Sarasota Lifestyle

Kids Summer Beach Runs – Venice Beach

Let the kids run off some energy this summer at the Kids Summer Beach Runs on Venice Beach, a weekly 1-mile fun run designed to promote health, fitness, and outdoor fun for children of all ages. Set along the scenic shoreline, this non-competitive series allows kids to enjoy exercise in a safe and supportive setting. Each participant receives a ribbon at the finish line, and those who complete four runs throughout the summer earn a free commemorative t-shirt. Registration starts at 5:30 p.m., and the run begins at 6:30 p.m. It’s a great way to encourage healthy habits while enjoying beautiful Venice Beach.

Cinema at The Bay: Happy Gilmore

The Oval 1055 Blvd of the Arts, Sarasota, Florida

Enjoy a free outdoor movie under the stars at The Bay! In celebration of the opening day of the US Open. (PG-13) – “Happy Gilmore”follows an aspiring ice hockey player (Adam Sandler) who, after failing to make a hockey team due to his aggressive style and lack of skating skills, finds himself in a bind when his grandmother’s house is threatened by the IRS. He then unexpectedly discovers a talent for golf and enters a golf tournament to win the prize money and save his grandmother’s home.

USRowing Youth National Championships

Nathan Benderson Park 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle, Sarasota, FL

Witness the nation’s premier youth rowing athletes compete on one of the finest rowing courses in the world—Nathan Benderson Park in Sarasota. The USRowing Youth National Championships is the final regatta of the youth rowing season and draws more than 2,000 rowers from across the country for three days of elite competition.

Jazz Thursdays at Sarasota Art Museum

Unwind at Jazz Thursdays, a vibrant monthly gathering at the Sarasota Art Museum. Held on the second Thursday of each month, this event brings together live jazz music, inspiring art, and a lively community vibe. Enjoy performances under the stars on the Marcy & Michael Klein Plaza, explore the galleries with extended hours, and grab a bite or a glass of wine at Bistro, which opens at 5:00 PM with a special evening menu. Whether you're a jazz aficionado or just looking for a fun night out, Jazz Thursdays offer a cultural escape like no other in Sarasota.

Free Music Friday Night Concert

Kick off your weekend with great tunes and local vibes at the Free Music Friday Night Concert, a beloved outdoor concert series held in downtown Venice. Each Friday evening, a different local band or solo artist takes the stage to deliver live music spanning genres like rock, jazz, blues, country, and more. Bring a chair or blanket, grab a bite from nearby restaurants, and enjoy a relaxed, family-friendly evening under the stars. With no admission fee and a welcoming community atmosphere, this weekly event is a perfect way to support local talent and unwind at the end of the week. Centennial Park Gazebo200 W Venice Ave, Venice, FL 34285

Free Outdoor Movie Series – Waterside

Waterside Park 1560 Lakefront Dr, Sarasota, fl

Enjoy a magical evening under the stars at the Free Outdoor Movie Night held monthly at Waterside Park in Lakewood Ranch, Sarasota, FL. Hosted on the second Friday of each month, this family-friendly event invites the community to bring blankets, lawn chairs, and picnic baskets to watch a movie on a giant inflatable screen in a scenic waterfront setting.

32nd Annual Downtown Venice Craft Festival

Downtown Venice Miami Avenue, Venice, FL

Now celebrating its 32nd year, the Downtown Venice Craft Festival returns with a two-day outdoor showcase of creativity, craftsmanship, and community. Stroll along the charming, shaded streets of historic downtown Venice and explore over 100 booths of handcrafted goods made by artisans from across Florida and beyond.

Sarasota Music Festival – Final Weekend Concerts

Sarasota Opera House 61 N Pineapple Ave, Sarasota, FL

Join us for the exhilarating final weekend of the 2025 Sarasota Music Festival, one of Florida’s most prestigious classical music events. Now in its 60th season, the Festival brings together brilliant conservatory students and internationally acclaimed faculty artists for three weeks of masterful music-making.

Towles Court Art Studios Open Studio Night

Stroll through one of Sarasota’s most eclectic and charming arts districts during the Artwalk at Towles Court, a vibrant celebration of creativity held on the third Friday of each month. This monthly event invites locals and visitors alike to explore artist studios, galleries, and shops showcasing fine art, sculpture, pottery, jewelry, and more. Live music fills the air as guests enjoy complimentary refreshments and the chance to meet the artists behind the work. Many participating studios offer demonstrations, making it a fun and interactive experience for all ages.

Kids Summer Beach Runs Siesta Key Beach

Lace up for summer fun at the Kids Summer Beach Runs on Siesta Key Beach, a favorite weekly tradition that combines sunshine, exercise, and family-friendly excitement. Hosted on the powder-soft sands of one of America’s top beaches, this 1-mile fun run encourages kids of all ages to stay active in a supportive and non-competitive environment. Each child receives a ribbon after every run, and those who participate in four or more races earn a free t-shirt. Registration begins at 5:30 p.m., and the race kicks off at 6:30 p.m. With scenic views and an upbeat community vibe, it’s a great way to stay healthy and have fun all summer long.

Kids Summer Beach Runs Venice Beach

Get the kids moving this summer with the Kids Summer Beach Runs at Venice Beach, a weekly 1-mile fun run designed to promote fitness and fun in a beautiful beachfront setting. Open to children of all ages and fitness levels, these non-competitive runs offer a supportive, energetic environment where every participant receives a ribbon, and those who complete four or more runs earn a free t-shirt. Registration begins at 5:30 p.m., and the run starts at 6:30 p.m. It's a great way to build healthy habits, enjoy the Gulf breeze, and make summer memories on the sand.