Savor the Season – Top 8 Holiday Happenings Near Vero Beach, FL
November 30, 2023 | Read Time: 4 minutes
Located along Florida’s Atlantic coastline, the holiday spirit is already shining bright in Vero Beach. From glittering light displays along palm-tree-lined streets to an exceptional lineup of holiday concerts, this quaint beach town celebrates the season in style. Timeless annual traditions and family-friendly holiday events fill the month’s calendar, offering something for every age and lifestyle. Here’s a glimpse into some of the most anticipated events that Vero Beach cherishes year after year.
1. Winterfest at Riverside Theatre
Formerly known as the Festival of Trees, Winterfest on December 1-3 transforms Riverside Theatre’s campus into a festive winter wonderland. Visitors can immerse themselves in the holiday spirit amidst beautifully decorated trees, Santa’s Village, an “ice” skating rink, live performances, and an array of local arts and crafts vendors. All proceeds from the event contribute to funding Riverside Theatre’s educational programs.
2. Vero Beach Christmas Parade
The 39th annual Vero Beach Christmas Parade on December 2nd is set to ignite the holiday spirit in a beloved tradition. Hosted by the Vero Beach Sunrise Rotary, this year’s event will feature over 100 floats parading down Ocean Drive, each vehicle adorned with creative and imaginative displays that capture the essence of the holiday season. For those who can’t join the festivities in person, the parade will be live-streamed on Facebook with hosts providing cheerful commentary.
3. Holidays at the Vero Beach Museum of Art
The Vero Beach Museum of Art is hosting its annual Holidays at the Museum event on December 3rd. Visitors will enjoy free admission to the current exhibitions with docents in the galleries playing fun games themed around the artworks on display. There will be art hunts with prizes, art-making activities in the Museum Art School Studios, food trucks, live music, dance performances from local school groups, and more.
4. Home for the Holidays Concert
The Atlantic Classical Orchestra is bringing an enchanting evening of musical delights to the Waxlax Center at St. Edward’s School. On December 10th, their inaugural Home for the Holidays Concert will immerse guests into the spirit of the season. Holiday classics will include Carol of the Bells, Winter Wonderland, the Nutcracker, a Hanukkah medley, an audience sing-a-long, and much more.
5. Indian River County Christmas Boat Parade
On December 12th, the Indian River County Christmas Boat Parade invites boats of all sizes to join a beautifully decorated holiday regatta along the Intracoastal Waterway. Mariners are encouraged to decorate their vessels for some festive family fun, with prizes awarded for the best designs in different categories. Attendees can enjoy the parade from various restaurants and parks along the route, including Royal Palm Point and Vero Beach City Marina.
6. Chanukah Music Festival
On December 20th, the Indian River Mall will come alive with a grand menorah lighting festival to celebrate the Hanukkah season. The Chanukah Music Festival, hosted by the Chabad of Vero Beach, will feature live music by Yehudah Glantz, a distinguished cultural ambassador for Latin Hebrew music. Traditional treats like latkes and donuts will be provided, while face painting and an array of kids’ activities create a joyous gathering for all ages.
7. Nutcracker on the Indian River
The Vero Beach Ballet reimagines a holiday classic with Nutcracker on the Indian River on December 30th at the VBHS Performing Arts Center. This adaptation retains all the whimsical magic of the original while transporting the story to the year Vero was founded in 1919. In place of candy characters, Marie embarks on a journey from New York to Florida and is entertained by all manner of local flora and fauna. From land crabs to manatees and river otters to bougainvillea, the production has become an instant classic with families for how it uses magic to entertain and inspire.
8. Ring in 2024 Oceanside
Heaton’s Vero Beach is celebrating the end of 2023 with an outdoor New Year’s Eve party to remember. This oceanfront restaurant will be open exclusively for the event. Guests can dance to the beats of Traxx Entertainment, snack on light bites, and enjoy a midnight toast along the Atlantic Ocean’s shores. Tickets are required in advance and can be purchased at Heatons2023NYE.Eventbrite.com.
