Here’s how to get into the holiday spirit on the Treasure Coast.
Source: Christmas parades, ice skating, Singing Tree, symphony, holiday events top this weekend
Friday, November 30, 2018
Christmas parades, ice skating, Singing Tree, symphony, holiday events top this weekend
Thursday, November 29, 2018
Wage Increases Make Home Buying More Affordable
Everyone knows that housing affordability has been negatively impacted by rising prices and increasing mortgage rates, but there is another piece to the affordability equation – wages.
How much a family earns obviously impacts how easy or difficult it is for them to afford to own a home. Because of an improving economy, wages are finally beginning to increase – and that dramatically affects home affordability.
Source: Wage Increases Make Home Buying More Affordable
Monday, November 26, 2018
Ask the Builder: Good set of plans best defense against bad builder
Recently, I spent 30 minutes speaking by phone to a gentleman who lives in New Jersey. It was a grim call because he was thinking about suing his builder.I began helping this man more than a year ago as he started to build his dream home. Unfortunately, he signed a contract with a dishonest builder and didn’t discover it until it was too late.I’ve done expert testimony in building-defect lawsuits for almost 20 years.
Source: Ask the Builder: Good set of plans best defense against bad builder
Wednesday, November 21, 2018
10 Interesting, Fun Facts About Thanksgiving
Here are 10 interesting fun facts about Thanksgiving.
Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays. I love getting together with loved ones to make new memories, and I love stuffing myself with all the yummy food. Aside from the turkey, pumpkin pie, and football, have you ever wondered about the origins and traditions of Thanksgiving Day? Here is a list of 10 interesting fun facts about Thanksgiving that will give you more insight about the origins and traditions of the holiday.
1. The First Thanksgiving
Although there are several claims as to where the first Thanksgiving took place, the traditional story that we associate with Thanksgiving is the three day pilgrim celebration that took place in 1621 at Plymouth Colony, in present day Massachusetts. This is regarded as the first American Thanksgiving. Over 200 years later President Abraham Lincoln issued a Thanksgiving Proclamation declaring the last Thursday in November as a national day of thanksgiving. It wasn’t until 1941 that Congress made Thanksgiving an official national holiday.
2. Pardoning The Turkey
Every year since 1947, the National Thanksgiving Turkey Presentation is a ceremony that takes place at the White House a few days before Thanksgiving. During the ceremony the President of the United States is presented with one live turkey, and two fully-dressed turkeys. The president does not eat the live turkey, instead he “pardons” the bird and spares it from being slaughtered. After being pardoned, the turkey then gets to live out its days on a farm.
3. The Annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
The tradition of the annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade began in 1924 in New York City. The parade was originally known as Macy’s Christmas Parade to help commence the beginning of the Christmas shopping season. Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade was launched by Macy’s employees, and featured animals from the Central Park zoo. There were also not as many balloons in the parade then as there are now. Today it is estimated that about 3 million people attend the parade in New York City, and that about 44 million people watch the parade on TV from the comfort of their home. I have watched this parade almost every year of my life. It’s a tradition that I look forward to every year.
4. Busiest Travel Day Of The Year
Thanksgiving Day is the busiest travel day of the year. The American Automobile Association (AAA) has estimated that over 42 million Americans travel by car 50 miles or more over the holiday weekend. Another 4 million people fly the skies to visit their loved ones for the holiday.
5. The First Thanksgiving Feast
The first Thanksgiving feast in 1621 was not too different than our own traditional Thanksgiving dinner. Their feast consisted of turkey, venison, waterfowl, lobster, fish, clams, pumpkin, squash, berries, and fruit. Aside from the seafood, most of the foods that were eaten on that first Thanksgiving have become staples of our present-day Thanksgiving feast.
6. We Eat A lot Of Turkey
According to the National Turkey Federation, over 95% of Americans eat turkey on Thanksgiving. Around 280 million turkeys are sold for Thanksgiving feasts. There Is no official reason as to why turkey is the food of choice for Thanksgiving meals. Turkeys were the most plentiful meat at the time of the first Thanksgiving in 1621, and ever since then we’ve carried on the tradition of eating turkey for Thanksgiving.
7. Cranberries Are More Than Just A Side Dish
Cranberries are one of only three fruits that are native to North America. Native Americans were the first to reap the many benefits of cranberries. Aside from eating cranberries, Native Americans used the red juice from cranberries a dye for clothing, rugs, and blankets. They also used cranberries as a medicine to treat ailments, and to treat arrow wounds. Native Americans believed in the medicinal use of cranberries long before scientists discovered their health benefits. Nowadays, cranberries are an essential side dish to our Thanksgiving feast.
