Budget Travel | Florida’s Treasure Coast: An Under-the-Radar Festive…

Step into fun this fall, where the crisp air sets the stage for a season filled with exciting Indian River County events. Florida is a popular destination all year round, but if you want to avoid the bigger, touristy area, try the “Treasure Coast.” Indian River County, including Vero Beach, offers a surprising array of celebrations this season as the perfect prelude to the holidays. Whether it’s art events, spooky shows, or foodie festivals, the months of September, October, and November are full of exciting events.
The 16th Annual Treasure Coast Seafood Festival Vero Beach takes place on September 28-29 this year. Savor the taste of the ocean with an incredible lineup of seafood vendors showcasing their best catches and recipes. Enjoy live music, arts and crafts, fresh seafood, and beer & drinks. The Treasure Coast Seafood Festival is not just an event; it’s a testament to the vibrant culture and rich heritage of Vero Beach.
The 10th Annual Indian River Bird & Nature Art Show will be held at the Environmental Learning Center from September 30 to October 26, 2024. This event highlights stunning artwork inspired by the rich birdlife and natural landscapes of Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge. It’s a must-see for art enthusiasts and nature lovers, offering a unique blend of creativity and environmental appreciation in a beautiful setting.
Vero Beach Oktoberfest is a lively celebration featuring a massive 15,000-square-foot Biergarten tent with German and American food, real German beer, and full liquor bars. Enjoy schnapps shots from Oktoberfest girls, shop from 125 vendors in the Vendor Village, and explore the Big Kids Zone during the day. As night falls, the party heats up for an unforgettable experience. Admission is just $5 (kids under 13 free), with free parking included. This year’s takes place October 19-20.
October brings the perfect pairing of haunted houses and barns! Immerse yourself in the Halloween spirit at the Southern Oaks Barn & Venue for their Halloween Haunted Barn & Maze—if you dare! Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday in October visitors can see the Haunted Barn & Maze.

Art enthusiasts and the local community are invited to join the 2nd Annual Pointe West Fine Arts Festival, an exceptional event which promises a weekend filled with creativity, entertainment, and cultural experiences. The event, held November 2-3, aims to create an inclusive and enriching experience, offering something for art aficionados of all ages and interests.
Ballet Vero Beach ignites the Vero Beach Museum of Art’s stage with a collection of works that explore the spirit of the 1960’s. Classic Heat reflects the museum’s exhibition, Roadside Reverie: Glass Works by John Miller, by taking inspiration from the colors, charisma, and culture of the 60’s. Audiences will be delighted by two new works choreographed by Ballet Vero Beach dancers Marlyse Noble and Gabrielle Williams and a reworked version of Artistic Director Adam Schnell’s Crimson & Clover, which turns 20 years old this year and has never been seen in Vero Beach. Tickets to the November 16th event include entrance to the exhibition, so arrive early to walk the exhibit and examine the art that inspired Classic Heat.

The 6th Annual Treasure Coast Wine, Ale, and Spirits Festival offers a unique experience for enthusiasts to sample a wide variety of wines, craft beers, and spirits from local and regional producers. This lively event features tastings, live entertainment, and food vendors, creating the perfect atmosphere to enjoy and explore new flavors. This year will be held on Airport Road in Vero Beach on November 23.
Come enjoy kids’ crafts and activities, play in the “snow!” and take your photo with Santa and Mrs. Claus at the Downtown Tree Lighting Festival on November 23rd. Enjoy musical performances throughout the event and gather for the lighting of the tree at 6:00pm, followed by a holiday movie on the green (bring your blankets and chairs!).
—To learn more about Indian River County, go to VisitIndianRiverCounty.com
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