Photos of the award-winning businesses are showcased below.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined, participated, and supported this special event! We estimate that we had ~800 people attend this years event. Your enthusiasm and community pride are what make Light Up Night a beloved tradition each year. Special appreciation goes to our generous sponsors—your support makes the magic possible.
We can’t wait to see you again next year as we light up the night and create even more cherished holiday memories. Happy Holidays from the Sebastian River Area Chamber of Commerce! 🎄✨
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Thank you,
Light Up Night Sponsors
| | CONCERTS IN THE PARK 2026 | | |
🚨 LAST CALL FOR SPONSORS! 🚨
December is the FINAL month to get your logo featured on all 2026 Concerts in the Park advertising! That’s right—the window to become a sponsor for the 2026 Concerts in the Park series closes on December 30th. Don’t miss this opportunity to put your business front and center all season long in one of Sebastian’s most loved community events.
Act now—once the deadline passes, this exclusive exposure is gone! 🎶🌴
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TO OUR CURRENT SPONSORS
THANK YOU!
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As seen in...
This January, the Sebastian River Area is shining on a national and international stage through an exciting mix of high-impact media advertising campaigns. Eye-catching billboards across key Canadian markets near the Gardiner Expressway and Pearson Airport. Whats more is our full-page ads in Canadian magazine are inspiring winter travelers to head south and discover our coastal charm.
Closer to home, we’re reaching passionate sports fans with full-page ads in the Tampa Bay Lightning program and the New York Knicks Yearbook, placing our destination in front of millions of engaged readers. Complementing these efforts, we’re also featured in the digital edition of Coastal Angler Magazine, connecting with outdoor enthusiasts actively seeking their next great coastal adventure. Together, these campaigns amplify awareness, drive visitation, and position the Sebastian River Area top-of-mind for travelers planning their winter and spring getaways. #Finditallinsebastian
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Community & Business Reminder:
We love sharing all the great things happening in our area, and we can’t do it without you! We kindly remind our community partners and local businesses to email the Tourism Director links, flyers, and details about your upcoming events, special promotions, and exclusive deals. If you don’t tell us, we can’t share it. We want to help promote you and the area we all love. Together, we can keep Sebastian vibrant, visible, and thriving.
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Classic Films With a Twist
Contact: 772 • 400-6360
Location: 1001 Sebastian Blvd, Sebastian, FL
When: January 2, 2025.
FREE
Website: Text Link
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Artistic Views of Nature
With over 120 member artists, The Sebastian River Art Club (SRAC) encourages and supports the creating of quality art in all mediums.
We are so pleased to have this opportunity to exhibit members artwork at the Environmental Learning Center. The theme of this exhibit is Nature, as is so fitting for this beautiful venue and the paradise we are fortunate enough to live in.
When: Open until, January 5, 2025.
Website: Text Link
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MURAL UPDATE:
Stay tuned for the big reveal on January 7th at 3:30pm
Over a year ago, Grace Sheldon, with the Sebastian Elementary School of the Arts, approached our chamber after learning we had a mural program. She had a vision to bring a mural to the school but needed to find a way to raise money to get the project underway. We put her in touch with one of our beloved mural artists, Katherine Larson, and the project grew from a humble beginning.
I am thrilled to give you an update:
For the last few months, the Sebastian Elementary School of the Arts has been working on their new mural and the painted panels are officially completed!
Under the watchful eye of artist Katherine Larson and the amazing school faculty, 240 elementary students helped paint the canvases which will be adhered to a large outer wall of the school by the student drop off/pick up line.
This momentous event could not have been possible if not for the approval of our officials, dedicated efforts of our artist-Katherine, Isola Arts and the Riverfront Fine Art & Music Festival Inc. We can't thank them enough for bringing this project to life!
Our entire town of Sebastian is invited
The Sebastian River Area Chamber of Commerce Mural Program helped guide this project through the organization and approval process and therefore I'd like to thank our committee members: Carson Jenkins, Amy Jenkins, Suzanne Wille, Nichole Johanson Nicholas Sanzone Suzanne Gallagher, and Emily Miranda.
