WHAT’S HAPPENING THIS WEEKEND?!

 

Fri, Oct 25th, 6pm | BooFest | Lakewood Ranch Main Street | 8102 Lakewood Main Street

BooFest on Main Street, presented by the Early Learning Coalition of Manatee County, is set to be an unforgettable family celebration this year. Families can enjoy a wide array of entertainment, food and drink vendors, and more, all in a festive atmosphere. This free event invites children to bring their trick-or-treat bags to gather treats from generous local sponsors and merchants. Attendees are encouraged to wear their best Halloween costumes and join in for a spirited day of fun and community engagement!

 

Fri, Oct 25th, 8pm | Movies Under the Stars: Hocus Pocus | The Green at UTC | 125 N Cattlemen Road

Movies Under the Stars returns to UTC for another enchanting night featuring the beloved 90’s classic Hocus Pocus. On Friday, starting at 7 PM, guests can meet the iconic Sanderson sisters and enjoy face painting while indulging in trick-or-treats from on-site concessions. The movie will screen after sunset, around 8 PM, inviting families and friends of all ages to gather on The Green, located directly in front of The Paper Store. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets for a cozy viewing experience and to explore the various eateries around UTC for dinner. Seating is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

 

Sat, Oct 26th, 5pm | Spooky Carnival Under The Big Top | Big Top Brewers Collective | 2507 Lakewood Ranch Boulevard

The Halloween Fall Carnival invites families to an enchanting evening filled with festive fun, kicking off at 5 PM! Guests can enjoy pumpkin painting, a delightful popcorn bar, and a thrilling costume contest, all while indulging in delicious offerings from food trucks. For those seeking a glimpse into the mystical, tarot card readings will add an extra layer of excitement. The carnival is kid-friendly and will feature live music by John Ford starting at 7 PM, ensuring a memorable night of Halloween festivities for everyone!

 

Sat, Oct 26th, 6pm | The Original Downtown Halloween Block Party | Sarasota Main Street | 1490 Main Street

Get ready for a spooktacular night at the Original Downtown Halloween Block Party, a free outdoor celebration that promises thrills and chills for all ages! The festivities kick off with live music from Derek Lersch Music at 6:00 PM, setting the perfect atmosphere for the evening. Inside, enjoy additional performances by Johnny Diamond and DJ Kelly Crawford, ensuring there's something for everyone. Don your most creative costume for the first outdoor costume contest, where cash and prizes await the winners! Savor delicious bites from the food truck, Smokin' Momma Lora's, while soaking up the lively spirit of Halloween.

 

Sat-Sun, Oct 26th-27th, 10am | Harvest Festival | Darkin Dairy Farms | 30771 Betts Road

Experience the joy of autumn at the Dakin Dairy Farm Harvest Festival, where a weekend of fun awaits for the whole family! Guests can take in the beautiful weather and scenery while enjoying included activities such as parking, lawn mower races, hay rides, access to the pumpkin patch, and a kid zone. Additional attractions include calf cuddling, a moo train, cheese curds, and a variety of food trucks, vendors, ice cream, and treats from the Dakin concession stand. This festival has something for everyone, ensuring a memorable outing for all!