Unwind at After Hours—a lively evening of live music and social dancing on the Marcy & Michael Klein Plaza at Sarasota Art Museum. Most nights kick off with a quick beginner-friendly lesson at 5:30 pm, followed by music and open dancing until 7:30 pm. Galleries, the Bistro, and the SHOP stay open late, so you can make a full night of it.
Join us for UTC Live on The Green, our free outdoor concert series held the first Thursday of every month from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Back by popular demand, NoFilter will be rockin’ the stage on Thursday, October 2. Get ready to dance the night away with this high-energy dance band that plays a variety of favorites from various decades and multiple genres.
Start your month with a splash of creativity at Art in the Park, a free community art session held the first Friday of every month from 10 to 11 AM at The Bay’s Ibis Playground Pavilion in downtown Sarasota. Surrounded by the beauty of Sarasota Bay, participants of all ages are invited to unwind, connect, and explore their artistic side under the guidance of Art Center Sarasota teaching artists.
Join the fun at Music on Main, Lakewood Ranch’s signature monthly street party featuring live music, food vendors, beer and wine booths, and family-friendly activities. Held on the first Friday of every month along Main Street, this lively outdoor event draws locals and visitors alike for an evening of entertainment and community connection. Each month features a different band playing everything from rock and country to funk and pop, plus local businesses and nonprofits hosting booths and activities. Bring a chair, leave the cooler at home, and enjoy the vibrant energy of one of Lakewood Ranch’s most popular recurring events.
Step into the glowing wonderland of Lights at Spooky Point, where illuminated creatures and playful displays line a wooded trail through the historic grounds of Spanish Point. Each turn reveals new surprises—from hovering 'ghost orchids' to vibrant glowing webs. Two entry times available nightly: 6:30 PM and 7:45 PM (no admittance after 8:30 PM). Enjoy food and drinks for purchase along the trail and experience this limited-run, family-friendly event from October 3 through November 1.
Fresh Fridays is back and better than ever! Join us on Main Street in Downtown Sarasota for the Season 5 kickoff of this free monthly block party. The Main Street Mixer brings together locals and visitors for an unforgettable evening of live music, delicious food, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
The Sunshine State Outdoor Volleyball Association (SSOVA) returns to Siesta Key Beach for another weekend of high-energy competition and fun on the sand. This two-day AVP America BRQ (Beach Regional Qualifier) event offers double points and draws some of Florida’s best athletes to one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
Celebrate the magic of fall at the 36th Annual Fruitville Grove Pumpkin Festival, a cherished family tradition in Sarasota! Held every weekend in October, this festive event transforms Fruitville Grove Farm into an autumn wonderland complete with pumpkins, live music, and seasonal fun for all ages.
Celebrate fall at Dakin Dairy Farms’ 2nd Annual Harvest Festival! Enjoy a full day on the farm with food trucks, local vendors, live music, and plenty of family fun. Highlights include a Kid Zone, pumpkin patch, corn maze, sunflower U‑pick, Touch‑A‑Tractor, calf cuddles, kid ATVs, lawn mower racing, and the crowd‑favorite pumpkin cannon. Bring sunscreen, closed‑toe shoes, and a camera—there are photo ops around every corner. General admission is $20 (ages 5 & under free) and parking is free.
Experience Sarasota’s most enchanting Halloween light show! Wander the historic trails of Spanish Point beneath the trees, surrounded by whimsical illuminated installations inspired by real plants and classic fall fun. Two entry times available nightly: 6:30 PM and 7:45 PM (no admittance after 8:30 PM). Enjoy food and drinks for purchase along the trail and experience this limited-run, family-friendly event from October 3 through November 1.
The Sunshine State Outdoor Volleyball Association (SSOVA) returns to Siesta Key Beach for another weekend of high-energy competition and fun on the sand. This two-day AVP America BRQ (Beach Regional Qualifier) event offers double points and draws some of Florida’s best athletes to one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
Book lovers unite at the Venice Fall Book Fair, a seasonal celebration of literature featuring local and regional authors, independent publishers, and book-related vendors. Stroll through charming downtown Venice to discover a wide variety of genres, from fiction and memoir to children’s books and history. Meet authors, attend signings, and learn about the creative process through panel discussions and author talks. Perfect for readers of all ages, the event also includes activities for kids and plenty of opportunities to support local literary talent. Whether you're an avid reader or just browsing, this event offers inspiration on every page.