Local events.
From waterfront concerts and performing arts to farmers markets, nature walks, and volunteering — here's what's actually happening across Sarasota, Tampa Bay, and the Gulf Coast communities right now, curated by a local.
Happening now.
Summer in Sarasota is more relaxed than peak season — but the event calendar is anything but quiet. Here are the real, verified events worth putting on your radar right now, updated as of July 24.
Ringling Summer Circus Spectacular
The Ringling Museum's beloved annual circus show runs through early August with high-flying acrobats, jugglers, and family-friendly performances in the Historic Asolo Theater. Showtimes are 11 AM and 2 PM weekdays, 2 PM and 5 PM Saturdays. A Sarasota summer tradition connecting the city to its legendary circus heritage. Final weeks!
The Ringling, 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota · $20 adults / $15 children
Get TicketsFST: From Woodstock to Soft Rock
Florida Studio Theatre's Court Cabaret celebrates the evolution of '60s and '70s music — from the counterculture anthems of Woodstock to the smooth sounds that followed. A toe-tapping journey through one of music's greatest eras.
Florida Studio Theatre, 1241 N Palm Ave, Sarasota
Get TicketsAsolo Rep: The Wizard of Oz — Youth Edition
Young performers bring the beloved classic to life at Asolo Rep's Cook Theatre. A wonderful family matinee option and a chance to see the next generation of talent shine on one of Sarasota's most prestigious stages. Final performances through August 2.
Asolo Repertory Theatre, 5555 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota
Get TicketsSelby Gardens: Shared Light — Lynn Goldsmith & Patti Smith
Lynn Goldsmith's botanical photography paired with portraits and poetry by Patti Smith at the downtown campus. A stunning intersection of art, music, and botanical beauty. Also showing: Bubbles Under the Banyans on Saturday mornings through August 1, and Yoga in the Gardens on select mornings.
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Downtown Sarasota Campus
Learn MoreSelby Historic Spanish Point: Robert Louis Stevenson Exhibition
"A Child's Garden of Verses" — an immersive exhibition exploring the life and works of Robert Louis Stevenson at the 30-acre waterfront Historic Spanish Point campus in Osprey. A magical, nature-filled experience for the whole family.
Selby Gardens Historic Spanish Point Campus, Osprey
Learn MoreFST: The Last Romance
A tender, funny, and surprisingly adventurous love story about a widowed man who takes a chance on love later in life. Plays at Florida Studio Theatre's Gompertz Theatre — an intimate experience that will warm your heart.
Florida Studio Theatre, 1241 N Palm Ave, Sarasota
Get TicketsFST: Dog Mom — Keating Theatre
A fresh, funny play about the bonds we form with our four-legged family members. A hit with audiences this summer at Florida Studio Theatre's Keating Theatre. Final performances through August 2.
Florida Studio Theatre, 1241 N Palm Ave, Sarasota
Get TicketsJohn Ford & Joe Smothers at Fogartyville
Pre-war blues, old school country, and southern gospel from masterful performers at Fogartyville's intimate listening room. A hidden gem of Sarasota's live music scene and a perfect Friday evening out.
Fogartyville Community Media & Arts Center, 525 Kumquat Ct, Sarasota · 8 PM
Get TicketsVertical Horizon & Tonic at Jannus Live
A benefit concert for Rocks the Cure featuring '90s and 2000s rock favorites Vertical Horizon ("Everything You Want") and Tonic ("If You Could Only See"). First of The Day opens. A great night of nostalgic rock in St. Pete's best outdoor venue.
Jannus Live, Downtown St. Petersburg · 6 PM
Get TicketsSolitary Man: A Neil Diamond Tribute at Sarasota Opera House
Part of the Opera House's inaugural Summer Series — tribute band concerts on Saturday nights in the stunning historic opera house. Classic movie screenings on Fridays (Dead Again on July 10, plus more TBA) and HD performance broadcasts on Sundays round out the summer programming.
