Discover festivals, community events, and family-friendly happenings in the Sarasota area.
Sat, Feb 14 - Sun, Mar 8
π Nathan Benderson Park π Times vary π΅ $40+
World-class circus acts under the Big Top at Nathan Benderson Park. A Sarasota tradition with new performers each yearβgreat for kids, fun for adults too.
Wed, Mar 4
π Nathan Benderson Park π 5-10pm π΅ $95
Buffalo wings, beef on weck, and all your favorite upstate New York eats and drinksβwith all-inclusive pricing so you can sample everything guilt-free.
Thu, Mar 5
π The Ringling Museum π 8-11pm π΅ $15 (Free for members)
The Ringling's late-night social series brings live music, emerging visual artists, and food trucks to the Museum of Art Courtyard. This month's lineup runs from blues-rock to indie-pop, headlined by Berra, an Ethiopian-American artist making waves in the alt scene.
Fri, Mar 6
π Lakewood Ranch Main Street π 6-9pm π·οΈ Free
Live music, food vendors, and kids' activities take over Main Streetβwith a different band and local charity beneficiary each month.
Fri, Mar 6
π The Bay Park π 6:30-8:30pm π·οΈ Free
Dance to wireless beats while watching the sunset over Sarasota Bay. DJ Benny spins a musical journey designed to free your spirit through headphones.
Fri, Mar 6
π Main Street π 07-10pm π·οΈ Free
Live music and dancing take over Main Street between Pineapple & Palm Ave for a night of downtown energy, with Foreman 5 headlining plus giant games and local vendors.
Sat, Mar 7
π Twin Lakes Park π 8:30am-3:00pm π·οΈ Free
Hundreds of native plants, perennials, herbs, groundcovers, and pollinator favoritesβall grown by Master Gardener Volunteers. Experts are on hand to help you find the right plant for your space. Cash or check only; bring a wagon.
Sat, Mar 7 - Sun, Mar 8
π Lakewood Ranch Main Street π 10am-5pm π·οΈ Free
An outdoor gallery of original, handmade works by artisans from across the country, set along Main Street. Browse paintings, sculpture, jewelry, ceramics, glass, photography, woodworking, and moreβand meet the artists behind each piece.
Sat, Mar 7
π Selby 5 Points Park π 10am-4pm π·οΈ Free
A Parisian-inspired outdoor market in the heart of downtown, featuring local artists, artisanal goods, and unique gifts. Think charming European market vibes at Five Points Park.
Sat, Mar 7
π The Bay Park π 11am-2pm π·οΈ Free
Get the kids out to explore Sarasota Bay through hands-on science, kayaking in the Mangrove Bayou, and big-screen dolphin encounters with local researchers. Live music and food trucks round it out.
Sat, Mar 7
π Greenbrook Adventure Park For Families π 11:30am-3:00pm π·οΈ Free
Irish-themed food, beer, whiskey, and live stage performances on the Ranch to get the St. Patrick's Day season started early. Kids have their own corner to play, and there's even a Lucky Dog Parade. $5 parking.
Sat, Mar 7
π Waterside Place π 4-5pm π·οΈ Free
The Sarasota Ballet's studio company and conservatory students perform a mix of classical and contemporary dance outdoors at Waterside
Sun, Mar 8
π Nathan Benderson Park π 6:30am π΅ $49+
The 2nd annual race winds through Nathan Benderson Park alongside the 400-acre lake. Choose the 5K or half marathon, then stick around for post-race awards.
Mon, Mar 9 - Sat, Mar 14
π Sarasota Municipal Auditorium π Check showtimes π΅ $32+
A week-long celebration of jazz featuring main stage headliners, a downtown trolley pub crawl hitting 12 venues, and intimate cabaret performances throughout Sarasota.
Tue, Mar 10
π The Green at UTC π 6-8pm π·οΈ Free
Furry friends and their families gather for a St. Patrick's Day celebration with brew samples, live music, puppy petting station, and plenty of Irish-themed pup fun.
Thu, Mar 12
π The Green at UTC π 7-9pm π·οΈ Free
Get your green on for live music by Clover's Revenge, festive drinks, face painting, and family funβa shamrockin' good St. Patrick's celebration.
