Spring into Festival Season

Sebring Soda Festival

April 5-6, 2025

Downtown Sebring 

Known as “Florida’s Fizziest Festival,” the Sebring Soda Festival is a bubbly celebration for all soda lovers. You may need both days just to sample the more than 200 different craft sodas available! Plan now to indulge in a fizzying array of soda-related activities for the whole family, from the Soda Pop Pageants to the Soda-Caddy race. 

While You’re Here: Keep the party going for your taste buds at local landmarks that are each less than 20 miles away.  Maxwell Groves, the local country store famous for their orange soft serve (dairy-free), also offers fresh fruit on-site or available for shipping. There’s truly no better taste than their fresh Florida orange juice, squeezed and packaged in-house. Try a free sample when you visit!  Enjoy the scenic drive to Secret Gardens Winery & Farm to unwind with a stroll through the family-owned and operated Muscadine vineyard. Once you reach the garden bar within the big blue barn, you can enjoy a wine tasting or request a flight to savor on the patio. 

Summer Like You Mean It

2024 Liqui Moly Pro Watercross Tour

May 4-5, 2024

Veteran’s Beach Park in Sebring

Witness what’s possible on the water at the Pro Watercross Tour, a weekend made for extreme sports lovers. See or be seen among the professional and amateur athletes competing for the most sought-after titles in watercross racing, There are exciting races, freestyle performances, and fun for the whole family built around motocross on the water.

While You’re Here: Secure a close-up view of Florida wildlife that only a personalized airboat ride can provide across Lake Istokpoga. Come for the alligators and other exotic wildlife; stay for an unparalleled sunset view amongst century-old cypress trees. Other lake recreation opportunities abound in Sebring; everything from water skiing to scuba diving is available. For a more relaxing experience, you can spend an afternoon fishing, kayaking, canoeing, or simply swimming in one of the nearby lakes.

Immerse Yourself in the Arts

33rd Annual Caladium Festival

July 26-28, 2024

Stuart Park in Lake Placid

To properly honor the “Caladium Capital of the World,” otherwise known as Lake Placid, the Annual Caladium Festival keeps the namesake colorful perennials at the heart of the celebration. Many of the booths are caladium-related, with a popular Floral Arrangement Competition held during each festival. Other forms of creativity are highlighted, as well, including art and craft booths, an artist competition, and a car and bike show. 

While You’re Here: Continue your exploration of nearby nature by adding a walk on the Wildflower Wayside Shrine Trail during your trip. A uniquely interactive experience for all ages, the trail incorporates shrine boxes that invite visitors to not only learn about the local endangered plant species, but to add their own impressions. Take a deeper dive into local preservation efforts at the Archbold Biological Station for a better understanding of the science that’s helping protect rare plants, animals, and ecosystems. You can even join in an overnight retreat!

Explore Sebring History this Winter

HSR Pistons and Props

presented by the Alan Jay Automotive Network

December 6-8, 2024

Sebring International Raceway

Learn why Sebring is a destination for history buffs of all ages and interests, starting with the Historic Sportscar Racing (HSR) Pistons and Props event. Experience the childlike wonder and excitement that only comes with historic and vintage car racing. The weekend also gives attendees a rare look at vintage aircraft, honoring Sebring’s history as a former WWII Army Air Corps training base. 

While You’re Here: Add these destinations to your American history favorites: the Military Sea Services Museum, the only museum in America to honor all three military sea services of the country (Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard), and The Depot Museum in Avon Park. Here, you’ll learn about local history within an actual railroad depot from 1926, and you can also eat lunch in an authentic dining car (by appointment).

Plan your trip now to start exploring how magical any season can be with a visit to Sebring. Book your hotel in advance for the best deals on easy access to any of these unique attractions and many more.

The post Celebrations For Every Season in Sebring, FL! appeared first on Visit Sebring.

