Kids Summer Beach Runs – Siesta Key

Get the kids moving this summer with the popular Kids Summer Beach Runs on Siesta Beach! Hosted by Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources, this family-friendly series offers children ages 1–17 the chance to participate in a 1-mile fun run along the soft white sands of Siesta Key. Each participant earns a finisher ribbon, and those who complete four or more runs receive a free T-shirt and a medal at the end of the series.

Registration is free and takes place onsite starting at 5:30 PM, with the race kicking off at 6:30 PM. Parents are encouraged to cheer on their kids and enjoy the festive beach atmosphere. It’s a great way to stay active, enjoy the Gulf breeze, and build healthy summer habits.

Note: The runs are held rain or shine but may be canceled for lightning or extreme weather. Be sure to bring water, sunscreen, and a smile!

Kids Summer Beach Runs – Siesta Key
📍 Siesta Beach, 948 Beach Rd, Sarasota, FL 34242
🗓️ Tuesdays from June 4 to July 30, 2025
⏰ Registration begins at 5:30 PM | Run starts at 6:30 PM

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.

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.

📍 Location:
Nokomis Beach Pavilion
100 Casey Key Rd, Nokomis, FL 34275
(Just north of the main lifeguard tower on the sand)

🕕 Time:
Participants begin arriving around sunset, typically between 6:00 PM and 6:30 PM, depending on the season. The music usually continues until after dusk, around 8:00 PM.

📅 Dates:
Every Wednesday and Saturday, year-round (weather permitting)

🌅 What to Expect:

• Dozens of local drummers with hand drums and percussion instruments

• Belly dancers, fire spinners, and costumed performers

• Sunset views over the Gulf of Mexico

• A casual, come-as-you-are atmosphere

• Free and open to the public

Bring a beach chair or blanket and join in—or simply watch the rhythm of the community as the sun sets into the Gulf. No reservations or tickets are required.

🎶 Nokomis Beach Drum Circle – Sunset Rhythms by the Sea

Lido Beach Spring Fine Art Festival

Celebrate creativity and craftsmanship at the Lido Beach Spring Fine Art Festival, an outdoor art showcase set against the backdrop of beautiful Lido Key. This annual festival features the work of professional artists and artisans from across the country, offering a vibrant mix of paintings, sculptures, photography, glass, ceramics, jewelry, mixed media, and more.

🎨 Lido Beach Spring Fine Art Festival – Sarasota, FL

📍 Location:
Lido Key Beach – 400 Benjamin Franklin Dr, Sarasota, FL 34236
(Located at the beach pavilion near the public parking lot)

🗓️ Dates:
Saturday & Sunday, April 19–20, 2025

🕙 Event Times:
10:00 AM – 5:00 PM both days
(Rain or shine)

🎟️ Admission:
Free and open to the public

🛍️ What to Expect:
Stroll along Lido Beach while browsing one-of-a-kind, handmade art in a casual and welcoming atmosphere. Artists will be present to discuss their inspirations, processes, and even custom work. Whether you’re looking for a unique piece for your home, a gift, or just want to enjoy a day outdoors surrounded by creativity, this event offers something for everyone.

🌊 Bonus:
Enjoy the beach just steps away, local dining options, and the laid-back charm of Lido Key.

Siesta Key Crystal Classic International Sand Sculpting Festival

The Siesta Key Crystal Classic is Sarasota’s signature international sand sculpting festival and one of the most anticipated fall events in Florida. Held directly on the powdery white sands of Siesta Key Beach, the festival showcases master sand sculptors from around the world, competing to create awe-inspiring, large-scale sculptures using only sand and water.

📍 Siesta Key Beach, 948 Beach Rd, Sarasota, FL 34242
📅 Thursday, November 14 – Monday, November 18, 2025
⏰ Daily hours typically 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (extended hours Saturday)

Now in its 15th year, the Crystal Classic draws thousands of visitors who come to marvel at the artistry, enjoy live music, shop from a curated vendor village, and watch sand sculpting demos. There’s something for everyone—food trucks, beer & wine garden, live entertainment, interactive sand zones for kids, and evening light displays on the sculptures after dark.

The festival is family-friendly, and proceeds help support the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce and other local community efforts.