Fri, Mar 13
π The Bay Park π 7:00-8:50pm π·οΈ Free
Grab a blanket for this classic whale tale under the starsβpart of Good to Be Green Months celebrating friendship, freedom, and World Water Day.
Fri, Mar 13 - Sun, Mar 15
π G.T. Bray Park π Times vary π·οΈ Free
A full weekend of fresh seafood, live music, arts and crafts vendors, and waterfront vibes at G.T. Bray Park in Bradenton. Eleven bands across three days span funk, reggae, country, rock, and soul
Fri, Mar 13 - Sun, Mar 15
π Big Top at Nathan Benderson Park π Showtimes vary π΅ $35-$100
Key Chorale's 100+ voices and the Venice Symphony perform under the Big Top alongside circus artistsβacrobatics, aerial acts, and a Superheroes vs. Supervillains theme. Capes welcome.
Fri, Mar 13 - Sun, Mar 22
π Sarasota Fairgrounds π Varies π΅ $6-$12 (Kids 5 & under free)
Ten days of rides, fair food, live entertainment, and livestock exhibits at the fairgrounds. New midway this year from Deggeller Attractions. Look for $2 Monday deals.
Sat, Mar 14
π Harvest Methodist Church π 9am-2pm π·οΈ Free
Spring is blooming at this annual garden fest featuring a vibrant garden show and free family activitiesβperfect for green thumbs and budding gardeners alike.
Sat, Mar 14
π Main Street π 10am-5pm π·οΈ Free
Stunning sculptures, breathtaking paintings, handcrafted jewelry, and ceramics from some of the country's most talented artists take over downtown for free browsing.
Sat, Mar 14
π The Bay Park π 11:00am-12:30pm π·οΈ Free
Art activities, music making, and nature-focused read-aloud with mindful moments in this blue and green oasis. Designed for preschool and elementary-aged kids and families.
Sat, Mar 14
π Downtown Wellen Park π 2-8pm π·οΈ Free
Wellen Park's inaugural Irish celebration with live music, dance, and community spiritβan intimate celebration of Irish culture in downtown.
Sat, Mar 14
π Main Street π 6pm-12am π·οΈ Free
Lemon Ave transforms into a 20th annual Irish celebration with live music, food vendors, and plenty of green beer flowing.
Mon, Mar 16
π The Ringling Museum π 6pm π΅ $25 ($20 for members)
Live music and dancing on the bayfront at Ca' d'ZanβJack'd Up plays classic rock as the sun sets over Sarasota Bay. Food and drinks available; chairs provided.
Sat, Mar 21
π Nathan Benderson Park π 12-5pm π΅ $30-$40 (Kids 12 & under free)
A full afternoon of live music, local eats from 30+ vendors, and a seriously deep craft beer lineup. Family-friendly with proceeds going to Sertoma Kids.
Sat, Mar 21
π Downtown Wellen Park π 7:30am π΅ $40-$85
The 4th annual race through Downtown Wellen Parkβflat, paved, and USATF-certified. Choose 5K or half marathon, then stick around for the post-race awards. A portion of proceeds benefits Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Suncoast.
Sat, Mar 21
π Nathan Benderson Park π 8am π·οΈ Free
A community walk supporting the National MS Society's mission to end multiple sclerosis. Walk solo or form a team β all fundraising levels welcome.
Sat, Mar 21
π Selby 5 Points Park π 5:00-9:30pm π΅ $150-$275
Wines from around the world, live music, food trucks, and expert tasting seminars β all in downtown Sarasota. Proceeds benefit Operation Warrior Resolution, a local veteran wellness nonprofit.
Fri, Mar 27 - Sun, Mar 29
π Robarts Arena π 10am-6pm (Sun: 10am-5pm) π΅ $10
Browse gems, fossils, jewelry, and mineral specimens from dozens of dealers. Whether you're a serious collector or just love sparkly rocks, there's plenty to dig through.
Sat, Mar 28
π Lakewood Ranch Main Street π 7am-6pm π΅ Free (for spectators)
A one-day fundraising ride through Sarasota County with coastal views along Casey Key, the Venetian Waterway Trail, and a pirate-themed finish party on Lakewood Ranch Main Street. $250 fundraising minimum to participate supports MS research.