A Guide to Martin County’s Best Live Music Venues
May 8, 2023 | Read Time: 6 minutes
While Martin County is renowned for pristine beaches and natural wonders, it’s the live music scene that really gets the good vibes rolling. From the smooth grooves of jazz to the electric energy of rock, a diverse array of venues and ample talented musicians cater to every musical taste. No matter what day of the week, Martin County residents are never too far away from a fantastic performance. Tune up your ears and let the music guide you to some of the most exciting live music venues in the area.
Source: Lyric Theater
Source: Rock’n Riverwalk
Content courtesy of Storie.
It’s a Dog’s Life on the Treasure Coast!
April 26, 2023 | Read Time: 3 minutes
With year-round sunshine, pristine beaches, and plenty of water to splash in, the Treasure Coast is a beloved destination for furry friends from around the globe. Fortunately for their owners, this section along Florida’s Atlantic coastline is just as welcoming to two-legged companions. From ample dog-friendly parks and restaurants to natural water parks and beaches, the Treasure Coast welcomes every Member of the family. See which local hot spots are fan favorites on the Treasure Coast, achieving “Top Dog” status.
Walton Rocks Off-Leash Public Beach
Located on Hutchinson Island just north of Jensen Beach, Walton Rocks Beach is not only a great surf spot but also a favored destination for dog owners. This off-leash beach access spans 24 acres, giving pets plenty of room to enjoy the sand or splash in the waves. The beach is open from sunrise to sunset, ensuring ample time for dogs to socialize and make new friends.
Woof-Worthy Halpatiokee Regional Park Trails
Halpatiokee Regional Park in Stuart is the largest park in Martin County, offering plenty of natural green space for fur babies and puppers to roam and play. Owners and their dogs can embark on an adventure through the park’s many hiking trails, which wind through pine flatwoods, oak hammocks, scrub, and river land. A public dog park area features designated separate sections for small and large dogs, complete with an agility course.
Area Beaches – Pooch Paradise
Stuart Beach is a top choice for dog owners in search of some fun in the sun, sand, and surf. Dogs on leashes are welcome at any unguarded beach access, including popular spots like Santa Lucea Beach, Tiger Shores, Ross Witham Beach, and Bob Graham Park. The beaches along this section of Atlantic coastline are open from sunrise to sunset, with crystal-clear waters and gentle waves ideal for dogs to cool off on a hot summer day. Waste stations and bags are provided to help keep the beach clean and enjoyable for everyone.
Content courtesy of Harbour Ridge.
North Florida’s Expanding Healthcare System: Everything You Need to Know
April 25, 2023 | Read Time: 3 minutes
Nassau County’s medical industry is driving a new wave of growth as it becomes a top destination for some of the nation’s best healthcare programs. The expansions in this North Florida region are providing a wide array of top-notch services to residents and visitors of the community. See how these healthcare innovators ensure quality care is never too far away.
Pediatric Trauma Center Coming to New Baptist Health Center
One of the nation’s leading healthcare systems, Baptist Health has announced plans for a new medical campus just east of I-95 along Florida 200. The new facility will include a free-standing Emergency Center with two separate units under one roof – The Baptist Emergency Center for adults, and Wolfson Children’s Emergency Center for patients up to 17 years old. The Wolfson Children’s Center is the only state-designed Pediatric Trauma Center in Northeast Florida. Behind the emergency center, a medical office building will house primary care and behavioral health services, with the potential to add other specialty services in the future. Baptist Health anticipates breaking ground very soon, with plans to open in early 2024.
