Arts, culture
& events.
Sarasota is known as "Florida's Cultural Coast" — and it earns that title every day. From world-class performing arts to vibrant festivals and community gatherings, there's always something happening here.
One of the things that truly sets Sarasota apart from other Gulf Coast communities is its cultural depth. The performing arts scene would impress cities many times its size, the museum and gallery offerings are genuinely world-class, and the year-round calendar of festivals, farmers markets, and community events keeps life here vibrant and connected. Whether you're catching a Broadway touring show, wandering a gallery walk, or just grabbing Saturday morning produce at the farmers market — culture in Sarasota is woven into everyday life.
Recurring events & markets.
The heartbeat of Sarasota's community life. These events happen regularly and are worth building your week around.
Central Sarasota Farmers Market
Central Sarasota
Siesta Key Farmers Market
5104 Ocean Blvd, Siesta Key
Lakewood Ranch Farmers Market
Waterside Place, Lakewood Ranch
Phillippi Farmhouse Market
Phillippi Estate Park, 5500 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota
Visit SiteRosemary Sunset Market
City Side, Rosemary District, Sarasota
Fresh Harvest Farmers Market at Wellen Park
Downtown Wellen, Venice
Market at Nathan Benderson Park
Nathan Benderson Park, Sarasota
Siesta Key Drum Circle
Siesta Beach, Siesta Key
Nokomis Beach Drum Circle
Nokomis Beach, Nokomis
Ranch Nite Wednesdays
Waterside Place, Lakewood Ranch
Artwalk Village of the Arts
Village of the Arts, Bradenton
Palm Avenue Gallery Walk
Palm Avenue, Downtown Sarasota
Sundays at The Bay
The Bay Sarasota waterfront
Music on Main — Lakewood Ranch
Lakewood Ranch Main Street
Sarasota's performing arts.
Long known as "Florida's Cultural Coast," Sarasota is home to world-class performing arts venues that rival cities many times its size.
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall
Sarasota's crown jewel for live performance. Upcoming shows: Sarasota Orchestra's "Summon the Heroes" (September 10), Ron White (September 13), Mister C Live Vol 3: When Science Goes Viral (October 14), Boz Scaggs Rhythm Review (October 11), ABBA Tribute (October 18 rescheduled from March), Rumours of Fleetwood Mac (October 17), The Vampire Circus (October 25), Ghostbusters in Concert (October 29) with the Sarasota Orchestra, and Golden Girls: The Laughs Continue (October 31). A remarkable fall season.
777 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota
Visit SiteAsolo Repertory Theatre
One of the most acclaimed regional theaters in the Southeast. Now playing: "Beanstalk: The Adventures of Jack and the Giant" through December 31. The main stage 2026-2027 season opens November 21 with "Singin' in the Rain" — a Billy Joel musical. The FSU/Asolo Conservatory presents "You Will Get Sick" November 4–21. Check the website for tickets.
5555 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota
Visit SiteSarasota Opera House
The Summer Series has concluded. The Food & Wine Festival is September 26 — a wonderful evening of culinary excellence in the historic opera house. The 2026-2027 season opens October 30 with Engelbert Humperdinck's Hansel and Gretel — a perfect introduction to live opera for families and newcomers. Tickets now on sale.
61 N Palm Ave, Sarasota
Visit SiteFlorida Studio Theatre
A packed summer-to-fall season: From Woodstock to Soft Rock (through Sept 13), Motown & More! (through Oct 4), Blockbusted & Out of Bounds Improv (through Sept 19), Pinocchio (Sept 19 – Oct 18), and rotating cabaret performances. FST runs shows nearly every night across its multiple stages.
1241 N Palm Ave, Sarasota
Visit SiteMcCurdy's Comedy Club
A Sarasota institution since the early 1980s. Upcoming headliners: Mike McCarthy (Sept 9-13), Kevin Nealon (Sept 17-19), and Steve Byrne & Frankie Paul (Oct 2-3). Plus Drag Queen Bingo on select Sundays. Check the website for the latest lineup.
1923 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota
Visit SiteWorld-class museums.
From the legendary Ringling Museum to contemporary art spaces, Sarasota's visual arts scene is genuinely extraordinary.
The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art
Sarasota's single greatest cultural treasure. A 66-acre bayfront estate with a world-class art museum, the stunning Ca' d'Zan mansion, the Circus Museum, and sculpture gardens. Current exhibitions: "The Evocative Lens" (through Sept 16), "Canvas City" at Ca' d'Zan (through Oct 31), and "Yoshida Fujio: Secret Gardens" (opens Sept 12 through April 2027). Don't miss the Night of Wonder Season Kickoff on October 16, James Turrell's "Joseph's Coat: Skyspace" (evening viewings through Oct 1), and Ringling by the Bay (Oct 28-30).
