Brevard Indian River Lagoon Coalition

Indian River Lagoon Day
2023-11-18 08:00 - 16:00 (America/New_York) | Front Street Park, 2205 South Front Street, Melbourne, FL, 06513, United States
Indian River Lagoon Day sponsored by Brevard County Parks and Recreation is a celebration of all things IRL. Located on the Lagoon front at Front Street Park in downtown Melbourne. Enjoy kayak tours of the IRL., Games and information booth from the local area on Lagoon restoration programs, Manatees, Water resources management, sanitary systems, solid waste disposal and learn about how you can help restore the Indian River Lagoon.

Pioneer Day at Sam's House Merrit Island
2025-02-08 10:00 - 16:00 | Sam’s House Merrit Island, 6195 N Tropical Trail, Merrit Island, FL, United States
Celebrating the history of Merritt Island on “Pioneer Day” is an annual event that has an exciting appeal for history, art, music, and nature lovers, and children of all ages from 1 to 100. Stop by the Brevard Indian River Lagoon Coalition booth for the latest news on Lagoon Restoration.
The February 8th event is a partnership between Sams House at Pine Island and St. Luke’s Episcopal Church located on a sleepy little stretch of North Tropical Trail on North Merritt Island. From 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. the Sams House and St. Luke’s will host a wide variety of activities, most of which are free.
Pioneer Day is held near the birthday of John Sams, a citrus-grower and the first Superintendent of Brevard County Schools. Mr. Sams built the oldest standing home in Brevard County (circa 1875). The Sams Cabin is now a museum within the 1,000-acre Pine Island Conservation Area, which is owned and operated by the Brevard County Environmentally Endangered Lands Program. Mr. Sams also helped to build St. Luke’s Chapel in 1888 and is buried in the church cemetery.
Primary parking available at St. Luke’s with limited parking at Sams House.
Suggested donation of $5 for parking includes continuous shuttle service between venues.
Print list of events here.
Events at St. Luke’s (10 am to 4 pm) 5555 N. Tropical Trail
Perrine Hall: Lunch includes a variety of homemade chilis (traditional, white and vegetarian), grilled hotdogs and loaded baked potatoes.
10:00 to 12:00 Cemetery Quest: Start your quest at the playground to win a prize! For ages 7 and up.
10:30 CEMETERY:
Guided Tour “Island History”: Stories of locals who cleared the land, built our community, and launched us into space.
11:00 CHURCH “Harry and Harriette Moore; Activists and Educators – Their Story” Educators by profession, teaching in segregated public schools in Brevard, Harry and Harriette were also the first true civil rights activists of the modern civil rights era in the State of Florida.
11:30 CHAPEL: Pioneer Music
12:00 CHAPEL: “St. Luke’s Chapel: A Gem of Carpenter Gothic Architecture” Jonathan Rich will give a talk on how this unique style of architecture came to the Florida frontier of the 1800s.
12:30 – 1:30 Cemetery Stroll: Hear from some of the inhabitants tell their story in this historic cemetery.
1:15 CHURCH: “Notes on a Wet Cocktail Napkin”: It began on October 31, 1948, when Bernard Fischer opened Bernard’s Surf in Cocoa Beach. Rusty Fischer reveals the tales of Cocoa Beach from sleepy town to the host of astronauts, movie stars, and celebrity journalists.
2:00 CEMETERY: Guided Tour “Island History” Stories of locals who cleared the land, built our community, and launched us into space.
On-going Events:
Self-guided tour of St. Luke’s Historic Chapel & Cemetery
Events at Sams House (10 am to 4 pm) 6195 N. Tropical Trail