Sat, Mar 28
π Waterside Park π 9:30am-12:00pm π΅ $10 ($20 non-residents)
Lakewood Ranch's longest-running egg hunt returns with photos with the Easter Bunny, face painting, and sweet treat vendors. Tickets required for kids; adults free.
Sat, Mar 28
π The Bay Park π 8-9:30pm π·οΈ Free
Join Suncoast Stargazers for an extraordinary night sky viewingβbring your own telescope or peek through theirs. No experience needed, just look up.
Thu, Apr 2
π The Ringling Museum π 8-11pm π΅ $15 (Free for members)
The Ringling's late-night social series brings live music, emerging visual artists, and food trucks to the Museum of Art Courtyard. This month leans into indie and post-punk, headlined by Miami's Camp Blu and their reverb-drenched surf rock sound.
Fri, Apr 3
π Lakewood Ranch Main Street π 6-9pm π·οΈ Free
Live music, food vendors, and kids' activities take over Main Streetβwith a different band and local charity beneficiary each month.
Fri, Apr 10
π Lakewood Ranch Main Street π 6-9pm π·οΈ Free
Lakewood Ranch's annual community celebration brings live music, beer trucks, and local businesses together for a free street party showcasing life on the Ranch.
Fri, Apr 10 - Sun, Apr 12
π Robarts Arena π΅ $10 (Free with online registration)
Homeowners, this one's for youβbrowse vendors and ideas for your next renovation, repair, or refresh project. Free with online registration.
Sat, Apr 11
π Downtown Wellen Park π 4-9pm π·οΈ Free
Carnival games, face painting, speed pitch, a video game truck, and live musicβcapped off with fireworks over Grand Lake.
Sat, Apr 18
π The Bay Park π 11am-1pm π·οΈ Free
Hands-on, family-friendly activities celebrating nature and movement during Good to Be Green Monthsβeverything blue and green gets its moment to shine.
Sat, Apr 18
π Lakewood Ranch Main Street π 4-8pm π·οΈ Free
Lakewood Ranch's grooviest dog-friendly festival with live music, local vendors, and adorable photo ops. It's a tail-wagging celebration for pups and their people.
Sat, Apr 18
π Nathan Benderson Park π All day event π·οΈ Free
Fierce competition meets friendly community racing as established and entry-level dragon boat teams battle it out on world-class waters.
Mon, Apr 20
π The Ringling Museum π 6pm π΅ $25 ($20 for members)
Live music and dancing on the bayfront at Ca' d'ZanβKettle of Fish closes out the season with "way back rock." Food and drinks available; chairs provided.
Sun, Apr 26
π The Bay Park π 7-10am π΅ Free β $55
The third annual community tradition takes runners across the iconic Ringling Bridge with 5K, 10K, and family fun run optionsβwhether you're seasoned or just looking for a scenic challenge.
Fri, May 1 - Sat, May 2
π Robarts Arena π Sat 9amβ5pm, Sun 9amβ3pm π·οΈ Free
Browse, buy, and connect with firearms vendors and collectors at one of the area's regular gun shows for enthusiasts.
Sat, May 2
π Downtown Wellen Park π 4-10pm π·οΈ Free
Country music, food vendors, and live entertainment come together for a free day of boots-and-jeans fun in the heart of Wellen Park.
Sat, May 16
π Sahib Shrine Event Center π 10am-4pm π΅ $6+ (Kids 4 & under free)
Snakes, lizards, tortoises, and moreβsee live reptiles from around the world, shop from expert breeders, and catch live animal seminars.
Sat, Jul 11
π Sahib Shrine Event Center π 10am-4pm π΅ $6+ (Kids 4 & under free)
Snakes, lizards, tortoises, and moreβsee live reptiles from around the world, shop from expert breeders, and catch live animal seminars.
Fri, Oct 30
π Lakewood Ranch Main Street π 6-9pm π·οΈ Free
Trick-or-treat along Main Street with local vendors and merchants, plus a kids' zone with inflatables, a mad scientist show, and a magic show. First 1,500 kids get a free pumpkin tote.
Sat, Oct 31
π Sahib Shrine Event Center π 10am-4pm π΅ $6+ (Kids 4 & under free)
Snakes, lizards, tortoises, and moreβsee live reptiles from around the world, shop from expert breeders, and catch live animal seminars.
