Mark your calendars for a celebration of one of Florida’s most treasured natural resources! Indian River Lagoon Day is set to take place on Saturday, October 18, from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. at Front Street Park in Melbourne. This community-focused event, completely free to the public, brings together multiple organizations, including the City of Melbourne, the City of West Melbourne, Brevard County Natural Resources Management Department, Lagoon Life, and the Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Program. Together, these entities have organized a day dedicated to highlighting the ecological significance of the Indian River Lagoon system.
Celebrating the Indian River Lagoon
The event aims to foster a deeper appreciation for this vital waterway that serves as both an environmental asset and a key part of the local economy. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about ongoing conservation efforts and discover ways to get involved in preserving the lagoon for future generations. Front Street Park, located at 2210 Front Street in Melbourne, provides the perfect backdrop for this family-friendly celebration, offering ample space for all the activities while showcasing the natural beauty that makes our region special. The collaborative effort between municipal, county, and environmental organizations demonstrates the community-wide commitment to the lagoon’s health.
Food, Music, and Local Vendors
Indian River Lagoon Day promises something for everyone with a diverse lineup of activities and attractions. Environmental exhibitors will be on hand to showcase restoration projects, educational initiatives, citizen-science opportunities, and volunteer activities related to lagoon conservation. Throughout the day, attendees can enjoy delicious offerings from food trucks while listening to live music performed by talented artist Miranda Realino. Arts and crafts vendors will display their wares, adding a creative dimension to the celebration.
Families with children will find plenty to keep the little ones entertained, including a bounce house, games, and various kid-friendly activities. Exciting raffle drawings will take place at 12 p.m. and again at 1:30 p.m., with tickets available at the City of Melbourne’s welcome booth and vendor tables. Participants can earn tickets through meaningful interactions with vendors, learning about conservation while increasing their chances to win—just remember, you must be present during the drawing to claim prizes. Additionally, fishing enthusiasts ages 5-15 can participate in the Hook Kids on Fishing clinic from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. (advance registration required via the Anglers for Conservation website), while gardeners won’t want to miss the 1 p.m. rain barrel workshop offering 30 free rain barrels on a first-come, first-served basis. A special thanks goes to Custom Tintz for sponsoring this year’s stage, helping make these wonderful activities possible.