Florida living history demonstrations and educational exhibits that include archaeology and anthropology, historic reenactors, encampments and artifacts on display
Live music throughout the day by Celery City String Band, Chris Kahl, Pine Trio, and Boylston Fish
A Pioneer “parade” throughout the grounds at 11 am, led by drum and fife, of those dressed in historic attire
Local exhibitors from Brevard’s historical societies and others
Local exhibitors from Brevard’s natural lands and environmental organizations such as the Merritt Island Wildlife Association, Space Coast Audubon Society, Florida Native Plant Society, Brevard Backyard Beekeepers, and others
Vintage, crafts and farmer’s market vendors such as the Spade and Trowel Garden Club, Wake and Bake Bread Co., Spiked Greens, Banana River Soapworks and others (also local honey, Florida native plants etc.)
Pine Island guided nature trail hikes throughout the day courtesy of the Florida Trail Association and Brevard’s Environmentally Endangered Lands Program
1888 Sams House tours with rarely seen antiques on display
1875 Sams Cabin family history, Native American artifacts and fossils on display
Children’s crafts and games – Corn Hole, Hay Dive, Steer Roping, and Tic Tac Toe
Children’s crafts and games such as Hay Dive, Steer Roping, Cornhusk Dolls, and Tic Tac Toe
Local food trucks, lemonade, fruity dream whips and kettle corn!

Ocean Treasures Festival
2025-02-15 10:00 - 16:00 | Brevard County Barrier Island Center, 8385 S. Highway A1A, Melbourne Beach, FL, 32951, United States
Brevard Indian River Lagoon Coalition (BIRLC) will participate in the Barrier Island Center’s 11th Annual Ocean Treasures Festival on Saturday, February 15th, 2025, from 10 AM to 4 PM. The festival is free to attend and offers beachcombing and marine life talks all day, guided walks, sharing table, crafting demos by local artists, educational displays, make-n-take craft table, ocean inspired art for sale, art raffle to benefit Sea Turtle Conservancy, a judged beachcombing competition, treasure hunt, food trucks, and more!
Be sure to find BIRLC among the special exhibitors at the event.
Of special note, beachcombing expert and coauthor of Sea-Beans From the Tropics, Ed Perry IV, will be onsite to identify your cabinet curiosities. Be sure to enter all of your favorite beach finds into our friendly competition! Categories include most interesting plastic, smallest shell, coolest driftwood, most beautiful shell, largest sea heart, most unusual sea glass, reused/repurposed/upcycled, and most unusual pick of the show.Enjoy a challenge and glass fishing floats?
New this year, Tuck Mallory, avid glass fishing float collector featured on Antiques Roadshow, has donated 15 authentic Japanese glass rolling pin floats which will be sanctuary treasure hunt prizes! Additional floats will be raffled off during Tuck’s talk at noon.
So come enjoy the day at the beach enjoying the Ocean’s many treasures!

The Brevard County Environmentally Endangered Lands Program’s Barrier Island Center is located at 8385 S. Highway A1A Melbourne Beach, approximately 2.5 miles North of Sebastian Inlet. For more info please call: (321) 723-3556.

World Seagrass Day at the Zoo
2025-03-01 10:00 - 14:00 | Brevard Zoo, 8225 N Wickham Rd, Melbourne, FL, 32940, United States
Celebrate World Seagrass Day with Restore Our Shores at the Zoo! Enjoy fun activities in our center loop from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. There will also be opportunities to learn about these important plants and how to help our Indian River Lagoon from the Brevard Indian River Lagoon Coalition.
Included with Zoo admission.

It’s FIRST FRIDAY in the Eau Gallie Arts District.
2025-04-04 17:30 - 20:30 | Eau Gallie Art District, 1463 Highland Ave, Melbourne, FL, 32935, United States
JOIN US ON April 4. It’s FIRST FRIDAY in the Eau Gallie Arts District.
This special event is a tribute to our Indian River Lagoon, so important to our quality of life and our economic impact as a region. The galleries have Lagoon-focused surprises planned.
Don’t miss the special Lagoon-focused event, Just Another Fish On The Wall, at Fifth Avenue Art Gallery.
On this special night, from 5:30-8:30p, Eau Gallie Square will be filled with exhibitors and voices speaking for the Lagoon—and musicians playing from the stage.
Here’s the schedule of activities in Eau Galle Square:
5:30 pm – The Lagoon Is A Work of Art: Opening remarks
5:40 pm – Music: Char Good
6:30 pm – The Lagoon Is A Work of Art: Guest Speaker
6:40 pm – Music: Gary Lazer Eyes
5:30 – 8:00 pm – Visit exhibitors in the Square
Loving the Lagoon Life as so many of you do, you’ll want to participate in this event that will help bring Indian River Lagoon education to new audiences. Special events like these are part of our ongoing efforts to ensure people of Brevard County understand the true value of our priceless Lagoon. Consider supporting the efforts in restoration and preservation being carried on across the community. The Save Our Indian River Lagoon Program recently celebrated the completion of 100 Projects on a long list of lagoon-positive, science-based efforts netting progress. Sponsorship Opportunities available.