Nearby Healthcare Innovators Lead the way in Quality Care
Baptist Health is just the beginning of the healthcare providers available in the area. For over 50 years, HCA Florida Memorial Hospital has been providing high-quality care to North Florida, including 24-hour emergency care at three different locations. HCA Florida features an accredited chest pain center, a certified stroke center, a bone and joint center, and a maternity center. UF Health is leading the industry in health professional education and is a hub for clinical research opportunities. Their healthcare facilities include urgent care centers, family medicine, imaging and lab services, pediatrics, and more. Opened in March 2020, River City Rehabilitation Center has become a premier destination for both short-term and long-term care. Services include three gyms, a therapy courtyard, and state-of-the-art equipment for physical, speech, and occupational therapies.
North Florida VA Clinics Serving our Heroes
Veterans will appreciate Nassau County’s proximity to numerous military bases, including Kings Bay, Florida Air National Guard, Naval Station Mayport, Naval Air Station Jacksonville, and more. With numerous military bases in the area, ample VA clinics ensure personalized healthcare options are never too far away. North Florida has three VA clinics in the heart of Jacksonville, along with a navy medical center and another VA clinic further south in Middleburg.
Content Courtesy of Tributary.
A Taste of Martin County
March 22, 2023 | Read Time: 4 minutes
Farm-to-Table Specialties
Classic Italian Favorites
The Ultimate Oceanfront Dining Experience
Globally Inspired, Locally Sourced
Fresh Seafood Mixed with Island Vibes
Unique and Creative Dishes
Tried & True
Asian and Island Influences
Content courtesy of Storie.
How This Coastal Province Became One of The South’s Best Small Towns
September 20, 2022 | Read Time: 4 minutes
With picturesque natural scenery and friendly locals in abundance, Florida’s small towns celebrate the very best of leisure lifestyles. Contrary to their quaint sizes, however, charming small-town cities like Stuart along Florida’s Treasure Coast have a renowned reputation. Ranked #6 on Southern Living’s Best Small Towns List for 2022, Stuart encompasses the essence of coastal small-town living. A truly one-of-a-kind area, see for yourself what makes Stuart so authentic.
A Community Surrounded by Water
The Okeechobee Waterway and St. Lucie Inlet converge and surround the quaint city of Stuart to create a natural paradise. Enveloped by these scenic waterways, this community is uniquely connected by bridges. Leading to the Intracoastal Waterway, the bodies of water feed out into the Atlantic Ocean, a true dream for waterfront living. In unique proximity to both fresh water and salt water, locals are often found boating, kayaking, paddle boarding, fishing, and enjoying the very best of living in paradise.
Dive Into an Active Lifestyle
Given the gorgeous natural scenery, it is no surprise that locals love to live a healthy, outdoor lifestyle. A plethora of ways to stay active provide a fresh and fun twist on staying happy and healthy. Venture into the outdoors and enjoy activities unique to living in a coveted beachside town, including yoga on the beach, hiking protected nature trails, playing racquet sports and golfing on internationally renowned courses. Watersports are popular for those wanting to make the most of coastal Florida living. Spend the day on the water via paddleboard or kayak. With a gorgeous backdrop and sunny weather, there is always something to do on land or water!
Explore The Vibrant Downtown Within This Scenic Hideaway
Known by few but cherished by many, Stuart oftentimes feels like a private hideaway. Surrounded by adjacent coastal towns, Stuart is the local epicenter for shopping and dining. The vibrant downtown embodies the charm and leisure lifestyle of the area. Popular boutiques like April Daze, Matilda’s and Gumbo Limbo are local favorite places to find coastal gifts for family, friends and yourself! A wide variety of restaurants including the Stuart Boathouse, Hudson’s on the River, and The Gafford make dining experiences exciting and lively. This waterfront downtown hosts a green market every Sunday morning, highlighting the best small businesses in Martin County. Immediately following the market is Rock’n Riverwalk, a boardwalk concert series featuring local musicians who never fail to bring the community together for a good time. Although seemingly hidden off the map, Stuart is a lively area with much to see and do.
