FROM YOUR TOURISM DIRECTOR | |
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Dear Friends,
September in the Sebastian River Area is starting on a high note! We kicked off the month with a tropical flair, celebrating Jimmy Buffett Day as Visit Florida unveiled its new tourism slogan, playfully inspired by “Floridays.” This fun theme perfectly reflects the relaxed, welcoming spirit of our state—and of our community here on the Treasure Coast.
At the end of August, we attended the #GC25 Governor’s Conference on Tourism, where industry leaders from across Florida shared fresh insights, new tools, and creative strategies to keep our destinations thriving. We’re proud to celebrate that Florida is once again #1 in domestic tourism nationwide—a tribute to the beauty, diversity, and hospitality that make our state shine. A big congratulations to the Visit Indian River County team for their well-deserved recognition and awards at this year’s conference. Their dedication to showcasing our region elevates us all.
This month brings one of our most anticipated events—the 32nd Annual “Denim & Diamonds” Lifestyle & Media Auction on Thursday, September 18th at Capt Hiram’s Tiffany Room. It’s an unforgettable evening of networking, entertainment, and opportunities to grow your business reach, complete with a themed photo booth, live and silent auctions, and delicious food from Woody’s Bar-B-Q. Tickets are on sale now at discount prices!
Click Here for Tickets!
In this issue, we’re shining a spotlight on The Scottish Society of the Treasure Coast, whose music, traditions, and cultural pride bring something truly unique to the Sebastian River Area.
As we look ahead to the fall season, we also pause to honor those who served our country. With Patriots Day on the horizon, we extend our gratitude to the brave men and women who have sacrificed to protect our freedoms. Their service makes it possible for communities like ours to thrive.
Whether you’re chasing the last waves of summer, planning a weekend adventure, or discovering hidden gems along our trails and waterfront, September is a perfect time to explore everything that makes this region so special. Also, remember that September 1st – December 14th is Snook Season!
Thank you for your continued support—together, we keep the Sebastian River Area vibrant, welcoming, and unforgettable.
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Gratefully yours,
Nicholas Sanzone
Tourism Director
Sebastian River Area Chamber of Commerce
| | | 15,000 copies printed annually! | | |
Tourism Partners
Thank you to everyone who purchased space in the 2025-2026 Visitor Guide!
Available October 1, 2025
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 display this publication, at your business you can email us at:
Tourism@sebastianchamber.com
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Lifestyle & Media Auction
(Event in lieu of Business & Pleasure)
Join in the fun:
Cost - Member $35 and Non-Member $45
Click this link to signup or sponsor!
Drop your Donations for the Auctions at the Chamber Office
| | TOURISM PARTNER SPOTLIGHT | | The Scottish Society of the Treasure Coast | |
Chamber Spotlight: The Scottish Society of the Treasure Coast
The Sebastian River Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to feature the Scottish Society of the Treasure Coast, a volunteer-led organization dedicated to preserving and sharing Scotland’s rich culture and heritage—right here on Florida’s coast.
Watch the full interview on our VISIT SRA Youtube page, Click Here!
The Society was founded in 1995 when three local visionaries—Joyce Smith (Salter), Mac Grady, and Remson Paul—organized a Kirkin’ of the Tartans and an organizational luncheon in Vero Beach to gauge community interest. Seventy people attended that luncheon, leading to the Scottish Society's incorporation as a Florida-registered charitable organization. “Shortly thereafter, our wonderful Society was born!” they recall. Today, the organization continues to thrive under the leadership of an all-volunteer board of directors.
The mission of the Scottish Society is simple yet powerful: “to promote and encourage the study and public recognition of the art, history, literature, folklore, cuisine, traditions, and contributions of Scotland and the Scottish people.” The group connects with the community in many ways—offering scholarships and grants to students of Scottish music and dance, hosting educational opportunities through the Brevard Scottish Country Dancers, and providing ancestry research through its Genealogy Special Interest Group at the Vero Beach Main Library. Members enjoy gathering at Pub Nights, with recent events held at Marsh Landing in Fellsmere and an upcoming one planned at Woody’s BBQ in Sebastian this September. “Whether it’s through scholarships, dancing, or genealogy, we want to share Scotland’s cultural heartbeat with our neighbors.”
“People are drawn to the Scottish Society for many diverse reasons: our many events and programs, ancestry, Scottish country dancing, attending polo matches, and of course the sound of the bagpipes,” they explain.