Join the fun on April 4th, see the art, hear the speakers and enjoy the music.
Be part of it all, as everyone matters. It takes all of us. It takes each of us. See you in The Square?

Nature Day at Melbourne Beach
2025-04-05 10:00 - 15:00 | Ryckman Park, Town of Melbourne Beach, 509 Ocean Ave, Melbourne Beach, FL, 32951, United States
The Melbourne Beach Environmental Advisory Board is proud to host the 2nd Annual Nature Day — an educational, family-friendly event dedicated to spreading awareness and sharing progress on local environmental efforts. Look for the Brevard Indian River Lagoon Table.
When:Saturday, April 5th10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Where:Community Center at Ryckman ParkOcean Avenue, Melbourne Beach
What: Environmental Speakers & Tables Native Plant Giveaway Food Vendors & Entertainment Kids Activities

KBB Summer Series Cleanup
2025-06-07
Join BIRLC as we support Keep Brevard Beautiful with cleanups!
Location- 528 – we will meet on 528 westbound

Boats will be provided by Cape Crossing Boat Rentals to shuttle volunteers to the spoil islands.

Afterparty will be at Dolphins Bar and Grill down the street.
Learn more: keepbrevardbeautiful.org/frontpage-article/summer-series-2025
REGISTER

KBB Summer Series #2
2025-06-28
Join BIRLC as we support Keep Brevard Beautiful with cleanups!
Second Summer Series Event
Location – Riverview Park in Melbourne
Kayaks – TBA
Afterparty – TBA
Learn more: keepbrevardbeautiful.org/frontpage-article/summer-series-2025
REGISTER

Science Sundays at the Zoo: Earth Science
2025-07-20 10:00 - 15:00 | Brevard Zoo, 8225 N Wickham Rd, Melbourne, FL, 32940, United States
Earth Science
Join us this Science Sunday to learn all about the role of plants in beach mice’s lives. In this interactive lesson, guests will use mouse figurines to search for “seeds” and discover how plants help these little creatures thrive.
Brevard Indian River Lagoon Coalition:
Become a citizen scientist while learning what makes the brackish Indian River Lagoon unique and how it supports 4300 species of plants and animals the most diverse population of wildlife in the United States. Identify plants and animals that live in the lagoon. Answer questions about how humans effect the health of the lagoon and what we can do to reduce our impact on the lagoon using interactive games.
From fascinating animal behavior demonstrations to interactive exhibits on conservation and environmental science, discover how learning and fun collide during this summertime program series designed to inspire curiosity and foster a love of science among guests of all ages. Activities take place in our air-conditioned Nyami Nyami River Lodge, so come beat the heat and learn something neat! All activities are included with Zoo admission.
More info

KBB Summer Series #3
2025-07-26
Join BIRLC as we support Keep Brevard Beautiful with cleanups!
Third and Final Summer Series event
Location – Haulover Canal in Titusville
Kayaks – TBA
Afterparty – Playalinda/Brix Project
Learn more: keepbrevardbeautiful.org/frontpage-article/summer-series-2025
REGISTER

Science Sundays at the Zoo: Physics
2025-07-27 10:00 - 15:00 | Brevard Zoo, 8225 N Wickham Rd, Melbourne, FL, 32940, United States
What makes birds such amazing aviators? Join us for some aviary fun as students match paper bird wings to their species and learn about the aerodynamics of flying!
Brevard Indian River Lagoon Coalition:
Become a citizen scientist while learning what makes the brackish Indian River Lagoon unique and how it supports 4300 species of plants and animals the most diverse population of wildlife in the United States. Identify plants and animals that live in the lagoon. Answer questions about how humans effect the health of the lagoon and what we can do to reduce our impact on the lagoon using interactive games.
From fascinating animal behavior demonstrations to interactive exhibits on conservation and environmental science, discover how learning and fun collide during this summertime program series designed to inspire curiosity and foster a love of science among guests of all ages. Activities take place in our air-conditioned Nyami Nyami River Lodge, so come beat the heat and learn something neat! All activities are included with Zoo admission.
More info

Bioluminescent Kayak Paddle
2025-07-28 20:30 - 22:00
Cocoa Beach Country Club Kayak Ramp
5000 Tom Warriner Blvd
Cocoa Beach, FL
$50 for family membership includes 3 paddlers
$35 for non-members includes new membership for 2025-2026
Free for members with own kayak
more info

National Coloring Book Day
2025-08-02
Here’s a celebration for everyone who likes to stay within the lines (and everybody who doesn’t, hey, it’s your coloring book). It’s National Coloring Book Day and the Brevard Indian River Lagoon Coalition wants everyone to join in the fun.