5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota
Visit SiteSarasota Art Museum
Contemporary art in a beautifully restored 1920s Sarasota High School building. Current exhibitions: "Something Borrowed, Something New" (featuring Louise Bourgeois, David Hockney, KAWS, Ai Weiwei, and more — through Sept 27), and Maria A. Guzman Capron's figurative textiles (through Sept 27). Coming Oct 18: the major exhibition "Presence: The Photography Collection of Judy Glickman Lauder" featuring 100 masterworks including Richard Avedon, plus Chie Fueki and Eszter Szikszó. Jazz Thursdays continue Sept 10 on the plaza. Art on Film screenings Sept 24 and Oct 29 at 2 PM. Bistro Pop-Up Night on Oct 7.
1001 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota
Visit SiteMarie Selby Botanical Gardens
A waterfront botanical paradise hosting world-renowned seasonal art exhibitions. Current: "Shared Light: Lynn Goldsmith & Patti Smith" through September 13 at the Downtown campus (final weeks). The Historic Spanish Point exhibition "A Child's Garden of Verses: Robert Louis Stevenson" has concluded. The 46th Annual Juried Photographic Exhibition opens August 27 at the Historic Spanish Point campus. Yoga in the Gardens continues on select mornings throughout the fall.
1123 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota / 337 N Tamiami Trail, Osprey
Visit SiteMark your calendar.
FST: Motown & More!
FST's Goldstein Cabaret celebrates the Motown sound and beyond — the songs that defined a generation.
FST: Blockbusted & Out of Bounds Improv
Two new improv shows: Blockbusted tackles Hollywood's biggest blockbusters, and Out of Bounds is a comedy free-for-all.
Sarasota Opera Summer Series — HD Screenings
Final HD Opera and Ballet broadcast on Sunday, Sept 20 at 1:30 PM. The Food & Wine Festival is September 26.
Music on Main — Lakewood Ranch
Free monthly street party on Lakewood Ranch Main Street with live music, food trucks, and a dog-friendly atmosphere. First Friday. Next: Oct 2.
Bruno Mars at Raymond James Stadium
Pop superstar Bruno Mars brings his Romantic Tour to Tampa's Raymond James Stadium with all the hits — "Uptown Funk," "24K Magic," "Leave the Door Open." A bucket-list live show.
The Strokes at Amalie Arena
Indie rock icons The Strokes bring their Reality Awaits tour to Tampa. "Last Nite," "Reptilia," and "Someday" in one of the year's most anticipated shows.
Little Big Town at Mahaffey Theater
Grammy-winning country vocal group with their four-part harmonies at St. Pete's waterfront theater. "Girl Crush," "Pontoon," and more.
Luke Bryan at MIDFLORIDA Amphitheatre
Country superstar Luke Bryan with Lauren Watkins, Lanie Gardner, and Randall King.
Summon the Heroes — Sarasota Orchestra at Van Wezel
The Sarasota Orchestra presents an inspiring program of orchestral favorites to kick off the fall season.
Grupo Frontera at Yuengling Center
Mexican-American music sensation Grupo Frontera brings their 'Triste Pero Bien Cabron Tour' to Tampa.
Mahaffey Theater: Taylor Swift Symphony Era
Steve Hackman conducts The Florida Orchestra performing a symphonic reimagining of Taylor Swift's music at the Mahaffey.
Pirates of the Caribbean in Concert at Mahaffey
Disney's swashbuckling classic with its score performed live by The Florida Orchestra.
TLC & Salt-N-Pepa with En Vogue at MIDFLORIDA
Three iconic groups — one legendary night of '90s R&B and hip-hop at Tampa's amphitheatre.
Tim McGraw at MIDFLORIDA
Country music royalty brings his stadium-sized show to Tampa.
Don Lemon & DL Hughley at Mahaffey
Two powerful voices share the stage for an unscripted, unfiltered conversation on news and culture.
Edelweiss Oktoberfest in Bradenton
The 14th annual German Oktoberfest celebration running all month in Bradenton.
Suki Waterhouse at Jannus Live
Indie-pop singer-songwriter brings her dreamy, atmospheric sound to Jannus Live.
Florida Orchestra: Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture
The Florida Orchestra opens its season with explosive orchestral favorites at the Mahaffey Theater.