Sarasota Opera House, 61 N Palm Ave, Sarasota · 7 PM
Get TicketsThe Pussycat Dolls: PCD Forever Tour at MIDFLORIDA Amphitheatre
The Pussycat Dolls reunite with special guests Lil' Kim and Mya for a night of pop, R&B, and dance anthems — "Don't Cha," "When I Grow Up," and more. A massive summer show at Tampa's biggest outdoor amphitheatre.
MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre, Tampa · 7 PM
Get TicketsReverend Billy C. Wirtz & Steve Arvey at Fogartyville
A Sunday evening of irreverent boogie-woogie piano and blues from the legendary Reverend Billy C. Wirtz, joined by guitarist Steve Arvey. Equal parts musician and comedian — a show as hilarious as it is musically brilliant.
Fogartyville Community Media & Arts Center, 525 Kumquat Ct, Sarasota · 7 PM
Get TicketsAdam Ray: WHO IS ME Tour at Hard Rock Tampa
Comedian and actor Adam Ray (known for his spot-on impressions and Netflix specials) brings his new touring show to the Hard Rock Event Center. A rising star in stand-up with a rapidly growing fan base.
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa · 8 PM
Get TicketsFarmers Market at Lakewood Ranch
Described as the number one farmers market in America, the Lakewood Ranch market at Waterside Place draws 100+ vendors with local produce, artisan foods, crafts, and live music. A Sunday morning ritual for the LWR community.
Waterside Place, Lakewood Ranch · 10 AM – 2 PM · Free
Learn MoreSelby Gardens: Yoga in the Gardens
A morning yoga session surrounded by the tropical beauty of Marie Selby Botanical Gardens' downtown waterfront campus. Yoga continues on select mornings through August and September — check the Selby events calendar for the full schedule.
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Downtown Sarasota
Learn MoreMelina Leon at Hard Rock Tampa
Latin music star Melina Leon performs at the Hard Rock Event Center. A night of Latin rhythms and high-energy performance at one of Tampa's premier entertainment destinations.
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa · 9 PM
Get TicketsSummer Celtic Feast at Anna Maria Island
A four-day celebration of Celtic culture, food, music, and spirits at the Freckled Fin Irish Pub on Holmes Beach, Anna Maria Island. Live Irish music, traditional Celtic food and drink specials, and a festive island atmosphere. A uniquely fun summer tradition on the island.
Freckled Fin Irish Pub, Holmes Beach, Anna Maria Island
FST: Forgotten Broadway
A special two-night engagement rediscovering lost gems from Broadway's past. Playing at FST's Bowne's Lab. A wonderful opportunity for musical theater lovers.
Florida Studio Theatre, 1241 N Palm Ave, Sarasota
Get TicketsTOTO with Christopher Cross & The Romantics at MIDFLORIDA
An evening of '80s legends — TOTO ("Africa," "Rosanna," "Hold the Line"), Christopher Cross ("Sailing," "Ride Like the Wind"), and The Romantics ("What I Like About You"). Three acts, one incredible night of classic hits at Tampa's premier outdoor amphitheatre.
MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre, Tampa · 6:45 PM
Get TicketsSuper Freestyle Explosion at Yuengling Center
'80s and '90s freestyle music legends take over the Yuengling Center on the USF campus — Stevie B, Lisa Lisa, TKA, The Original Cover Girls, and Lisette Melendez. A high-energy night of dance music nostalgia.
Yuengling Center, USF Campus, Tampa · 7:30 PM
Get TicketsDead Set at Jannus Live
A Grateful Dead tribute experience at St. Pete's iconic outdoor courtyard venue. Catch the Dead vibes under the stars in downtown St. Petersburg.
Jannus Live, Downtown St. Petersburg · 8 PM
Get TicketsZeds Dead at Hard Rock Tampa
Canadian electronic duo Zeds Dead bring their genre-bending DJ set — drum & bass, dubstep, house, and hip-hop — to the Hard Rock Event Center for Tempo Daylife. One of Tampa's biggest electronic music events of the summer.
