Tour the award-winning Siesta Key Rum distillery and sample locally made rums. Free guided tours available several days a week with insights into small-batch production and local flavor.
35 events found.
Events
Calendar of Events
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5 events,
 Celebrate Sarasota’s vibrant creative community at First Fridays at Sarasota Art Museum. Held on the museum’s beautiful plaza, this monthly evening gathering offers live music, art, food, and drink in a lively, welcoming atmosphere. Guests can enjoy gallery access, curated performances, pop-up art activities, and a specialty menu from the on-site Bistro. Whether you're an art lover or just looking to unwind, it's a perfect Friday night out for friends, couples, and families alike.  For the most magical photo op of the season, head inside The Mall at University Town Center to meet Santa in person amid an immersive North Pole-themed experience. Known officially as Santa’s Flight Academy, this elaborate holiday installation fills the Grand Court with Santa’s towering sleigh, glittering Christmas trees, animated displays, and interactive touchpoints for kids. Children are invited to “join Santa’s crew,” receive a virtual flight badge, and help prepare his sleigh for Christmas Eve—all leading up to a personal meet-and-greet and professional photo session with Santa himself. Families can pose for keepsake pictures surrounded by festive décor and snow-covered evergreens, while carols and twinkling lights bring the entire UTC atrium to life. 📅 Dates: Mid-November through December 24, 2025🕓 Hours: Vary daily; extended evening hours in December📍 Location: Grand Court, The Mall at University Town Center, 140 University Town Center Dr., Sarasota, FL🎟️ Reservations: Strongly recommended. Limited walk-ups may be available depending on line length.💻 Details & Booking: Visit utcsarasota.com for photo package options, pricing, and current schedule updates. This cherished Sarasota holiday tradition is free to visit, with professional photos available for purchase. All details are sourced directly from University Town Center Sarasota and may change—please confirm current information on the official event page before your visit.
FREE  Holidays at UTC: Believe transforms the entire University Town Center district into a walkable holiday destination filled with lights, music, and family fun. ✨ Stroll beneath immersive décor and towering animated trees, experience nightly synchronized light shows along Cattlemen Road, and capture memories at photo-ready installations throughout UTC’s shops and restaurants. 🎅 Guests can build their own holiday itinerary around: Santa’s Flight Academy inside The Mall at UTC The Rink at UTC – outdoor real-ice skating Holiday Movies Under the Stars – free outdoor family films Live music on The Green and fireworks on select nights Carriage rides, themed markets, and pop-up performances 🎁 Use this listing as your master hub for the season and direct visitors to the official Holidays at UTC page for the latest schedules, maps, parking details, and programming updates. Event elements and times are subject to change. Please verify details directly with the event organizer before attending.
free
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 Find artisan vendors, food trucks, and holiday treats at this festive outdoor evening market. |
6 events,
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 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.
Free (Registration Requested)
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 Unwind midweek with Sunset Yoga on The Green, a free, all-levels class that pairs gentle movement with Sarasota’s golden hour. Each Wednesday from 6:30–7:30 PM, an experienced instructor guides you through a balanced flow—breath work, accessible poses, and feel-good stretches—so beginners feel welcome and seasoned yogis can deepen their practice. The setting is outdoors on The Green at UTC (across from The Vitamin Shoppe), where there’s room to spread out, relax, and let the day go.
Free · No registration required |
6 events,
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 Explore downtown Venice with festive storefronts, extended shopping hours, refreshments, and music. A charming evening to kick off the Christmas season.
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 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.
Free |
8 events,
 Tour stunning homes beautifully decorated for the holidays by local designers. A fundraiser that delights visitors with seasonal style and inspiration.
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 Celebrate fandom at Sarasota Anime‑Fest 2025 on Dec 6 at Sarasota Municipal Auditorium! Cosplay, vendors, panels & anime fun for all ages.
$20
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 Enjoy a full day of world-class blues music along the scenic Bradenton Riverwalk. This acclaimed festival also features craft beer, local food vendors, and artisan market booths.
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 Ring in the holiday season with music, lights, and the ceremonial lighting of the tree in the center of St. Armands Circle. Enjoy live performances and festive fun for all ages. |
9 events,
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 Join the annual Christmas on Bridge Street celebration in the heart of Bradenton Beach on Anna Maria Island. This festive event transforms Bridge Street into a holiday wonderland adorned with over 20,000 twinkling lights and a towering Christmas tree. Enjoy live music, delicious food and drinks from local restaurants, and a variety of holiday activities for all ages. Children can delight in crafts and games, while the whole family can revel in the cheerful atmosphere. The evening culminates with a special appearance by Santa Claus and a holiday-themed boat parade, making it a memorable night for everyone.
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 Join the City of North Port for a festive celebration of the holiday season at the annual Poinsettia Parade & Festival. This year's theme, “Poinsettias in Paradise,” sets the stage for a day of family-friendly fun, festive cheer, and holiday magic.
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 Gather at Selby Five Points Park for Sarasota’s official Christmas tree lighting, complete with carolers, refreshments, and a special appearance by Santa Claus. | ||
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5 events,
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Unwind midweek with Sunset Yoga on The Green, a free, all-levels class that pairs gentle movement with Sarasota’s golden hour. Each Wednesday from 6:30–7:30 PM, an experienced instructor guides you through a balanced flow—breath work, accessible poses, and feel-good stretches—so beginners feel welcome and seasoned yogis can deepen their practice. The setting is outdoors on The Green at UTC (across from The Vitamin Shoppe), where there’s room to spread out, relax, and let the day go.
