FROM YOUR TOURISM DIRECTOR | |
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Dear Friends and Members,
The holiday season is here, and the Sebastian River Area is sparkling brighter than ever! As we wrap up 2025, it’s the perfect time to celebrate the year’s highlights, enjoy festive traditions, and look forward to a new year full of promise and possibility.
This season, don’t miss the Chamber’s Light Up Night—our signature holiday kick‑off event that brings together the community for an evening of festive fun, music, food, and local cheer. Light Up Night is the perfect way to start your holiday season with friends and family while supporting our local businesses. Stroll through the holiday market, and experience the magic as the Chamber and community light up the season together.
On top of that, we’re especially excited because the community is already kicking things off early: the Christmas tree is already up in Riverview Park, ready for you to stroll by, snap a photo, and soak in the season. And mark your calendars: the City of Sebastian’s Annual Christmas Parade is set for Saturday, December 6 at 6:30 PM, heading south on Indian River Drive from Main Street down to Riverview Park. At the finish line, Santa makes his grand arrival and the tree‑lighting celebration begins!
This magical season is all about connection—and there’s no better place to experience it than right here in our community. From twinkling lights along the lagoon to cheerful businesses, parades, and Light Up Night excitement, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
As you plan your celebrations and gift shopping, remember that our local businesses are the heart of the Sebastian River Area. Every unique gift, delicious meal, and seasonal treat you enjoy supports the small businesses that make our community so special.
Whether you’re taking a peaceful stroll through our scenic parks, casting a line on the lagoon, or simply savoring time with loved ones, remember—you’re part of a community that treasures connection, tradition, and gratitude. Let’s make this season bright with giving, joy, and togetherness as we say goodbye to a memorable 2025 and welcome all the opportunities 2026 has in store. Wishing you and yours a warm, happy, and festive holiday season!
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Gratefully yours,
Nicholas Sanzone
Tourism Director
Sebastian River Area Chamber of Commerce
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Discover the Sebastian River Area – 2025-2026 Visitor Guide
This guide is your key to exploring the best of our community, from hidden treasures and local attractions to dining, shopping, and family-friendly experiences. It’s available at all five Visit Florida Welcome Centers, at over 15 local events, and at numerous businesses throughout the area. Get your guide today, so you can start discovering all the “Simple Pleasures and Authentic Treasures” the Sebastian River Area has to offer.
Want a copy to plan your visit? Email us at Tourism@sebastianchamber.com
| | TOURISM PARTNER SPOTLIGHT | |
Florida Airboat Excursions
Explore the wild side of Florida
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Smooth Rides and Wild Life
I never realized how magical Florida’s wetlands could be—until I climbed aboard an airboat with Florida Airboat Excursions on Lake Garcia, near Vero Beach. From the moment we cut across the glassy waters of the Blue Cypress Conservation Area, I felt like I’d stepped into a living painting of Cattails and lilies, purple and yellow with a splash of pink, sun, and wildlife. The gentle hum of the boat, the mist rising off the water, and the endless green stretching in every direction set the stage for a truly unforgettable adventure.
Our guide, Captain Krista, greeted us with a smile and a sparkle in her eye. Born and raised in Florida, she’s the only female airboat captain in the area, and her knowledge of the marsh is remarkable. “We have one goal: To give you a fun and unforgettable Florida marsh tour – one you are sure to talk about for years to come,” she told us. Her enthusiasm is contagious; within minutes, we were all hooked.
Wildlife appeared almost immediately. Great blue herons stood majestically along the banks, while ospreys glided overhead, talons ready. Vibrant water lilies floated across the surface, adding pops of pink and white to the sea of green. Every turn of the boat revealed another stunning scene, another story of life in the marsh.
And then came the alligators—the real stars of the show. Florida Airboat Excursions promises an authentic, up-close encounter with these iconic creatures, and they delivered. We first spotted the smaller gators, eyes just above the waterline, quietly observing. Then, I gasped: a massive 10-foot gator emerged from the reeds, a freshly caught fish clamped in its powerful jaws. Its scales shimmered in the sunlight as it slowly dragged its prey through the water—a breathtaking, humbling sight that reminded me why these tours are so unique. “Our captains’ job and top priority are to keep you safe while also providing a truly entertaining experience,” Krista reminded us, perfectly balancing thrill with reassurance.
