VERO BEACH — The Environmental Learning Center is set to host its WinterGreen Night Lights event next month, turning its lagoon island campus into a glowing wonderland of lights, nature exhibits and family activities over two evenings.
The celebration runs Dec. 12 and 13 from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., with the grounds opening at noon for visitors to explore trails and aquariums ahead of time.
Admission is $5 per person, but free for ELC members, SNAP participants and children 2 and under. Guests can snag $10 off memberships during the event.
Visitors can expect illuminated canoe trips through the mangroves for $15 per person, and s’mores by the fire cost $5 for a set of two, while the nature playscape stays open for evening play.
The Nature Nook boutique will offer eco-friendly holiday shopping, and aquariums and a touch tank will be available for nighttime exploration. Hands-on crafts, pizza, hot chocolate and cider will be for sale, along with stargazing through a high-powered telescope.
Raffle tickets are $5 each or six for $20, with prizes including a pontoon trip for two, kayak rental for two and tickets to a Feb. 7 Adam Ezra concert at the ELC. The drawing happens Saturday night, and winners don’t need to be present.
The Aerial Antics troupe from the City of Vero Beach Recreation Department plans to present selections from their holiday show on the pavilion stage at 5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12.
For those seeking a more exclusive experience, private WinterGreen evenings are available for groups from December through February. Fees start at $750 for up to 50 guests, with add-ons like $500 for a campfire and s’mores, $250 for a craft project or $250 to open the aquarium, touch tank, art galleries, welcome center and gift shop. Bookings can be made by emailing bookings@discoverelc.org.
The ELC campus is pet-free, smoke-free and vape-free. The event is supported by Dyer Subaru of Vero Beach.
The nonprofit Environmental Learning Center spans 64 acres on Wabasso Island and focuses on educating people to protect the environment. It’s open seven days a week and located at 255 Live Oak Drive in Vero Beach. For more details, call 772-589-5050.