The Society hosts several signature events throughout the year. Highlights include the St. Andrew’s Celebration on November 20, 2025, the Central Florida Scottish Highland Games in Winter Springs on January 17–18, 2026, the Burns Supper on January 25, 2026, and a Scottish Afternoon Tea on March 22, 2026. Each event showcases authentic Scottish traditions, from colorful Highland dress to live music by the Vero Beach Pipes and Drums Band. “Visitors are welcome at all events—come hear the pipes, see the tartans, and enjoy Scotland’s rich traditions.”
The Society sprinkles in some fun and unexpected cultural insights. If the Treasure Coast had its own tartan, they say, it would be woven in blue for our waters, green for our lush vegetation, orange for our vivid sunsets, and white for our striking cloudscapes. At events, you might sample a true shepherd’s pie (made with lamb) alongside a dram of single-malt Scotch, or watch Highland dancers gracefully navigate steps—“turning the wrong way when changing partners is probably the most common beginner mistake,” they add with a laugh. And did you know Scotland’s national animal is a unicorn? “Robert the Bruce chose it to symbolize strength and mythical power—the only creature said to be capable of defeating a lion.”
The Scottish Society is a committed community partner. “We work with the Sebastian and Vero Beach Chambers of Commerce to contribute and be present at many local events. We purchase advertising for our events with several local publications and distribute flyers, membership applications, and other information at both Chambers’ offices,” they note. Looking ahead, the Society hopes to expand its event calendar and encourage even more tourists and residents to experience the warmth of Scottish hospitality. “We want everyone—Scottish or not—to feel welcome. Our culture is for sharing.”
Learn more by visiting their website at www.scottishsocietyofthetreasurecoast.com or emailing tcscotsmembership@gmail.com. All programs and events are open to the public, and new members are always welcome, regardless of heritage.
Members of the Society are invited to their next Board Meeting on Friday, September 5th at 10:00 AM located at Sean Ryan’s Pub. Seating is limited, so please call Kaye at 586-909-0509 to reserve your spot.
With its vibrant gatherings, commitment to education, and unwavering passion for cultural preservation, the Scottish Society of the Treasure Coast offers a truly unique experience on Florida’s Treasure Coast—one that invites everyone to share in Scotland’s proud traditions.
Website Link 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
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A huge thank you to everyone who made Grill Out Night such a success! Your participation and energy brought our community together in an amazing way — and we couldn’t have done it without you.
We’re especially grateful to the Sebastian community for showing up in such great numbers to support our local businesses and vendors.
Below, we’re excited to highlight this year’s event award winners — congratulations to all! 🏆 And once again, thank you to everyone who participated and helped make this event unforgettable.
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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.
This press license grants the right to distribute images of Portrait of a Young Woman after Cranach the Younger II (trial proof of all five blocks), (detail), 1958, for the sole purpose of inclusion in a press kit for print and digital news reports and reviews of the exhibition Picasso and the Progressive Proof (the “Exhibition”), to be held at the Vero Beach Museum of Art. For clarity, the rights granted do not include, and ARS is not granting, the right to use the Work(s) in Licensee’s own announcements or social media without ARS’s prior written consent. No cover uses are permitted without prior authorization.
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.
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City of Sebastian's Touch-A-Truck Event |
Comedy to the Rescue!
Date and Time
Saturday Sep 20, 2025
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM EDT
Location
THE HERITAGE CENTER
2140 14TH AVE., VERO BEACH
90 MINUTES OF COMEDY
BBQ BUFFET
OPEN BAR
ADOPTABLE DOGS
ONLY $100 PER PERSON - BENFITTING H.A.L.O.'S NO-KILL RESCUE
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DOUBLES LOCK & LOAD TRAP SHOOTING COMPETITION
Date and Time
Sunday Sep 21, 2025
9:00 AM - 1:00 PM EDT
Location
IRC SHOOTING RANGE
10455 102ND TERR., SEBASTIAN
Fees/Admission
$20 +TAX PER ROUND
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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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SAVE THE DATE FOR
FUTURE EVENTS
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Historical Ghost Walk Sebastian
October 18, 2025
Join a walk through time and uncover history! During the tour, hear tales from the past and stories of paranormal evidence gathered at sites by the Florida Bureau of Paranormal Investigation and guest experiences from previous tours. This is NOT a tour with staged events to frighten guests.
Reservations can be made below, or at the time of the tour. If reserving in advance, please bring your digital or printed receipt.
If you have any questions, please contact us at 772-633-3955.
Visit their website for tour dates.
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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:Sebastian Inlet District
on Facebook
| |  | 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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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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‘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.
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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.
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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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GAME NIGHT
Every Other Wednesday
6 PM - 8 PM
920 US Hwy 1, 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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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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