The tour itself is as versatile as it is exciting. The Guided Group Tour, lasting about 50 minutes, is packed with wildlife sightings, fascinating commentary, and plenty of photo opportunities. For those craving a more personalized experience, Private Tours start at $695 and can be tailored for bird-watching, photography, or special occasions like birthdays and family gatherings. No matter the tour, guests of all ages are welcome—this is fun, educational, and safe for everyone.
By the end of our ride, I was captivated—not just by the gators, herons, and water lilies, but by the sheer wonder of a landscape where nature truly rules. The experience blends adventure, education, and an appreciation for Florida’s unique ecosystem in a way that feels effortless and immersive.
If you’re seeking an authentic Florida adventure—thrilling, beautiful, and full of surprises—Florida Airboat Excursions should be at the top of your list. From soaring birds to shimmering wetlands and awe-inspiring gators, it’s a journey you’ll remember long after you’ve left the marsh.
Book your adventure today at floridaairboatexcursions.com and prepare for a ride through the wild heart of Florida you’ll be talking about for years.
Get a glimpse of what it’s like out on the water and on the land at the ELC in this month’s Tourism Spotlight video. 🎥🚤👉 Watch now on our YouTube channel: CLICK HERE
👉 Learn more and book your next adventure at airboatadventuretours.com or
call 772-461-0303. Or visit them on Facebook, Facebook Link
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We have post cards for sale at the chamber!
Art by: Carol Makris
Stop by and get yours today!
1 for $3 or 2 for $5
| | The 2025-2026 Tourism Theme "Find it all in Sebastian" | |
The new theme for 2025–2026, “Find It All in Sebastian,” celebrates the incredible variety of experiences that make the Sebastian River Area so special — from peaceful riverfront moments and small-town charm to thrilling outdoor adventures and unforgettable eco-experiences. This year, we’re shining a spotlight on nature and ecotourism, inviting visitors to explore our pristine waterways, scenic trails, and diverse wildlife habitats that define the heart of our community. Whether it’s kayaking the Indian River Lagoon, birdwatching at Pelican Island, or discovering local art and culture inspired by our natural surroundings, you’ll truly find it all here in Sebastian. We invite everyone to share their adventures and discoveries and tag us on your socials using #VisitSRA.
We inviteyou to join us in celebrating the authentic beauty and boundless spirit of the Sebastian River Area.
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❄️ December has arrived, bringing comfort, joy, and the magic of the season to the Sebastian River Area! ✨ From cheerful holiday markets like LIGHT UP NIGHT with sparkling light displays to festive concerts, community gatherings, and cozy local happenings, there’s something to warm every heart this month.
We invite you to slow down, savor the season, and celebrate with us. Experience the friendliness, charm, and holiday spirit that make the Sebastian River Area shine all December long. 🎄❤️
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Picasso and the Progressive Proof: Linocut Prints from a Private Collection
On view at the VBMA September 13, 2025–January 4, 2026
Explore the printmaking work of renowned Spanish artist Pablo Picasso when the Vero Beach Museum of Art hosts the nationally touring exhibition, Picasso and the Progressive Proof: Linocut Prints from a Private Collection, from Saturday, September 13, 2025, through Sunday, January 4, 2026. The exhibition, organized by the Townsend Art Advisory LLC, illuminates Picasso’s conceptual and technical innovations during his last great creative outpouring.
Recent Acquisition Highlights
On view at the VBMA September 27, 2025, to January 11, 2026
This exhibition features a suite of 30 prints by leading American artists, entitled The New York Collection for Stockholm portfolio, on view in the Schumann Gallery, along with 20 additional works on view in the adjacent Titelman Gallery. All are recent gifts and purchases made since 2019, representing a selection from the Museum’s broader group of acquisitions during this period.
Click here to learn more.
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Date and Time
Saturday December 13th and 27th, 2025
1:00 PM - 4:00 PM EDT
Location
NORTH IRC LIBRARY
1001 SEBASTIAN BLVD., SEBASTIAN
Adults: Dungeons & Dragons
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.
