The Pelican Island Environmental Festival in Sebastian, Florida, offers a unique blend of hands-on environmental education and outdoor adventure. Held annually within the Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge—the first national wildlife refuge in the United States established in 1903—this event invites visitors of all ages to engage directly with Florida’s rich coastal ecosystems.

Festival day begins with trails weaving through flat coastal hammocks and salt marshes, where mangroves push their roots into the brackish water, seeming to dare you to explore deeper. Attendees walk friendly paths—the terrain is mostly level with sandy and shell-strewn earth—covering a manageable 2-3 mile loop that suits casual strolls or more purposeful hikes. The ecosystem, fiercely protective of its inhabitants, reveals wild ibises, roseate spoonbills, and occasionally the sharp silhouette of an osprey scanning from above.

Workshops and guided tours break down practical conservation tactics, making the festival a working classroom—not just a celebration. Participants learn about sea turtle monitoring, native plant restoration, and invasive species management, providing actionable knowledge for those inspired to carry the mission home.

Sebastian’s climate can test your preparedness. Southern Florida’s humidity challenges visitors, especially from late spring through summer. Aim for early morning sessions when the salt-kissed breeze still cools the trails and wildlife activity is at its height. Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes that grip sandy soil and can handle damp conditions from morning dew or marsh edges.

While the festival’s wide-ranging activities cater to families and seasoned naturalists alike, it respects the refuge’s delicate balance. Plastic-free policies and responsible waste management plans embody the festival’s commitment to leaving no trace.

Whether you’re here for the festival’s educational exhibits, the chance to spot a young gator sunning itself quietly by the shoreline, or just to hike through a patch of Florida that still holds traces of wildness, the event grounds offer a dynamic experience. Nature here is not a passive backdrop—it’s a participant, pushing you to engage and understand. Take your time, bring your water bottle, and let Pelican Island’s environmental community show you how adventure and stewardship walk hand in hand.