Jupiter, Florida, Celebrates 100 Years: A Century of Coastal Charm and Community Spirit.

JUPITER, FL — On February 9, 1925, the small coastal settlement of Jupiter, Florida, was officially incorporated, marking the start of a remarkable journey from a quiet fishing village to a vibrant community known for its iconic red lighthouse, pristine beaches, and small-town charm. As the town celebrates its centennial in 2025, Jupiter is hosting a year-long series of events that blend nostalgia, community pride, and a deep connection to its natural and historical roots. With a population of 61,047 as of the 2020 U.S. Census, Jupiter has grown significantly while maintaining its unique identity as “Uniquely Jupiter.” A Rich Tapestry of History Jupiter’s story stretches far beyond its 1925 incorporation. Archaeological findings at the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse Museum reveal evidence of human activity dating back 5,000 years, with projectile points—likely remnants of an arrowhead and a knife blade—testifying to the presence of the Hobe Indian tribe, whose name lives on in nearby Hobe Sound. The area’s name, derived from a misunderstanding of the Spanish “Jobe” as the Roman god Jupiter, reflects its celestial connection, further tied to the historic Celestial Railroad linking Jupiter, Juno, and Mars. The Jupiter Inlet, a vital waterway mapped as early as 1671, was a lifeline for native populations and early settlers, serving as the only outlet for the Loxahatchee River, Lake Worth Creek, and Jupiter Sound. By 1860, the iconic Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse was lit, guiding ships safely along Florida’s perilous Atlantic coast. During Prohibition, Jupiter’s proximity to the Bahamas—only 50 miles away—made it a hotbed for alcohol smuggling, with a 1,000-gallon still seized in 1928 after a dramatic gunfight. The lighthouse also played a role in World War II, serving as a U.S. Navy station, while the nearby Jupiter Inlet Life-Saving Station, established in 1885, was a precursor to the U.S. Coast Guard. African-American families from Tallahassee, Georgia, and Barnwell County, South Carolina, shaped Jupiter’s early 20th-century growth, particularly along Limestone Creek, where they worked for the Pennock Plantation, a major employer known for its asparagus fern production. By the pre-World War II era, African-Americans comprised one-third of Jupiter’s population, contributing to the town’s railroads, steamboats, and early schools. In 1902, Annie Roundtree and William J. donated land for a school for Black children, a testament to the community’s commitment to education. A Century of Growth When Jupiter incorporated in 1925, it had fewer than 100 voters and a population under 1,000 in the broader Jupiter-Tequesta area. Today, with over 61,000 residents, Jupiter is celebrated as the 9th Best Southern Beach Town (Stacker Newsletter, 2022) and the 12th Best Beach Town in the U.S. (WalletHub, 2018). The town’s median household income in 2000 was $54,945, with a per capita income of $35,088, reflecting a prosperous community. Its growth has been fueled by its natural beauty, from the Loxahatchee River to its three miles of postcard-worthy beaches, and its appeal to celebrities like Burt Reynolds, Celine Dion, and Michael Jordan, who have called Jupiter home. Centennial Celebrations: A Year of Festivities Jupiter’s 2025 Centennial Celebration, launched with the Jupiter Jubilee on February 8, is a vibrant mix of events showcasing the town’s history, culture, and community spirit. “We’ve planned about 40 special events, from baseball games at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium to history tours and paddleboard excursions,” said Mayor Jim Kuretski during a February 4 WPBF interview. The Jubilee featured live music from Havoc 305, a business expo, civic fair, food trucks, and kid-friendly obstacle courses hosted by the Jupiter Police and Fire Rescue Departments. History enthusiasts can explore Jupiter’s past through History Bus Tours (registration required at jupiter.fl.us/Centennial), panel discussions at Town Hall and the Jupiter Branch Library, and interactive history displays. A standout keepsake is the Centennial poster, designed by local artists Kris Davis and Mei O’Malley, available for purchase. For nature lovers, the Centennial-themed Turtle Trot and Jupiter Beach Clean-Up highlight the town’s commitment to its waterways and beaches, while paddleboard tours explore the Loxahatchee River’s scenic beauty. The Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum remains a focal point, celebrating its 165th anniversary on July 10 with a special event where children receive gift bags. The town also introduced a “Passport to Jupiter,” a booklet and app guiding visitors to historic sites, parks, and natural areas, emphasizing what makes Jupiter unique. Community Spirit and Future Vision “What sets Jupiter apart is its community spirit,” Mayor Kuretski noted. “The neighborliness and volunteerism here don’t exist anywhere else.” This spirit is evident in events like National Night Out on August 5, featuring a Lights and Sirens Parade, a free baseball game at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium, and a fireworks finale. A grant program encourages neighborhoods and businesses to participate in the centennial, fostering community engagement. As Jupiter looks to the future, its centennial is not just a celebration of the past but a reflection on its evolution. “We’re not just celebrating 100 years of history, but thousands of years of connection to this land,” said Sean Reed, Director of Community Relations. From ancient Native American settlements to modern-day charm, Jupiter’s story is one of resilience, growth, and an enduring love for its coastal home. For a full schedule of events, visit jupiter.fl.us/Centennial. As Jupiter marks this milestone, residents and visitors alike are invited to join in the festivities, grab a Centennial keepsake, and celebrate what makes this town truly “Uniquely Jupiter.”