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Lagoon at Noon
Pack up your lunch and join MRC on the first Tuesday of every month for our Lagoon at Noon (formerly Lunch & Learn) Seminars at 12:00 pm.This event is now hybrid with live streaming via Zoom and limited, in-person seating with registration required at the Ted Moorhead Lagoon House. Register Now
Browse 65 Lagoon at Noon Seminars on MRC’s YouTube Channel.
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Date and Time
December 12th and 22nd, 2025
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM EDT
Location
NORTH IRC LIBRARY
1001 SEBASTIAN BLVD., SEBASTIAN
Join the North IRC Library for a cozy afternoon of warmth and fun! We'll provide a variety of puzzles - including jigsaws, crosswords, Sudoku and word searches - for you to enjoy. Spend a relaxing hour cracking clues and sharing laughs (and hot chocolate!) with fellow puzzle enthusiasts.
Registration is not required. For more information, contact Katherine at 772-400-6360 or kanderson@indianriver.gov.
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ChoZen Artisan Markets
ChoZen Artisan Markets are back every second Sunday — and you’re invited.
From October to May, we gather to celebrate what truly matters: art, earth, and community.
Hosted in the Love Garden and Harvest House, each monthly market is a soul-nourishing experience: curated with intention to uplift local artists, regenerative makers, and mystics throughout the state of Florida as we deepen our roots and activate our bioregional hub.
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Sebastian River High School Band
Prism Concert
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The Prism Concert is a dynamic and immersive musical experience that showcases a wide range of talent within our school’s music program. Unlike traditional concerts, the Prism Concert features continuous, uninterrupted performances, with seamless transitions between different musical ensembles, soloists choirs and dancers. The name "Prism" symbolizes the event's diversity and the way it shines a light on the varied musical talents, much like how a prism disperses light into a spectrum of colors. Audiences can expect an engaging and captivating evening filled with a rich tapestry of sounds, reflecting the depth and breadth of the performers' abilities.
Concert Dates & Times
Thursday, December 11th @ 7PM
Friday, December 12th @ 7PM
Saturday, December 13th @2PM & 7PM
Sunday, December 14th @ 2PM & 7PM
Sebastian River High School
9001 Shark Blvd | Sebastian, FL 32958
(772) 564-4170
Fees/Admission:
Admission is free! Your support helps sustain VBCO and our Community Orchestra
Website https://www.srhsband.com/prism
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McKee Botanical Garden
The Most Expansive and Immersive Holiday Light Experience on the Treasure Coast Illuminating McKee’s Venerable History and the Countdown to its Centennial Celebration
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Welcome to JUNGLE LIGHTS
23 Nights in December plus
2 Nights in January
6:00 PM to 9:00 PM Nightly
(Last entry at 8:30 PM)
This year’s JUNGLE LIGHTS offer an immersive journey through Brazil, Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and Venezuela, each country represented with vivid flora, fauna, and soundscapes. Visitors will encounter macaws soaring in Brazil, toucans perched in Bolivia’s canopy, tree frogs singing in Colombia, monkeys swinging in Ecuador, flamingos wading in Peru, and owls calling in the Venezuelan night. Illuminated butterflies, hummingbirds, and an alpaca join McKee’s menagerie of glowing lanterns, while beloved holiday traditions return throughout the Garden’s historic hardscapes to include The Great Reindeer Hall, with a 12-foot-high illuminated Rudolph, and on select nights, Santa Claus in the Spanish Kitchen and the large-scale model train in the Richardson Education Building.
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Holiday Brunch ft SANTA CLAUS!
Join Capt Hirams Resort for a festive Holiday Brunch with a special appearance by Santa Claus himself! Enjoy a delicious breakfast, sip from our hot cocoa bar, and make memories with pictures with Santa himself. Kids will love story time and cookie decorating, while adults can relax and soak in the holiday cheer. Space is limited — reserve your seats today at Eventbrite.com!
Where: 1606 Indian River Drive
When: Sunday, December 14th at 11 AM!
Tickets are $35 per adult and $22 per child (12 years old or under).
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Nutcracker on the Indian River
RIVERSIDE THEATRE
NEW THIS YEAR: Choose to experience ACT I, ACT II, or both!
