Family Saturdays at Selby Gardens offer engaging art and nature activities designed for children and families. Held in the Ann Goldstein Children’s Rainforest Garden, these events feature multiple activity stations where elementary school-aged children can create nature-inspired art using various materials. Each session provides a unique opportunity for families to connect with nature and art in a beautiful garden setting.
Enjoy a magical evening under the stars at the Free Outdoor Movie Night held monthly at Waterside Park in Lakewood Ranch, Sarasota, FL. Hosted on the second Friday of each month, this family-friendly event invites the community to bring blankets, lawn chairs, and picnic baskets to watch a movie on a giant inflatable screen in a scenic waterfront setting.
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.
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.
Downtown Venice kicks off July with its monthly First Friday celebration featuring extended shopping hours, live music, and refreshments at participating merchants.
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.
Celebrate the 4th of July with your toes in the sand and a stunning fireworks display over the Gulf of Mexico at the annual Siesta Key Independence Day Fireworks Show. This beloved community tradition takes place on Thursday, July 4, 2025, just north of the Siesta Key Public Beach Pavilion, one of the nation’s most popular beach destinations known for its powdery white quartz sand.
Celebrate Independence Day with one of Sarasota’s most dazzling and iconic traditions — the Bayfront Fireworks Over Sarasota Bay! This free public event lights up the night sky with a spectacular fireworks display launched over the bay, offering perfect views from Island Park, Bayfront Park, downtown Sarasota rooftops, or even the Ringling Bridge. Arrive early to grab your favorite spot on the lawn, bring a picnic or purchase food and drinks from nearby vendors and restaurants, and enjoy the festive atmosphere as locals and visitors gather to celebrate America’s birthday.
