WHAT’S HAPPENING THIS WEEKEND?!
Fri, Feb 28th, 6pm | Movies Under the Stars: Wish | The Green at UTC | 125 N Cattlemen Road
Movies Under the Stars returns to The Green at UTC for a magical family-friendly evening featuring Disney’s WISH. Before the movie begins at sunset, guests can enjoy face painting, character meet-and-greets, and onsite concessions, creating a lively atmosphere for all ages. This free outdoor event invites families and friends to bring lawn chairs and blankets to relax under the night sky. With limited seating available on a first-come, first-serve basis, it’s the perfect way to enjoy a movie night under the stars in a fun and welcoming setting.
Sat-Sun, Mar 1st -2nd, 10am | Sarasota Festival of the Arts | JD Hamel Park | Main St & Gulfstream Ave
The Sarasota Festival of the Arts™ debuts with a vibrant outdoor showcase of original works from over 70 artisans and crafters from across Florida and the United States. Transforming the park into an open-air gallery, this free event features stunning paintings, sculptures, jewelry, photography, ceramics, fiber art, metalwork, woodworking, and more. Guests can explore a diverse range of artistic styles, engage with creators to learn about their inspirations, and even commission custom pieces. With an immersive atmosphere celebrating creativity and craftsmanship, this festival invites art lovers to discover, connect, and take home something truly unique.
Sat, Mar 1st, 11am | Bay Fest: Our Actions Make Waves | The Bay Sarasota | 1055 Boulevard of the Arts
Sarasota County’s second annual Bay Fest invites the community to a free, interactive event at The Bay, where visitors can explore the vital connections between land and water. In partnership with the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program, this engaging festival offers hands-on experiences, expert demonstrations, and activities for all ages. Guests can take a kayak ride through the mangrove bayou, learn about seagrass from local experts, and enjoy live music while soaking in the stunning waterfront views. With food trucks, environmental exhibits, and plenty of family-friendly fun, Bay Fest is a celebration of Sarasota’s beautiful bays and the efforts to protect them.
Sat, Mar 1st, 5pm | St. Patricks Day Themed Night Market | Big Top Brewery | 507 Lakewood Ranch Blvd
Big Top Brewery kicks off the St. Patrick’s Day spirit early with a lively night of shopping, music, and festive fun. Guests can explore a variety of local vendors offering unique handmade goods and boutique finds while enjoying delicious bites from top food trucks. Live music sets the tone for the evening, and, of course, plenty of Big Top brews will be flowing to keep the celebration going. With a vibrant atmosphere and shenanigans in store, this event is the perfect way to eat, drink, shop, and celebrate—just don’t forget to wear green!
Sun, Mar 2nd, 10am | Spring Plants & More Sale | Palma Sola Botanical Park | 9800 17th Ave NW
Spring blooms at Palma Sola Botanical Park with a lively day of shopping, dining, and live music set among stunning garden scenery. Visitors can explore a diverse selection of plant vendors offering everything from fruit trees and native species to bromeliads, succulents, and unique specimen plants—all at reasonable prices. Artisan booths showcase handcrafted silver jewelry, ceramic pottery, stained glass, and more, while local food vendors serve up delicious bites. With free admission, this vibrant event invites plant lovers, garden enthusiasts, and shoppers alike to enjoy a beautiful day filled with nature, creativity, and community spirit.
