Sarasota Lifestyle

Kids Summer Beach Runs – Venice Beach

Venice Beach hosts its weekly Kids Summer Beach Run, promoting youth fitness and community spirit. Open to all children, with prizes and fun post-run refreshments.

Cinema at The Bay: Primary Colors

The Oval 1055 Blvd of the Arts, Sarasota, Florida

Enjoy a free outdoor movie under the stars at The Bay! (R) – “Primary Colors,” a 1998 film directed by Mike Nichols, isa drama that follows the political campaign of a Southern governor (played by John Travolta) as he runs for president, exploring themes of ambition, scandal, and the complexities of modern politics.

Free Music Friday Night Concert

Enjoy live local music under the stars during Venice's Free Music Friday Night Concert series. Bring a lawn chair and kick off the weekend with music in the park.

Nokomis Beach Drum Circle

Join locals and visitors alike every Wednesday and Saturday evening at Nokomis Beach for one of the most unique and rhythmic traditions in Sarasota County—the Nokomis Beach Drum Circle. This spontaneous, family-friendly event gathers drummers, dancers, hula-hoopers, and spectators for a lively, spiritual celebration of community and rhythm.

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.

Lakewood Ranch Fireworks on the Green

Celebrate Independence Day early at Waterside Place in Lakewood Ranch with family activities, live music, food trucks, and a grand fireworks display over Kingfisher Lake.

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.

All-American Cookout & Fireworks at The Bay

Enjoy food trucks, live music, lawn games, and spectacular views of Sarasota Bay’s fireworks at The Bay Park’s family-friendly Fourth of July celebration.

Music on Main Lakewood Ranch

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.

Fourth of July Fireworks on the Bay

Celebrate Independence Day with Sarasota’s premier fireworks show over Sarasota Bay. Live music and family-friendly festivities take place at Island Park and Marina Jack.

Downtown Sarasota 4th of July Parade

Celebrate Independence Day in classic patriotic style at the annual Downtown Sarasota 4th of July Parade! This family-friendly event brings the community together to honor America's birthday with marching bands, festive floats, community groups, dancers, vintage cars, and more. The parade marches down Main Street from Orange Avenue to Bayfront Drive, ending near Island Park and Marina Jack.