Lakewood Ranch Irish Celtic Festival
This festival features live Irish music, traditional dancing, cultural exhibits, and the popular Lucky Dog Parade, where attendees and their pets showcase creative costumes.
Greenbrook Adventure Park, Lakewood Ranch, FL
Holiday Splendor at The Ringling
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.
🎄 Holiday Splendor at The Ringling
📍 Location: The Ringling, 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL
📅 Date: Thursday, December 12, 2025
🕕 Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Sarasota Food Truck Rally & Music Festival
The Sarasota Food Truck Rally & Music Festival is a vibrant three-day celebration held annually over Thanksgiving weekend. Set against the scenic backdrop of Sarasota Bay at J.D. Hamel Park, the festival features a diverse lineup of food trucks offering a wide array of culinary delights, from gourmet dishes to classic comfort foods. Attendees can enjoy live music performances spanning various genres, creating a lively and entertaining atmosphere for all ages. The event is pet-friendly, with leashed pets welcome, and offers free admission to all visitors.
Dates and Times:
Friday, November 24, 2025: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Saturday, November 25, 2025: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Sunday, November 26, 2025: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Location:
J.D. Hamel Park
199 Bayfront Drive
Sarasota, FL 34236
Admission: Free
Fresh Fridays: Summer Sendoff
Say goodbye to summer in style at Fresh Fridays: Summer Sendoff, a lively block party in the heart of downtown Sarasota. This monthly series wraps up the season with an evening of live music, pop-up vendors, outdoor games, and complimentary bites and beverages from participating restaurants. Enjoy a festive, pedestrian-only zone where locals and visitors gather to celebrate community, culture, and the charm of Main Street. With themed giveaways, Instagram-worthy photo ops, and an upbeat atmosphere, Fresh Fridays are the perfect way to close out summer under the stars.
Manatee Performing Arts Summer Cabaret Series
A weekend of intimate cabaret performances by local talent presented at the Manatee Performing Arts Center. Enjoy show tunes and classics in a relaxed setting.
Free Music Friday Night Concert
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.
Free Music Friday Night Concert
Kick off your weekend with great tunes and local vibes at the Free Music Friday Night Concert, a beloved outdoor concert series held in downtown Venice. Each Friday evening, a different local band or solo artist takes the stage to deliver live music spanning genres like rock, jazz, blues, country, and more. Bring a chair or blanket, grab a bite from nearby restaurants, and enjoy a relaxed, family-friendly evening under the stars. With no admission fee and a welcoming community atmosphere, this weekly event is a perfect way to support local talent and unwind at the end of the week.
Centennial Park Gazebo
200 W Venice Ave, Venice, FL 34285
Music on Main Lakewood Ranch
Join the fun at Music on Main, Lakewood Ranch’s signature monthly street party featuring live music, food vendors, beer and wine booths, and family-friendly activities. Held on the first Friday of every month along Main Street, this lively outdoor event draws locals and visitors alike for an evening of entertainment and community connection. Each month features a different band playing everything from rock and country to funk and pop, plus local businesses and nonprofits hosting booths and activities. Bring a chair, leave the cooler at home, and enjoy the vibrant energy of one of Lakewood Ranch’s most popular recurring events.
Music on Main in Lakewood Ranch takes place on the first Friday of every month from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM along Main Street in Lakewood Ranch, Florida.
📍 Location: Main Street, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202
🕕 Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
📅 When: First Friday of each month (year-round)
Upcoming 2025 Dates & Featured Bands:
May 2, 2025: Bluestar – Authentic blues; benefiting Lakewood Ranch Community Foundation
June 6, 2025: Dean Johanesen – Circus swing and American roots music; benefiting The Florida West Coast Avian Society
It’s a free event, though food and beverages are available for purchase. Proceeds from drink sales often benefit a featured local nonprofit organization each month.
Ringling by the Bay – Live Music & Dancing
Dance the night away on the bayfront to live music on the beautiful grounds of The Ringling Museum.
Suncoast Scots Highland Games & Celtic Festival
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