8. Thanksgiving Postage Stamp
In 2001, the U.S. Postal Service issued a commemorative stamp in honor of Thanksgiving. The stamp was designed by artist Margaret Cusack, and it was made to resemble traditional folk-art needlework. The stamp was created to commemorate the tradition of being thankful for the abundance of goods we enjoy in America.
9. The Wishbone Tradition
The wishbone of the turkey is used in a good luck tradition on Thanksgiving. The tradition consists of two people tugging on either end of the bone trying to win the larger piece. Whoever wins the larger piece gets to make a wish. This tradition dates back to the Etruscans of 322 B.C. The Romans brought the tradition with them when they conquered England, and the English colonists then proceeded to carry the tradition to America.
10. Football On Thanksgiving
In the United States, football is a major part of the Thanksgiving celebration. Dating back to the first college football game between Yale and Princeton that was held on Thanksgiving Day in 1876, football games have since become synonymous with Thanksgiving ever since. It’s interesting to think that one football game played in 1876 would have such an impact and create a tradition that would be carried on for years to come.
Source: 10 Interesting, Fun Facts About Thanksgiving
6 Things You Shouldn’t Ask A Real Estate Agent Over Thanksgiving Dinner
It’s probably just making small talk, but there are certain questions people seem to always ask real estate agents at holiday gatherings, cocktail parties, weddings, and even funerals. So, with Thanksgiving just days away, here are a few of the questions that seem to be commonly asked… and why you shouldn’t ask them.
#1 “You still doin’ real estate?”
I know it doesn’t sound like a horrible question. It probably isn’t a question people think twice about asking… just making conversation. But it’s essentially saying you never expected the person to make it in the business. Like you’d be somewhat surprised if they say yes. It also inadvertently suggests that you don’t view it as a true career. It’s a hard business. It takes a lot to make a go of it. People do come and go quite quickly and often. So it helps when agents feel the love and support of people close to them. And even though this question seems so innocent, it’s also one that cuts kinda deep without anyone even knowing. I doubt many agents even think twice about this question. But I also bet it affects them more than they are aware. But it certainly isn’t as bad a question as…
#2 “Why don’t you try and get a real job?”
Being a real estate agent may not be a job in the sense many people are used to. It certainly isn’t one that you just show up to from 9 to 5 and collect a paycheck at the end of the week. People who are used to a “normal” job probably can’t fathom why anyone would be a real estate agent instead of working for a company that gives them a steady paycheck, vacation days, and sick time. But being a real estate agent is a career. Again, it is a tough career to succeed in. Agents are often doing everything they can to stay positive and focused. And if they’re focused, they probably won’t have an answer for the next question…
#3 “What’s your back-up plan?”
At this point, you get it. Just. Don’t. Ask.
#4 “Do you have any listings that are good deals?”
Probably another question people are just asking to make conversation. But it implies you’d be interested in buying a house, if the agent happened to have a listing that was a good deal. If the agent has a listing, they can’t (or at least shouldn’t) be telling you it’s a good deal, or help you buy it at a price that’s a good deal. They should be representing their client’s best interest and getting the highest price they can for them. But this question may just be a matter of not understanding what it means when one asks, “Do you have any listings…” Just know that the agent can, and certainly will, help you find a great deal that they are not the listing agent on. They can and will show you listings of other agents, just probably not their own. (Probably better that way…)
#5 “How’s the market?”
This is too broad of a question. The market is never entirely good, bad, or somewhere in between. It’s always good for some people, bad for others. How the market is depends entirely upon you and your needs and circumstances. Not a bad question really. But it certainly isn’t one that an agent can or should just answer flippantly. So if you ask it, maybe you should be prepared to get into your specific scenario so they can accurately answer it. Too many people get flippant answers from agents and base their perspective on the real estate market, and overall economy, on off-handed answers to questions like this.
#6 “How much is my house worth?”
This one goes hand in hand with the one above. Most agents will have a fairly decent range in mind for what your home is worth if they know the area and know your house. But I can’t tell you how many times I’ve sat with someone to go over an analysis of their home’s value, and then they tell me they were told by several agents that their home is worth “$XXX,XXX”. When I dig a little bit, it often turns out it was just in casual conversations at a get-together. No analysis was done. A number was just shot out of an agent’s mouth. It’s funny how often people don’t trust or believe real estate agents. Yet when given a casual answer to what seems like a casual question, a homeowner often holds onto that “value” as if it was absolute truth. In turn, homeowners often have a false sense of what their true equity is in their home, which in turn directly affects their perception of their wealth and net worth.
The Takeaway
There’s nothing inherently wrong with these questions, but just know that if you want an accurate answer you should ask the agent to truly roll up their sleeves and give you a good analysis and explanation. And that just can’t be done as they pass you the gravy. Check back tomorrow for a list of really good topics and questions you should ask a real estate agent. You’ll be amazed at how much better of a conversation you can get going with those.