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa · Afternoon
Get TicketsJohn Mellencamp: Dancing Words Tour at MIDFLORIDA
The heartland rock legend brings his catalog of American classics to Tampa — "Jack & Diane," "Small Town," "Hurts So Good," and "Pink Houses." A rare chance to see one of rock's great storytellers in an amphitheatre setting.
MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre, Tampa · 8 PM
Get TicketsFST: Motown & More! — Goldstein Cabaret
Florida Studio Theatre's Goldstein Cabaret celebrates the Motown sound and beyond. The songs that defined a generation — from The Supremes and Marvin Gaye to Stevie Wonder and beyond. Opens August 4.
Florida Studio Theatre, 1241 N Palm Ave, Sarasota
Get TicketsDerek Hough: Symphony of Dance — Encore at Hard Rock Tampa
Emmy-winning dancer Derek Hough brings an encore performance of his high-energy live show to the Hard Rock Event Center. Jaw-dropping choreography, live music, and pure entertainment.
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa · 8 PM
Get TicketsDerek Hough at Van Wezel & Golden Groovers Beach Blanket Bingo
A double-header at Sarasota's bayfront performing arts hall. Derek Hough performs his Symphony of Dance show at 7 PM, while the Golden Groovers host a retro evening of music, dancing, and bingo. Two very different shows, same great venue.
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota
Get TicketsMusic on Main — Lakewood Ranch
A free monthly street party on Lakewood Ranch Main Street with live music, food trucks, beer, and a dog-friendly atmosphere. The first Friday of every month — bring the whole family. Benefiting a local non-profit.
Lakewood Ranch Main Street, 8100 Lakewood Main St, Bradenton · 6–9 PM · Free
Emo Night Karaoke at Oscura
Oscura in downtown Bradenton turns up the nostalgia with Emo Night Karaoke. Belt out your favorite My Chemical Romance, Fall Out Boy, and Taking Back Sunday anthems in one of the area's most exciting live music venues.
Oscura, 816 Manatee Ave E, Bradenton · 8 PM
Get TicketsFST: Blockbusted & Out of Bounds Improv
Florida Studio Theatre opens two new improv shows August 8 — Blockbusted takes on Hollywood's biggest blockbusters, and Out of Bounds is a wild comedy free-for-all. Both run through September 19 at Bowne's Lab.
Florida Studio Theatre, 1241 N Palm Ave, Sarasota
Get TicketsAlex Lopez Express & Doug Deming at Fogartyville
Two of the Gulf Coast's best blues acts share the stage. The Alex Lopez Express brings Cuban-infused blues, while Doug Deming and the Jewel Tones deliver classic Americana. High-energy, soulful, and authentic.
Fogartyville Community Media & Arts Center, 525 Kumquat Ct, Sarasota · 8 PM
Get TicketsNine Vicious at Jannus Live
Florida's own Nine Vicious bring their hard-hitting, high-energy rock to the iconic outdoor courtyard of Jannus Live. A powerful live act with a growing reputation — catch them in St. Pete's best outdoor venue.
Jannus Live, Downtown St. Petersburg · 7 PM
Get TicketsJazz Thursdays at Sarasota Art Museum
Live jazz on the Marcy & Michael Klein Plaza, co-hosted by the Jazz Club of Sarasota, with extended gallery, Bistro, and Shop hours. Second Thursday of every month — July 9, August 13, September 10.
Sarasota Art Museum, 1001 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota · 5:30 – 8 PM
Learn MoreLaser Light Nights at The Bishop Museum
The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature transforms into a psychedelic light show with laser performances set to music inside the planetarium dome. Music from Queen, Pink Floyd, Taylor Swift, The Beatles, and more. Shows Thursdays at 6 PM and Fridays/Saturdays at 6 and 7 PM. $15 per show. Great for date nights and families.
