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.
Festival goers 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.
Raise your stein and join the celebration as The Bay transforms into Sarasota’s own outdoor beer garden for Park-toberfest, a fun, family-friendly twist on Oktoberfest! The festivities kick off Sunday, October 12, inviting everyone to celebrate fall—Florida-style—with great music, food, and local brews along the beautiful Sarasota Bayfront.
Enjoy lively performances from the DeLeon Family Band, a multigenerational favorite that’s been entertaining Oktoberfest crowds across Florida for more than 30 years. From traditional oompah tunes to contemporary favorites, they’ll set the perfect festive mood.
Feeling competitive? Jump into the classic Chicken Dance, test your strength in the Steinhoisting contest, or challenge friends to a friendly game of cornhole. Inside The Nest Café, you’ll find German-inspired and locally crafted beers, plus brats, soft pretzels, and beer cheese for purchase—perfect for fueling your fun!
Free parking is available along Blvd of the Arts and Van Wezel Way, and in lots near the Municipal Auditorium, Blue Pagoda, and Van Wezel. Please avoid Sarasota Orchestra parking areas.
In case of inclement weather, Park-toberfest will be postponed—updates will be posted on The Bay’s website, Facebook, and Eventbrite up to one hour before start time.
This event is part of The Bay’s Third Anniversary Community Celebration, featuring more than 80 free activities throughout October.
Get ready for a beloved island tradition! Bayfest is Anna Maria Island’s annual October street festival that celebrates the laid-back coastal lifestyle with live music, delicious food, refreshing drinks, and a lively classic car show. Stroll along Pine Avenue and browse unique arts and crafts vendors, enjoy family-friendly activities, and soak up the festive island atmosphere. This free event is a perfect way to kick off the fall season and experience the charm of Anna Maria Island like a local.
Plenty of free parking available at the Anna Maria Island Community Center and other nearby lots; trolley and shuttle services often available.
Bring sunscreen and comfy walking shoes!
Join the Sarasota arts community for the inaugural “Growing Up Suncoast” Youth Art Fest 2025 (YAF2025), a vibrant celebration of young creativity. This family-friendly event features:
Interactive Installations: Experience immersive art, including an underwater tunnel crafted by young artists in collaboration with Mote Marine Laboratory.
Hands-On Art Stations: Participate in creative activities hosted by organizations such as Creative Kids SRQ, Art Center Sarasota, The Ringling, Sarasota Glass Company, and Sarasota Clay Company
Live Performances: Enjoy musical acts throughout the day, including performances by Music Compound.
Youth Art Exhibitions: Browse and purchase artwork created by talented young artists from local schools. All proceeds support these emerging creators and their art teachers.
This collaborative event aims to inspire and be inspired, showcasing the importance of art in the community.
Experience a magical evening of reflection and celebration at the Sarasota Bay Water Lantern Festival. Held along the serene waterfront, this family-friendly event invites guests to design and release personalized lanterns onto the water, creating a breathtaking display of glowing lights and heartfelt messages. Enjoy live music, food trucks, and a peaceful, welcoming atmosphere as the sun sets over Sarasota Bay. Each ticket includes a lantern kit, commemorative bag, and LED candle. Whether you’re honoring a loved one, setting intentions, or simply enjoying the beauty of the moment, this unique event offers a memorable and meaningful experience for all ages.
Celebrate Celtic heritage with live music, food, vendors, and highland games at this family-friendly fest. This annual event celebrates Scottish and Celtic heritage with activities such as bagpiping competitions, Highland athletic events, Scottish dancing, live Celtic music, and various food and merchandise vendors.
Sarasota Fairgrounds, 3000 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34237
Kicking off one of the state’s premier film festivals, opening weekend includes screenings, red carpet events, and parties attended by filmmakers, celebrities, and fans.
The 30-acre Historic Spanish Point campus transforms into a magical place with gnomes, Mother Nature, and unicorns. Enjoy storytelling, face painting, balloon artists, and performances by Blaise Ryndes with Spheres Bubble Show.