In Martin County, birding isn’t just a hobby – it’s a way of life deeply ingrained in the fabric of the community. Whether you’re exploring the 16 different communities of Jonathan Dickinson State Park or marveling at the seabirds soaring above The Nature Conservancy’s Blowing Rocks Preserve, every corner of the county offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and witness the beauty of our feathered friends up close. With expert guides, well-maintained trails, and an unwavering commitment to conservation, Martin County stands as a premier destination for birding enthusiasts seeking to immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of Florida’s vibrant avian ecosystem. You can even keep your eyes peeled for free birding programs offered through organizations like Audubon of Martin County and Explore Natural Martin (our in-house ecotourism program).

Our friends at Audubon have curated the top 12 birding hot spots in Martin County. These are listed by number of species seen at each location. You can also find their full Martin County Bird Checklist here.

Birdwatching with Audubon of Martin County

1. Jonathan Dickinson State Park

16540 SE Federal Hwy
Hobe Sound, FL  33455
772-546-2771

2. Savannas Preserve State Park

4698 NE Savannah Rd
Jensen Beach, FL 34957

3.  DuPuis Management Area

23500 SW Kanner Hwy
Canal Point, FL  33438
561-924-5310

4. Possum Long Nature Center

621 SE Palm Beach Road
Stuart, FL  34994
772-288-2637

5. Allapattah Flats Wildlife Management Area

Fox Brown Road & Hiking Trail
Palm City, FL 34990

​6. Marriott Hutchinson Island Beach Resort, Golf & Marina

1585 SE MacArthur Blvd
Stuart, FL 34996

7. Indian Riverside Park

1707 NE Indian River Drive
Jensen Beach, FL 34957
772-692-7501

8. Hungryland Wildlife and Environmental Area

Pratt Whitney Rd
Indiantown, FL 34956
561-625-5122

9. Sandsprit Park

3443 SE St. Lucie Blvd.
Stuart, FL  34997
772-288-5690

10. Halpatiokee Regional Park

8303 SW Lost River Road
Stuart, FL 34997
(off I-95 at Kanner Hwy)

11. Kitching Creek Preserve & Central Flow Way

6125 SE 138th St
Hobe Sound, FL 33455

12.  Haney Creek Park

391 NW Baker Rd
Stuart, FL 34994

The post The Top Birding Hot Spots in Martin County appeared first on Martin County.

1. Get Excited by Doing Research

So, there’s no rush. While aching knees or backs may eventually force your peers to hang up their skis or mountain bikes, birders can bird for as long as they can walk, roll, or look out a window! Take a moment to learn about what you’re getting into. Start by getting your hands on a field guide. Any book will do as long as it has pictures of each bird and maps of their range. Keep this book in a place where you’ll be able to leisurely flip through it for a couple minutes each day. What are the different kinds of birds? Where do they live, and in what seasons? Don’t worry at this point about how to identify anything, just focus on figuring out what’s out there. To supplement your field guide examination, learn some things about avian biology and the sport of birding. Learn about why birds are birds, and how they’ve evolved into such incredible creatures. Excited yet? Good, let’s go to step two.

2. Grab Your Gear

One of the best things about birding is how little equipment you need to actually do it, making in an inexpensive and accessible hobby for those just getting started. All you really need is something to hold to the eye to make those far-away little birds a bit bigger. In the beginning, you don’t need to worry about what kind of binoculars you’re using. All you’ve got is a pair of hulking, 14-pound black plastic behemoths from your mom’s house? Use them. Little opera glasses that you hold to your face with a stick? Those’ll work. One of those extending telescopes that fit in your pocket? Get ready to run through the woods like some sort of bird-watching pirate. If they make far away things seem a little less far away, use them for now before investing in a better pair. And that’s it! Some form of binoculars and that field guide you bought earlier are plenty to get started. As you get better, you may want to purchase nice camera or a spotting scope (for the really far-off birds), but they’re by no means required.

