Brevard County’s Festivals: A Year-Round Celebration of Art, Culture, Music and Flavor

Brevard County, Florida, is a vibrant community filled with exciting festivals throughout the year. From art and craft shows to cultural celebrations and food festivals, there’s always something happening that brings locals and visitors together. Here’s a look at some of the most popular annual festivals and what makes each one special.

Art and Craft Festivals

  • Cocoa Beach Art Show (Thanksgiving Weekend) – Held in downtown Cocoa Beach, this annual event showcases incredible art from local and national artists. Visitors can enjoy live music, food trucks, and a family-friendly atmosphere while exploring various art mediums, from paintings to sculptures.
  • Melbourne Art Festival (April) – One of the most anticipated events held in Wickham Park, this juried art festival features hundreds of artists, live entertainment, a 5K run, and a kid-friendly zone, making it a fun-filled weekend for all ages.
  • Cocoa Village Art Festivals (March, May, October & December) – Set in popular Cocoa Village, these events bring together talented artists and craftspeople displaying unique handmade works, perfect for collectors and casual shoppers alike.
  • Eau Gaille Fine Arts Fest (November) – A favorite for local art enthusiasts, this festival features top local and national artists in a relaxed outdoor setting in the popular Eau Gaille Arts District of Melbourne.

Food Festivals

  • 321 Food Fest (February) – A must-visit for food lovers, this festival offers fresh artisan food, live music, and entertainment. It takes place at Wickham Park in Brevard County and draws large crowds every year.
  • Grant Seafood Festival (March) – This event, held at the Grant-Valkaria Fairgrounds, features top local cooks competing to make the best seafood around. Attendees can sample a variety of seafood dishes while enjoying live music and entertainment.
  • Oktoberfest (Fall) – Hosted in various locations, including Viera and Cocoa Beach, this German-inspired festival celebrates Bavarian culture with authentic food, craft beer, and live polka music.

Cultural Festivals

  • Indiafest (March) – A celebration of Indian culture, this vibrant event in Wickham Park features traditional dance performances, Indian cuisine, arts, and educational exhibits that showcase India’s rich heritage.
  • Greek Festival (February) – Held at St. Katherine Greek Orthodox Church in Melbourne, this festival offers delicious Greek food, traditional dance performances, and cultural exhibits.
  • Viva Brevard Hispanic Heritage Festival (January) – Taking place at Fred Poppe Regional Park, this event celebrates Hispanic culture with music, dance, authentic cuisine, and family-friendly activities.

Music Festivals and Concert Events

  • Space Coast Music Festival (November) – Rock, blues, reggae, and jazz fill the air at this festival, bringing together musicians from across Florida and beyond for an unforgettable experience in downtown Eau Gallie.
  • Jazz and Blues Festival (Spring) – A favorite for jazz and blues enthusiasts, this festival features top local and national artists in a relaxed outdoor setting.
  • Riverfront Park (Events throughout the year) – For those who love music, this venue in historic Cocoa Village celebrates throughout the year with rock and roll bands, memorabilia, and themed parties, such as an annual Mardi Gras Celebration .

Holiday-Themed Festivals

  • Light Up Viera (December) – The holiday season kicks off with a dazzling parade featuring elaborate floats, marching bands, and festive lights, making it a magical experience for families.
  • Surfing Santas (December) – A unique Cocoa Beach tradition, hundreds of surfers dressed as Santa hit the waves to raise money for charity while spreading holiday cheer.
  • Brevard Renaissance Fair (January-February) – Step back in time at Wickham Park with this immersive event featuring medieval jousting, period costumes, and Renaissance-style entertainment.

Why Brevard County Festivals Are Special

Each of these festivals brings something unique to the community, whether it’s showcasing local artistry, celebrating diverse cultures, or providing delicious culinary experiences. Many of these events are free or have low entry fees, making them accessible to everyone. The combination of great weather, stunning locations, and welcoming local charm makes Brevard County an ideal destination for festival-goers year-round.

Mark your calendar and experience the best of what Brevard County has to offer through its incredible festivals!