Source: 6 Things You Shouldn’t Ask A Real Estate Agent Over Thanksgiving Dinner
Tuesday, November 20, 2018
FDR establishes modern Thanksgiving holiday
President Franklin D. Roosevelt signs a bill officially establishing the fourth Thursday in November as Thanksgiving Day.
Source: FDR establishes modern Thanksgiving holiday
Friday, November 16, 2018
Three major annual festivals dominate this weekend’s events with one in each Treasure Coast county.
The St. Helen’s Harvest Festival in Vero Beach has been around for more than 50 years. The Jensen Beach Pineapple Festival is still going after 30 years. The Treasure Coast Wine & Ale Trail Festival is brand new.
Plus, there’s no shortage of other fun things to do in Martin, St. Lucie and Indian River counties, including a bacon and barbecue festival and a beachside bonfire bash.
Eat pineapples, learn history.
The 31st annual Jensen Beach Pineapple Festival is 6-11 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday in downtown Jensen Beach. The art and craft show is 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday.
Downtown restaurants will offer pineapple-themed entrees. Art galleries and gift shops will have pineapple-inspired displays. There also will be pineapple-centered activities, including pineapple eating contests, cooking contests and a pineapple chop demonstration.
Here are some of the pineapple-themed dishes:
- Mulligan’s Beach House Bar & Grill: Caribbean Pineapple Mahi and Pineapple French Toast
- Jan’s Place Restaurant: Mini Pineapple Upside Down Cake, Ham and Pineapple Omelet, Hawaiian Burger, Pineapple Coconut Muffins and Pineapple Coconut French Toast
- Pineapple Jack’s Bistro: Pineapple by-the-sea and Pineapple Crabby Cakes
- Mary’s Gourmet Restaurant: Pineapple Coconut Cake
- Lures Riverfront Restaurant: Ace Pineapple Cider; Lures signature Rum Runners; Fresh Fish Tacos with shredded lettuce, jack cheese and homemade pineapple salsa; and Chicken Sandwich with Teriyaki and grilled pineapple rings
- Crawdaddy’s: Pontchartrain Pineapple Skirt Steak and Papa Legba’s Pineapple Punch
- The Goose Pub: Pineapple Upside Down Shots
- Bunkhouse Coffee Bar: Pineapple Smoothies
The festival also will feature carnival rides, live music from local bands, information about the history of Jensen Beach and the return of the beautiful baby contest and the pineapple prince and princess competition.
Admission is free. A concert seat can be reserved for $10. A $20 unlimited ride wristband is available 6-10 p.m. Friday, noon to 6 p.m. Saturday or noon to 6 p.m. Sunday. Parking is limited, but a large public parking lot is directly north of festival site on Indian River Drive and Pineapple Avenue. For more information, call 772-334-3444 or go to www.pineapplefestival.info.
LAURIE’S STORIES: Jensen Beach Pineapple Festival is revamped with homegrown theme
Take a beer journey
The Treasure Coast Wine & Ale Trail Festival is 1-5 p.m. Saturday at Summer Crush Vineyard & Winery at 4200 Johnston Road near Fort Pierce.
Ticket holders get 25 tokens, and each is worth a 2-ounce sample from the 11 members of the trail: Summer Crush, Sailfish Brewing Company, Pareidolia Brewing Company, Orchid Island Brewery, Side Door Brewing Company, Walking Tree Brewery, Islamorada Brewing Company, Hop Life Brewing Company, American Icon Brewing Company, Pierced Ciderworks and Mash Monkeys Brewing Company.
The festival also features live music, food trucks and yard games, as well as several area artists displaying and selling their handcrafted items.
Tickets are $20 each in advance and $25 at the event. To get tickets, go to www.summercrushwine.com. For more information, go to www.tcwineandaletrail.com.
LAURIE’S STORIES: Treasure Coast Wine & Ale Trail Festival first to feature only local beer
LAURIE’S STORIES: TCPalm’s Brew Tour brings craft beer lovers together in Sebastian
Devour bacon and barbecue
The Bacon and BBQ Festival is 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday at Veterans Memorial Park and the River Walk Center at 600 N. Indian River Drive in Fort Pierce.
The festival showcases many bacon recipes and different types of barbecue, each with the option of adding some bacon. The event also has a children’s fun zone, vendors and exhibits and live entertainment, in addition to bacon cocktails and bacon desserts.
Admission is free, but the food isn’t. Bring non-perishable food donations for the Treasure Coast Food Bank. For more information, call 561-792-9260 or go to www.baconandbbq.com.
