Vero Beach, Florida is a picturesque coastal town known for its stunning beaches, warm weather, and laid-back lifestyle. But beyond the beautiful scenery, this charming community also has a rich history and a strong sense of togetherness. From annual festivals to unique customs, there are many local traditions that make Vero Beach a truly special place to live or visit.
The Beloved Hibiscus Festival
One of the most cherished traditions in Vero Beach is the annual Hibiscus Festival. This three-day event celebrates the vibrant hibiscus flower, which is also the official flower of the city.The festival features live music, arts and crafts vendors, food trucks, and a parade. It's a wonderful opportunity for both locals and visitors to come together and appreciate the beauty of Vero Beach. The Hibiscus Festival also includes a hibiscus flower show, where residents can showcase their own hibiscus plants and compete for prizes. This friendly competition brings out the best in Vero Beach's green-thumbed residents and adds to the festive atmosphere of the event.
The Exciting ShrimpFest & Craft Brew Hullabaloo
Another popular tradition in Vero Beach is the ShrimpFest & Craft Brew Hullabaloo. This two-day event celebrates the city's rich fishing heritage and love for craft beer.Attendees can sample delicious shrimp dishes from local restaurants, enjoy live music, and taste a variety of craft beers from Florida breweries.But it's not just about food and drinks – the ShrimpFest & Craft Brew Hullabaloo also features a juried art show, where local artists display their work. This event is a great way to support small businesses and artists in the Vero Beach community.
The Festive Christmas Parade
Christmas is a special time in Vero Beach, and the community comes together to celebrate with an annual Christmas parade. This lively event features colorful floats, marching bands, and of course, Santa Claus. Families line the streets to watch the parade and get into the holiday spirit. But the Christmas parade is more than just a fun tradition – it also serves as a way for the community to give back.Each year, the parade collects donations for local charities, making it a heartwarming event for a good cause.
The Heartwarming Indian River County Firefighters' Fair
The Indian River County Firefighters' Fair is another beloved tradition in Vero Beach. This week-long event features thrilling rides, delicious fair food, and live entertainment. But what makes this fair truly special is that it's organized and run by local firefighters. All proceeds from the fair go towards supporting the Indian River County Firefighters Benevolent Association.The fair also includes a livestock show, where local 4-H and FFA members showcase their animals.This is a great opportunity for young farmers to gain experience and recognition for their hard work.
The Local Fishing Culture
Vero Beach has a strong fishing culture, and it's not uncommon to see locals heading out to the water with their fishing gear in tow. The Indian River Lagoon, which runs through Vero Beach, is known for its abundance of fish species, making it a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts. But fishing in Vero Beach is more than just a hobby – it's also an important part of the local economy. Many restaurants in the area serve fresh seafood caught by local fishermen, supporting the community's small businesses.The Unique Pelican Island Wildlife Festival
Vero Beach is home to the Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge, the first national wildlife refuge in the United States. To celebrate this unique natural treasure, the community hosts an annual Pelican Island Wildlife Festival.This event includes educational activities, live animal exhibits, and guided tours of the refuge. The festival also raises awareness about the importance of preserving and protecting the environment. It's a great opportunity for locals and visitors to learn more about the wildlife in Vero Beach and how they can help protect it.
The Thriving Surfing Scene
With its beautiful beaches and consistent waves, Vero Beach has become a popular destination for surfers. The local surfing community is tight-knit and welcoming, with many surfers gathering at popular spots like South Beach Park or Sebastian Inlet State Park. But surfing in Vero Beach is more than just a sport – it's a way of life. Many locals have grown up surfing these waters and have a deep connection to the ocean.The surfing culture in Vero Beach is all about respect for nature and camaraderie among fellow surfers.
The Unforgettable Underwater Easter Egg Hunt
One of the most unique traditions in Vero Beach is the annual underwater Easter egg hunt. This event takes place at Jaycee Park, where divers search for eggs hidden in the water. The eggs are filled with prizes donated by local businesses, making it a fun and exciting activity for all ages. The underwater Easter egg hunt is not only a fun tradition but also serves as a way to promote scuba diving and raise awareness about marine conservation. It's a one-of-a-kind event that truly captures the spirit of Vero Beach.In Conclusion
The Vero Beach community is full of rich traditions and customs that bring people together and celebrate the city's unique culture.From annual festivals to everyday activities like fishing and surfing, these traditions are an important part of what makes Vero Beach such a special place to live or visit.
