Residents and visitors of Vero Beach have a vibrant lineup of cultural, horticultural, and entertainment events to look forward to this mid-June. From the spectacular floral displays at the McKee Botanical Garden to engaging author talks and live performances, the local arts and culture scene is offering a diverse array of activities across Indian River County.
Annual Waterlily Festival at McKee Botanical Garden
Nature enthusiasts will not want to miss the highly anticipated Waterlily Festival taking place on Saturday, June 13, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the McKee Botanical Garden. The celebration highlights more than 100 varieties of waterlilies, including 51 recognized within the prestigious Certified Collection of Excellence. Attendees can enjoy plein air artists at work, repotting demonstrations, specialty vendors, and a photo contest. General admission is $25, with discounted rates of $15 for seniors and children under 2. Military personnel, first responders, and garden members receive special free or discounted admission. The garden is located at 350 U.S. 1, Vero Beach.
Art History Lecture: Picturing Paradise
Also on Saturday, June 13, the Vero Beach Museum of Art will host a compelling, free public lecture titled Picturing Paradise: From John James Audubon to the Florida Highwaymen. Beginning at 1:00 p.m., University of Central Florida art history professor and historian Keri Watson will explore how Florida’s unique landscape has historically inspired renowned artists as part of the Florida Humanities series. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis at the museum, located at 3001 Riverside Drive.
Vero Beach Theatre Guild Auditions
For locals looking to take the stage, the Vero Beach Theatre Guild is holding auditions for its upcoming September production of the Southern classic, Steel Magnolias. Directed by Nancy Matican-Bock, the auditions consist of cold script readings and are open to adults aged 18 and older. The auditions will run from Monday, June 15 through Wednesday, June 17 at 6:30 p.m. at 2020 San Juan Avenue, with callbacks scheduled for the 17th.
Literary Events at Vero Beach Book Center
Book lovers are invited to two distinct author events at the Vero Beach Book Center, located at 392 21st Street. Seating is limited for both free events, so early arrival is highly recommended.
- Monday, June 15 at 5:00 p.m.: Natasha Lester will discuss the background and themes of her newly released novel, The Chateau on Sunset.
- Wednesday, June 17 at 5:00 p.m.: Kevin Powers will present his latest book, Children of the Wild, which will include a discussion on his creative process and a question-and-answer session.
Comedy and Music at Riverside Theatre
Riverside Theatre, located at 3250 Riverside Drive, continues its popular weekend entertainment series. The Comedy Zone will feature headliner Jenn Weeks and feature act Bob Rayhart on Friday, June 12 at 7:00 p.m., and Saturday, June 13 at 6:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Weeks is celebrated for her high-energy, relatable humor, while Rayhart provides a charismatic, slightly cynical look at the daily grind. Table seating for the comedy shows is $25, and advance reservations are recommended.
Additionally, the free outdoor Live in the Loop concert series provides a casual community atmosphere with on-site food and beverage options available for purchase. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets.
- Thursday, June 11 (5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.): Blue Sky Jazz (Classic Jazz)
- Friday, June 12 (5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.): Chemistry (80s Music)
- Saturday, June 13 (5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.): Eastern Standard Time (Jazz Fusion)
This mid-June lineup underscores Vero Beach’s thriving community scene, offering residents a robust weekend of activities ranging from the internationally recognized Waterlily Festival at McKee Botanical Garden to free outdoor concerts and distinguished literary discussions.
