Local events.
From farmers markets to waterfront concerts, here's what's going on across Sarasota, Longboat Key, Siesta Key, Lakewood Ranch, and the Gulf Coast communities.
Every week.
Sarasota Farmers Market
Every Saturday, 7 AM – 1 PM. Fresh produce, local vendors, and live music in the heart of downtown Sarasota.
Lemon Ave, Downtown Sarasota
Visit SiteFriday Fest on the Bay
Monthly on the first Friday evening. Free live music, food trucks, and sunset views along the Sarasota Bay waterfront at The Bay.
The Bay Sarasota, Tamiami Trail
Lakewood Ranch Farmers Market
Wednesday evenings, 5 – 8 PM at Waterside Place. Local produce, artisan goods, food vendors, and a lakeside community atmosphere.
Waterside Place, Lakewood Ranch
Artwalk Village of the Arts
First Saturday of every month. Galleries, studios, and shops open their doors in Bradenton's historic Village of the Arts neighborhood.
Village of the Arts, Bradenton
Selby Gardens Farmers Market
Sunday mornings. Organic produce, prepared foods, and botanical beauty at one of Sarasota's most beloved waterfront gardens.
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
Jazz at The Blue Butterfly
Weekly jazz nights and live performances. An intimate venue bringing world-class musicians to the Sarasota cultural scene.
Downtown Sarasota
Mark your calendar.
Season of the Arts
Peak season brings the Sarasota Opera, Van Wezel Performing Arts performances, the Sarasota Film Festival, and the season-long calendar of gallery walks, symphony concerts, and theater productions across the area.
Siesta Key Crystal Classic
World-class sand sculptors transform Siesta Key Beach into an outdoor gallery. Free to attend, this annual competition draws artists from around the globe and thousands of visitors.
Sarasota Spring Arts Festival
A juried fine arts and crafts festival along the bayfront featuring 200+ artists, live entertainment, and food vendors. One of the largest outdoor art festivals on the Gulf Coast.
Sarasota Film Festival
Ten days of independent and international film screenings, Q&A sessions with filmmakers, panels, and parties throughout Sarasota's arts venues.
Off-Season Gems
The quieter months bring fewer crowds, lower prices, and some of the best local events — including free summer movies on the beach, popsicles and sunset concerts, and the annual Fourth of July fireworks over Sarasota Bay.
Siesta Key Seafood & Music Festival
Fresh Gulf seafood, live music, and community spirit at one of Siesta Key's most beloved annual celebrations.
Holiday Boat Parade & Lighting
The Sarasota Holiday Boat Parade lights up the bay, while downtown Sarasota features tree lighting ceremonies, holiday markets, and festive performances at the Van Wezel.
Where to hear live music.
Joyland
A beloved Sarasota music venue with live bands, dancing, and a retro atmosphere. Country, rock, and bluegrass on a regular schedule.
8333 N Lockwood Ridge Rd
Big Top Live
A spacious venue hosting concerts, events, and entertainment. Diverse lineup from classic rock to contemporary acts.
975 Cattlemen Rd
Encore
Restaurant and live music lounge featuring local and touring musicians. Great food, cocktails, and an intimate performance space.
8341 N Lockwood Ridge Rd