The signature events, festivals and traditions worth planning around throughout the year.
Sarasota’s calendar is filled with festivals, fairs and celebrations throughout the year, but some have become traditions in their own right. From sand sculptures on Siesta Key and outdoor festivals downtown to the county fair, summer fireworks and holiday celebrations, these are the annual Sarasota events worth knowing about—and, in some cases, planning a visit around.
World-renowned sand sculptors transform Siesta Key’s quartz sand into extraordinary works of art.
NOVEMBER | MYAKKA CITY
Knights, jousting and medieval entertainment bring weekends of old-world spectacle to Sarasota County.
NOVEMBER | DOWNTOWN SARASOTA
Artists from across the country bring original works in painting, sculpture, jewelry, photography and more to downtown Sarasota.
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Fresh seafood, live music and a lively outdoor festival atmosphere bring people together in the heart of downtown Sarasota.
JANUARY | DOWNTOWN SARASOTA
Artists from across the country showcase original works in painting, sculpture, jewelry, photography and more.
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FEBRUARY | SARASOTA FAIRGROUNDS
Motorcycles, live music and entertainment come together for a high-energy Sarasota tradition benefiting Suncoast Charities for Children.
Rides, livestock, exhibits, food and family entertainment come together for one of Sarasota’s longest-running spring traditions.
MARCH | DOWNTOWN SARASOTA
Artists and makers bring original art, handcrafted goods, jewelry, ceramics and more to the streets of downtown Sarasota.
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APRIL | NATHAN BENDERSON PARK
Colorful dragon boats and teams take to the water for a day of racing and competition at Nathan Benderson Park.
Fireworks light up Sarasota Bay as crowds gather along the waterfront for one of Sarasota’s favorite summer traditions.
SUMMER | THE RINGLING
Sarasota’s celebrated circus heritage comes alive with high-flying performances, incredible talent and family-friendly entertainment.
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JUNE | SARASOTA AREA
Savor Sarasota supports local restaurants during the slower summer season while giving diners better prices, easier reservations and a chance to discover restaurants they might not otherwise try.
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Millions of lights, music, outdoor movies, ice skating, carriage rides, concerts, fireworks and more transform the UTC area into Sarasota’s biggest holiday celebration.
DECEMBER | SARASOTA BAY
Boats dressed in thousands of holiday lights cruise Sarasota Bay as families gather along the waterfront for one of the season’s most colorful local traditions.
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DECEMBER 31 | DOWNTOWN SARASOTA
Downtown Sarasota rings in the new year with a lively block party, the signature midnight Pineapple Drop and fireworks over Sarasota Bay.
EVENT DETAILS →
Sarasota’s biggest events are spread throughout the year, from sand sculptures and outdoor festivals to summer fireworks and holiday traditions. Some happen on the same weekend every year, while others shift dates, locations or schedules from one season to the next.
If an event catches your eye, use the links above to check current dates and details before making plans. And if you live here—or simply visit often—there’s always something else happening between the signature events featured on this page.