Celebrate the season with one of Venice’s most magical traditions! The Venice Holiday Boat Parade of Lights features dozens of festively decorated boats gliding through the Intracoastal Waterway, dazzling spectators with holiday lights and cheer. The parade begins at 6:00 PM and is best viewed from areas near the Venice Train Depot and the Venice Avenue Bridge. Bring a chair and arrive early — this event is a local favorite!
Venice Holiday Boat Parade of Lights
📅 Date: December 20, 2025
🕒 Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
📍 Location: Intracoastal Waterway, Downtown Venice, FL
Stroll through downtown Venice to enjoy decorated shop windows, music, and holiday cheer. During the event, attendees can enjoy extended shopping hours, live music, festive treats, and beautifully decorated storefronts. The walk is designed to be a self-guided tour through the heart of Venice’s historic downtown, allowing visitors to experience the holiday spirit at their own pace.
Downtown Venice lights up with floats, marching bands, and holiday cheer during this beloved parade.
Meet authors and browse local book vendors at this seasonal literary market in Venice.
Venice’s First Friday returns with downtown entertainment, extended shopping hours, and music.
The Venice Sun Fiesta is one of the city’s most beloved and long-standing traditions, bringing together locals and visitors for a fun-filled weekend celebrating the spirit of Venice. Sponsored by the Women’s Sertoma Club of Venice, this family-friendly festival features live music, arts and crafts vendors, delicious food, a beer and wine garden, a children’s area, and one of the most unique traditions of the event: the bed races down Venice Avenue. Other highlights include a parade, student entertainment, and local performances throughout the weekend.
Whether you’re looking to shop, dance, eat, or just soak up the local flavor, the Venice Sun Fiesta offers something for everyone.
🗓️ Dates:
Friday, October 10 – Sunday, October 12, 2025
📍 Location:
Downtown Venice – primarily around Centennial Park and along West Venice Avenue, Venice, FL 34285
⏰ Hours:
Friday, October 10: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Saturday, October 11: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Sunday, October 12: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Bed Races & Parade usually take place Saturday morning.
Book lovers unite at the Venice Fall Book Fair, a seasonal celebration of literature featuring local and regional authors, independent publishers, and book-related vendors. Stroll through charming downtown Venice to discover a wide variety of genres, from fiction and memoir to children’s books and history. Meet authors, attend signings, and learn about the creative process through panel discussions and author talks. Perfect for readers of all ages, the event also includes activities for kids and plenty of opportunities to support local literary talent. Whether you’re an avid reader or just browsing, this event offers inspiration on every page.
Sip, stroll, and shop your way through Historic Downtown Venice during the Venice Summer Wine Walk. This popular annual event invites attendees to enjoy samples of fine wines at participating local shops and boutiques. As you meander through Venice Avenue and its charming side streets, you’ll discover a lively atmosphere with wine tastings, small bites, live music, and exclusive in-store specials. It’s a perfect way to experience the community’s vibrant culture while supporting local businesses.
Bring your friends, your favorite wine glass (or pick one up on-site), and prepare for an evening of flavor, fun, and Florida sunshine. Check-in is located near the KMI Building, and attendees will receive a tasting passport and event map.
Date: Saturday, August 30, 2025
Time: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location:
Historic Downtown Venice
Check-in at the KMI Building
200 W Venice Ave, Venice, FL 34285
Stroll the charming streets of historic downtown during the Venice Craft Festival – August Edition, a beloved summer tradition showcasing the talents of local and national artisans. This open-air event features handmade jewelry, pottery, paintings, woodwork, home décor, wearable art, and more—perfect for finding a unique gift or treating yourself. Meet the makers, enjoy live demonstrations, and support small businesses while exploring Venice’s scenic avenues. With free admission and a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere, the festival offers a fun weekend outing for art lovers and curious shoppers alike.
Downtown Venice kicks off July with its monthly First Friday celebration featuring extended shopping hours, live music, and refreshments at participating merchants.