Sarasota Music Festival – Final Weekend Concerts

Dates: Saturday, June 14 – Sunday, June 15, 2025
Times:

Saturday, June 14 at 7:30 PM – Levin Plays Mozart (Sarasota Opera House)

Sunday, June 15 at 2:30 PM – Rising Stars II: Festival Finale (Holley Hall)

Location:

Sarasota Opera House – 61 N Pineapple Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236

Holley Hall at Beatrice Friedman Symphony Center – 709 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236

Admission: Ticketed; purchase via SarasotaOrchestra.org
Advance tickets strongly recommended

Event Description:
Join us for the exhilarating final weekend of the 2025 Sarasota Music Festival, one of Florida’s most prestigious classical music events. Now in its 60th season, the Festival brings together brilliant conservatory students and internationally acclaimed faculty artists for three weeks of masterful music-making.

On Saturday night, don’t miss Levin Plays Mozart, where renowned pianist Robert Levin takes the stage alongside Sarasota Festival Orchestra musicians for a captivating all-Mozart program filled with elegance and virtuosity.

Then, on Sunday afternoon, the series wraps with Rising Stars II, the grand finale showcasing the talent of this year’s Fellows—up-and-coming artists poised to launch professional careers. The performance at Holley Hall will feature a vibrant chamber music program curated to highlight collaboration, precision, and passion.

Why You Should Go:

Experience world-class chamber music in Sarasota’s iconic venues

Hear young rising stars alongside renowned artists and faculty

Celebrate Sarasota’s summer arts scene with an unforgettable weekend of classical performance

Sarasota Cars & Coffee

Join fellow car enthusiasts at Sarasota Cars & Coffee, a monthly gathering showcasing over 500 vehicles ranging from vintage classics and custom builds to exotic supercars. Enjoy complimentary coffee from Mademoiselle Paris and Chick-fil-A, live music, and a vibrant community atmosphere. The event supports local charities, with different beneficiaries each month.

Parking:

Spectator Parking: Free parking is available across the street in the Mall at UTC lot.

Trailer Parking: Designated area behind Dick’s Sporting Goods.

VIP Parking: Limited spots available for pre-purchase through TheFOAT.com.

Post-Event Brunch:
Ford’s Garage opens early at 10:00 AM on Cars & Coffee Saturdays, offering a perfect spot for brunch after the event.

Admission:
Free for spectators. Show car owners are encouraged to donate $10 at the entrance to support a rotating local charity.

El Melvin’s 3-Day Cinco de Mayo Block Party

Join El Melvin Cocina Mexicana for their annual 3-day Cinco de Mayo Block Party in downtown Sarasota! Experience live music each day, outdoor bars, street food, LED robot performances, and more. VIP tables are available for those seeking an enhanced experience. Don’t miss out on Sarasota’s most vibrant Cinco de Mayo celebration!

Dates & Times:

Saturday, May 3, 2025: 6:00 PM – 11:55 PM

Sunday, May 4, 2025: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM

Monday, May 5, 2025: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM

Suncoast Boat Show 2025

Celebrate the 43rd annual Suncoast Boat Show at Sarasota’s Marina Jack, featuring over 65,000 sq. ft. of dock space filled with a diverse selection of in-water and on-land vessels. Explore motor yachts, sportfishers, center consoles, inflatables, and more. The event also offers tents filled with marine electronics, accessories, clothing, jewelry, and art. Family-friendly activities include the “Hook the Future” Kids Fishing Clinics hosted by Captain Don Dingman on Saturday and Sunday, where each child receives a free rod and reel combo. The show supports Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium, with optional donations available during ticket purchase.

Tickets:

Adults (16+): $20

Children (15 & under): Free

Veterans & Active-Duty Military: Free with valid ID

Tickets must be purchased in advance online at suncoastboatshow.com

Parking: Three public parking garages are located within two blocks of the show:

Main Street Parking Garage: 1390 Main St., Sarasota, FL 34236

Palm Avenue Parking Garage: 1289 N Palm Ave., Sarasota, FL 34236

State Street Parking Garage: 1538 State St., Sarasota, FL 34236

A complimentary shuttle will run every 5–10 minutes between the parking garages and the Ringling Circle, starting 30 minutes before the show opens and continuing 30 minutes after it closes.

2nd Annual Mid-Day Soirée @ Pop’s Sunset Grill

Celebrate the 151st Kentucky Derby with a 5-course dinner paired with official Derby wines and bourbons, live music and a Kentucky Derby watch party. Contests for Most Dapper Dame and Gent, and Most Elaborate Hat. Guests are encouraged to wear their Derby-Day finest; hats are encouraged!

Tickets:
$95 per person (plus 7% sales tax and 20% gratuity)
Includes a 5-course dinner with wine and bourbon cocktail pairings
Seating is community-style in the courtyard; guests purchasing tickets together will be seated together.
For specific seating requests, please email Stephanie at stephanie@popssunsetgrill.com.

Jazz Thursdays at Sarasota Art Museum

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.