MORE: Bacon, bacon and more bacon: Time for the Bacon and BBQ Festival
Shop for the holidays
The Indian River State College chapter of Delta Epsilon Chi’s 38th annual DECA Holiday Bazaar is 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday at the IRSC Main Campus at 3209 Virginia Ave., in Fort Pierce.
The bazaar features live music, food trucks and more than 100 vendors with craft and gift items, including holiday decorations, toys and fabric. The event is planned, coordinated and organized by IRSC business students.
MORE: Do some shopping at IRSC’s annual DECA Holiday Bazaar on Nov. 17
Admission and parking are free. Proceeds benefit the President’s Challenge Scholarship Fund, which provides full two-year scholarships to financially disadvantaged students who maintain good grades and complete high school. For more information, call 866-792-4772 or go to www.irsc.edu.
MORE: Looking for a holiday bazaar on the Treasure Coast?
Take a hike
Celebrate National Take A Hike Day from 9-11 a.m. Saturday at Savannas Preserve State Park at 2541 S.E. Walton Road in Port St. Lucie.
Hike the pine flatwoods with Ranger Paul for two hours on mostly flat, mostly dry trails through the park. Meet at the education center. No pets allowed. Space is limited. To register, call 772-398-2779.
LAURIE’S STORIES: Learn about local history, environment by hiking during Florida winter
Sein in the seagrass
Family Seining in the Seagrasses is 9-10:30 a.m. Sunday at the Smithsonian Marine Station and Ecosystems Exhibit at 420 Seaway Drive in Fort Pierce.
Discover some of the animals that live in the seagrass beds of the Indian River Lagoon through a brief presentation inside the aquarium, followed by a seine-netting lesson where participants enter the water and collect animals in the same manner as Smithsonian scientists and aquarists.
The cost, which includes aquarium admission, is $6 for adults and $5 for children who aren’t museum members and $5 for adults and $4 for children who are members. Advanced payment is required. The event is for ages 6 and older. All participants must wear clothes that can get wet and water shoes with heel straps. To register, call 772-465-3271. For more information, go to www.sms.si.edu.
LAURIE’S STORIES: How to show visitors the best of Fort Pierce in one weekend
Harvest a good time
Catherine Thyrn (left), 3, walks with her uncle Anthony Schlitt, of Vero Beach, Thursday, November 16, 2017, while attending the first night of the 53rd annual St. Helen’s Harvest Festival at Historic Dodgertown. “We’re coming out here, rain or shine, to support the cause,” Schlitt said. The event continues Friday, noon-11 p.m. Saturday and noon-6 p.m. Sunday. Admission is free.
53rd annual St. Helen’s Harvest Festival at Historic Dodgertown
The 54th annual St. Helen’s Harvest Festival is 5-9:30 p.m. Thursday, 5-11 p.m. Friday, noon to 11 p.m. Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday at Historic Dodgertown on 26th Street, east of 43rd Avenue, in Vero Beach.
Enjoy games, a variety of festival food, hand-crafted gifts and carnival rides for all ages at the midway. Admission and parking are free. Ride tickets $1.25 each. For more information, call 772-567-5457 or go to the Harvest Festival’s Facebook page.
MORE: Going to St. Helen’s Harvest Festival is a tradition for many in Vero Beach
Get in the holiday spirit
The 21st annual Festival of Trees is 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday at Riverside Theatre at 3250 Riverside Park Drive in Vero Beach.
The event includes the festival forest, Santa’s village, a synthetic ice skating rink for kids, a grand festival hall, Christmas shopping at holiday vendor booths, food and drinks. Family night is 4-8 p.m. Saturday and includes live entertainment, free pizza and other giveaways for kids.
Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for ages 2-12 and free for kids younger than 2 years old. Skating is for kids ages 10 and younger. The skate rental fee is $3. Socks are required. Proceeds benefit the theater’s scholarship and performing arts education programs for kids. For more information, call 772-231-5860 or go to www.riversidetheatre.com.
MORE: 11th Annual Festival of Trees to light up Downtown Stuart Nov. 25- Dec. 1
Visit beach bonfires
The Beachside Bonfire Fest is 6-9 p.m. Saturday at Waldo’s at the Driftwood Resort, Costa d’Este Beach Resort & Spa, Mulligan’s Beach House Bar & Grill and Vero Beach Hotel & Spa.
Enjoy four different themed bonfires at each of the Ocean Drive locations, as well as food, drinks and live music. Attendees are encouraged to use a shuttle from Riverside Park to the locations.
Visit each location to complete a stamped raffle card. Completed cards will be entered into a raffle to win a basket from each location. Proceeds from a raffle benefit the Vero Beach Lifeguard Association. For more information, go to www.verobeach100.com.