Free · No registration required |
8 events,
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 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.
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 The UTC Night Market is a vibrant, family-friendly event that takes place on select evenings at The Mall at University Town Center, located at 140 University Town Center Drive, Sarasota, FL 34243. Hosted on the Green at UTC (adjacent to the mall near The Vitamin Shoppe), this outdoor market is a celebration of local artisans, food trucks, live music, and community connection.
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 Celebrate the season during this magical evening at The Ringling, where the museum grounds are beautifully illuminated and admission is free with the donation of an unwrapped toy. Enjoy festive holiday music, family-friendly activities, and decorated museum spaces while supporting local families in need. |
8 events,
 Enjoy classic and contemporary holiday music performed by the Venice Symphony in a festive concert.
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 Celebrate the holiday season with Winterfest at Waterside Park featuring snow slides, live music, food vendors, holiday characters, and a magical fireworks show over the lake.
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 Sarasota’s Holiday Boat Parade of Lights brings music, magic, and illuminated boats to the bay — a festive waterfront tradition that benefits local children.
Free to attend; arrive early for parking near Bayfront Park & Marina Jack; restaurant seating at Marina Jack requires advance reservation.
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 Put on your festive gear and join the jolly crowd for Siesta Key’s annual holiday-themed bar crawl. Enjoy drink specials and merrymaking across island hotspots. |
6 events,
 Lights in Bloom® is Selby Gardens’ signature holiday light display and one of Sarasota’s most beloved seasonal traditions. During this breathtaking evening event, more than two million lights transform the gardens into a whimsical wonderland of glowing pathways, illuminated rainforest scenes, and artistic botanical displays. Stroll through the gardens and enjoy stunning light sculptures, immersive installations, and peaceful waterfront views enhanced by the glow of holiday brilliance. | |||
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6 events,
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Unwind midweek with Sunset Yoga on The Green, a free, all-levels class that pairs gentle movement with Sarasota’s golden hour. Each Wednesday from 6:30–7:30 PM, an experienced instructor guides you through a balanced flow—breath work, accessible poses, and feel-good stretches—so beginners feel welcome and seasoned yogis can deepen their practice. The setting is outdoors on The Green at UTC (across from The Vitamin Shoppe), where there’s room to spread out, relax, and let the day go.
Free · No registration required |
6 events,
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 Celebrate the season with one of Venice’s most magical traditions! The Venice Holiday Boat Parade of Lights features dozens of festively decorated boats gliding through the Intracoastal Waterway, dazzling spectators with holiday lights and cheer. The parade begins at 6:00 PM and is best viewed from areas near the Venice Train Depot and the Venice Avenue Bridge. Bring a chair and arrive early — this event is a local favorite! Venice Holiday Boat Parade of Lights📅 Date: December 20, 2025🕒 Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM📍 Location: Intracoastal Waterway, Downtown Venice, FL |
6 events,
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 Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland is a festive production that combines the thrill of live circus acts with the joy of holiday music. Audiences can expect a 1 hour and 40-minute performance featuring acrobats, aerialists, and other performers set to classic holiday melodies . | ||||
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6 events,
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 Stroll through downtown Venice to enjoy decorated shop windows, music, and holiday cheer. During the event, attendees can enjoy extended shopping hours, live music, festive treats, and beautifully decorated storefronts. The walk is designed to be a self-guided tour through the heart of Venice's historic downtown, allowing visitors to experience the holiday spirit at their own pace. |
7 events,
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 Gather on the sand for a peaceful candlelight service celebrating Christmas Eve on Siesta Beach.
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Unwind midweek with Sunset Yoga on The Green, a free, all-levels class that pairs gentle movement with Sarasota’s golden hour. Each Wednesday from 6:30–7:30 PM, an experienced instructor guides you through a balanced flow—breath work, accessible poses, and feel-good stretches—so beginners feel welcome and seasoned yogis can deepen their practice. The setting is outdoors on The Green at UTC (across from The Vitamin Shoppe), where there’s room to spread out, relax, and let the day go.
Free · No registration required | |||||
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6 events,
 Ring in the new year with live music, food vendors, fireworks, and the iconic Pineapple Drop in downtown Sarasota.
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Flow into the evening with a free, all‑levels yoga class on The Green at UTC. Part of the UTC FIT Weekday Edition, this outdoor session meets every Wednesday at 6:30 PM across from The Vitamin Shoppe. Bring a mat, towel, and water—no registration needed.
Free · No registration required  This elegant evening celebrated the 2025 Jean & Alfred Goldstein Exhibition: "George Harrison: A Gardener’s Life," highlighting the former Beatle's passion for gardening. The event also included a special toast honoring Jennifer Rominiecki’s 10-year anniversary as President and CEO of Selby Gardens. Proceeds supported Selby Gardens’ community education programs, international research, conservation efforts, and world-class horticulture displays, enabling thousands of underserved children and their families to connect with the bayfront sanctuaries. |
3 events,
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 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.
Free |
3 events,
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 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. |