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Dungeons & Dragons
When: Jan 10th and 24th 2026
Unleash your inner adventurer! The library is now hosting Dungeons and Dragons sessions just for adults with DM Derek Durrant, owner of Talerand. Whether you're a seasoned player or a curious newbie, come roll some dice, create a character, and embark on an epic quest. It's a fantastic way to socialize, get creative, and experience the thrill of tabletop role-playing in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
Space is limited, so registration is required. For more information or to register, contact Katherine at 772-400-6360 or kanderson@indianriver.gov
Fees/Admission: FREE
Website: Text Link
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35th FELLSMERE FROGLEG FESTIVAL
When: January 15-18th
Free Parking. Free Admission. And a Frogtatsic amount of fun!
Invite your friends and join us in Fellsmere, Florida for our 35th Annual Fellsmere Frog Leg Festival to support our community! This Guinness Book of World Record holder event is famous for the mouth watering frog legs and gator tail dinners! There will be booths with unique gifts, great local music and fun rides!
Come discover why this festival is a January tradition for so many.
FESTIVAL SCHEDULE
Thursday & Friday 4pm-11pm
Saturday 10am-11pm
Sunday 11am-6pm
ALL-YOU-CAN-RIDE DAYS
Thursday & Sunday
Get your Armband for just $25
Friday & Saturday
Get your Armband for $30
Drive-Thru Frog Leg and Gator Tail Dinners will be open, as well as shuttles to the event itself.
Fees/Admission: FREE
Website: Text Link
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Sebastian Riverfront Fine Art
& Music Festival
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When: Jan 17th and 18th 2026
Sat 10-5 / Sun 10-4
Promoting interest in and appreciation of the arts and to promote cultural enhancement and awareness through public exhibition and performance.
Join us for the 23rd annual Sebastian Riverfront Fine Art and Music Festival on Saturday January 18 from 10-5 and Sunday January 19th from 10-4.
There will be over 100 artists, fantastic food, beer/wine and a great music lineup!
Fees/Admission: FREE
Website: Text Link
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Art in the Park
When: Sunday, January 18, 2026 (10:00 AM - 4:00 PM) (EST)
Description
44TH ANNUAL ART IN THE PARK
HOSTED BY: VERO BEACH ART CLUB
LOCATION: HUMISTON PARK, 3000 OCEAN DR., VERO BEACH
A Fine Art & Crafts Exhibit presented by artists from the Vero Beach Art Club on various Sundays from November through March. Located at Humiston Park on Ocean Drive in Vero Beach, Art in the Park provides the perfect opportunity for visitors and residents to interact with our artists and craft artisans and to purchase beautiful, original artwork.
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HERITAGE BLUEGRASS MUSIC SERIES
Wednesday, January 21, 2026 6:30 PM - Thursday, January 22, 2026 9:30 PM (EST)
Description
George E. Warren LLC & Vero Heritage, Inc
Hibiscus Vintage Music Presents:
FREE monthly Bluegrass concert.
Doors open at 6:30pm
Monthly 50/50 raffle proceeds will be donated to a local music education program.
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Capt Hirams Resort
Thursday, January 22, 2026 9:30 PM
1580 US Highway 1, Sebastian, FL, United States, Florida 32958
Wine & Dine with The Capt. featuring France!
Get ready for an unforgettable evening in person as we explore the rich flavors of French wine and cuisine! Join The Capt. for a fun, relaxed night filled with delicious plates and fantastic wines straight from France. Whether you're a wine newbie or a seasoned sipper, this event is all about good vibes, great food, and even better company. Don't miss out on this tasty adventure! No menu substitutions, please.
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Lagoonapalooza
The Environmental Learning Center’s annual Lagoonapalooza Nature and Music Festival is being held Saturday, January 24, 2026 from 10 AM – 5 PM on ELC’s 64-acre lagoon island campus.