Streetlight Manifesto at Jannus Live
Beloved ska-punk band brings their blistering live show to St. Pete with Hot Rod Circuit.
Ron White at Van Wezel
Grammy-nominated comedian Ron White brings his dry wit and storytelling to Sarasota's bayfront stage.
Empire of the Sun at MIDFLORIDA
Australian electronic duo brings their visually spectacular, genre-defying show to Tampa.
Tinsley Ellis at Fogartyville
A night of scorching blues guitar from one of the genre's most respected living players.
Sarasota Opera Food & Wine Festival
A celebration of culinary excellence at the historic Sarasota Opera House.
Pouya at Jannus Live
The Forever Glades Tour brings underground hip-hop to St. Pete.
The Format at Jannus Live
Indie-pop favorites reunite with The Get Up Kids for a nostalgic night.
Loathe at Jannus Live
British metalcore innovators bring their heavy, atmospheric sound to St. Pete.
Caamp at Mahaffey Theater
Indie folk band brings their warm, acoustic-driven sound to St. Pete.
Thundercat at Jannus Live
Grammy-winning bass virtuoso brings his genre-defying blend of funk and jazz to Jannus Live.
Cannons at Jannus Live
Indie electronic trio brings dreamy, retro-infused sound to St. Pete.
Art Center Sarasota Exhibition Opening
New exhibition opens with a reception October 8, on view through November 14.
Oktoberfest Tampa at Curtis Hixon Park
Three days of authentic German beer, food, and music on the Tampa Riverwalk.
Bryson Tiller at MIDFLORIDA
R&B heavyweight brings his trap-infused sound to Tampa's outdoor amphitheatre.
Five Finger Death Punch at MIDFLORIDA
Heavy metal heavyweights with Cody Jinks and Eva Under Fire.
The Avett Brothers at BayCare Sound
Beloved North Carolina folk-rock band in Clearwater.
Dan + Shay at MIDFLORIDA
Grammy-winning country duo bring their blockbuster tour to Tampa.
The Ringling: Night of Wonder Season Kickoff
Season-opening party with cocktails, live music, and art at the bayfront museum.
Turnpike Troubadours at BayCare Sound
Red Dirt country royalty with Muscadine Bloodline at Clearwater.
Wellen Park Oktoberfest
German food, live music, and festive beer garden in Venice's Wellen Park community. A fun way to welcome fall.
Logic & G-Eazy at MIDFLORIDA
Two of hip-hop's most distinctive voices share the stage at Tampa's premier outdoor amphitheatre.
Dermot Kennedy at Yuengling Center
Irish singer-songwriter brings his soaring indie-folk to Tampa.
Willow Avalon at Jannus Live
Rising indie-pop singer-songwriter brings her heartfelt sound to St. Pete.
Hunsader Farms Pumpkin Festival
Bradenton's beloved fall festival with pumpkin patches, corn maze, hayrides, and live music.
Fruitville Grove Pumpkin Festival (38th Annual)
Every weekend in October — pumpkin patch, hay rides, pony rides, petting zoo, haunted house, and more. A Sarasota family tradition.
Tampa Pig Jig at Julian B. Lane Park
The 15th annual nonprofit BBQ and music festival headlined by Thomas Rhett with Midland, Kameron Marlowe, and Sister Hazel. One of Tampa Bay's best festivals.
Loe Shimmy at Jannus Live
Rising hip-hop artist brings his distinctive sound to Jannus Live.
Boz Scaggs Rhythm Review at Van Wezel
Legendary singer-songwriter brings blue-eyed soul and rock classics to Sarasota.
The Concert: A Tribute to ABBA at Van Wezel
The world's greatest ABBA tribute show comes to Sarasota's bayfront performing arts hall.
Rumours of Fleetwood Mac at Van Wezel
The world's premier Fleetwood Mac tribute at the Van Wezel.
Golden Girls: The Laughs Continue at Van Wezel
Official stage production featuring the beloved sitcom characters. Two shows.
Sarasota Art Museum: "Presence" Curator's Tour
Exclusive curator-led tour of "Presence: The Photography Collection of Judy Glickman Lauder."
The Vampire Circus at Van Wezel
A family-friendly Halloween circus combining acrobatics and theatrical storytelling.
Ghostbusters in Concert at Van Wezel
Ghostbusters projected on the big screen with score performed live by the Sarasota Orchestra.
CeCe Winans at Yuengling Center
Twelve-time Grammy winner brings her worship tour to Tampa.
Sarasota Opera: Hansel and Gretel
The Sarasota Opera opens its 2026-2027 season with Engelbert Humperdinck's fairy-tale classic.