MORE: Ms. Vero Centennial’s picks for November happenings
Toast to the centennial
Vero Vino Wine & Food Festival drinks in successful first year
The second annual Vero Vino Food & Wine Festival is 4-6 p.m. Saturday at The Heritage Center and Indian River Citrus Museum at 2140 14th Ave., in Vero Beach.
The festival features catered food paired with nearly 20 domestic and international wines, as well as creative desserts and beer. Plus, there’s live jazz music and a silent auction.
Admission is $60 per person and includes a centennial t-shirt. Proceeds benefit Little Birthday Angels and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Indian River County. For more information, go to www.verovinofestival.com.
MORE: TCPalm’s full Vero Beach Centennial coverage
Buy a boat, get nautical
The 35th annual Vero Beach Fall Boat Show is 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday at Riverside Park at 3200 Riverside Park Drive.
Boat dealers and suppliers from the area will display their products and have staff available to answer questions. Products include standup paddleboards, kayaks, deck boats, pontoon boats, shallow water skiffs, personal watercraft, offshore fishing machines, cruisers, marine accessories and services and nautical goodies. Plus, there will be food, refreshments and fishing seminars.
Admission and parking are free. For more information, call 772-562-7922 or go to www.verobeachboatshow.com.
LAURIE’S STORIES: Kayak, paddle, hike or fish at Round Island Riverside Park
Watch bodysurfers
The seventh annual Shore LB. Bodysurf Contest begins 10 a.m. Saturday at South Beach Park at 1704 Ocean Drive in Vero Beach. Registration begins at 9 a.m.
A barbecue lunch will be available. Proceeds benefit the Vero Beach Lifeguard Association. For more information, go to www.facebook.com/shorelb.
Save the seagrasses
The sixth annual Capt Hiram’s River Challenge Triathlon starts 7:30 a.m. Sunday at Capt Hiram’s Resort at 1580 U.S. 1 in Sebastian.
Watch as triathletes swim a quarter-mile, bicycle 12 miles and run 3 miles. The challenge is followed by a post-race party with live music, brunch, cocktails and an awards ceremony.
The purpose of the annual sprint triathlon is to raise awareness about the perils that face the Indian River Lagoon and to showcase Sebastian. The event has raised about $15,000 since it started. Proceeds benefit the Environmental Learning Center, Ocean Research & Conservation Association and Coastal Conservation Association Florida. For more information, call 772-581-6179 or go to www.hirams.com/triathlon.
Gamble in another decade
The Speakeasy Casino Night is 7-11 p.m. Saturday at Walking Tree Brewery at 3209 Dodger Road in Vero Beach.
The night includes blackjack, roulette three-card poker, craps, raffles, prizes, live music, a food truck and a costume contest with a Roaring ‘20s theme.
Proceeds benefit the “Words from War” Iraq/Afghanistan monument and the Veterans Council of Indian River County. For more information, call 772-217-3502 or go to www.facebook.com/walkingtreebrewery.
LAURIE’S STORIES: Breweries aren’t just about beer anymore; game nights attract customers
Hang with the whole family
The Buggy Bunch’s Family Fun Day is 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. at American Icon Brewery at 1133 19th Place in Vero Beach.
The day includes a bounce house, a dunk tank, face painting, a corn hole tournament, clowns, a balloon artist, a special appearance by Spiderman, prizes and a raffle.
Anyone who donates $10 to the Buggy Bunch gets $10 off their check. The limit is $20 off per check. For more information, call 772-266-5507 or go to www.facebook.com/americaniconbrewery.
LAURIE’S STORIES: Line dancing isn’t just about country music anymore
Next weekend’s preview
- Heathcote’s Garden of Lights at Heathcote Botanical Gardens in Fort Pierce
- Sunset/Full Moon Kayak Tour at Stan Blum Boat Ramp in Fort Pierce
- DRUMline Live Holiday Spectacular at Sunrise Theatre in Fort Pierce
- Line to See Jesus at Lawnwood Stadium in Fort Pierce
- Shop Small in Downtown Fort Pierce
- Turkey Trot at Tradition Town Hall in Port St. Lucie
- Tykes & Teens Festival of Trees & Lights at Flagler Place in Stuart
- Art in the Park Fine Art and Craft Show at Memorial Park in Stuart
- Santa at the Barn at JAG Bar Corral in Indiantown
- ‘90s Night at coffee bar Blue Door in Stuart
- Really Really Free Market at Ground Floor Farm in Stuart
- Shop Small Saturday at Heritage Center in Vero Beach
- Round Island and Pelican Island Wildlife Refuge Kayak and Paddleboard Eco Tours
- Doggie Photos with Santa at A Dog’s Life Doggie Daycare and Training Center in Vero Beach
- Christmas at The Marketplace Bulk Food & More in Sebastian
- Butterfly Release at Earl’s Hideaway Lounge in Sebastian
Laurie K. Blandford is TCPalm’s entertainment reporter and columnist dedicated to finding the best things to do on the Treasure Coast. Read her weekly column, Laurie’s Stories, on TCPalm.com. Follow her on Twitter at @TCPalmLaurie or Facebook at faceboook.com/TCPalmLaurie.