Free for museum members
$25 for non-members (includes museum admission)
Advance purchase recommended via sarasotaartmuseum.org

Sarasota Art Museum
1001 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236

Thursday, May 9, 2025: 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Thursday, June 13, 2025: 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Thursday, July 11, 2025: 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Thursday, August 8, 2025: 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Thursday, September 12, 2025: 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Thursday, October 10, 2025: 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Thursday, November 14, 2025: 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Thursday, December 12, 2025: 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM

Rhea Lana’s Children’s Consignment Sale

Rhea Lana’s of Sarasota presents its award-winning semi-annual children’s consignment event, featuring over 550 families selling thousands of gently used, high-quality items. Shoppers can find clothing and shoes (newborn to teen), toys, books, baby equipment, maternity wear, and more at affordable prices. The event aims to provide value to families by offering upscale items in a highly organized and friendly environment.

Pre-Sale Events (Ticketed or Pass Required):

Friday, April 25, 2025:

Launch Party: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Premier Shopping: 3:30 PM – 10:00 PM

Platinum Shopping: 6:30 PM – 10:00 PM

Saturday, April 26, 2025:

Gold Shopping: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Consignor Pre-Sale: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Silver Shopping: 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Mom-to-Be Pre-Sale: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Military, Healthcare Heroes & Teachers: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Guest Pre-Sale: 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Public Sale Days (Free Admission):

Sunday, April 27, 2025: 9:30 AM – 8:00 PM

Monday, April 28, 2025: 9:30 AM – 2:00 PM

Tuesday, April 29, 2025: 9:30 AM – 8:00 PM

Wednesday, April 30, 2025: 9:30 AM – 2:00 PM

Half-Price Sale (Most Items 50% Off):

Tuesday, April 29, 2025: 9:30 AM – 8:00 PM

Wednesday, April 30, 2025: 9:30 AM – 2:00 PM

Tickets:

Pre-sale events require a ticket or pass, with options for consignors, military personnel, teachers, healthcare workers, and expectant mothers.

Public sale days offer free admission.

For more information, including ticket details and consignor registration, please visit the official event page: sarasota.rhealana.com

Robarts Arena
3000 Ringling Blvd
Sarasota, FL 34237

Ringling School of Art & Design Graduation

The official Ringling College of Art and Design website serves as the primary source for all information regarding the annual graduation ceremony. This dedicated section of the site provides comprehensive details for graduates, their families, and friends. Typically, you can find the following information:

Ceremony Details:
- The official date and time of the commencement ceremony.
- The location of the ceremony (e.g., the campus location or an off-campus venue).
- Information regarding guest seating and accessibility.
Graduate Information:
- Details about graduation requirements and deadlines.
- Instructions on how to order caps and gowns.
- Information about the graduation rehearsal.
- Information on where to pick up diplomas.
Guest Information:
- Directions to the ceremony location.
- Parking information.
- Hotel accommodations.
- Information about local attractions.
Livestreaming:
- Details on how to watch the ceremony online for those who cannot attend in person.
Contact Information:
- Who to contact with any questions regarding the graduation ceremony.

How to Find the Most Accurate Information:

Ringling College of Art and Design Official Website:
- Go to the official Ringling College of Art and Design website (ringling.edu).
- Use the site’s search function and search for “graduation” or “commencement.”
- Look for the official graduation page or section.
Ringling College’s Academic Calendar:
- The college’s academic calendar may provide general information about the graduation timeframe.
Ringling College’s News and Events:
- The college’s news and events section may have announcements regarding the graduation ceremony.

Friends of the NRA Banquet

Join fellow Second Amendment supporters at the annual Friends of the NRA Banquet in Sarasota. This fundraising event features dinner, games, auctions, and opportunities to win exclusive NRA firearms, gear, décor, and collectibles. Proceeds support The NRA Foundation’s efforts in promoting shooting sports and education.

Date and Time:

Thursday, April 17, 2025: Doors open at 5:30 PM

Location: Robarts Arena
3000 Ringling Blvd
Sarasota, FL 34237

Tickets:

Single Ticket: $70
Couples Supporter Package: $380
Reserved Table for 8: $600
Additional sponsorship packages are available.

2025 AAU Florida Taekwondo Championship

The 2025 AAU Florida Taekwondo Championship is a district-level competition sanctioned by the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU). This event offers a platform for taekwondo practitioners across various age groups and skill levels to compete in both sparring and poomsae (forms) categories. Competitors range from ages 5 to 17, 18 to 35, 33 to 42, and 43 and above, encompassing a broad spectrum of participants. The championship serves as a qualifier for national-level competitions, providing athletes the opportunity to advance based on their performance. Spectators can expect a day filled with dynamic martial arts displays, highlighting the discipline and skill inherent in taekwondo.

Date: Saturday, April 19, 2025

Time: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Location: Robarts Arena at the Sarasota Fairgrounds
3000 Ringling Blvd., Sarasota, FL 34237

Registration: Athletes and coaches must register online prior to the event. Onsite registrations will not be accepted. All participants are required to have an active AAU membership and must adhere to the organization’s competition rules and regulations.

Additional Information: Weigh-ins for sparring competitors are mandatory and will be held on Friday, April 18, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Red Tiger Martial Arts, located at 4581 Ashton Rd, Sarasota, FL 34233. All competitors must check in during this time to be included in their division brackets.