Lakewood Ranch Blues Festival
Lakewood Ranch's premier blues festival returns to Waterside Park. Mark your calendar.
Season of the Arts (Peak Season)
The Sarasota Opera, Van Wezel performances, film festivals, gallery walks, symphony concerts, and theater productions.
Siesta Key Crystal Classic
World-class sand sculptors transform Siesta Key Beach into an outdoor gallery. Free to attend.
Sarasota Film Festival
Ten days of independent and international film screenings, Q&A sessions, and parties.
Siesta Key Seafood & Music Festival
Fresh Gulf seafood, live music, and community spirit.
Holiday Boat Parade & Lighting
The Sarasota Holiday Boat Parade lights up the bay, with downtown tree lighting and holiday markets.
4th Annual St. Armands Circle Art Festival & Craft Marketplace
Dozens of artists and craft vendors on the iconic St. Armands Circle. Free admission.
Sarasota Opera Food & Wine Festival
A celebration of culinary excellence at the historic Sarasota Opera House.
Van Wezel Family Fest
A free family festival with performances and hands-on activities, including a visit from Asolo Rep on Tour. Sessions at 10 AM and 1 PM.
Jonas Brothers at Benchmark International Arena
The Burning Up Tour brings two decades of pop hits to Tampa's Benchmark International Arena (formerly Amalie).
Art Fair Tampa
Fine art fair with VIP preview on Oct 15 and free general admission at the Tampa Convention Center.
Downtown Sarasota Craft Festival (30th Anniversary)
Hundreds of juried artists and makers line Main Street and Five Points for the festival's 30th year. Free.
Lakewood Ranch Art Festival at UTC
Juried fine art festival at the Mall at University Town Center. Free to browse.
Downtown Venice Festival of the Arts
The 38th annual fine art festival along Venice's West Venice Avenue. Free.
Live music &nightlife.
The greater Tampa Bay area's live music scene is bigger than most people expect. Here are the local spots where the music is always playing.
The Gator Club
The legendary downtown dance hall. Live bands every weekend, two floors, and one of the best old-school Sarasota vibes.
1490 Main St, Sarasota
Cask & Ale
A gastropub on Main Street known for its impressive craft beer selection, whisky collection, and live acoustic music on weekend evenings.
1546 Main St, Sarasota
Pangea Alchemy Room
A craft cocktail lounge with an intimate atmosphere and rotating live performances. Jazz, singer-songwriters, and more.
1557 Main St, Sarasota
Fogartyville
A well-known Sarasota listening room for folk, roots, and singer-songwriters. Intimate, no-frills, all about the music.
5252 Tamiami Trail, Sarasota
Marina Jack
Live music nightly on the outdoor deck with waterfront views. Sunset cocktails and a quintessential Sarasota evening.
2 Marina Plaza, Sarasota
Concerts & big stages.
Beyond Sarasota's intimate local venues, the greater Tampa Bay region is home to some of Florida's most iconic concert arenas and amphitheatres. These are the major destinations where the biggest touring acts, festivals, and headline shows come to play — all within easy driving distance.
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa
Tampa's premier entertainment destination. The Hard Rock hosts major concert tours, headlining residencies, comedy shows, and large-scale events in its state-of-the-art Event Center. A go-to for big-name acts and a full nightlife experience.
Tampa
Visit SiteMIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre
One of the largest outdoor concert venues in the Tampa Bay area, located at the Florida State Fairgrounds. With a capacity of around 20,000, it draws major touring artists and festival-style shows every season.
Florida State Fairgrounds, Tampa
Visit SiteYuengling Center
A versatile indoor arena on the University of South Florida campus in Tampa. Hosting concerts, comedy tours, family shows, and sporting events year-round, it strikes the balance between big production and a close-up experience.
University of South Florida, Tampa
Visit SiteVinoy Park
A beautiful waterfront park in downtown St. Petersburg that serves as the setting for some of the area's biggest outdoor festivals and concerts. From the Tampa Bay Blues Festival to Food & Wine festivals, the park's bayfront location makes every event feel special.
Downtown St. Petersburg
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall
Sarasota's crown jewel for live performance. This striking bayfront theater hosts Broadway touring productions, the Sarasota Orchestra, major concert acts, ballet, and comedy in roughly 1,700 seats.
777 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota
Visit SiteJannus Live
One of the most iconic outdoor concert venues on Florida's west coast. This open-air courtyard in the heart of downtown St. Pete hosts national touring acts across rock, indie, alternative, and hip-hop — all in an intimate setting with room for about 2,000 fans.
Downtown St. Petersburg
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