Your favorite critters from in and around the lagoon are ready for you to print out and fill in with your medium of choice (crayons, watercolor, finger paints, tempera—you get the idea). Download the pdf and get your creative juices flowing.
DOWNLOAD THE PDF HERE

National Coloring Book Day is celebrated on August 2nd. It was created in 2015 by National Day Calendar and Dover Publications to promote the enjoyment and therapeutic benefits of coloring, both for children and adults.
More Info

Science Sundays at the Zoo: Sensory Science
2025-08-03 10:00 - 15:00 | Brevard Zoo, 8225 N Wickham Rd, Melbourne, FL, 32940, United States
During this Science Sundays lesson, we’re welcoming exceptional education students to learn all about what senses humans have in common with animals!
Brevard Indian River Lagoon Coalition:
Become a citizen scientist while learning what makes the brackish Indian River Lagoon unique and how it supports 4300 species of plants and animals the most diverse population of wildlife in the United States. Identify plants and animals that live in the lagoon. Answer questions about how humans effect the health of the lagoon and what we can do to reduce our impact on the lagoon using interactive games.
From fascinating animal behavior demonstrations to interactive exhibits on conservation and environmental science, discover how learning and fun collide during this summertime program series designed to inspire curiosity and foster a love of science among guests of all ages. Activities take place in our air-conditioned Nyami Nyami River Lodge, so come beat the heat and learn something neat! All activities are included with Zoo admission.
More info

Science Sundays at the Zoo: Nutritional Science
2025-08-10 10:00 - 15:00 | Brevard Zoo, 8225 N Wickham Rd, Melbourne, FL, 32940, United States
Step into the kitchen to learn more about how we prepare food for our animals. Work with Zoo staff to create real food-based enrichment items and even make a “cake” to watch our monkeys eat!
Brevard Indian River Lagoon Coalition:
Become a citizen scientist while learning what makes the brackish Indian River Lagoon unique and how it supports 4300 species of plants and animals the most diverse population of wildlife in the United States. Identify plants and animals that live in the lagoon. Answer questions about how humans effect the health of the lagoon and what we can do to reduce our impact on the lagoon using interactive games.
From fascinating animal behavior demonstrations to interactive exhibits on conservation and environmental science, discover how learning and fun collide during this summertime program series designed to inspire curiosity and foster a love of science among guests of all ages. Activities take place in our air-conditioned Nyami Nyami River Lodge, so come beat the heat and learn something neat! All activities are included with Zoo admission.
More info

Science Sundays at the Zoo: Botany: Bonsai and Botanicals
2025-08-17 10:00 - 15:00
Immerse yourself in the art of bonsai at this annual event hosted by the Bonsai Society of Brevard! Explore more than 40 stunning miniature trees, enjoy live care demonstrations, browse a variety of unique vendors and learn about the incredible world of botany—including the amazing plants we care for right here at Brevard Zoo. Discover the science behind how plants help power the planet!
Brevard Indian River Lagoon Coalition:
Become a citizen scientist while learning what makes the brackish Indian River Lagoon unique and how it supports 4300 species of plants and animals the most diverse population of wildlife in the United States. Identify plants and animals that live in the lagoon. Answer questions about how humans effect the health of the lagoon and what we can do to reduce our impact on the lagoon using interactive games.
From fascinating animal behavior demonstrations to interactive exhibits on conservation and environmental science, discover how learning and fun collide during this summertime program series designed to inspire curiosity and foster a love of science among guests of all ages. Activities take place in our air-conditioned Nyami Nyami River Lodge, so come beat the heat and learn something neat! All activities are included with Zoo admission.
More info