3. Get Out There and Explore

The time has come to actually get outside. The first experience is important; if you’re overwhelmed, or you don’t quite “get” what you’re supposed to be doing, you may not return for a second chance. So start with a plan. One of the best ways is to pick a bird and go find it. Use that field guide you bought or borrowed from the library and choose a bird you’ve never seen before—one that you’re reasonably sure lives nearby at that time of year—and go find it.  There are a lots of resources you can use to determine what birds have been seen nearby, like the “explore data” section of eBird or postings on your local birding listserv. Then just go out into the actual world and start looking until you find it. The accomplishment you’ll feel when your chosen bird is all of a sudden flapping or paddling or sitting in front of you, no longer a flat image in the book but a living creature—that feeling is what this is all about. You’ll recapture it with every new species you find. And that’s it, you’re a birder! There are a lot of ways to proceed from here—finding buddies to bird with; chasing your first rarity; taking your first trip out of state—but all those will come naturally once you’ve gotten started.

The Audubon of Martin County is an incredible resource, so feel free to reach out, explore their website, or visit them at Possum Long Nature Center. We’ll see you out there!

The post Birding for Beginners in Martin County appeared first on Martin County.

Dagwoods Deli & Sub Shop – Vero Beach, FL

Dagwoods Deli & Sub Shop, owned by Josh and Marie Jenkins, is a Vero Beach favorite known for its top-notch sandwiches, wraps, and salads at reasonable prices. Recently relocated to a more accessible spot near the high school, (octagon-shaped building) the new location offers better visibility and improved parking. Despite their short operating hours, Dagwood’s loyal following flock for their made-from-scratch sandwiches and friendly atmosphere, making it a top choice for satisfying subs and sandwiches in Indian River County. The sandwich pictured above is their Italian (half portion).
Address: 1430 16th St, Vero Beach, FL 32960
Phone: (772) 778-1900

Girodano’s Deli – Vero Beach, FL

Giordano’s Deli, a Vero Beach institution since 1974, is now in the capable hands of owners, David and David, both Vero Beach natives. With nearly 50 years of history, this fourth-generation-owned sub shop continues to delight with its timeless flavors. Giordano’s remains a cherished spot for locals and visitors alike, offering a taste of tradition and the best in classic sandwiches. The sandwich pictured above is their Italian.
Address: 774 21st St, Vero Beach, FL 32960
Phone: (772) 562-9170

Moe’s Deli of Sebastian – Sebastian, FL

Owners Andreas, wife Cindy, and son Tyler are the heart and soul behind Moe’s Deli of Sebastian, where they personally oversee every aspect of the restaurant’s operations. As the deli approaches its fifth year in business in August 2024, their dedication to quality shines through, especially in their use of premium Boar’s Head deli meats, ensuring each sandwich is a delectable experience. With its welcoming atmosphere and personalized service, Moe’s Deli continues to be a beloved destination for sandwich enthusiasts in Sebastian. The sandwich featured above is called the Wood Chopper.
Address: 13262 US-1, Sebastian, FL 32958
Phone: (772) 571-6505

Penny Hill Subs – Vero Beach, FL

Under new ownership of Abigail Introcaso, at the young age of 19, Penny Hill Subs continues its legacy as a beloved hometown sub shop in Indian River County. Abigail took over on February 29th, 2024, making her one of the youngest restaurant owners in the area. She seized the opportunity when previous owner Mickey, who had been running the establishment for over 30 years, decided to retire. The transition was seamless, with Penny Hill Subs maintaining its reputation for exceptional customer service and delicious sandwiches. The original location on Old Dixie, serving the community since 1993, stands as a testament to their commitment to hospitality and longstanding relationships with loyal customers who have been visiting since their childhood. The sub featured above is called the Monte Carlo.
Address: 1179 Old Dixie Hwy, Vero Beach, FL 32960
Phone: (772) 567-0043

Twisted Pickle Deli – Sebastian, FL

Since 2002, The Twisted Pickle Deli has been a local favorite in Indian River County, thanks to owner Kim Phillips’ dedication to crafting exceptional sandwiches and pickles. The Twisted Pickle is a family-owned and locally operated sandwich shop that takes immense pride in its offerings. Every sandwich is a labor of love, using only the freshest and highest quality ingredients to ensure a mouthwatering experience with each bite. The sandwich featured above is the Cookie’s Mama Mia.
Address: 8980 US-1, Sebastian, FL 32958
Phone: (772) 228-8812

The post The Best Sub Shops in Indian River County appeared first on Visit Indian River County.

