The Suncoast Dance Sport Classic, also known as the Sarasota Challenge, takes ballroom competition to a larger stage at the Hilton St. Petersburg Bayfront. Spectators can enjoy a polished showcase of dance talent in a scenic downtown setting, while participants compete in a variety of categories. Multiple ticket options are available for those who want to watch the action live.
Tour de Parks is a scenic bicycle ride celebrating The Legacy Trail with route options of 21, 36, and 66 or 74 miles. Riders start and finish at the Historic Venice Train Depot and travel through beautiful Sarasota County parks, trails, and roads. Registration opens at 6:30 a.m., and the event includes breakfast, lunch, and a T-shirt for the first 600 registrants. All rides start and finish at the historic Venice Train Depot, 303 E Venice Ave., Venice, FL Entry Fees: $55 Through February 24 $60 February 25 – March 18 $65 After March 18 No Rain Date / No Refunds
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.
Experience one of Sarasota’s most unique and family-friendly traditions with the Ski-A-Rees Water Ski Team’s Sunday afternoon performance at Ski-A-Ree Stadium on City Island. Held behind Mote Marine Laboratory, this free show features skilled performers showcasing water ski pyramids, barefoot skiing, jumps, and choreographed routines on Sarasota Bay. Ideal for families, visitors, and locals alike, the event combines athletic skill with entertaining, high-energy routines in a scenic waterfront setting. The spring season runs weekly from February through early May, making it a great addition to any weekend plans in Sarasota. Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy a relaxed afternoon while watching one of the region’s longest-running performance teams in action.
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!
If relaxing, having fun, enjoying good food, and listening to great live music over the weekend sounds like your perfect plan, then join us at the Sarasota Country Music & Food Festival in Sarasota, FL. Dates of the festivities are March 27th-29th, 2026.
BAM!Fest transforms the Bradenton Riverwalk into a dynamic celebration of art, music, and interactive experiences from bridge to bridge. Guests can enjoy live performances on multiple stages, artist demonstrations, large-scale visual art, community mural projects, student showcases, food vendors, beverages, and family-friendly activities throughout the waterfront. It is one of the area's most vibrant spring arts events, and admission is free.
Experience one of Sarasota’s most unique and family-friendly traditions with the Ski-A-Rees Water Ski Team’s Sunday afternoon performance at Ski-A-Ree Stadium on City Island. Held behind Mote Marine Laboratory, this free show features skilled performers showcasing water ski pyramids, barefoot skiing, jumps, and choreographed routines on Sarasota Bay. Ideal for families, visitors, and locals alike, the event combines athletic skill with entertaining, high-energy routines in a scenic waterfront setting. The spring season runs weekly from February through early May, making it a great addition to any weekend plans in Sarasota. Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy a relaxed afternoon while watching one of the region’s longest-running performance teams in action.
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 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.
On the first Friday of each month, Downtown Sarasota transforms into a lively outdoor block party for Fresh Fridays. This free community event brings together live music, outdoor dining, and a vibrant Main Street atmosphere under the stars. Each month features a new theme, high-energy entertainment, and the chance to enjoy Sarasota’s best local restaurants and bars with curbside service and plenty of room to mix and mingle.
Experience one of Sarasota’s most unique and family-friendly traditions with the Ski-A-Rees Water Ski Team’s Sunday afternoon performance at Ski-A-Ree Stadium on City Island. Held behind Mote Marine Laboratory, this free show features skilled performers showcasing water ski pyramids, barefoot skiing, jumps, and choreographed routines on Sarasota Bay. Ideal for families, visitors, and locals alike, the event combines athletic skill with entertaining, high-energy routines in a scenic waterfront setting. The spring season runs weekly from February through early May, making it a great addition to any weekend plans in Sarasota. Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy a relaxed afternoon while watching one of the region’s longest-running performance teams in action.