We stepped back in time to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary at the 1776 Colonial Costume Ball on Friday, July 3, 2026.

Presented by Fabulous & Fancy Events as part of the City of Vero Beach Semiquincentennial Celebration, this festive community event invited guests to don their finest colonial attire and enjoy an evening inspired by the spirit of 1776.

Guests enjoyed live colonial folk music by Fret Knot band and Tom Callino and colonial dance instruction; heavy hors d’oeuvres by Pepper & Salt BBQ; a cash bar by Proof Cocktails; patriotic merriment, and immersive colonial-inspired entertainment including posting of the colors by Treasure Coast Fife & Drum and singing of the National Anthem inside the historic Heritage Center. Whether they arrived as a founding father, colonial dame, patriot, merchant, or member of the Continental Congress, guests enjoyed music, dancing, laughter, and unforgettable memories.

Patriots remained alert throughout the evening as rumors suggested a British spy was hiding among the guests. Four diligent guests uncovered JIM WILSON as our pretend officer of King George! Big thank you to Jim for being a good sport and playing the bad guy and for always capturing our best moments and sharing them with the community!

Thank you to our headline sponsor Fabulous & Fancy Events for decorating the hall for this event! Warm thank you to our Colonial Feast sponsor Hope Imaging for making this event possible and to Waldos for donating gift cards for our Spy and Costume Contest Winners!

This event wouldn't have been possible without the help of our venue coordinator Michelle Komarnicki, Museum Docent Kathleen Cunningham, Trainee Sharon Lewis and our supportive board members - Emily DuBose, Liz Kenney and Stephanie Bunker. Thank you all so very much!

Vero Heritage, Inc. is dedicated to historic preservation and to the
celebration of Indian River County's history and cultural heritage.