Airboating Adventures

Embark on an exhilarating water adventures by joining one of the many airboat tours, like Captain Bob Airboat Adventures, for an unforgettable ride. Glide across the surface of shallow marshes and winding creeks, exploring the hidden corners of Indian River County’s wetlands. Feel the wind in your hair as you zoom through sawgrass prairies and cypress swamps keeping a keen eye out for alligators, wading birds, and other wildlife along the way. What truly sets this journey apart is Captain Bob’s personal touch—he’ll proudly point out Osprey nests, share the names of each bird, and educate you with plenty of area history. With experienced guides leading the way, you’ll not only enjoy an exhilarating airboat ride, but also gain insights into the area’s unique ecology and the importance of wetland conservation. It’s an adventure through Florida’s wild heartland that you won’t forget. To discover more about airboating and different companies to use, click here and search “Airboat” on our website!

Birding at Pelican Island National Refuge

Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge holds a special place in the hearts of nature enthusiasts for its unparalleled biodiversity and rich conservation legacy. As the nation’s first designated wildlife refuge, it offers guests a unique opportunity to witness the wonders of Florida’s coastal ecosystem in its purest form. Spanning over 5,400 acres of pristine wilderness, the refuge is a sanctuary for a diverse array of bird species, including majestic Herons, elegant Ergents, and colorful Warblers. We encourage visitors to hike along scenic trails that wind through coastal hammocks and salt marshes. These will provide prime viewing opportunities for wildlife sightings and breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscape. To learn more about Pelican Island National Refuge, click here!

Coastal Connections Turtle Experiences

During June and July, join Coastal Connections for an unforgettable experience during turtle nesting season! Participate in guided turtle walks along our pristine beaches, where you’ll have the chance to witness sea turtles nesting under the moonlit sky. Learn about these fascinating creatures and the conservation efforts aimed at protecting their nesting habitats. For the ultimate adventure, sign up for a turtle dig during July and August. Turtle digs take place three days after a nest hatches and help the Coastal Connections Team evaluate the success of each nest. Both turtle walks and turtle digs help you gain an appreciation of nature and contribute to the conservation of sea turtles. To learn more about how to get involved with Coastal Connections, click here!

Kayaking along the Indian River

Embark on a kayaking adventure along the Indian River Lagoon, one of North America’s most biologically diverse estuaries. Paddle through winding mangrove tunnels, where playful dolphins frolic in the waters below. As you explore this picturesque ecosystem keep your eyes peeled for manatees grazing in the shallow seagrass beds. For an immersive experience, consider joining a guided kayak tour led by local experts at the Environmental Learning Center (ELC). They can provide insights into the lagoon’s ecology and conservation efforts. While at the ELC, explore their interactive exhibits, walk along boardwalk trails, and participate in hands-on programs highlighting unique ecosystems.

Experience the beauty and biodiversity of Indian River County through these eco-tourism adventures. Every outdoor excursion offers a chance to connect with nature and gain a deeper appreciation for the world around us. Whether you’re kayaking through mangroves, birding in our refuge, joining turtle walks, or airboating, the wonders of our ecosystem await your exploration. So, pack your sense of adventure and embark on an unforgettable journey through Florida’s coastal paradise.

The post Dive Into Nature Adventures in Indian River County appeared first on Visit Indian River County.

