ChamberEvents Benefits Battle of Okeechobee.
Every February history comes alive when the final battle of the Second Seminole War is re-enacted on Hwy 441 SE. What is known as the largest and fiercest battle during the Seminole Wars pitted the Seminole Indians, who fought to escape relocation to western reservations, against U.S. troops led by Col. Zachary Taylor, on December 25, 1837. Participants wear authentic costumes of the era and re-enact the bloodiest battle, giving viewers an inside look into history. The National Trust for Historic Preservation placed the site on the list of “America’s Most Endangered Historic Places” in 2000. The state of Florida spent $3.2 million for a 145-acre park. The annual battle reenactment helps raise money for further work on this State Park. For further information contact 863-610-2333 or www.okeechobeebattlefield.com.
The Adam Bryant Minimal Regatta. What was started as a way to
support a firefighter scholarship in 2011, this regatta has become one of the most popular and entertaining events of the year. Entrants are given minimal supplies, including one sheet of lauan plywood, two pieces of lumber, a box of screws and duct tape, and must build a boat of any shape or size to race in the waters of Lake Okeechobee. Teams fight to keep their boats afloat, all vying for the much-desired bragging rights. Proceeds from the event, in addition to the scholarship, are being used to build a special-needs park in the community. In tribute to the cohesiveness of Okeechobee, the Regatta is named for Adam Bryant, an Okeechobee native who was a volunteer firefighter when he was injured in a camping accident in 2002 that left him paralyzed, before passing away a few years later. The event is held in October at the C. Scott Driver Park on Hwy 78 W. For further information contact J.D. Mixon at 863-634-1778 or www.minimalregatta.com.
This gives you a little insight into Okeechobee’s fun-filled year, with its several community events. If you would like a detailed calendar of events that includes the Fourth of July fireworks, the Easter sunrise service, the Speckled Perch Festival, patriotic services in Flagler Park and Okeechobee’s special Christmas festivities, visit the Chamber’s website at www.okeechobeebusiness.com. Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2017
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