WHAT’S HAPPENING THIS WEEKEND?!
Fri-Sat, Nov 9th-10th, 10am | Chalk Festival | Burns Square | Ringling Blvd and S Orange Ave
Burns Square Neighborhood invites you to the Chalk Festival 'Floralia Infiorata,' a cultural extravaganza filled with creative masterpieces by artists from around the world. This vibrant event features oversized chalk art, interactive 3D illusions, and the addition of flower art maestros who craft stunning ground tapestries using thousands of natural flowers. A true celebration of art and culture, the festival is brought to life by dedicated volunteers and artists, making it a must-see for all ages. The closing celebration includes a PARADE of fantastical masks, human puppets, stilt walkers, and digital murals projected onto building walls, blending art, technology, and architecture for a truly unforgettable experience!
Fri, Nov 9th, 9am | Fused Glass Ornament Workshop | Art Center Manatee | 209 9th St W
Join the fun at the Fused Glass Ornament Workshop, where creativity shines as you craft five beautiful ornaments! Perfect for both beginners and seasoned artisans, this hands-on class offers a chance to explore the vibrant world of fused glass. Learn essential techniques like nipping, layering, and designing with a wide range of colorful glass pieces. Whether you're new to the craft or looking to enhance your skills, this workshop is a great way to get into the holiday spirit. A $25 supply fee is payable directly to the instructor.
Sat, Nov 9th, 9am | Outdoor Market | Inspiration Academy | 7900 40th Ave W
Join the fun at the outdoor market supporting local businesses from Anna Maria Island! These vendors, brimming with great products, are excited to showcase their goods after facing challenges from the recent hurricanes and the absence of their usual tourist crowds. This vibrant event offers the perfect chance to shop, discover new treasures, and enjoy a lively day out with the whole family. Whether you're picking up something special or just soaking in the community spirit, it's a fantastic way to support the island’s businesses and keep the local economy thriving!
Sat, Nov 9th, 4pm | A Plucking Good Time | Arts A Blaze Studio | 8111 Lakewood Main Street Unit 107
It’s turkey-time, and the perfect opportunity to create custom dinnerware for your Thanksgiving table or to paint a special gift for the host! This adults-only painting event offers a variety of tableware and serving pieces to choose from, so guests can get creative while preparing for the main event. Snacks will be provided, and attendees may bring their own beverages (it is the holidays, after all!). One ticket is required per painter, and guests should let the organizers know their arrival time when making a reservation. It's a fun, festive way to get ready for the holiday season!
Sat, Nov 9th, 6:30pm | Holidays at UTC: Illuminate | University Town Center | 215 N Cattlemen Road
The holiday season kicks off with a night of sparkle and cheer at Holidays at UTC: Illuminate! From November 9 through January 5, guests of all ages can immerse themselves in the festive magic with nightly light shows, twinkling every 30 minutes from 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM, along with classic holiday movies under the stars every Friday and Saturday at 7 PM. Visitors can also enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides on Thursdays through Sundays from 6 to 10 PM for just $10 per person, departing from The Stable across from Natuzzi. Every Saturday, a spectacular fireworks display lights up the sky at 9 PM. Plus, Floridians and visitors alike can savor the enchanting experience of ice skating on real ice! It’s an unforgettable holiday celebration that truly shines at UTC.