Science Sundays at the Zoo: Behavioral Science
2025-08-24 10:00 - 15:00 | Brevard Zoo, 8225 N Wickham Rd, Melbourne, FL, 32940, United States
Discover the fascinating science behind how zookeepers use positive reinforcement and behavioral techniques to train animals at the zoo! Enjoy interactive games and a hands-on learning station that highlight how training helps keep animals healthy, active and mentally engaged.
Brevard Indian River Lagoon Coalition:
Become a citizen scientist while learning what makes the brackish Indian River Lagoon unique and how it supports 4300 species of plants and animals the most diverse population of wildlife in the United States. Identify plants and animals that live in the lagoon. Answer questions about how humans effect the health of the lagoon and what we can do to reduce our impact on the lagoon using interactive games.
From fascinating animal behavior demonstrations to interactive exhibits on conservation and environmental science, discover how learning and fun collide during this summertime program series designed to inspire curiosity and foster a love of science among guests of all ages. Activities take place in our air-conditioned Nyami Nyami River Lodge, so come beat the heat and learn something neat! All activities are included with Zoo admission.
More info

Science Sundays at the Zoo: Enviornmental Science
2025-08-31 10:00 - 15:00 | Brevard Zoo, 8225 N Wickham Rd, Melbourne, FL, 32940, United States
Big changes in our community start with us! Join a member of our Restore Our Shores team to learn more about Florida native plants and how they help our Indian River Lagoon.
Brevard Indian River Lagoon Coalition:
Become a citizen scientist while learning what makes the brackish Indian River Lagoon unique and how it supports 4300 species of plants and animals the most diverse population of wildlife in the United States. Identify plants and animals that live in the lagoon. Answer questions about how humans effect the health of the lagoon and what we can do to reduce our impact on the lagoon using interactive games.
From fascinating animal behavior demonstrations to interactive exhibits on conservation and environmental science, discover how learning and fun collide during this summertime program series designed to inspire curiosity and foster a love of science among guests of all ages. Activities take place in our air-conditioned Nyami Nyami River Lodge, so come beat the heat and learn something neat! All activities are included with Zoo admission.
More info

Laurilee Thompson to Speak at Turtle Coast Sierra Club Meeting
2025-09-25 18:30 - 20:00
Unitarian Universalist Friendship Fellowship, located at 3115 Friendship Pl, Rockledge, FL 32955.
The Public is invited. Doors will open at 6:30 pm, allowing ample time for mingling before the meeting commences at 7:00 pm.
Presentation by Laurilee Thompson (Dixie Crossroads) talking about protecting the Indian River Lagoon.
The Indian River Lagoon (IRL) is a national treasure. Considered one of the most biologically diverse estuaries in North America, its mangrove wetlands and salt marshes provide breeding, nursery and feeding areas for a variety of organisms. From youthful days spent commercially fishing on the IRL, to an activist’s role sixty years later, Laurilee Thompson has lived through the IRL’s best and worst times. Come and hear her story.

OUR LAGOON. OUR LEGACY.
2025-10-02 17:30 - 20:00 | Dixie Crossroads, 1475 Garden Street, Titusville, FL, 32796, United States
OCTOBER 2 | Dixie Crossroads | Titusville
Celebrate the Traditions of Fishing and the Projects that Benefit the Wild Inhabitants of our Lagoon.
Hear about the projects and the progress being made to improve the Lagoon.
Ask your questions and learn about the restoration from the fishing perspective. Has fishing improved or declined in the Brevard County portion of the Indian River Lagoon since the restoration effort started in 2016? What more is needed to restore fishing to a sustainable level?
Join us for food and music and Straight Talk from experts.
Speakers
Chris Peterson serves as CEO of Hell’s Bay Boatworks, a leading supplier of flatwater skiffs that is located in Titusville. He is an ardent supporter of marine conservation An active fisherman, Chris serves on the St. Johns River Water Management District Board of Governors and is active with the Captains for Clean Water organization.
Dr. Aaron Adams is the Director of Science and Conservation at the Bonefish & Tarpon Trust and Senior Scientist at Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute. He serves as a member on the Save Our Indian River Lagoon Citizen Oversight Committee which oversees lagoon restoration in Brevard County.
Jon Cave is an author, photographer and lecturer plus a USCG licensed guide. He has been a professional fly casting and fly tying instructor for more than 25 years. He is the founder of the longest established flyfishing school in the South. His credentials include a M.S. Degree in Natural Resources with a special concentration on fisheries.
These speakers have been asked to share their observations and opinions regarding the restoration of the Indian River lagoon and other Florida water bodies, specifically the impact on fishing. Following the presentations, the speakers will serve as a panel to answer questions from the audience.
SCHEDULE (tentative/subject to change):
Paul & Kay Garfinkel
5:30 pm Buffet & Musical Kick Off by Paul & Kay Garfinkel of the Ashley Gang
6:15 pm Special Guest Introductions & Sponsor Acknowledgements
6:20 pm Program: Celebrating Fishing & Lagoon Restoration**
Visit Exhibitors 5:30–7:00 pm
*Reserved Seats will be held until 10 minutes before start of event. Please plan to arrive early.
Buffet provided by Dixie Crossroads