Over a Century of Rich History
Established in 1870, Stuart has a rich and authentic history. Residents take pride in the area’s locally famous landmarks. A museum that was once a shelter for shipwreck survivors, The House of Refuge is a scenic spot to watch sunsets and learn about Florida’s maritime history. Located in the heart of historic Downtown Stuart, The Lyric Theater was a silent movie house popular in the 1920s and is now a dazzling performing arts venue. For those looking to learn about a century and a half of Stuart’s history, look no further than The Elliott Museum and the Historical Society of Martin County. More than just another coastal small town, Stuart has played an important role throughout the course of Florida history.
A Close-Knit Community Like No Other
A place that is warm and welcoming, Stuart’s locals have a reputation for supporting the community and its people. From supporting local farmers at the green market to inspiring a passion for the arts with the annual ArtsFest, the community prioritizes helping the area and its people in any way possible. Friendly faces are in abundance and community involvement is at an all-time high, as there is always an event being celebrated. United by a love for leisurely coastal living, locals embrace all that the Stuart community has to offer.
4 Benefits of Fort Lauderdale Oceanfront Living
| Read Time: 3 minutes
Imagine waking up to the sun dancing along the horizon. The waves are gently lapping on the shore, and you step out onto your terrace and immediately feel that refreshing ocean breeze. With experiences like this right outside your door, it’s no surprise why oceanfront residences are in high demand, especially along South Florida’s Atlantic coastline. But it’s not just the stunning views that attract people to this coveted oceanfront destination. Here’s a glimpse into how Fort Lauderdale’s oceanfront encourages a well-rounded, healthy lifestyle.
1. Promoting Physical Wellness
There’s nothing like the sun and the sand to get residents excited to get outdoors and become active. With soft sand that’s gentler on the feet, many residents love to take long walks or jogs in the evenings. Or they head into the water to enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and surfing adventures. For those who worry about the sand, A1A stretches the entire coastline, with a wide pedestrian sidewalk perfect for running, biking, roller skating, and more.
It doesn’t take an active person, however, to enjoy the physical benefits of oceanfront living. Oceanfront studies have shown that the salty air encourages respiratory health and stimulates the immune system, while salt water is known for its anti-inflammatory effects on the skin, creating two naturally soothing remedies.
2. Mental Wellness and Relaxation
Known for its restorative properties, being near the ocean also leads to an elevated mood and a more relaxed state. The ocean acts as a regulator, with the sea breeze and frequent, soothing tapping of the waves offering solace and peace. In fact, simply looking at the ocean, or other areas of water promotes dopamine and a good dose of Vitamin D, two feel-good hormones connected to happiness. Sunrise beach yoga is also a perfect way to bring balance to the mind and body, and Fort Lauderdale Beach is filled with classes for all ages and stages of life.
3. Entertainment Venues Surround Fort Lauderdale Beach
Fort Lauderdale Beach is also one of the few places in the world where residents are surrounded by such a diverse array of entertainment, dining, and boutique shopping just a short stroll away. The Las Olas Oceanside Park, commonly referred to as The LOOP, offers residents a palm-tree-lined public park and open-air amphitheater that plays host to a variety of events year-round. Events are created for every interest, ranging from fitness programs and Saturday morning’s Farmers and Artisan Market to Friday Night Sound Waves every summer. The Tortuga Music Festival, Las Olas Arts Festival, and the Land, Sea, & Sky air show are also favored annual traditions.
4. Ample Beachfront Activities for Every Interest
While there are ample entertainment venues surrounding Fort Lauderdale Beach, sometimes a day spent in the sand is all that’s needed to entertain friends for hours. Volleyball nets along the beach provide the perfect opportunity for a pickup game or bring frisbees and a soccer ball for endless hours of sporting fun. A relaxing dip in the ocean after a hectic day of work is the perfect way to cool off and float away any worries. Or just bring a beach towel and a good book for a peaceful retreat in the sand.