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.
6 Cultural Hotspots Not to Miss in Martin County
February 23, 2023 | Read Time: 5 minutes
While many may visit Florida’s Treasure Coast for the beaches and endless waterfront adventures, some of Martin County’s hidden gems are its unique array of cultural venues. From cherished historic landmarks to eclectic downtowns, these sites are not only an integral part of the community culture but also showcase the area’s natural Florida charm.
Just outside the gates of Sailfish Point, the House of Refuge at Gilbert’s Bar is the oldest structure in Martin County. The building is the sole remaining of ten original houses built along Florida’s east coast to provide shelter for shipwreck survivors. The museum displays historical maritime artifacts, a model ship collection, shipwreck artifacts, and much more. Additionally, just 100 yards offshore, the shipwreck of Georges Valentine allows guests to dive or snorkel through one of only 12 underwater archaeological preserves within the state of Florida.
At the east end of Jensen Beach Boulevard along the St. Lucie River, Downtown Jensen Beach is another hub of activity where live music always fills the air. This quaint waterfront downtown is filled with a variety of locally owned shops and restaurants sporting Caribbean colors and island-style flavors. Jan’s Place is a hotspot for breakfast and baked goods, while Mulligan’s Beach House, Crawdaddy’s, The Hoffman, and Tako Tiki provide outdoor dining with coastal breezes, tropical cocktails, and live music. Cork’d Wine Bar and 11 Maple Street also provide delectable options with a more refined dining experience. On Thursday evenings, stop by this charming downtown for Jammin’ Jensen, where local bands and artists put their talents on display.
Original Article Published By Sailfish Point
Play Ball! A Look into Florida’s Treasure Coast’s Sporting Adventures
February 1, 2023 | Read Time: 4 minutes
Tee Off at Numerous Championship Golf Courses
Join the Pickleball Craze at Halpatiokee Regional Park
Enjoy America’s Favorite Pastime at Clover Park
Walk Through Nature at Jonathan Dickinson State Park
Paddle Through Paradise at St. Lucie Inlet Preserve State Park
For those who prefer to get their sporting exercises through kayaking and paddleboarding, the St. Lucie Inlet Preserve State Park provides one of the best water trails around. Located just east of Port Salerno, the 4.2-mile kayak trail winds through mangrove estuaries and maritime hammocks for a sightseeing adventure. Make sure to keep your eyes peeled for blue herons, white ibis, and snowy egrets while you paddle!
Cast a Line in the Sailfish Capital of the World
With the Atlantic Ocean to the east and Lake Okeechobee to the west, Florida’s Treasure Coast is a haven for anglers worldwide. Fishing aficionados from every generation can catch sailfish in Stuart, the “Sailfish Capital of the World.” The waters of the Gulf Stream are also teeming with mahi mahi, wahoo, and kingfish. For inshore fishing, the St. Lucie Inlet is one of the widest freshwater inlets in Florida, home to snook, snapper, grouper, bluefish, and Spanish mackerel. A short cruise to the West End of the Bahamas just 55 nautical miles away provides even more challenging catches that will test any angler’s skills.
Original Article Published By StorieFL.com
Guide to Martin County’s Stacked 2023 Season Event Calendar
January 27, 2023 | Read Time: 5 minutes
Year-Round Events Starting in January
February 2023
Indulge in some good old-fashioned family fun at the Martin County Fair. Enjoy delicious funnel cakes and fresh lemonade among the bright lights of daring rides. Discover a variety of exhibits, including local livestock, arts and crafts, musicians and various entertainment specials. This highly anticipated event takes place at the Martin County Fairgrounds and has emulated community pride for 61 years.
March 2023
Original article published by Storiefl.com
Explore Martin County’s Vibrant History
December 21, 2022 | Read Time: 4 minutes
From pirates and pineapple farmers to railroad pioneers, Martin County’s vibrant coastal lifestyle has attracted residents and visitors alike since the very beginning of time. The area is filled with a deep and colorful history that spans countless years of transformation and community spirit. Let’s take a journey back in time to explore how Martin County became an exceptional destination.
A Cherished Past, and an Even Brighter Future
Florida’s Treasure Coast received its nickname after Spanish Fleets that shipwrecked along the coast in the 1700s. Gold, silver, and jewels were deposited into the waters and beaches, making it an excellent area to search for buried treasure. Treasure hunters, however, aren’t the only ones who have struck gold along the Treasure Coast. Otto and Ernest, two of Martin County’s earliest settlers in the 1890s, found their fortunes in pineapple farming. Soon after, farmers from across the nation flocked to the area to create a life of their own.