The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St W, Bradenton
Get TicketsJim Lauderdale at Fogartyville
Grammy-winning Americana and bluegrass singer-songwriter Jim Lauderdale brings his rich catalog of roots music to Fogartyville. A two-time Grammy winner and beloved figure in American roots music — this is a must-see for fans of authentic songcraft.
Fogartyville Community Media & Arts Center, 525 Kumquat Ct, Sarasota · 8 PM
Get TicketsMötley Crüe: Carnival of Sins at MIDFLORIDA
Mötley Crüe returns to Tampa with their legendary stage show — pyrotechnics, theatrics, and all the classic hits. "Kickstart My Heart," "Dr. Feelgood," and "Home Sweet Home" in a massive outdoor spectacle.
MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre, Tampa · 6:30 PM
Get TicketsAvenged Sevenfold & Good Charlotte at MIDFLORIDA
A powerhouse double bill — metal titans Avenged Sevenfold alongside pop-punk legends Good Charlotte. Two very different sounds, one unforgettable night of arena rock at Tampa's biggest outdoor venue.
MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre, Tampa · 6 PM
Get TicketsAnthony Green at Oscura
Anthony Green — frontman of Circa Survive and Saosin — brings his solo tour to Oscura in downtown Bradenton. An intimate night of emotionally charged indie rock from one of the most distinctive voices in alternative music.
Oscura, 1013 12th St W, Bradenton · 8 PM
Get TicketsJack Johnson: SURFILMUSIC Tour at MIDFLORIDA
Jack Johnson brings his signature laid-back, surf-inspired folk-rock to Tampa with Lake Street Dive. "Better Together," "Upside Down," and songs from his latest album. A perfect summer show under the stars.
MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre, Tampa · 7:30 PM
Get TicketsRob Zombie & Marilyn Manson at MIDFLORIDA
A night of dark, heavy, theatrical rock — Rob Zombie and Marilyn Manson co-headline with Mongolian metal act The Hu and industrial rock legends Orgy.
MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre, Tampa · 6:30 PM
Get TicketsGoo Goo Dolls at MIDFLORIDA Amphitheatre
The Goo Goo Dolls bring their catalog of '90s and 2000s hits to Tampa — "Iris," "Slide," "Name," and more. A reliably great live band with a catalog that spans three decades.
MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre, Tampa · 7:30 PM
Get TicketsBuckcherry & Black Stone Cherry at Jannus Live
Hard rock heavyweights Buckcherry ("Lit Up," "Crazy Bitch") and Black Stone Cherry bring a night of loud, sweaty, unapologetic rock to Jannus Live's intimate outdoor courtyard with Tyler Bryant.
Jannus Live, Downtown St. Petersburg · 7 PM
Get TicketsCarmen Ciricillo at McCurdy's
Comedian Carmen Ciricillo brings his Italian-American family stories and physical comedy to McCurdy's for two nights. A crowd favorite on the Florida comedy circuit with TV appearances and a loyal following.
McCurdy's Comedy Theatre, 1923 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota
Get TicketsDrink and Draw Sarasota at Fogartyville
A creative evening of life drawing with a twist — bring your own materials, enjoy a drink, and sketch in a relaxed, social setting at Fogartyville. All skill levels welcome.
Fogartyville Community Media & Arts Center, 525 Kumquat Ct, Sarasota · Evening
Learn MoreCarlos Mencia at McCurdy's
Bold, unfiltered, and always hilarious — comedian Carlos Mencia brings his sharp stand-up to McCurdy's for two shows at 6:30 PM and 8:50 PM.
McCurdy's Comedy Theatre, 1923 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota
Get TicketsDirty Heads & 311 at MIDFLORIDA
A reggae-rock double bill to close out the summer. Dirty Heads and 311 with Atmosphere bring positive vibes and big summer energy to Tampa's biggest outdoor stage.
MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre, Tampa · 5:30 PM
Get TicketsHotline TNT & Anxious at Jannus Live
Indie rock standouts Hotline TNT share a bill with Anxious and Rocket at Jannus Live. A night of buzzy, guitar-driven rock in downtown St. Pete.