No events match your filters.
Today
Wed, Mar 4
π Nathan Benderson Park π 5-10pm π΅ $95
Buffalo wings, beef on weck, and all your favorite upstate New York eats and drinksβwith all-inclusive pricing so you can sample everything guilt-free.
Through Sun, Mar 8
π Nathan Benderson Park π Times vary π΅ $40+
World-class circus acts under the Big Top at Nathan Benderson Park. A Sarasota tradition with new performers each yearβgreat for kids, fun for adults too.
Coming Up
Thu, Mar 5
π The Ringling Museum π 8-11pm π΅ $15 (Free for members)
The Ringling's late-night social series brings live music, emerging visual artists, and food trucks to the Museum of Art Courtyard. This month's lineup runs from blues-rock to indie-pop, headlined by Berra, an Ethiopian-American artist making waves in the alt scene.
Fri, Mar 6
π Lakewood Ranch Main Street π 6-9pm π·οΈ Free
Live music, food vendors, and kids' activities take over Main Streetβwith a different band and local charity beneficiary each month.
Fri, Mar 6
π The Bay Park π 6:30-8:30pm π·οΈ Free
Dance to wireless beats while watching the sunset over Sarasota Bay. DJ Benny spins a musical journey designed to free your spirit through headphones.
Fri, Mar 6
π Main Street π 07-10pm π·οΈ Free
Live music and dancing take over Main Street between Pineapple & Palm Ave for a night of downtown energy, with Foreman 5 headlining plus giant games and local vendors.
Sat, Mar 7
π Twin Lakes Park π 8:30am-3:00pm π·οΈ Free
Hundreds of native plants, perennials, herbs, groundcovers, and pollinator favoritesβall grown by Master Gardener Volunteers. Experts are on hand to help you find the right plant for your space. Cash or check only; bring a wagon.
Sat, Mar 7 - Sun, Mar 8
π Lakewood Ranch Main Street π 10am-5pm π·οΈ Free
An outdoor gallery of original, handmade works by artisans from across the country, set along Main Street. Browse paintings, sculpture, jewelry, ceramics, glass, photography, woodworking, and moreβand meet the artists behind each piece.
Sat, Mar 7
π Selby 5 Points Park π 10am-4pm π·οΈ Free
A Parisian-inspired outdoor market in the heart of downtown, featuring local artists, artisanal goods, and unique gifts. Think charming European market vibes at Five Points Park.
Sat, Mar 7
π The Bay Park π 11am-2pm π·οΈ Free
Get the kids out to explore Sarasota Bay through hands-on science, kayaking in the Mangrove Bayou, and big-screen dolphin encounters with local researchers. Live music and food trucks round it out.
Sat, Mar 7
π Greenbrook Adventure Park For Families π 11:30am-3:00pm π·οΈ Free
Irish-themed food, beer, whiskey, and live stage performances on the Ranch to get the St. Patrick's Day season started early. Kids have their own corner to play, and there's even a Lucky Dog Parade. $5 parking.
Sat, Mar 7
π Waterside Place π 4-5pm π·οΈ Free
The Sarasota Ballet's studio company and conservatory students perform a mix of classical and contemporary dance outdoors at Waterside
Sun, Mar 8
π Nathan Benderson Park π 6:30am π΅ $49+
The 2nd annual race winds through Nathan Benderson Park alongside the 400-acre lake. Choose the 5K or half marathon, then stick around for post-race awards.
Mon, Mar 9 - Sat, Mar 14
π Sarasota Municipal Auditorium π Check showtimes π΅ $32+
A week-long celebration of jazz featuring main stage headliners, a downtown trolley pub crawl hitting 12 venues, and intimate cabaret performances throughout Sarasota.
Tue, Mar 10
π The Green at UTC π 6-8pm π·οΈ Free
Furry friends and their families gather for a St. Patrick's Day celebration with brew samples, live music, puppy petting station, and plenty of Irish-themed pup fun.
Thu, Mar 12
π The Green at UTC π 7-9pm π·οΈ Free
Get your green on for live music by Clover's Revenge, festive drinks, face painting, and family funβa shamrockin' good St. Patrick's celebration.