Polk County’s Agritourism

U-Pick Farms

Polk County’s fertile soil and favorable climate have led to a thriving community of groves and u-pick farms. Imagine strolling through endless rows of fruit-laden trees, handpicking your own juicy oranges and peaches or delicious blueberries. At Ridge Island Groves, you can experience the joy of gathering your own citrus fruits and indulge in homemade orange juice or soft serve ice cream. Meanwhile, Whitehead’s Blueberry Farm offers the unique opportunity to pluck blueberries right off the bush. Check out our U-Pick blog for more information!

Farmers Markets

For a taste of authentic local flavor, don’t miss out on Polk County’s vibrant farmer’s markets. These bustling hubs of community showcase a variety of fresh produce, artisanal products, and crafts. The Winter Haven Farmers Market and the Lakeland Downtown Farmers Curb Market are just a few examples where you can sample fresh, farm-to-table delights and interact with the farmers who put their hearts and hands into every product. Check out our events calendar for upcoming markets throughout Polk County!

Agritourism Events and Festivals

Throughout the year, Polk County comes alive with a plethora of agritourism events and festivals. From celebrating the citrus heritage, at the Orange Blossom Festival to indulging in mouthwatering BBQ in the BBQ Capital of Florida at the many BBQ festivals, these events offer a unique blend of entertainment, education, and delectable treats. Bok Tower Gardens also hosts many agritourism events in their outdoor kitchen throughout the year. 

Farm Tours and Animal Encounters

For those eager to get up close and personal with farm life, Polk County’s agritourism scene has something in store for you. Take a guided safari tour at Safari Wilderness Ranch and interact with animals in their natural habitat, or visit Bok Tower Gardens to experience the serenity of a historic garden that perfectly blends nature and art. For animal enthusiasts, visit Circle B Bar Reserve for an opportunity to spot wildlife, including alligators, birds, and other native species in their natural habitat.

Culinary Experiences

Indulge in the culinary wonders of Polk County by exploring the farm-to-table and locally made dining options. Many restaurants in the area take pride in sourcing their ingredients locally, ensuring that every dish is bursting with freshness and flavor. From classic Southern comfort food to innovative gourmet creations, Polk County’s dining scene is a testament to the region’s rich agricultural heritage. Check out our A-Z Dining Guide for some of Polk County’s great dining options!

Polk County’s agritourism offerings provide a refreshing escape from the usual tourist attractions, allowing visitors to embrace the beauty of nature, connect with the land, and savor the flavors of the region. Whether you’re picking your own fruits, strolling through farmer’s markets, or engaging in hands-on workshops, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, if you’re seeking an authentic Central Florida experience that combines the charm of rural life with the comforts of modern amenities, Polk County’s rich agritourism is calling your name.

Use #GoodFoodPolk on Instagram for a chance to be featured!

The post From Citrus Groves to Craft Breweries: Exploring Polk County’s Rich Agritourism appeared first on Visit Central Florida.

Experience The Chain at Streamsong Resort

“The Bucket,” a two and a half acre putting course that is part of the new concept also steps from the Lodge entrance, is open for resort guest play daily at noon.

The Chain is designed to dial up the fun factor for Streamsong guests, with match play and walking at the heart of the experience.  Each hole has teeing areas (instead of tee markers) with dragline chains (the course namesake) in the ground to mark the beginning and end of each teeing area.  The idea here is for guests to choose where they’d like to play each hole in a match play format with the winner of each hole choosing the tee location on the following hole.  The scorecard has no reference to par although most of the holes are one shot holes with a range of yardages from 109 – 293 from the farthest teeing area.  The course includes a six hole loop that plays around a grove of Oaks with holes that vary in length from 110 – 153 yards from the farthest teeing areas or as short as 50 – 88 yards from the most forward teeing area.  From the six hole loop, guests venture into the 13 hole loop where holes measure up to 293 yards with more forced carries in play depending on the tee you choose.