KEEP WATCHING HERE
We hope to see you in the audience on October 2. Lend your voice to the discussions about stewardship and education.
A Healthy Lagoon Benefits us all – especially our Friends with Fins. This is a FREE EVENT. Seating is limited.
Sponsor our efforts to ensure our priceless Lagoon is restored and preserved for this generation and generations yet to be born. Loving & Living the Lagoon Life, as so many of us do, this is your opportunity to contribute to bringing this message to new audiences.
YOUR SUPPORT MATTERS
Help us keep reaching out to tell the Lagoon story.

Indian River Lagoon Day
2025-10-18 09:00 - 14:00
Come Celebrate Indian River Lagoon Day! 🌿
Bring your friends and family out to Claude Edge Front Street Park in Melbourne, FL on Saturday, October 18 for a day of fun, learning, and love for our lagoon!

9am to 2pm

✅ Hands-on activities
✅ Local environmental groups
✅ Family fun & community vibes
✅ Beautiful waterfront views

Let’s come together to explore, protect, and celebrate the Indian River Lagoon. Everyone’s invited—see you there!

THOUSAND ISLANDS FESTIVAL/Cocoa Beach
2025-11-08 11:00 - 17:00
Don’t miss this event.
Cocoa Beach Pool Pavilion
Island Boat & Kayak Tours, Music, Kid Activities, Lagoon Restoration Hands-On Demos, Lagoon Expert Talks, Scavenger Hunt, Geocaching, Food Trucks, Beer & Wine and more.
Thousand Islands Conservation Area is a 338-acre site located on the Banana River adjacent to Cocoa Beach and consists of a series of islands in the Indian River Lagoon. The area is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including storks, alligators, manatees, as well as rare and endangered tropical plants. The primary access point is from Ramp Road boat ramp in Cocoa Beach.
https://www.brevardfl.gov/EELProgram/Sanctuaries/ThousandIslandsConservationArea

Details coming soon.

Sebastian Mangrove Workshop
2025-11-22 09:00 - 12:00
ABOUT

About the event

Marine Resources Council runs one of the largest licensed mangrove nursery in the state of Florida. Thier Sebastian property is host to a large nursery with ~9000 plants. This nursery provides red, white, and black mangroves that are used for restoration projects across the state.

What will volunteers do?

At mangrove workshops, volunteers help with nursery maintenance while learning about mangrove care and restoration projects. Task generally include potting, re-potting, weeding, and watering plants. Additional activities of trail maintenance and invasive species removal may be possible depending on need.

What will volunteers need to bring or wear?

Volunteers should be prepared to be in the Florida heat and humidity. Hats, water, sunscreen (or UPF clothing), and close-toed are required. Gloves, shovels, and kneepads are available but feel free to bring your own from home! There is NO bathroom or water fountain available on site, so please be prepared!

9140 86th Ave, Vero Beach, FL, USA

What should volunteers know about the location?

Please park in the grass on the right side of the driveway across from the greenhouse. Please do not pull up to the greenhouse or park at the care taker’s residence.

More Info

County Workshop Meeting - Titusville
2026-01-05 18:00 - 21:00
To get public input on 2026 SOIRL Renewal.