Thursday, November 15, 2018
More Americans are Using Real Estate Agents than Ever Before
A new Harris Insights housing consumer study, which was underwritten by the California Association of Realtors, The CE Shop and REAL Trends, shows a full 90% of consumers use real estate agents to buy and sell their homes. This is a survey high, and is up 5 percentage points from the last study in 2014 and up 9 percentage points from the first study conducted in 2001. The study asked the opinions of 1,000 people who had either bought or sold a home in the last six months.
Wednesday, November 14, 2018
Housing market for retiring baby boomers exploding in western Port St. Lucie
GL Homes and several other builders are selling lots of homes to retiring baby boomers in 55-plus communities in booming western Port St. Lucie.
Source: Housing market for retiring baby boomers exploding in western Port St. Lucie
Friday, November 9, 2018
Brew Fest, bonfire hayride, Peacock Arts District street festival top weekend things to do
Here are the best events across the Treasure Coast.
Source: Brew Fest, bonfire hayride, Peacock Arts District street festival top weekend things to do
Wednesday, November 7, 2018
Friday, November 2, 2018
Navy SEAL Muster in Fort Pierce, Stuart Air Show, Sebastian Clambake top this weekend
These three annual events attract big crowds, but there are other things to do on the Treasure Coast.
It’s the weekend of the big three on the Treasure Coast: the Navy SEAL museum’s Muster in Fort Pierce, the air show in Stuart and the clambake in Sebastian.
These annual events attract large crowds, but there are other fun things to do this weekend in St. Lucie, Martin and Indian River counties.
Check out a blues festival, a home brewing class, a cookie and local beer pairing, a horseback ride, a fermentation festival, an Indian River Lagoon cleanup and a scavenger hunt on bicycles.
The 33rd annual Muster and Music Festival is this weekend at the National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum at 3300 N. State Road A1A on North Hutchinson Island in Fort Pierce.
On Friday, happy hour with drinks and live music from The Humdingers is 5-8 p.m. Museum members can RSVP for a shrimp boil and barbecue dinner at 6 p.m. while non-members can buy tickets for $20 each.
On Saturday, the Muster 5K Run/Walk Beach Challenge is 8 a.m. Starting at 11 a.m. will be demonstrations by the SEAL parachute team known as the Leap Frogs. This will be followed by the keynote speakers, including a Medal of Honor recipient, a Navy SEAL tactical demonstration and a K-9 demonstration. A Medal of Honor ceremony begins at 1 p.m. Plus, there’s live music with Kilt the Messenger and SoulJam, food trucks, alcoholic beverages for sale and a children’s fun zone.
On Sunday, the sunrise memorial service and ashes swim out begins 7 a.m.
Admission to the Muster’s outdoor venue is free. Admission to the museum is reduced for the weekend to $10 for ages 13 and older, $5 for kids 6-12 and free for kids ages 5 and younger and museum members. For more information, call 772-595-5845 or go to www.navysealmuseum.org/muster.
MORE: Weekend of military demonstrations, music and fun at Navy SEAL Museum’s Muster
Listen to the blues
The second annual Big Daddy Blues Festival is 6-10 p.m. Friday and noon to 10 p.m. Saturday at Summer Crush Vineyard & Winery at 4200 Johnston Road north of Fort Pierce.
Entertainers include Jeff Jensen, the Jake Walden Band, Kenny Neal, Terry Hanck, Rockin’ Jake Band and Hurricane Hawk & the Invaders.
A general admission two-day pass is $20 in advance. A general admission single-day pass is $15 the day of the show. A VIP surfboard table two-day pass is $40 in advance. A single-day pass can be upgraded to VIP for $20, if available. For more information, go to www.facebook.com/treasurecoastbluessociety.
HOMEGROWN: Summer Crush Vineyard & Winery in Fort Pierce turns native muscadine grapes into wine
Learn to brew
The Brew School Soiree is noon to 9 p.m. Saturday at Islamorada Beer Company at 3200 Saint Lucie Blvd., north of Fort Pierce.
A brewing class from noon to 4 p.m. is first come, first serve and limited to 20 people. The cost is $5 per person and includes a pint of beer. The winner of the home brew competition will be announced at 4 p.m.
The event also includes food trucks, live music and vendors. For more information, go to www.facebook.com/islamoradabeercompany.