Designed by Coore & Crenshaw Design

The team from Coore and Crenshaw Design have created another masterpiece on the roughly 36 acre site taking advantage of every opportunity to showcase the unexpected elevation changes and live oak groves, water features, and sandscapes throughout to create a compelling layout. The legendary duo who also designed Streamsong Red, which opened in 2012 with “Best New U.S. Course” honors and is perennially ranked among the top 30 courses in the U.S. by Golf Digest, Golf Magazine and Golfweek, have made several changes and additions to the original routing. Most notably, the 3,000 yard walking layout now includes 19 holes ranging from 109 to over 293 yards, with a six- and 13- hole loop.

Large dragline chain links similar to those used in the mining process on the Streamsong site will mark the beginning and end of each tee box, however specified tee markers and a score relative to par are thoughtfully and purposefully absent from the concept. Players will be encouraged to tee off from whichever teeing area they like on each hole, with a nod toward match play. Now marking the middle of the site is a 22,000 pound dragline bucket, also the namesake for The Bucket putting course, that was installed in early January 2023 and will serve as a constant reminder of the history of its location.

So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Streamsong today and be among the first to experience The Chain. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice player, this newest addition is sure to leave you with memories to last a lifetime. Get ready to elevate your game and discover why Streamsong is the ultimate golfing paradise.

The post Streamsong Resort’s The Chain is Now Open! appeared first on Visit Central Florida.

Avelo Airlines has announced exclusive nonstop service from Lakeland Linder International Airport (LAL) to Southern Connecticut’s most convenient airport, Tweed-New Haven Airport (HVN) – the gateway to the New England and New York regions. Avelo’s new service ushers in a new era of affordable, convenient and reliable air travel at LAL, becoming the airport’s only commercial airline and first to serve the market in over a decade.

Conveniently located between Tampa and Orlando, LAL offers travelers a refreshingly small, easy, and fast alternative hometown airport experience to the much larger and busier airports in the region. LAL’s location along the I-4 corridor makes it the most travel-friendly gateway to and from Central Florida.

Avelo’s nonstop service begins on June 13 with twice-weekly flights on Thursdays and Sundays. The route will be operated by Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft. Introductory one-way fares between LAL and HVN start at $72*. Customers can make reservations at AveloAir.com.

New Haven, CT (HVN) – The New Haven Way to New England and New York

Tweed-New Haven Airport is located on Connecticut’s coast and is a convenient gateway to all 15 towns that make up Greater New Haven. HVN’s adjacency to multiple major highways and commuter railways makes visiting the New England and New York regions easier than ever. The airport is a refreshingly smooth and simple alternative hometown airport experience that will make visiting Southern Connecticut faster, easier, and more relaxing than ever.

Best known as the home of Yale University, New Haven is the second largest city in Connecticut and is part of the New York metropolitan area. The coastal city has experienced—and continues to enjoy—a renaissance. Within an easy stroll from the New Haven Green are more than 100 distinctive restaurants, offering something for every palate, and the city abounds with theaters, museums, and shopping destinations to satisfy all interests and tastes. Last year, New Haven joined iconic cities like Auckland, London, and Istanbul to make the prestigious New York Times 2023 “52 Places to Go” list. Whether visiting family and friends or just looking for a vacation, there is a wealth of things to explore in The Cultural Capital of Connecticut.

America’s Affordable and Convenient Airline

Avelo was founded to Inspire Travel by saving its Customers time and money. Since taking flight on April 28, 2021, Avelo has flown more than 4.3 million Customers on over 33,000 flights. Today, Avelo serves 51 destinations in 23 states and Puerto Rico.

Along the way, Avelo has unlocked a new era of convenience, choice and competition by flying unserved routes to primarily underserved communities across the country. On almost every route, at least one airport is a small, easy to use airport – making every Avelo journey easier and more enjoyable.

Avelo Customers can always change or cancel their itineraries with no extra fees. Additionally, families can travel with ease knowing every child 13 and under will always be automatically seated with an accompanying adult at no additional cost.

Additionally, Avelo offers advanced seat assignments for sale. One third of its seats are extra leg room seats, ranging from 32 inches to more than 36 inches, offering a more comfortable experience for Customers who value more space. In addition to advance seat assignments, Avelo offers several unbundled travel-enhancing options that give Customers the flexibility to pay only for what they value, including priority boarding, checked bags, carry-on overhead bags, and bringing a pet in the cabin.