Jannus Live, Downtown St. Petersburg
Get TicketsLuke Bryan at MIDFLORIDA Amphitheatre
Country superstar Luke Bryan brings his summer tour to Tampa with Lauren Watkins, Lanie Gardner, and Randall King. An evening of country hits under the stars at one of Florida's best outdoor venues.
MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre, Tampa
Get TicketsSummon the Heroes — Sarasota Orchestra at Van Wezel
The Sarasota Orchestra presents "Summon the Heroes" at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall — an inspiring program of orchestral favorites to kick off the fall season.
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota
Get TicketsGrupo Frontera at Yuengling Center
Mexican-American music sensation Grupo Frontera brings their "Triste Pero Bien Cabron Tour" to the Yuengling Center on the USF campus in Tampa. One of Latin music's fastest-rising acts.
Yuengling Center, USF Campus, Tampa · 8 PM
Get TicketsEveryOneRocks Youth Showcase at Fogartyville
A youth music showcase featuring the area's most promising young musicians at Fogartyville. Support the next generation of Gulf Coast talent in an intimate listening room setting.
Fogartyville Community Media & Arts Center, 525 Kumquat Ct, Sarasota
Learn MoreIsaiah Rashad at Jannus Live
Top Dawg Entertainment artist Isaiah Rashad brings his laid-back, introspective hip-hop to Jannus Live with special guest Alemeda. A Sunday night show in St. Pete's iconic outdoor courtyard.
Jannus Live, Downtown St. Petersburg · 7 PM
Get TicketsRon White at Van Wezel
Grammy-nominated comedian Ron White — best known as the cigar-smoking, scotch-drinking member of the Blue Collar Comedy Tour — brings his signature dry wit and sharp storytelling to Sarasota's bayfront stage.
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota
Get TicketsRicardo Montaner at Yuengling Center
Legendary Latin singer-songwriter Ricardo Montaner performs at the Yuengling Center in Tampa. A night of romantic ballads and timeless Latin pop from one of the genre's most beloved artists.
Yuengling Center, USF Campus, Tampa · 8 PM
Get TicketsEmpire of the Sun at MIDFLORIDA
Australian electronic duo Empire of the Sun brings their visually spectacular, genre-defying show to Tampa. A high-energy blend of synth-pop, glam, and electronica.
MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre, Tampa · 7:30 PM
Get TicketsTinsley Ellis at Fogartyville
A night of scorching blues guitar from one of the genre's most respected living players. Tinsley Ellis has been delivering electrifying blues-rock for four decades — and his live show is legendary.
Fogartyville Community Media & Arts Center, 525 Kumquat Ct, Sarasota · 8 PM
Get TicketsRyan Castro: Sende Tour at Yuengling Center
Colombian reggaeton star Ryan Castro brings his "Sende: The Last Dance Tour" to the Yuengling Center. High-energy Latin urban music from one of the genre's fastest-rising names.
Yuengling Center, USF Campus, Tampa · 8:30 PM
Get TicketsRising Lion Band at Fogartyville
Reggae, roots, and island vibes from the Rising Lion Band at Fogartyville. A Saturday night of uplifting, feel-good music in Sarasota's best listening room.
Fogartyville Community Media & Arts Center, 525 Kumquat Ct, Sarasota · 8 PM
Get TicketsInternational Coastal Cleanup Day
The world's largest volunteer effort for ocean health comes to Sarasota and Manatee Counties. Join Keep Sarasota County Beautiful and the League of Women Voters of Manatee County for coordinated beach and shoreline cleanups across the region. Registration opens closer to the date.
Various beaches across Sarasota & Manatee Counties · Free
Cassie Jean and The Fireflies at Fogartyville
Florida's own Cassie Jean and The Fireflies bring their blend of folk, country, and Americana to Sarasota. Warm harmonies, original songwriting, and the kind of intimate performance that Fogartyville was made for.