Fri, Mar 13
π The Bay Park π 7:00-8:50pm π·οΈ Free
Grab a blanket for this classic whale tale under the starsβpart of Good to Be Green Months celebrating friendship, freedom, and World Water Day.
Fri, Mar 13 - Sun, Mar 15
π G.T. Bray Park π Times vary π·οΈ Free
A full weekend of fresh seafood, live music, arts and crafts vendors, and waterfront vibes at G.T. Bray Park in Bradenton. Eleven bands across three days span funk, reggae, country, rock, and soul
Fri, Mar 13 - Sun, Mar 15
π Big Top at Nathan Benderson Park π Showtimes vary π΅ $35-$100
Key Chorale's 100+ voices and the Venice Symphony perform under the Big Top alongside circus artistsβacrobatics, aerial acts, and a Superheroes vs. Supervillains theme. Capes welcome.
Fri, Mar 13 - Sun, Mar 22
π Sarasota Fairgrounds π Varies π΅ $6-$12 (Kids 5 & under free)
Ten days of rides, fair food, live entertainment, and livestock exhibits at the fairgrounds. New midway this year from Deggeller Attractions. Look for $2 Monday deals.
Sat, Mar 14
π Harvest Methodist Church π 9am-2pm π·οΈ Free
Spring is blooming at this annual garden fest featuring a vibrant garden show and free family activitiesβperfect for green thumbs and budding gardeners alike.
Sat, Mar 14
π Main Street π 10am-5pm π·οΈ Free
Stunning sculptures, breathtaking paintings, handcrafted jewelry, and ceramics from some of the country's most talented artists take over downtown for free browsing.
Sat, Mar 14
π The Bay Park π 11:00am-12:30pm π·οΈ Free
Art activities, music making, and nature-focused read-aloud with mindful moments in this blue and green oasis. Designed for preschool and elementary-aged kids and families.
Sat, Mar 14
π Downtown Wellen Park π 2-8pm π·οΈ Free
Wellen Park's inaugural Irish celebration with live music, dance, and community spiritβan intimate celebration of Irish culture in downtown.
Sat, Mar 14
π Main Street π 6pm-12am π·οΈ Free
Lemon Ave transforms into a 20th annual Irish celebration with live music, food vendors, and plenty of green beer flowing.
Mon, Mar 16
π The Ringling Museum π 6pm π΅ $25 ($20 for members)
Live music and dancing on the bayfront at Ca' d'ZanβJack'd Up plays classic rock as the sun sets over Sarasota Bay. Food and drinks available; chairs provided.
Sat, Mar 21
π Nathan Benderson Park π 12-5pm π΅ $30-$40 (Kids 12 & under free)
A full afternoon of live music, local eats from 30+ vendors, and a seriously deep craft beer lineup. Family-friendly with proceeds going to Sertoma Kids.
Sat, Mar 21
π Downtown Wellen Park π 7:30am π΅ $40-$85
The 4th annual race through Downtown Wellen Parkβflat, paved, and USATF-certified. Choose 5K or half marathon, then stick around for the post-race awards. A portion of proceeds benefits Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Suncoast.
Sat, Mar 21
π Nathan Benderson Park π 8am π·οΈ Free
A community walk supporting the National MS Society's mission to end multiple sclerosis. Walk solo or form a team β all fundraising levels welcome.
Sat, Mar 21
π Selby 5 Points Park π 5:00-9:30pm π΅ $150-$275
Wines from around the world, live music, food trucks, and expert tasting seminars β all in downtown Sarasota. Proceeds benefit Operation Warrior Resolution, a local veteran wellness nonprofit.
Fri, Mar 27 - Sun, Mar 29
π Robarts Arena π 10am-6pm (Sun: 10am-5pm) π΅ $10
Browse gems, fossils, jewelry, and mineral specimens from dozens of dealers. Whether you're a serious collector or just love sparkly rocks, there's plenty to dig through.
Sat, Mar 28
π Lakewood Ranch Main Street π 7am-6pm π΅ Free (for spectators)
A one-day fundraising ride through Sarasota County with coastal views along Casey Key, the Venetian Waterway Trail, and a pirate-themed finish party on Lakewood Ranch Main Street. $250 fundraising minimum to participate supports MS research.
