Press Photos: HERE
Indian River County is turning 100 in 2025, and the entire community is coming together to commemorate this incredible milestone! From January through June, the county is hosting a packed schedule of events, tours, and celebrations that honor its rich history, vibrant culture, and promising future. Whether you’re a history buff, a festival lover, or just looking for family-friendly fun, there’s something for everyone during this centennial year.
Ongoing Centennial Events:
- Explore Indian River County’s history on foot with a series of fascinating walking tours led by local experts. These tours are free, with donations encouraged, and offer a unique way to dive into the stories of the people and places that shaped the county.
Walking Tours Schedule:
- Downtown Sebastian History Walking Tour
- Dates: Mar 16, Apr 20, May 18, Jun 15 (1–2:30 PM)
- Guide: Larry Lawson, retired law enforcement
- RSVP & Contact: ghostguy59@gmail.com
- Fellsmere History Walking Tour:
- Dates: Feb 22 (9 AM–1 PM)
- Guide: Richard Votapka, Fellsmere Historian
- RSVP & Contact: 772-589-8611 or RBVotapka@gmail.com
- Gifford Historical Museum History Walking Tour:
- Dates: Feb 28, Mar 27, Apr 24 (10 AM–1 PM)
- Guide: Jonnie Mae Perry, Museum Director
- RSVP & Contact: 772-985-7573 or visit Gifford Historical Museum
- Downtown Vero Beach History Walking Tour:
- Dates: Mar 1, Apr 9, May 7, Jun 18 (10 AM–12 PM)
- Guide: Robyn Berry, Director of Vero Heritage
- RSVP & Contact: 772-770-2263
Exciting Upcoming Centennial Events
Mark your calendar for these special events that highlight the heart and soul of Indian River County. Each month will feature events representing specific decades of Indian River County’s history. From a 1925–1945 USO dance in May to a genealogy fest in June, these events will take you on a journey through time.
- Festivals & Celebrations:
- Indian River County Firefighters’ Fair (Mar 14–23)
- Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge Festival (Mar 14–16)
The Grand Finale: June 2025
The centennial celebration will wrap up in style with a month-long series of events:
- History Fair (June 29, daytime, IRC Fairgrounds)
- Centennial Parade (June 29, evening, location TBD)
- Time Capsule Ceremony (June 30, location TBD)
Indian River County’s centennial is more than a look back at history—it’s a celebration of community, progress, and the beautiful future that lies ahead. We can’t wait to celebrate 100 years of memories with you! Guests are encouraged to share their favorite pictures from these events using #VisitIndianRiver for a chance to be featured.
Visit Indian River County Centennial for more information.
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About Visit Indian River County
Situated along Florida’s Treasure Coast on the Atlantic Ocean, the communities of Vero Beach, Sebastian and Fellsmere are the geographical starting point for the Florida tropics, with winter temperatures rarely dipping below 70° (21°C). Centrally located 70 miles south of the Kennedy Space Center and 135 miles north of Miami, the destination is at the intersection of green and glamorous, with 100,000 conservation acres, 22 miles of pristine uncrowded beaches, and a treasure trove of cultural attractions. The stated priority – “sunrises, not high rises” – is evident in a collection of hotels and resorts with rooftops no higher than the swaying palm trees. Road trippers can easily access the destination via I-95, the Florida Turnpike or Route 60. It is also convenient to Orlando International, Orlando-Melbourne International, Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood, and Palm Beach International airports. Vero Beach Regional Airport is served by Elite Airways with direct flights from Newark, New Jersey. Go to VisitIndianRIverCounty.com for more information and to plan your trip, and follow on social at @visitindianriver.