Sarasota Lifestyle

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.

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 – 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.

Movie in the Park at Waterside Place

Movie in the Park at Waterside Place

Enjoy a family-friendly movie night under the stars. The first 220 attendees will receive a free cookie from Dirty Dough Cookies, courtesy of Grace Community Church. There will also be inflatables for kids and concessions available from We B’ Poppin Popcorn and Kettle Corn. Remember to bring your own blankets or lawn chairs.

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.