Sat, Mar 28
π Waterside Park π 9:30am-12:00pm π΅ $10 ($20 non-residents)
Lakewood Ranch's longest-running egg hunt returns with photos with the Easter Bunny, face painting, and sweet treat vendors. Tickets required for kids; adults free.
Sat, Mar 28
π The Bay Park π 8-9:30pm π·οΈ Free
Join Suncoast Stargazers for an extraordinary night sky viewingβbring your own telescope or peek through theirs. No experience needed, just look up.
Thu, Apr 2
π The Ringling Museum π 8-11pm π΅ $15 (Free for members)
The Ringling's late-night social series brings live music, emerging visual artists, and food trucks to the Museum of Art Courtyard. This month leans into indie and post-punk, headlined by Miami's Camp Blu and their reverb-drenched surf rock sound.
Fri, Apr 3
π Lakewood Ranch Main Street π 6-9pm π·οΈ Free
Live music, food vendors, and kids' activities take over Main Streetβwith a different band and local charity beneficiary each month.
Fri, Apr 10
π Lakewood Ranch Main Street π 6-9pm π·οΈ Free
Lakewood Ranch's annual community celebration brings live music, beer trucks, and local businesses together for a free street party showcasing life on the Ranch.
Fri, Apr 10 - Sun, Apr 12
π Robarts Arena π΅ $10 (Free with online registration)
Homeowners, this one's for youβbrowse vendors and ideas for your next renovation, repair, or refresh project. Free with online registration.
Sat, Apr 11
π Downtown Wellen Park π 4-9pm π·οΈ Free
Carnival games, face painting, speed pitch, a video game truck, and live musicβcapped off with fireworks over Grand Lake.
Sat, Apr 18
π The Bay Park π 11am-1pm π·οΈ Free
Hands-on, family-friendly activities celebrating nature and movement during Good to Be Green Monthsβeverything blue and green gets its moment to shine.
Sat, Apr 18
π Lakewood Ranch Main Street π 4-8pm π·οΈ Free
Lakewood Ranch's grooviest dog-friendly festival with live music, local vendors, and adorable photo ops. It's a tail-wagging celebration for pups and their people.
Sat, Apr 18
π Nathan Benderson Park π All day event π·οΈ Free
Fierce competition meets friendly community racing as established and entry-level dragon boat teams battle it out on world-class waters.
Mon, Apr 20
π The Ringling Museum π 6pm π΅ $25 ($20 for members)
Live music and dancing on the bayfront at Ca' d'ZanβKettle of Fish closes out the season with "way back rock." Food and drinks available; chairs provided.
Sun, Apr 26
π The Bay Park π 7-10am π΅ Free β $55
The third annual community tradition takes runners across the iconic Ringling Bridge with 5K, 10K, and family fun run optionsβwhether you're seasoned or just looking for a scenic challenge.
Fri, May 1 - Sat, May 2
π Robarts Arena π Sat 9amβ5pm, Sun 9amβ3pm π·οΈ Free
Browse, buy, and connect with firearms vendors and collectors at one of the area's regular gun shows for enthusiasts.
Sat, May 2
π Downtown Wellen Park π 4-10pm π·οΈ Free
Country music, food vendors, and live entertainment come together for a free day of boots-and-jeans fun in the heart of Wellen Park.
Sat, May 16
π Sahib Shrine Event Center π 10am-4pm π΅ $6+ (Kids 4 & under free)
Snakes, lizards, tortoises, and moreβsee live reptiles from around the world, shop from expert breeders, and catch live animal seminars.
Sat, Jul 11
π Sahib Shrine Event Center π 10am-4pm π΅ $6+ (Kids 4 & under free)
Snakes, lizards, tortoises, and moreβsee live reptiles from around the world, shop from expert breeders, and catch live animal seminars.
Fri, Oct 30
π Lakewood Ranch Main Street π 6-9pm π·οΈ Free
Trick-or-treat along Main Street with local vendors and merchants, plus a kids' zone with inflatables, a mad scientist show, and a magic show. First 1,500 kids get a free pumpkin tote.
Sat, Oct 31
π Sahib Shrine Event Center π 10am-4pm π΅ $6+ (Kids 4 & under free)
Snakes, lizards, tortoises, and moreβsee live reptiles from around the world, shop from expert breeders, and catch live animal seminars.