Coming Up! Annual Ocean Film Fest returns to Harbor Branch

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The International Ocean Film Festival: Florida Tour will begin at noon Saturday, June 6, at FAU Harbor Branch, 5600 U.S. 1 North, Fort Pierce, with a slate of independent films, exhibitors, interactive experiences and live demonstrations. The fourth annual festival is designed to bring together ocean enthusiasts, filmmakers, scientists and families for an afternoon on the waterfront campus. This year’s program follows a sold-out event in 2025 and includes short films from around the world on ocean conservation, coral restoration, marine mammals, plastic pollution and climate resilience. Featured selections include “The Race to 30×30,” with Sylvia Earle; “Changing Seas: Whales in a Plastic Ocean”; “Coral in Focus”; “Monterey Bay White Sharks”; “Stone Biters: Saving the Arctic Sea Forests”; and “The Human Side of Plastic.” The lineup also includes “Replanting a Garden,” “Juan Fernández UNOC Announcement,” “The Bottom Line” and “Life on the Edges.” Festivalgoers also will have access to student and expert meet-and-greets, an exhibitors’ showcase highlighting research and education initiatives, and a close-up look at FAU Harbor Branch’s marine mammal ambulance. Other activities include interactive experiences, live demonstrations, popcorn, refreshments and a photo opportunity with Humphrey the humpback whale. Proceeds from ticket sales support student success at FAU Harbor Branch and help prepare the next generation of marine scientists, engineers and ocean advocates. Tickets are $40 and must be purchased in advance. Call 772-242-2214 or visit Fau.edu/hboi.

Trike Wars and Thank You Block Party will take place at 5 p.m. Friday, June 5, at Flamevine, 2855 Ocean Dr., Vero Beach, featuring the United Way of Indian River County’s fourth annual Torchbearer Trike Wars and community celebration. Workplace teams will compete in trike races alongside a free public block party with live music by 60 West, children’s activities, and food and beverage offerings. Admission is free. Call 772-567-8900 or visit UnitedWayIRC.org.

The Vero Beach Cleanup will begin at 9 a.m. Saturday, June 6, at Golden Sands Beach Park, 10350 Highway A1A, as Beach.com marks World Ocean Day with a community shoreline cleanup. Volunteers will gather at the beach park for a brief orientation before collecting supplies and heading out to remove litter and other debris from the sand. Organizers say the effort is part of a broader push to protect coastal habitats, reduce plastic pollution, and encourage residents and visitors to care for the ocean. The event is free, but participants must register and complete a waiver in advance. Volunteers of all ages are welcome, though minors must be accompanied by an adult. Those taking part should bring a reusable water bottle, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, gloves, trash grabbers if available and comfortable clothing with closed-toe shoes. The first 100 registered participants are expected to receive a free event T-shirt, and community service hours can be certified for students upon request. Updates on weather-related changes will be sent by email. Visit Beach.com for registration and additional details. Visit Beach.com/cleanups/2026-vero-beach-world-ocean-day-cleanup.

Artist Talk: The Process Behind the Art is scheduled for 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, June 6, at the Environmental Learning Center, 255 Live Oak Dr., Vero Beach, featuring printmaker John H.C. Davis. The presentation will explore Davis’ linoleum carving, hand-printing and painting techniques, offering insight into his creative process and craftsmanship. Admission is free. Call 772-589-5050 or visit DiscoverELC.org.

Riverside Theatre will host a full weekend of events at 3250 Riverside Park Dr., Vero Beach, with the free Loop concert series, Comedy Zone performances and related entertainment all on the calendar. Loop concerts begin at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, June 4, with Mr. Motown, continue at 5:30 p.m. Friday, June 5, with East Coast Grooves, and close at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, June 6, with John Simon and the IR Jazz Quartet. Comedy Zone shows featuring Jake Klark and Ginger Kelly are set for 7 p.m. Friday, June 5, 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Saturday, June 6. Table seats are $25 for the comedy shows. Call 772-231-6990 or visit RiversideTheatre.com.

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