It’s no secret that Martin County has a thriving arts and culture scene. So to showcase the dynamic attractions right here in our backyard, we have created the brand new Martin County Arts & Culture Trail!
Martin County Arts & Culture Trail
The free, mobile-exclusive trail features a range of award-winning museums; celebrated attractions; cutting-edge exhibits; historic sites; eclectic galleries; and engaging selections from the Martin County Art in Public Places program. Residents and visitors alike can use the pass to learn more about these local points of interest and even claim special offers and discounts at participating attractions.
“We are so fortunate to have such an incredible arts and culture scene right here in Martin County,” says Tourism Director Nerissa Okiye. “It not only improves the quality of life for those who call Martin County home, but also adds an enriching aspect to any vacation. Our goal with this program is to highlight these amazing attractions and create an immersive experience for everyone to enjoy.”
The program was developed in partnership with Bandwango (a travel technology platform) and the Arts Council of Martin County. We decided to launch it ahead of ArtsFest 2021 (February 20-21) to inspire excitement leading up to the iconic event (which, by the way, has been named one of the Top 20 Events by the Southeast Tourism Society for the past five years).
“ArtsFest is a 34-year tradition to bring people together in celebration of the arts and this year is no different, with both in-person and ‘at-home’ opportunities to participate,” says Nancy Turrell, Executive Director of the Arts Council of Martin County. “We’re confident that the new Arts & Culture Trail will help people develop an even deeper appreciation for our vibrant arts community and stay engaged throughout the year.”
You can learn more about the program and sign up for your free pass here
So, what’s this about a Sea Turtle Scavenger Hunt?
To get people excited about exploring the new Arts & Culture Trail, we have also launched a celebratory scavenger hunt!
The Discover Martin team commissioned local glass artist Dot Galfond, of License to Kiln, to create a series of custom glass sea turtles. The sea turtles were chosen to as a way to honor to the vulnerable and endangered sea turtle species that use Martin County’s beaches as their vital nesting grounds.
“I was absolutely thrilled to hear of this unique program coming to Martin County,” says Dot. “I love being an arts advocate and it was so much fun to be involved in the creative process that brought this concept to life.”
For the scavenger hunt, Dot made 45 teal turtles and 10 gold turtles. Each piece has been signed and numbered, and they have been hidden at each stop along the trail.
Dot Galfond’s Teal and Gold Glass Sea Turtles
Anyone who finds one of the limited-edition glass sea turtles can keep it as a souvenir and register their one-of-a-kind piece here. By registering, you’ll receive a free raffle ticket for a chance to win one of two Grand Prize Sea Turtle Bowls (pictured below). And every person who finds one of the coveted gold sea turtles will also win four (4) free tickets to ArtsFest 2021 and two (2) tickets to the Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center!
Grand Prize Glass Sea Turtle Bowls
You can also purchase additional raffle tickets in-person or online to boost your chances of winning one the Grand Prizes Sea Turtle Bowls. The raffle tickets will be sold at the Arts Council office located in the Court House Cultural Center (80 SE Ocean Blvd, Stuart) and at the Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center (890 NE Ocean Blvd, Stuart). Or, you can place an online order here. The tickets will cost $5 each or $10 for 3 tickets.
All proceeds from the raffle ticket donations will benefit the Florida Oceanographic Society and The Arts Foundation for Martin County.