The Environmental Learning Center plans to host Lagoonapalooza 2026, a free festival blending live music, environmental education and outdoor activities with a focus on the Indian River Lagoon’s biodiversity and significance.
The event is set for Jan. 24, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., on the center’s 64-acre campus in Vero Beach. Organizers describe it as a family-friendly gathering aimed at fostering community engagement with nature.
Music Highlights
- 10:15 am – 11:15 am | Chris Kahl at Lagoon Gallery
- 10:15 am – 11:15 am | Murphy Dogs at Pavilion Stage
- 11:45 am – 2:15 pm | Gary Roland and The Land Sharks Band at Pavilion Stage
- 2:30 pm – 5:00 pm | Hot Pink at Pavilion Stage
Guest Speakers
- 10:15 am – 11:15 am | Chris Kahl’s Musical Journey through Florida
- 11:30 am – 12 pm | Lagoon Dolphins (ELC Amy Zelt)
- 12:15 pm – 1 :00 pm | Please Speak Up: Lessons from the Lorax, the Onceler, and Horton (Heather Stapleton)
- 1:15 pm – 2:00 pm | Water, Wonder, & Wellness (Paola Espitia)
- 2:15 pm – 3:00 pm | 2025 Lagoon Health Report (Laura Wilson)
- 3:05 pm – 3:50 pm | Get Involved: Community Science & Volunteer Opportunities (Missy Weiss and ELC staff)
- 3:55 pm – 4:40 pm | Bull Sharks and the Indian River Lagoon (ELC Natalia Siqueira)
Family-Friendly Activities
- Touch tank sessions | 10:00 am – 12 pm, 12:30 pm – 2:30 pm, 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm
- Pond dip netting | 11 am – 1:00 pm and 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
- Electro Lab workshops | 10:30 am, 11:30 am, 1:30 pm, 2:30 pm, 3:30 pm
- Drum circle at Fort Mangrove at 11:30 am and 12:30 pm
- Children’s Story Time with author Piper Johnson |10 am – 1:30 pm in the Tidal Gallery
- Nature-themed puppet show and meet-and-greet with ELC animal ambassadors (box turtle, terrapin, and snake) from 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Additionally, guests can walk the campus trails, play at the Nature Playscape and Imagination Station, visit the aquarium and touch tank, shop at the Nature Nook Eco-Boutique, and view art exhibitions featuring works by Derek Gores and Cheri & Mark Schumann.
Food and Beverage Vendors
- The Source’s Dignity Food Truck
- Len & 10
- Around the Fire
- Treasure Coast Girls Coalition Food Truck/Lemonade Stand
- Kona Ice
- American Icon (bar)
Pontoon Boat Trips
Pontoon boat trips depart at 10:30 am, 11:30 am, 12:30 pm, 2:00 pm, 3:00 pm, and 4:00 pm. Each trip is 45 minutes long and is intended for ages 4+. The cost is $25 per person, and tickets can be purchased across from the lagoon gallery.
Canoes, Kayaks, and Paddleboards
Canoe, kayak, and paddleboard rentals are available from noon to 3:00 pm for ages 4+; those under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Purchase tickets across from the lagoon gallery.
Those interested in attending are encouraged to RSVP at discoverelc.org/lagoonapalooza to help with planning. The Environmental Learning Center is located at 255 Live Oak Drive in Vero Beach. For more information, visit discoverelc.org.
