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Indian River County Celebrates 100 Years: Join the Centennial Festivities!

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: Feb 16, 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.

  • Centennial Kickoff Events:
    • A.B. Michael Marker Dedication (Feb 1, 11 AM–12 PM, Wabasso Causeway Park)
  • Festivals & Celebrations:
    • Gifford Art & Music Festival (Feb 2, 2–4 PM)
    • Indian River County Firefighters’ Fair (Mar 14–23)
    • Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge Festival (Mar 14–16)
  • Cultural Highlights:
    • Laura Riding Jackson House Events (Feb 7, 5–8 PM; Feb 9, 1–5 PM)
    • Waldo’s Secret Art Walk (Feb 15–16, 11 AM–5 PM)

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)

Share your favorite pictures from these events using #VisitIndianRiver for a chance to be featured!

Celebrate With Us!

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!

Stay Connected
Follow Indian River County and Visit Indian River on social media and use #IndianRiver100 and #VisitIndianRiver to share your centennial adventures. For a complete event schedule and updates, visit Indian River County Centennial. Here’s to 100 years of Indian River County—and many more to come! 🎉