The Indian River became a highway for millions of pineapples, citrus, fish, and more shipped north annually, and Jensen even became known as the “Pineapple Capital of the World.” Enticed by the area’s thriving coastal lifestyle, railroad pioneer Henry Flagler extended his Florida East Coast Railway system further south, initiating trading from New York to Key West. The railroad brought about a new wave of excitement to the area, as more and more people were attracted to settle down in this coastal community. Today, the Storie continues to unfold as innovative visionaries recognize the best is yet to come. Stay tuned to be among the first to have a glimpse of the next Chapter of Martin County history with a very unique community concept.
Preserving the Past for Future Generations
Today, Martin County has continued to grow into a world-class destination, but still stays humble to its historic roots. Residents have come together to preserve numerous historic buildings around the city that show the transformation of this tropical locale. Here are just a few of the cultural and historic landmarks that make Martin County irreplaceable.
Photo Courtesy Of: House of Refuge
House of Refuge
Built in 1876, the House of Refuge at Gilbert’s Bar is Martin County’s oldest building, and the last remaining of ten cottages built along Florida’s coastline to provide shelter for shipwreck survivors. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the museum displays historical maritime artifacts, a model ship collection, shipwreck artifacts, and furnishings belonging to the House’s ‘Keeper’.
Elliott Museum
Founded in 1960, the Elliott Museum showcases the ingenuity of local inventor Sterling Elliott and inspires creativity through history, art, and community culture. The two-story museum on Hutchinson Island is filled with something for every age and interest to enjoy, including a comprehensive assemblage of Model A trucks, the world’s largest collection of baseball cards, the history of local smugglers the Ashley Gang, and much more.
Stuart Heritage Museum
Housed in what was previously the Stuart Feed & Supply Store, the Stuart Heritage Museum celebrates and preserves the heritage, artifacts, and history of Stuart and its surrounding communities. Countless relics and artifacts span from the area’s Native American heritage up to the present day.
Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center
Martin County’s storied history, however, spans far past the land. The area is home to one of the bio-diverse lagoon ecosystems in the entire Northern hemisphere. For residents, keeping clean water a priority issue and educating on these waterways is equally as crucial. The 57-acre Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center serves as a hands-on natural learning environment to inspire environmental stewardship of Florida’s marine life and local coastal ecosystems. With the help of over 250 volunteers, the team leads efforts in biodiversity research, long-term monitoring of water quality, and volunteer-driven restoration of oysters, seagrass, and mangroves throughout South Florida.
A New Chapter in Preserving Martin County’s History
As Martin County continues to grow in popularity, residents have placed a high priority on clean water initiatives and open spaces that preserve the area’s future. Protecting these green spaces and creating new clean water initiatives are two central components of Storie, an innovative new community concept on tap for Martin County’s future. Storie, FL is a vision that has yet to be unveiled, but the designers are placing a high priority on creating a vibrant downtown, parks, educational opportunities, and plentiful outdoor activities for all Martin County residents to enjoy.
Original Article Courtesy of StorieFL.com
Local Favorite Holiday Events on Florida’s Treasure Coast
December 5, 2022 | Read Time: 4 minutes
Stuart Christmas Parade has been surprising and delighting visitors and locals alike for over 50 years. Head downtown on December 2 to soak in the holiday spirit, with floats designed around this year’s theme, “A Storybook Christmas.” 
Mariners are invited to decorate their boats both big and small with fun holiday decorations to show off in the St. Lucie County Holiday Boat Parade. The parade begins just north of the South Causeway Bridge, travels through the Fort Pierce Inlet, and ends at the Fort Pierce City Marina. Guests can enjoy viewing the boat parade from waterfront restaurants, parks, and other locations along the St. Lucie River route. 
Start the holiday season in style at the Mid Florida Credit Union Event Center with their annual Festival of Lights. The event includes a holiday parade, a tree lighting ceremony, live holiday music, fireworks, food trucks, arts and crafts vendors, and much more. 4 Can’t-Miss Holiday Events in Dallas, Texas
| Read Time: 3 minutes
As the countdown to Christmas officially begins, no city knows how to celebrate the holidays bigger than Dallas, Texas. With so much to see and do, we’ve narrowed the list down to a few of the area’s most anticipated holiday traditions.
Both Christmas light enthusiasts and holiday treat connoisseurs alike love to sit back, relax, and enjoy the spirit of the season on Dallas’ Christmas Lights, Chocolates & Sips Tour. Recognized by USA Today as one of the top things to do in Dallas during the holidays, a private heated motorcoach will drive guests first to premier local dessert venues for scrumptious holiday treats. Afterward, the lively host will guide guests through magical holiday displays spread throughout Park Cities and Downtown Dallas.
