Sarasota Lifestyle

Free Outdoor Movie – Waterside

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.

Downtown Sarasota Farmers Market

Downtown Sarasota Farmers Market

Downtown Sarasota Farmers Market 1 N Lemon Ave, Sarasota, FL

Enjoy a vibrant and lively market experience every Saturday in the heart of Downtown Sarasota! The Sarasota Farmers Market features over 70 vendors offering fresh produce, artisan foods, local seafood, plants, handmade crafts, and more. Stroll through the market, listen to live music, and discover unique finds while supporting local farmers, bakers, and artists. The market is family-friendly and pet-friendly, making it a perfect Saturday morning tradition for all ages. Come early for the best selection and enjoy the downtown Sarasota atmosphere.

Sarasota Cars & Coffee

Sarasota Cars & Coffee

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

Join fellow car enthusiasts at Sarasota Cars & Coffee, a monthly gathering showcasing over 500 vehicles ranging from vintage classics and custom builds to exotic supercars. Enjoy complimentary coffee from Mademoiselle Paris and Chick-fil-A, live music, and a vibrant community atmosphere. The event supports local charities, with different beneficiaries each month. 

Bradenton Public Market

Bradenton Public Market

Old Main Street Downtown Bradenton Old Main Street, Bradenton, FL

Welcome to the Bradenton Public Market, a place where the community meets each week to enjoy fresh produce, local art, music, and free family activities on Old Main Street.Since 1979, the Bradenton Public Market has been a cherished weekly tradition, transforming Old Main Street into a vibrant, open-air marketplace. Each Saturday from October through May, locals and visitors alike gather to explore over 80 vendors offering fresh produce, artisanal goods, local art, and delicious prepared foods. The market also features live music, chef demonstrations, and family-friendly activities, making it a delightful outing for all ages.

Sarasota Art Museum First Fridays

Sarasota Art Museum First Fridays

Celebrate Sarasota’s vibrant creative community at First Fridays at Sarasota Art Museum. Held on the museum’s beautiful plaza, this monthly evening gathering offers live music, art, food, and drink in a lively, welcoming atmosphere. Guests can enjoy gallery access, curated performances, pop-up art activities, and a specialty menu from the on-site Bistro. Whether you're an art lover or just looking to unwind, it's a perfect Friday night out for friends, couples, and families alike.

Farmers Market at Lakewood Ranch

Farmers Market at Lakewood Ranch

Waterside Place at Lakewood Ranch 1561 Lakefront Dr, Sarasota, FL

Discover one of the area's most popular weekly gatherings at The Farmers' Market at Lakewood Ranch! Every Sunday, over 90 curated vendors bring the best of fresh produce, prepared foods, artisanal goods, plants, crafts, and more to Waterside Place. It's a vibrant, family- and pet-friendly event perfect for browsing, brunching, and enjoying the beautiful setting along Kingfisher Lake. From fresh-baked pastries to farm-fresh vegetables, organic products, handmade gifts, and live music, this market is a must-visit for locals and visitors alike.

Siesta Key Drum Circle

Siesta Key Drum Circle

Siesta Beach 948 Beach Road, Siesta Key, Sarasota, FL

Experience one of Sarasota’s most iconic and free-spirited traditions at the Siesta Key Drum Circle, held every Sunday evening just before sunset on the soft white sands of Siesta Beach. Drummers, dancers, locals, and visitors gather in a vibrant circle to celebrate rhythm, community, and the beauty of nature. Feel free to bring your own drum, join the dancing, or simply relax and enjoy the colorful scene. Family-friendly and open to all ages. No tickets or registration required — just show up and soak in the good vibes!

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

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

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.