Sarasota Chalk Festival – Stories from a Local
Discover the Sarasota Chalk Festival through local stories and history. From 3D art to circus tributes, explore why this Sarasota event is unforgettable.
Museums, galleries,
& local events
Sarasota surprises people.
Most people come for the beaches. What many discover is a city where museums, historic architecture, live theater, galleries, and even world-class sand sculpture become part of everyday life.
That’s one of the reasons I’ve enjoyed living here since 1988.
If you’re exploring Sarasota’s arts scene for the first time, don’t try to see everything. Start with three experiences that capture why Sarasota has earned its reputation as Florida’s cultural capital. Then come back and discover everything else.
Art, history, circus heritage, and one of Sarasota’s most beautiful bayfront settings.
Step inside the remarkable mansion that helped shape Sarasota’s cultural identity.
A contemporary museum celebrating Sarasota’s growing & diverse arts scene.
From signature museums and historic landmarks to public art and cultural festivals, these are some of the Sarasota experiences I think are most worth discovering.
Discover the Sarasota Chalk Festival through local stories and history. From 3D art to circus tributes, explore why this Sarasota event is unforgettable.
Step into the Sarasota Medieval Fair—jousting, artisans, food, comedy & carillon bells. Discover its history & why this festival is unforgettable.
Celebrate the Siesta Fiesta Art Festival in Sarasota—art in the Village, sand volleyball on the beach, and a community weekend to remember.
Experience the Sarasota Seafood & Music Festival this January—fresh Gulf seafood, live music, and Florida art by the bay.
Thunder By The Bay Sarasota roars each winter with motorcycles, live music, vendors, and community spirit at the Sarasota Fairgrounds.
Siesta Key Crystal Classic brings world-class sand sculptors to Sarasota each year — from humble beginnings to breathtaking masterpieces.
Explore Sarasota’s vibrant museum scene—from the grandeur of Ca’ d’Zan to the playful Marietta Museum. Inspiration awaits all ages!
Explore Ringling College of Art and Design Sarasota—world-class programs, industry connections, innovation shaping tomorrow’s leaders.
Marietta Museum of Art and Whimsy Sarasota delights visitors with colorful sculptures, vibrant paintings, and joyful surprises inside and out.
Explore the Sarasota Art Museum, where historic architecture and contemporary exhibitions create a one-of-a-kind cultural experience.
Explore The Ringling’s Circus Museum—three exhibits in one: the miniature model, the people behind the show, and real equipment like The Wisconsin.
Experience opulent elegance at the Ringling’s grand Venetian-style mansion on Sarasota Bay.
Explore the Ringling Museum of Art—iconic galleries, Statue of David, banyans, and after-5 events that make it a Sarasota favorite.
Discover vibrant murals, inspiring sand art, and thought-provoking installations across Sarasota.
Discover fence art Sarasota—tropical murals of dolphins, sunsets, and Florida icons that turn wooden fences into vibrant outdoor galleries.
Discover Bradenton’s Village of the Arts—where historic cottages, colorful murals, and lively Art Walks create a most unique experience.
Discover sand art Sarasota—from beach sayings etched in sand to casual creations and professional sculptures with inspiring messages.
Explore Sarasota murals — from iconic landmarks to provocative street art and tropical-themed walls that brighten the city.
Explore Sarasota sidewalk art at the Avenue of Art in Burns Court — murals celebrating Sarasota’s history, whimsy, and community spirit.
Explore Embracing Our Differences Sarasota, a powerful outdoor art exhibit at Bayfront Park featuring giant banners promoting social awareness.
Experience the magic of Sarasota’s vibrant performing arts! From the elegance of Sarasota Ballet and the powerful voices of Sarasota Opera to captivating plays at Florida Studio Theatre, Sarasota offers world-class performances at every turn. Discover unforgettable shows at Van Wezel, Asolo, and The Players Theatre—each promising an evening of pure artistic excellence.
Discover Florida Studio Theatre Sarasota—cabaret, comedy & improv in the heart of downtown’s arts district, steps from dining, galleries & nightlife.
Experience Asolo Repertory Theatre Sarasota—Broadway-caliber productions in a historic setting on the grounds of The Ringling Museum.
Discover Van Wezel Sarasota—the iconic “Purple Cow” on the bay with concerts, Broadway tours, FridayFest, and unforgettable cultural experiences.
Sarasota’s live music scene is buzzing! Enjoy fresh beats at Downtown’s Fresh Fridays, family-friendly jams at Lakewood Ranch’s First Fridays, outdoor tunes On the Green at UTC, and stunning bayfront sounds at Van Wezel’s FridayFest. Every weekend offers a new beat—come feel the rhythm!
Catch FridayFest Sarasota: bayfront live music, food trucks, and sunset views on the Van Wezel south lawn—easy, family-friendly summer nights.
Night Market UTC Sarasota brings live music, food, vendors & family fun to The Green at UTC—free outdoor concerts with a community vibe.
Music on Main Lakewood Ranch: free live music, food & beer vendors, kids’ activities, and monthly non-profit spotlights on Main Street.
Fresh Fridays Sarasota: live music, food, vendors, art & giveaways every first Friday downtown. Free concerts & fun in the heart of the city.
Experience the Siesta Key Drum Circle — Sarasota’s beloved Sunday sunset tradition of rhythm, dance, and community on the beach.
Thunder By The Bay Sarasota roars each winter with motorcycles, live music, vendors, and community spirit at the Sarasota Fairgrounds.
Explore Sarasota Lifestyle’s local guides — from beaches and dining to arts, attractions, outdoor fun, family activities, events, and places to stay.