A treasured Dallas tradition, the Tree Lighting Celebration at Klyde Warren Park is a festive day filled with fun for the whole family. The outdoor festival features everything from holiday crafts and photos with Santa to face painting and snow flurries. As the sun sets, the day culminates with a live show featuring holiday performances, visits from Santa’s friends Frosty and Rudolph, and the annual tree lighting. 
Dallas’s most festive holiday 5k is back and bigger than ever! The first-ever Charlie Brown Christmas 5k is the perfect place for families to show off their best holiday attire and spread the joy of the holiday season. A Snoopy Kids Dash kicks off the event, followed by a 5k fun run/ walk on the Trinity Skyline Trail with beautiful views of downtown Dallas throughout. Post-race refreshments and an appearance by Santa ensure the fun doesn’t stop after crossing the finish line. A Local’s Guide to Spending a Sunday in Downtown Stuart
October 4, 2022 | Read Time: 3 minutes
Named America’s Happiest Seaside Town, the City of Stuart is a hidden gem on the Treasure Coast that offers people a chance to join a lively and close-knit community. The city boasts many annual events such as arts and crafts festivals, shopapaloozas and Halloween and Christmas celebrations. However, every Sunday in Downtown Stuart, there are plenty of fun activities happening all day long. From farmer’s markets and live music to many restaurants and boutiques, here’s how the locals enjoy their Sunday in Downtown Stuart.
Stuart Green Market:
Located at Flagler Park, the Stuart Green Market brings to Downtown Stuart a myriad of freshly prepared, high-quality goods each week. From produce to freshly baked bread, handcrafted soaps, handmade paintings, locally created artwork, jewelry and more, this market is open every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Courtesy trams are available from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays to help you get from parking to the downtown area seamlessly.
Rock’n Riverwalk:
The Best Brunch Places in Town:
Locally Owned Shops and Boutiques:
An Insider’s Guide to One-of-A-Kind Dining Experiences along the Treasure Coast
| Read Time: 7 minutes
New & Noteworthy Restaurants
Dining Landmarks
Best Private Club Dining
Hidden Gems
Mouthwatering Menus
Waterfront Dining
7 Places You Can Only Enjoy in St. Lucie County
September 29, 2022 | Read Time: 5 minutes
From stunning beaches to miles of nature trails, one Florida region has yet to lose its natural charm. Nestled along Florida’s Treasure Coast, St. Lucie County embraces a unique way of life, with plentiful attractions that allow residents to take full advantage of the area’s beautiful natural surroundings. But it’s not just sunny skies and natural beauty that attracts families to the region. Here are some of our favorite St. Lucie County places to visit.
St. Lucie County is known for providing nonstop action for anglers of all skill levels. Staying inshore on the Indian River Lagoon is packed with spotted sea trout, snook, snapper, black drum, and flounder. Or head to the offshore waters to catch grouper, snapper, and mahi-mahi. Fort Pierce also marks the northern point of Sailfish Alley, a hotspot for sailfish that runs down to The Palm Beaches. If that’s not enough fishing excitement, the west end of the Bahamas is just 80 nautical miles away.
Sporting enthusiasts love coming to St. Lucie County during spring training season, as Clover Park is the spring training hub for the New York Mets, the summer home of the St. Lucie Mets, and the hub for all New York Mets minor league operations. Scoring tickets to the game provides an up-close and personal experience at the ballpark no bad seats in the house. When the players aren’t in town, the Sports Complex is used for a variety of events ranging from festivals and concerts to RV shows and baseball tournaments.
From local boutiques to novelty stores, the downtown Fort Pierce area is filled with shops any fashionista would love to peruse. Artists cherish the several galleries throughout the downtown district, with large art pieces, and murals scattered throughout the city. On Saturdays year-round, the lively Fort Pierce Farmers Market fills the area with delicious foods, farm-fresh goodies, distinctive artwork, and more to peruse – all while enjoying waterfront views. For those just wishing to soak in the Florida sunshine, Jetty Park is a favored destination. Afterward, nearby waterfront restaurants are well-known for their laidback atmosphere and seafood staples, including Square Grouper Tiki Bar, Sunrise Sands Beach Resort, Taco Dive, and more.
History is also intertwined into many of St. Lucie’s attractions, ensuring the lifelong learner has plenty to explore. Take a self-guided tour along a heritage trail, learn the history of the Navy SEALs and how they first began training in Fort Pierce during WWII, or go straight to the St. Lucie County Regional History Museum for a glimpse at the foundation that the St. Lucie County is built on. For more ways to explore the incredible wildlife of the area, airboat rides along the St. Lucie River and the St. Lucie County Aquarium are both dedicated to educating the public on the diversity and complexity of Florida’s marine environments.