Fogartyville Community Media & Arts Center, 525 Kumquat Ct, Sarasota · 8 PM
Get TicketsSarasota Opera Food & Wine Festival
The Sarasota Opera House hosts its annual Food & Wine Festival — a celebration of culinary excellence set against the backdrop of one of Sarasota's most beautiful historic buildings. Sample wines, gourmet bites, and enjoy live performances.
Sarasota Opera House, 61 N Palm Ave, Sarasota
Learn MoreJK and the Contraband at Fogartyville
A night of original Americana, folk-rock, and roots music from JK and the Contraband at Fogartyville. A perfect Saturday evening of authentic, live songcraft in Sarasota's treasured listening room.
Fogartyville Community Media & Arts Center, 525 Kumquat Ct, Sarasota · 8 PM
Get TicketsSelby Gardens: 46th Annual Juried Photographic Exhibition
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens hosts its annual juried photography exhibition at the Historic Spanish Point campus — a showcase celebrating the intersection of art and nature. Opens late August and runs through September.
Selby Gardens Historic Spanish Point Campus, Osprey
Learn MoreLakewood Ranch Blues Festival
Lakewood Ranch's premier blues festival returns for its annual one-day celebration at Waterside Park. Top blues artists, food vendors, drinks, and soulful music in one of the area's most vibrant outdoor gathering spots. Mark your calendar.
Waterside Park, Lakewood Ranch
Recurring events & markets.
The heartbeat of Sarasota's community life. These events happen regularly and are worth building your week around.
Sarasota Farmers Market
A downtown tradition since 1979. 80+ vendors offering local produce, artisan goods, fresh flowers, and prepared foods on Lemon Avenue. Rain or shine.
Lemon Ave, Downtown Sarasota
Visit SiteFarmers Market at Lakewood Ranch
Voted #1 Farmers Market in America. 100+ vendors with produce, artisan goods, prepared foods, live music, and kids' activities at Waterside Place.
Waterside Place, Lakewood Ranch
Learn MoreSiesta Key Drum Circle
A Siesta Key tradition. Locals and visitors gather on the sand near the concession stand to drum, dance, and watch the sunset. Bring a drum or just your dancing feet.
Siesta Beach, Siesta Key
Nokomis Beach Drum Circle
A smaller, more laid-back drum circle at Nokomis Beach. Just as magical as Siesta Key but with fewer crowds.
Nokomis Beach, Nokomis
Coquina Beach Market
An open-air market on Anna Maria Island with local crafts, fresh produce, food vendors, and the beautiful Gulf Coast as your backdrop.
Coquina Beach, Anna Maria Island
Visit SiteMusic on Main — Lakewood Ranch
A free monthly street party on Lakewood Ranch Main Street with live music, food trucks, beer, and a dog-friendly atmosphere. First Fridays through the summer.
Lakewood Ranch Main Street, Bradenton
Palm Avenue Art Walk
Galleries along Palm Avenue's "Gallery Row" stay open late with refreshments, live music, and dancing. A longstanding downtown Sarasota tradition every first Friday.
Palm Avenue, Downtown Sarasota
Village of the Arts Art Walk
A free self-guided tour through Bradenton's Village of the Arts neighborhood featuring galleries, artisan shops, food vendors, and live music. A major monthly cultural event.
Village of the Arts, Bradenton
Art After Five at The Ringling
Enjoy the Museum of Art and Bayfront Gardens at a discounted rate every Thursday evening. A perfect after-work cultural escape.
The Ringling, 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota
Learn MoreJazz Thursdays at Sarasota Art Museum
Live jazz on the outdoor plaza co-hosted by the Jazz Club of Sarasota, with extended gallery, Bistro, and Shop hours. A sophisticated summer evening tradition.
Sarasota Art Museum, 1001 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota
Learn MoreSummer Nights at the Pavilion — Lakewood Ranch
Free, family-friendly outdoor community gathering hosted by the Lakewood Ranch Chamber. Tuesdays from 6:30–8 PM through August 25.
