One day after the July 20, 1985 discovery of the Atocha “Mother Lode,” singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffett and the late treasure hunter Mel Fisher sit perched on a throne of silver bars surrounded by family and “Golden Crew” members. This year’s Mel Fisher Days celebrations are set to take place July 18-20 in Sebastian Florida on the Treasure Coast. (Photo by Pat Clyne courtesy Mel Fisher’s Treasures)

Sebastian, FL – July 20, 2025 marks a dazzling milestone in maritime history: the 40th anniversary of the discovery of the Nuestra Señora de Atocha’s legendary treasure by iconic explorer Mel Fisher. To honor this historic event, the Mel Fisher Days Charity Event returns July 18–20, 2025, bringing its spirited celebration “On the Treasure Coast!” for an unforgettable weekend of festivities, adventure, and giving back. Central to this year’s festivities is the Mel Fisher Treasure Museum, located at 1322 U.S. One, Sebastian, FL, which will be a key venue for the weekend’s events.

Kicking things off is a silent online auction featuring more than $30,000 in treasures, unique experiences, and coveted getaways generously donated by supporters from Key West to Sebastian, FL. The auction is now live and will continue through midnight, July 20.

Weekend highlights include a “Dress Like a Pirate” costume contest, a scavenger hunt bar crawl, a treasure hunter’s forum, a dockside party, book signings, and other high-seas hijinks.

All net proceeds from the events and auction will support two exceptional causes, Monroe County-based Wesley House Family Services and the Indian River County-based Michael Abt Jr. Have a Heart Foundation.

First held in 1998 just before Mel’s passing, Mel Fisher Days began as a heartfelt tribute—complete with fans donning “Today’s the Day” shirts and following “King Mel” through the streets in a pedicab. Since then, it has grown into a major charitable tradition, raising more than $185,000 for Wesley House Family Services and $78,000 for the Have a Heart Foundation.

Today’s the Day—to celebrate history, community, and generosity. The Michael Abt Jr. Have a Heart Foundation provides youth heart screenings, CPR training, and automated external defibrillators (AEDs) to protect young lives from sudden cardiac arrest. Visit www.haveaheartformichael.org. Wesley House Family Services offers child protection, foster care, and family-strengthening programs across Monroe County. Learn more at www.wesleyhouse.org.

Join the Celebration – Explore the full schedule, bid in the auction, or register for the scavenger hunt at  www.melfisherdays.com or call 772-589-0435.

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