Sarasota Lifestyle

Sarasota Film Festival

Sarasota Film Festival

Celebrate the art of filmmaking at the Sarasota Film Festival, featuring screenings of independent and international films, panel discussions, and special events with filmmakers and actors.

Venice Book Fair & Writers Festival

Meet authors, shop local booksellers, attend writing workshops, and celebrate literature at this charming outdoor fair in downtown Venice.

Growing Up Suncoast – Youth Art Fest 2025

Downtown Sarasota North Palm Avenue & Main Street, Sarasota, FL

Join the Sarasota arts community for the inaugural "Growing Up Suncoast" Youth Art Fest 2025 (YAF2025), a vibrant celebration of young creativity. This family-friendly event features:​ Interactive Installations: Experience immersive art, including an underwater tunnel crafted by young artists in collaboration with Mote Marine Laboratory.​ Hands-On Art Stations: Participate in creative activities hosted by organizations such as Creative Kids SRQ, Art Center Sarasota, The Ringling, Sarasota Glass Company, and Sarasota Clay Company Live Performances: Enjoy musical acts throughout the day, including performances by Music Compound.​ Youth Art Exhibitions: Browse and purchase artwork created by talented young artists from local schools. All proceeds support these emerging creators and their art teachers.​ This collaborative event aims to inspire and be inspired, showcasing the importance of art in the community.​

Manatee’s 4th Annual Taco Fest

Manatee County Fairgrounds 1402 14th Avenue West, Palmetto, FL

Join thousands of taco enthusiasts for a day filled with over 100 taco and food vendors from the Tri-State Area. Specialty cocktails, margaritas, and craft beers. Live entertainment, including Mariachi bands. Family-friendly activities: free petting zoo, bounce houses, face painting, and free children's books provided by the Manatee Early Learning Coalition. Games like Sombrero Ring Toss with prizes. Note: Vendors operate on a cash basis.

5th annual Celtic Fest

Fishermen’s Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda, Florida

Experience a vibrant celebration of Celtic heritage at the 5th Annual Day of Celtic Music. Presented in partnership with the Cultural Heritage Center of Southwest Florida and the New World Celts (Sarasota Chapter), this free, family-friendly event features a dynamic lineup of live performances, traditional dancing, artisan vendors, and more.

AquaPalooza: New Pass, Beer Can Island, Jewfish

One of Southwest Florida’s biggest boating parties, AquaPalooza draws hundreds of boats and beachgoers for a day of live music and floating fun along New Pass, Jewfish, & Longboat Pass.

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.

Red, White, & Food Festival

The Mall at University Town Center 140 University Town Center Drive, Sarasota, FL

Get ready for a spectacular pre-Independence Day celebration at the annual Red, White, & Food Festival at the University Town Center! This vibrant and family-friendly event transforms The Green into a festive hub filled with delicious food, refreshing drinks, live music, and exciting activities for all ages. It's the perfect way to kick off your Fourth of July weekend right here in Sarasota.

First Friday Venice: July Celebration

Downtown Venice kicks off July with its monthly First Friday celebration featuring extended shopping hours, live music, and refreshments at participating merchants.

Sarasota Film Festival

Sarasota Film Festival

Kicking off one of the state’s premier film festivals, opening weekend includes screenings, red carpet events, and parties attended by filmmakers, celebrities, and fans.

Suncoast Largest Food Truck Festival 7

The Mall at University Town Center 140 University Town Center Drive, Sarasota, FL

Get ready for a delicious Independence Day weekend celebration at the 7th annual Suncoast Largest Food Truck Festival! This highly anticipated event brings together a massive gathering of the region's most popular and diverse food trucks, offering a culinary adventure for the whole family. Forget the traditional barbecue fare – here you can sample everything from gourmet tacos and loaded fries to international cuisine, sweet treats, and everything in between