LAURIE’S STORIES: Sebastian brew tour of Mash Monkeys, Pareidolia is TCPalm’s next entertainment event
MORE: Local scientists, farmers and brewers exploring Florida-grown hops as a viable crop
Pair cookies with beer
The Half-Baked Pints & Bites with the Royal Palms of St. Lucie is 6-10 p.m. Saturday at Sailfish Brewing Company at 130 N. Second St., in Fort Pierce.
Decorated cookies will be paired with Sailfish beers, and decorated cakes will available through a silent auction. The cost is $20 per person in advance and $30 at the door. For more information, go to www.theroyalpalms.com/halfbaked.
LAURIE’S STORIES: Breweries aren’t just about beer anymore; game nights attract customers
Take a horseback ride
The Ride-A-Thon is Saturday at the Circle I Ranch at 7449 Carlton Road in Port St. Lucie. Check in is 8 a.m. The ride begins at 9 a.m.
The 10-mile horseback ride takes participants through old Florida landscapes, lush cow pastures and wildlife at the ranch, which belongs to one of the first pioneer families to settle in St. Lucie County.
Registration is $50. Proceeds benefit the St. Lucie County 4-H Association. The ride is open to all riders older than age 5. For more information, go to www.facebook.com/slc4h.
Take home tips
The Treasure Coast Home Show is 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday at the Port St. Lucie Civic Center at 9221 S.E. Civic Center Place.
The show includes design seminars from Home Decorating for Dummies throughout the weekend and advice from remodeling and home improvement experts. Admission is free. For more information, go to www.professionalshowmanagement.com.
Soar above the sky
The Stuart Air Show is this weekend at Witham Field at 2011 S.E. Airport Road. Gates are open from 5-9 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
The show includes aerobatics, precision flying, parachute demonstrations, static aircraft including reconnaissance planes and other displays, military reenactments and weapons demonstrations.
General admission is $15 in advance or $25 at the gate for ages 12 and older; $5 for kids ages 6-12, military members and veterans; and free for kids younger than 5. Limited spectator seating is an extra $8 per day. For more information, go to www.stuartairshow.com.
MORE: Local mechanic to join other high flyers performing stunts at Stuart Air Show
Come sail away
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Schooner Lily sets sail on the St. Lucie River
Treasure Coast Sailing Adventures begins its ninth season with day and sunset sails aboard the historic wooden Schooner Lily.
This year, sailing trips will depart mostly from Shepard’s Park. Also, the boat has updated seating. Sailing trips last about two hours and travel across the St. Lucie River. They depart at 11:30 a.m., 2 p.m. and 6:15 p.m.
The cost for a day sail is $35 for adults and $20 for kids ages 12 and younger. The cost for a sunset sail is $40 for adults and $20 for kids ages 12 and younger. For more information, call 772-267-7076 or go to schoonerlily.com.
LAURIE’S STORIES: Explore St. Lucie River with Schooner Lily sailing tour in Stuart
Ferment with friends
The second annual Florida Ferment Fest is Saturday at Ground Floor Farm at 100 S.E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., in Stuart.
The fermentation party from noon to 6 p.m. brings together the state’s most passionate fermentation professionals and enthusiasts for workshops, demonstrations, a fermentation market, a brew garden, a culture swap, a kraut mob and a fermenting competition.
Then, the fermentation feast is 6-9 p.m. inside Ground Floor Farm’s restaurant and features sourdough pizzas from the kitchen, a spread of creative ferments and fresh produce from across the state and free local beer. Plus, there’s live music.
General admission is $50 and includes access to the party and free beer in the brew garden. The cost of the feast is $25. Plus, there are VIP packages available. For more information, go to www.flfermentfest.com.
Scavenge on bikes
The second annual Hobe Sound Athletics Bike Scavenger Hunt starts 1 p.m. Saturday at 8850 S.E. Edwyn St.
Bring your bike to travel across Hobe Sound for a scavenger hunt. Everyone will be split up into teams. The first team to finish everything on the list wins.
The cost is $20 for adults and $15 for kids and members of Hobe Sound Athletics. For more information, go to www.facebook.com/hobesoundathletics.
Dance for charity
Artists for a Cause’s 10th annual Dance for Food is 4-5 p.m. Sunday at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church at 5150 S.E. Railway Ave., in Stuart.
The dance showcases professional talent and provides an hour of contemporary dance. The nonprofit moved from Palm City to St. Louis earlier this year, but it’s returning to the area to continue the Dance for Food series.
Admission is a bag of unexpired, nonperishable goods. Last year’s series collected nearly 5,000 pounds of food that was donated to local food pantries. For more information, call 772-419-8778 or go to a4ac.org.