This extra special hour-long performance is specifically geared to the needs of our community’s differently abled individuals and young children. The performance may include modified audio/visual effects and a venue setup that meets the needs of all attendees. Join our heroine, Marie, on a holiday journey from New York to Florida with a magic-filled performance that both entertains and inspires. For more info click here!
Where: RIVERSIDE THEATRE
When:
DECEMBER 11 and 12 | 7:30pm
ACT I, December 13 | 7:00pm
ACT II, December 14 | 12:00pm
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SAVE THE DATE FOR
FUTURE EVENTS
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Concerts in the Park Sponsorships Available -
$1000 (all 8 concerts)
Approx. 600 to 1000+ attendees at 8 different shows!
Don’t miss your last chance to sponsor our Concert in the Park Series! Secure your spot and be part of one of the community’s most loved events.
Sponsorship Benefits
What you will get
- Inclusion in Advertising: Logo will appear on; Chamber Website Banner slide ad for 6 months (Dec-May), Community Events Calendar (all 8 dates), 12 Promotional E-blasts (Dec-May), SRA Chamber Newsletter and Visit SRA Newsletter for 6 months (Dec-May), Concert posters/flyers distributed around town, displayed at 2 Kiosks, and at Pelican Porch Visitor's Center, 12 Social Media Posts on SRA Chamber of Commerce
- and Visit SRA Facebook pages (Dec-May)
- 2. Banner: Chamber will provide a sponsor banner with their logo to be displayed in front of the stage at all 8 Concerts
- 3. Introduction/Intermission Announcements: During introduction or intermission, all Sponsors will be invited to the stage for the opportunity to describe their products or services to the attendees for a maximum of 60 seconds.
- On-Site Promotion: Sponsor may have table/tent at each Concert
- to distribute literature, promotional items, and give-a-ways
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Explore the Indian River Lagoon with Kayak, Canoe, and Paddleboard Rentals
Discover the natural beauty and peacefulness of Vero Beach and the Indian River Lagoon!
Looking for something unique? We offer customizable excursions tailored to your needs. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, contact us at Kayaks@DiscoverELC.org or call 772-589-5050 to create your perfect experience.
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MARKETING OPPORTUNITIES
& PHOTO REQUEST
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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.
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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.
Check out this month's Photo Spotlights!
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Photo:Shelley Lynch Photography
| |  | Photo: Free Surf Pics on Facebook | | | |
Don’t miss out—send us your photos today and let’s tell your story together! 📸✨ #SupportLocal #ChamberSpotlight #2025BusinessGrowth
Email Tourism@sebastianchamber.com
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Adult and Youth Classes
The Sebastian Community Center offers a variety of classes to meet the needs of our residents. Kathy Falzone, Recreation Supervisor, oversees the Community Center operations and teaches classes as well. Feel free to contact Kathy for more information on any of the classes or if you are interested in teaching a class at the Community Center.
Click this link to view their website and a list of activities.
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Upcoming Events:
-USA Softball High Performance National Event
-Rotary Club Kids Triathlon
-Kickoff Soccer Vero Beach Winter Cup
-USA Junior Olympic Sailing Festival
-Game On Races Treasure Coast Jetty Park Triathlon
-Treasure Coast Swimming Harry Meisel Invitational
-IRSC Swimming Winter Training
-CSCAA Swimming and Diving Winter Training
Click this link to view their website and a list of activities.
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Exciting news in the arts. Two 30-foot murals originally housed in the Vero Beach Community Center—The History of the Treasure Coast (1998) and The Habitats of Vero Beach (2012)—have been relocated to the second-floor foyer of Indian River County Administration Building A, where they will now be part of the Art in Public Places program administered by the Cultural Council of Indian River County.
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LIVE MUSIC SCHEDULED ON THE LOOP STAGE:
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC beginning at 5pm! Free Entry (excluding special events). Tables are 1st come, 1st serve, or bring your lawn chairs.
Do not bring: coolers, tumblers, water bottles or food on our campus. Sales from our cabanas, bar and grill support the free live music.
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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
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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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LIVE ENTERTAINMENT
Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
1405 Indian River Drive, Sebastian
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KARAOKE
Every Thursday
6 PM - 10 PM
1109 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! Check out the Community Calendar!
Calendar Link
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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/
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Discover Simple Pleasures and Authentic Treasures
with our Destination Videos
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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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