This FREE event features:
- Environmental partners with tons of hands-on activities
- Musical groups performing throughout the day
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Food trucks and s’mores (The Source’s Dignity Food Truck & Len & 10 )
- Pontoon/kayak trips
- Visits to the aquarium and touch tank
- Free play at the Nature Playscape and Imagination Station.
- Walking trails open throughout the campus
- Nature Nook Eco-Boutique open for shopping
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Two art galleries featuring art from Derek Gores and Cheri & Mark Schumann
- Dip netting in the pond
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January 9, 2026—February 7, 2027
The Museum in the Garden: Envisioning the New VBMA exhibition traces the evolution of the designs for Vero Beach Museum of Art’s new building and transformed campus created by the Allied Works architecture and Unknown Studio Landscape Architecture & Urban Design.
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January 31–June 7, 2026
Featuring over 80 works by renowned American artists, this exhibition traces the evolution of American art with a focus on the 19th and 20th centuries. Showcasing landscapes, still lifes, and genre scenes, it highlights the influence of European training and the diverse styles that have shaped American artistic expression across generations.
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Extra Special SHOWTIME NEWS!
Chamber Member, Nichole Fisher Johanson, granddaughter of Mel Fisher and Director of Operations for over 20 years, has recently competed in Beast Games Season 2, a massive reality competition series created by world famous YouTuber “Mr. Beast” where a prize of $5 million was up for grabs.
The first three episodes drop on Amazon Prime January 7th. We wish her all the best!!
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Book by Robert L. Freedman
Music by Steven Lutvak
Lyrics by Robert L. Freedman and Steven Lutvak
Based on the book Israel Rank: The Autobiography of a Criminal by Roy Horniman
January 9 – February 1, 2026
Winner of the Tony® Award for Best Musical, A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder is a murderous romp filled with unforgettable music, non-stop laughs and scene-stealing characters who meet their ends in the most creative and side-splitting ways.
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‘THE LOOP’ GENERAL INFORMATION:
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Family-friendly live music nights under our oak trees.
- Kitchen & bar service starting at 5:00pm, and Music at 5:30pm
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Walk-up anytime and sit at any available table seats. Or bring Lawn Chairs. Sit on the grass in front of the stage or at designated areas.
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Come Hungry! We offer casual dining table service or you may self-serve by purchasing food and beverages inside the lobby bar. Do not bring: coolers, tumblers, water bottles or food on our campus. We offer free cups of water and bottled water for purchase. Note: Table service is not guaranteed.
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Sorry, no pets allowed on campus except for certified service dogs.
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Support free live music by purchasing food, beverages and renting cabanas at The Loop Kitchen & Bar!
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Plan Your Staycation or Next Getaway in Sebastian!
Whether you’re planning a vacation, a weekend escape, or a local staycation, the best place to start is the Sebastian River Area Chamber Calendar! Our calendar is your go-to resource for discovering upcoming events, live music, festivals, markets, and family-friendly activities—everything you need to find it all right here in Sebastian.
For our Chamber members and tourism businesses, we humbly offer this friendly reminder: if we don’t know about your event, no one else will either. Events cannot be shared on our calendars, Facebook pages, or Visit SRA newsletters unless they are submitted to us. To be included in our promotional efforts, please send all event details and schedules to our Tourism Director for review.
Help us help you—share your events, stay visible, and let’s continue showcasing all the great things happening in the Sebastian River Area! ✨
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GAME NIGHT
Every Other Wednesday
6 PM - 8 PM
920 US Hwy 1, Sebastian
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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
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KARAOKE
Every Thursday
6 PM - 10 PM
1109 Indian River Drive, Sebastian
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LIVE ENTERTAINMENT
Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
1405 Indian River Drive, Sebastian
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DJ CUE & BROOKLYN BAD BOY
Every 1st Saturday
6 PM - 9 PM
1550 Indian River Drive, Sebastian
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With so much to do throughout our community, be sure to stay informed with all the events!
Calendar Link
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Discover Simple Pleasures and Authentic Treasures
with our Destination Videos
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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
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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
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