Avelo is distinguished by its industry-leading reliability. In 2023, the airline achieved the lowest flight cancellation rate in the U.S. airline industry and ranked #2 in on-time reliability. These results are based on Anuvu’s third-party data platform (the same company and platform utilized by The Wall Street Journal for the publication’s annual best and worst airline ranking, which excluded Avelo as well as other airlines in its coverage that did not meet the publication’s size threshold).

About Avelo Airlines

Avelo Airlines was founded with a simple purpose — to Inspire Travel. The airline offers Customers time and money-saving convenience, low everyday fares, and a refreshingly smooth and caring experience through its Soul of Service culture. Operating a fleet of Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft, Avelo serves 51 popular destinations across the U.S., including its five bases at Los Angeles’ Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR), Southern Connecticut’s Tweed-New Haven Airport (HVN), Orlando International Airport (MCO), the Delaware Valley’s Wilmington Airport (ILG) and Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU). 

The post Avelo Airlines Announces Routes to Lakeland, FL appeared first on Visit Central Florida.

Nestled along the eastern coast of Florida lies Indian River County, a charming destination renowned for its picturesque landscapes, warm climate, and vibrant culinary scene. Among the many delights this region offers, food festivals stand out as exciting celebrations of local flavors, cultural diversity, and community spirit. From frog legs to chicken wings, and even an awards ceremony that honors several local restaurants, Indian River County’s food festival scene offers a delectable array of experiences sure to tantalize the taste buds of visitors and locals alike. Join us on a journey as we explore some of the most enticing food festivals this enchanting county has to offer.

Treasure Coast Seafood Festival

The Annual Treasure Coast Seafood Festival is a culinary extravaganza that showcases the finest seafood delicacies from the Treasure Coast region of Florida. Held annually, this festival brings together local seafood vendors, renowned chefs, and seafood enthusiasts for a weekend of gastronomic delight. Visitors can indulge in a variety of mouthwatering dishes, including shrimp, crab, lobster, fish, and more, all freshly prepared using locally sourced ingredients. In addition to the delectable seafood offerings, the festival features live music, arts and crafts vendors, cooking demonstrations, and family-friendly activities, making it a must-attend event for seafood lovers of all ages. Whether you’re a connoisseur of seafood or simply looking to experience the vibrant culinary culture of the Treasure Coast, the Annual Treasure Coast Seafood Festival offers an unforgettable feast for the senses. For more information, Click Here!

Fellsmere Frog Leg Festival

This year was the 33^rd Annual Fellsmere Frog Leg Festival, and guests were surely immersed in a lively atmosphere filled with excitement. From browsing crafter booths to enjoying live music and thrilling rides, every moment was an adventure. The highlight was seeing live animals and admiring the tractor display. Of course, one can’t resist indulging in delicious carnival foods and the famous frog legs. These delectable frog legs are expertly prepared using traditional recipes and cooking methods, resulting in tender, flavorful morsels that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re a seasoned frog leg enthusiast or curious to try something new, the Fellsmere Frog Leg Festival offers the perfect opportunity to sample this iconic dish in a lively and festive atmosphere. Knowing that proceeds from the Frog Leg Dinners support Fellsmere’s youth community adds extra satisfaction to the experience. For more information, and to save the date for next year, Click Here!

Florida Craftbrew & Wingfest

At the Florida Craft Beer and Wingfest, you should expect to find yourself in a tantalizing celebration of craft beer and mouthwatering chicken wings. Upon arrival, guests can purchase a bracelet, granting access to sample up to 250 Craft and Micro Brews showcased at booths spread throughout the Royal Palm Pointe medians. Most people eagerly anticipate the “Wing Contest,” where local restaurants compete with their most mouthwatering chicken wings for the coveted title of “Best Vero Beach Wings.” As you explore, you are delighted by the array of food offerings from all the local participating restaurants, along with options for sodas, wine, and draft beer. With four bands providing lively entertainment, the atmosphere is always vibrant and full of excitement. The Sunrise Rotary Vero Beach hosts this annual event every February and is committed to serving the community with hands-on projects, scholarships, and financial requests. For more information on the Sunrise Rotary Vero Beach, and to save the date for next year, Click Here!  