Titusville City Council Chambers
Titusville City Hall
555 S Washington Ave, Titusville, FL 32907

Brevard County Master Gardener Volunteer Program
2026-01-07 09:00 - 15:00
The Florida Master Gardener Volunteer Program relies on trained and dedicated volunteers interested in gardening and giving back to their communities. Master Gardeners have the opportunity to participate in plant clinics at their local libraries, tend to the Brevard Discovery Garden, perform site visits to help their fellow community members, and much more! If helping others and learning about horticulture practices is something you enjoy, consider signing up for our next Master Gardener class! We now offer a Saturday option for those who are busy during the week!

County Workshop Meeting - Palm Bay
2026-01-12 18:00 - 21:00
To get public input on the 2026 SOIRL Renewal.
Palm Bay City Council Chambers
Palm Bay City Hall
120 Malabar Rd SE, Palm Bay, FL 32907

27th Annual Space Coast Birding & Wildlife Festival
2026-01-21 - 2026-01-25
Florida is rich in native populations of wildlife and birds, but it is also on a busy route for migrating birds stopping over for the winter.

Florida’s Space Coast – home to Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, Canaveral National Seashore, and Kennedy Space Center, is one of the best birding locations in the United States because it is situated at the convergence of two zones — temperate and subtropical — creating a natural diversity of unique habitats that attract varied bird species.
For a crash course on Florida’s wildlife, this Festival is ideal for all ages, from beginners to veterans.
Radisson Resort at the Port Cape Canaveral, Florida
More Info

Florida's Horseshoe Crab Watch Volunteer Program - Training
2026-01-22 - 2026-01-23
Volunteers Needed! | From February to April (*training required)
The Florida Horseshoe Crab Watch program is looking for volunteers in Brevard to survey for horseshoe crabs from February to April. There is an online training and an in-person skills training required to become a volunteer. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Holly Abeels at habeels@ufl.edu.
Learn more
*Training will be held on January 22nd and January 23rd. Register Above!

Hydroponics Make & Take Workshop
2026-01-22 10:30 - 12:00
Interested in growing your own food in a hydroponics system? Join us to learn simple techniques to build your own hydroponic bucket and leave the class with a functional hydroponic system, including three lettuce seedlings actively growing.
Learn more
January 22nd | 10:30 am – 12 pm & 5:30pm 7pm – | Registration Required

Benefit Concert for the Lagoon
2026-02-04 19:00 - 21:00
The Brevard Indian River Lagoon Coalition is proud to be bringing national recording artists Freebo and Alice Howe to the Schenck Shop Schack for a Benefit Concert for the Lagoon on Wednesday February 4th at 7PM. Proceeds will go to help further the educational programs that have helped the healing of the Indian River Lagoon over the past 9 years.
Grab your tickets today
With the efforts of the SOIRL (Save Our Indian River Lagoon) program and many other organizations, we are seeing improvements but know we still have a long way to go.
Please click the link below to purchase tickets. We have limited seating and expect a sellout.
Alice Howe & Freebo have undeniable chemistry. Rock bass legend Freebo weaves his fretless stylings into Alice’s soulful, impeccably-tuned vocals for a harmony-driven performance showcasing two uniquely compelling songwriters.
Best known for his ten years playing bass with Bonnie Raitt, Freebo has toured and recorded with some of the greatest artists of his generation, including John Mayall, Ringo Starr, Crosby Stills & Nash, Maria Muldaur, Joe Walsh, and Dr. John. For the past twenty-five years, he’s been writing, recording, and performing his own original music. To hear Alice Howe sing is to be enraptured by the natural, unaffected beauty of her voice. There’s no artifice, no histrionics — just honest, authentic, emotionally resonant singing in the tradition of the roots music that shaped her. She recently had the honor of being named Best Female Artist at the International Acoustic Music Awards.
Freebo and Alice have been working as a duo since 2017, and he produced her latest record Circumstance, recorded at iconic FAME Studios in Muscle Shoals, Alabama. Their latest album Alice Howe & Freebo Live is their first release as a duo, and it debuted as the #1 Most Played Album on the Folk Radio Charts.
“When these two get together, prepare yourself for an extraordinary evening of song and smiles, and maybe a tear or two. Powerful songwriting, mesmerizing vocals, outstanding musicianship, and a palpable camaraderie make for an experience unsurpassed on the contemporary acoustic scene.” – Ron Olesko, The Folk Music Notebook
For more information on what you can do to help the Lagoon, go to www.HelpTheLagoon.org
To join us on February 4, for the concert, go here:
GET TICKETS