Clam together
The Sebastian Clambake is 2-9 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday at Riverview Park at 600 U.S. 1.
The lagoon festival includes fresh seafood booths, historic re-enactments, a children’s zone, entertainment, live music, demonstrations and vendor booths. Seafood options include linguine with red or white clam sauce, shrimp, clam chowder, fried fish, clam strips, fried coconut shrimp, steamed clams, crab cakes, pizza, hot dogs and sausage-pepper-onion sandwiches.
Plus, there will be draft beer, craft beer from Sebastian’s Pareidolia Brewing Company, Smirnoff Ice, Not Your Father’s Root Beer, White Claw Black Cherry Seltzer, Sharp’s non-alcoholic brew and sodas. Pareidolia’s special brews are 32958 New England IPA and Mel’s Gold golden ale.
Admission is free. Tickets will be sold for food and shirts. Proceeds benefit local nonprofit capital projects. For more information, go to www.sebastianclambake.com.
MORE: Sebastian Clambake offers wide range of seafood, music Nov. 2-4
Putt and party
The grand opening celebration at BigShots Golf Vero Beach is Saturday at 3456 U.S. 1. The golf entertainment facility opened in September.
The celebration includes live music from 2-4 p.m., 6-8 p.m. and 9:15-11:15 p.m.; $8 burgers and $5 hot dogs from 4-10 p.m.; golf competitions and challenges; and fireworks at 9 p.m. A children’s zone from 10 a.m. until noon has face painting, balloon making and a putting contest. For more information, go to www.facebook.com/bigshotsgolfvb.
MORE: New golf entertainment facility BigShots Golf now open in Vero Beach
LAURIE’S STORIES: Non-golfer’s guide to playing golf on the Treasure Coast
MORE: You can dine at new BigShots Golf in Vero Beach
Clean up the lagoon
The second annual Indian River Lagoon Garbage Classic river cleanup is Saturday at the MacWilliams Boat Ramp at 3361 Bridge Plaza Drive in Vero Beach.
The cleanup begins at 8 a.m. The final weigh-in is 1 p.m. The after party starts at 4 p.m. at Walking Tree Brewery at 3209 Dodger Road and includes a food truck, a silent auction, raffles and prizes. For more information, go to www.facebook.com/walkingtreebrewery.
Make jellyfish art
The “Egging on the Sea Jelly” marine debris art is 10-11 a.m. Saturday at the Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge at 4055 Wildlife Way near Sebastian.
Create jellyfish from repurposed egg cartons and Gasparilla beads, which are Mardi Gras beads recovered by divers from Tampa Bay, and learn about jellyfish, their life history and role in the food chain. Bring a plastic egg carton to use or donate. For more information, go to www.facebook.com/stellamarisresearch.
LAURIE’S STORIES: Explore Pelican Island afar for free or up close for a cost
PHOTOS: Pelican Island celebrates 115 years with a festival
Next weekend’s preview
- Treasure Coast Brew Fest at Tradition Square in Port St. Lucie
- Bonfire & Hayride at McCarty Ranch Preserve in/near Port St. Lucie
- Guided Park Excursion at Hawk’s Bluff at Savannas Preserve State Park in Port St. Lucie
- Santa’s Arrival at Bass Pro Shops in Port St. Lucie
- Peacock Arts District Music & Arts Festival on Seventh Street in Fort Pierce
- Car Shows at Summer Crush Vineyard & Winery near Fort Pierce
- World Love Beach Cleanup & Music Fest at Surfside Beach in Fort Pierce
- Fall Regatta at Fort Pierce Yacht Club in Fort Pierce
- Superhero Smash Children’s Ball at The Children’s Museum of the Treasure Coast in Jensen Beach
- Rockabilly USA Car & Bike Show at Pirate’s Cove Resort and Marina in Port Salerno
- Humane Society of the Treasure Coast’s Pup-a-palooza at the Plaza at Harbour Bay Plaza in Stuart
- ArtFind at NOTES Music Room & Wine Bar in Stuart
- Family Fall Fest at JAG Bar Corral in Indiantown
- Indian River County Historical Society’s Party at the Pineapple Plantation at Hallstrom House in Vero Beach
- Vero Beach Pipes and Drums concert at First Presbyterian Church
- Red, White & Blue Celebration at Riverside Theatre in Vero Beach
Laurie K. Blandford is TCPalm’s entertainment reporter and columnist dedicated to finding the best things to do on the Treasure Coast. Read her weekly column, Laurie’s Stories, on TCPalm.com. Follow her on Twitter at @TCPalmLaurie or Facebook at faceboook.com/TCPalmLaurie.
Source: Navy SEAL Muster in Fort Pierce, Stuart Air Show, Sebastian Clambake top this weekend
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