Bring your blankets, your loved ones, and your holiday spirit — Holiday Movies Under the Stars returns to University Town Center with sixteen magical nights of free outdoor cinema beneath Sarasota’s winter sky. Each Friday and Saturday evening at 7 PM, the West District transforms into an open-air movie theater filled with laughter, twinkling lights, and the cozy charm of the season.
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.
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. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Fresh Fridays is the perfect way to experience the energy of downtown—great crowds, great weather, and great vibes every month. 📍 Where: Main Street, Downtown Sarasota ⏰ When: First Friday of every month, 7–10 PM 💲 Cost: Free community event
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.
The Friday kickoff launches the 28th Annual Thunder By The Bay Festival with an electrifying night of live music, food, and festivities. Gates open at 5:00 PM and close at 10:00 PM. Guests can enjoy vendor booths, food and drink stands, and on-site merchandise. Festivalgoers may bring their own lawn chairs or rent one through conCHAIRto for comfortable viewing. The evening lineup begins with high-energy rock band Maiden Cane at 6:00 PM, setting the stage for the night’s headliner, Night Ranger, performing at 8:00 PM. Friday offers the perfect start to a weekend full of engines, entertainment, and community spirit benefiting Suncoast Charities for Children.The Friday kickoff launches the 28th Annual Thunder By The Bay Music & Motors Festival with an electrifying night of live music, food, and festivities at the Sarasota Fairgrounds.
Gates open at 5:00 PM and close at 10:00 PM, marking the official start of Sarasota’s premier weekend celebration of music and motorcycles. Guests can enjoy vendor booths, local food and drink stands, and on-site merchandise featuring exclusive festival apparel.
Festivalgoers are welcome to bring their own lawn chairs or rent one through conCHAIRto for prime seating in front of the main stage. The evening lineup kicks off with high-energy rock band Maiden Cane at 6:00 PM, followed by the legendary headliner Night Ranger at 8:00 PM, delivering a night of chart-topping hits and classic rock nostalgia.
Friday sets the tone for an unforgettable weekend of roaring engines, live entertainment, and community spirit — all to benefit Suncoast Charities for Children.
Saturday is the largest and most action-packed day of Thunder By The Bay, running from 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM at the Sarasota Fairgrounds. The morning begins with the 'Ride So Children Can Thrive' Dice Run from 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM, followed by the Biker Rodeo Games from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Fans can also meet Paul Teutul Jr. from the hit TV series American Chopper at noon. Throughout the day, attendees can browse dozens of vendors, food trucks, and merchandise tents while enjoying a steady stream of live music. The concert lineup includes The Pearl Jam Experience ('Given to Fly') at 4:00 PM, Bobby Friss at 6:00 PM, and the Southern rock legends 38 Special closing the night with their headlining set at 8:00 PM. This is the can’t-miss day of the festival, featuring nonstop entertainment, family-friendly fun, and community support for Suncoast Charities for Children.
Sunday, February 15, 2026, marks the final day of the 28th Annual Thunder By The Bay Festival, running from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM at the Sarasota Fairgrounds. The day offers a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere filled with impressive vehicles, food vendors, and community camaraderie. Highlights include the Car Show and Bike Show, both open from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM, and a second opportunity to meet Paul Teutul Jr. from American Chopper. Musical entertainment kicks off with the Crossfire Creek Band at 1:00 PM, followed by the highly anticipated closing performance by Montgomery Gentry featuring Eddie Montgomery at 3:00 PM. The Sunday finale celebrates a weekend of engines, music, and giving back, with proceeds supporting Suncoast Charities for Children.
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 the inspiring true story of music icon Tina Turner in this electrifying Broadway smash hit. Featuring her legendary hits including “Proud Mary,” “What’s Love Got to Do With It,” and “The Best,” this powerful musical charts Tina’s rise from humble beginnings to global superstardom. A must-see for fans of rock, soul, and resilience.
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.
The Firestone Grand Prix brings IndyCar-style racing to downtown St. Petersburg on a 1.8-mile, 14-turn street course. The event includes racing, entertainment, and festival activities over the weekend. Tickets start at $25, with premium packages also available.