Lakewood Ranch
Bubbles Under the Banyans — Selby Gardens
An immersive comedic fusion of art, science, and magic featuring Spheres Bubble Show with Blaise Ryndes. Every Saturday through August 1 under the banyan canopy. A family favorite.
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Downtown Sarasota
Learn MoreNature events & sea turtle season.
Summer is sea turtle nesting season, camp season, and the best time to explore the Gulf Coast's wild side. Here's what's happening in the natural world around Sarasota right now.
Longboat Key Turtle Watch — Free Walks
Free educational nesting walks every Saturday morning through October. Meet at 6:45 AM at the public beach access at 4795 Gulf of Mexico Drive. No registration needed — just show up with sunscreen and curiosity. Watch for tracks, nests, and maybe even a nesting loggerhead.
Longboat Key beach access · Free
Laser Light Nights at The Bishop Museum
The Bishop Museum's planetarium transforms into a psychedelic light show with lasers set to artists like Queen, Pink Floyd, Taylor Swift, The Beatles, and Lady Gaga. Shows Thursdays at 6 PM, Fridays and Saturdays at 6 and 7 PM. A Summer Time Rewind finale over Labor Day weekend.
The Bishop Museum, 201 10th St W, Bradenton · $15/person
Get TicketsSaturday Star Stories at The Bishop Museum
A space-themed storytime program at 11:45 AM at the front of the Planetarium dome. Included with Museum admission — a wonderful family outing that combines storytelling and science. Space Saturday events also offered on select dates.
The Bishop Museum, Bradenton · Free with admission
Learn MoreRingling ROAR! Free Storytime
Weekly free storytime sessions for young children at the Ringling Museum — Thursday mornings from July through December. A gentle, fun introduction to art and storytelling. Free and open to all families.
The Ringling, Sarasota · Free
Learn MoreMote Marine: Seas the Summer Field Explorations
Weekly Monday program (10–11:30 AM) wading into Sarasota Bay for hands-on marine science. Ages 6–14. A wonderful way for kids to connect with the Gulf's marine environment under the guidance of Mote's expert educators.
Mote Marine Laboratory, 1600 Ken Thompson Pkwy, Sarasota · $25/session
Learn MoreYoga in the Gardens at Selby
Morning yoga sessions surrounded by the tropical beauty of Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. Regular sessions in August and September — check Selby's events calendar for exact dates.
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Downtown Sarasota
Learn MoreVolunteering & Ways to Give Back
Full details on these and many more organizations can be found on our Nature & Volunteering page.
Local music & bar scene.
Summer nights in Sarasota are warm, uncrowded, and full of live music. These are the spots where locals go after dark.
The Gator Club
The legendary downtown dance hall. Live bands every weekend, two floors, huge dance floor, and the best old-school Sarasota vibes you'll find. A true local institution since the early 1900s.
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. The kind of place where you settle in for one more round and stay for the music.
1546 Main St, Sarasota
Pangea Alchemy Room
Craft cocktails and rotating live performances — jazz trios, singer-songwriters, and the kind of evening where you lose track of time.
1557 Main St, Sarasota
Fogartyville
Folk, roots, and singer-songwriters in an intimate, no-frills listening room. All about the music — and the loyal local following proves it.
525 Kumquat Ct, Sarasota
Marina Jack
Live music nightly on the outdoor deck with waterfront views. Sunset cocktails and a quintessential Sarasota evening — never gets old.
2 Marina Plaza, Sarasota
Siesta Key Village
After dark, the Village comes alive. Daiquiri Deck, SKOB, and several other spots host bands and DJs steps from the beach. Don't miss the Sunday drum circle at sunset.
Siesta Key Village
Cadillac Jack's Honky Tonk Saloon
Country music, line dancing, and a down-home atmosphere on south Tamiami Trail. A local favorite for live country and a good time.
5247 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota
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