Golden Fork Awards Ceremony

Each year, foodies eagerly anticipate The Golden Fork Awards Ceremony, a prestigious event hosted by The Treasure Coast Foodie in Indian River County, Florida. In 2024, this gastronomic extravaganza marked its fourth annual celebration, showcasing the best dishes sampled throughout the year by Thomas Miller, the discerning palate behind The Treasure Coast Foodie. The event took place at the brand-new Celebration Grove on 66th Ave in Vero Beach, providing a fitting backdrop for the occasion. Guests enjoyed a tasting of all the award-winning dishes at the event, where the Top 10 Best Dishes, Chef of the Year, and Restaurant of the Year were honored. Adding a touch of excitement, attendees used mini-golden forks to vote for their favorite dish of the night to award the People’s Choice Trophy. For those interested in learning more about this year’s winners and further details, Click Here!

During the spring at Countryside Family Farms, you can expect to see a picturesque landscape with rows of vibrant spring flowers in full bloom. As you wander through the fields, you’ll be amazed by seasonal blooms, including sunflowers, zinnias, and wildflowers. The farm’s u-pick flower experience allows visitors to hand-select their favorite blossoms to create personalized bouquets, making for a memorable and enjoyable outing. You may encounter butterflies fluttering among the flowers, adding to the enchanting atmosphere of the farm. Don’t forget to stop by the farm store to indulge in refreshing ice cream, freshly squeezed orange juice, and other locally sourced treats to complete your springtime adventure at Countryside Family Farms. If you want more information about their u-pick season, visit their website! 

Painted Sky Farms, located in Sebastian, Florida, offers charming flower-buying experiences during their spring and fall seasons from 9am -12pm. Each bouquet offered has been handpicked and put together right on the farm! Before visiting, check their website for Sip and Snip events. These events are small classes that will teach you how to arrange fresh-cut flowers into unique bouquets and how to make flower food! Make sure to sign up quickly, as these classes only hold 10 people! While you’re there, make sure you feed the chickens, book horse lessons, and take a peek into their gift shop for a variety of farm-made items, including eggs, soap, sugar scrub, and more. 

At McKee Botanical Gardens, every step leads you deeper into a world of natural wonder. Visitors can expect to see a vibrant display of blooming flowers and lush foliage. The gardens come alive with colors such as azaleas, camellias, and other spring-blooming plants that burst into action. While guests cannot pick the flowers here, they can stroll through the garden to relax and unwind. Visitors can explore the meticulously curated displays of both native and exotic plants, each one a testament to their dedication to preserving biodiversity. Visitors can also explore the children’s garden, which contains the wonders of a pirate ship, fairy garden, splash pad, and more! If you’re looking for more information about the magic of McKee, visit their website! 

When Visiting Jones’ Pier Conservation Area, you can expect a delightful springtime spectacle as colorful flowers burst into bloom along the pathway. These vibrant blossoms create a picturesque backdrop, attracting butterflies and busy bees. While exploring, look for the diverse variety of migratory birds that frequent the Indian River Lagoon during this season. Remember, while exploring, please admire the flowers but refrain from picking them to ensure everyone can enjoy their beauty.

With its lush landscapes, colorful blooms, and abundant wildlife, Indian River County truly comes alive in the springtime. Whether you’re strolling through rows of blooming flowers, exploring conservation areas, or admiring the beauty of botanical gardens, this season offers experiences for nature enthusiasts of all ages. Embrace the spirit of spring and immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery that defines this charming corner of Florida. For more information on things to discover in Indian River County, Click Here!