WHAT’S HAPPENING THIS WEEKEND?!

Fri, Sept 22^nd, 5pm | Drop It Glow Party | The Sarasota Modern | 1290 Boulevard of the Arts

The Drop It Glow Party promises an unforgettable experience filled with music, dancing, fun, food and drinks, a glow pong tournament, and vibrant glow lights under the Sarasota night sky. Pre-register for FREE admission!

Fri, Sept 22^nd, 7pm | Screen on The Green: Super Mario Bros | The Green at UTC | 125 N Cattlemen Road

Level up your Friday night with a free outdoor showing of The Super Mario Bros. Movie at Screen on The Green at UTC! Starting at 7pm, kids are invited to meet Mario and Princess Peach, enjoy complimentary face painting, onsite concessions, and more. Showtime begins after sunset! Make sure to bring chairs or blankets.

Sat, Sept 23^rd, 10am | Bay Fest! Exploring Our Underwater Worlds | Sarasota Sailing Squadron | 1717 Ken Thompson Parkway

Celebrate the wonders of our underwater worlds at this FREE family-friendly event! During this extraordinary experience, you will immerse yourself in exhibits showcasing local vibrant marine life, engage with experts to learn about our underwater habitats and the conservation efforts to help protect them, hop aboard kayak tours and discover the coastline, enjoy live music performances, and grab some food from the food truck vendors!

Sat, Sept 23^rd, 7:30pm | Starry Night Astronomy | Robinson Preserve South | 10299 9^th Avenue NW

Bring a sense of wonder and exploration to this astronomical extravaganza in the Robinson Preserve Expansion! Dozens of local astronomers will be set up with telescopes at the ready. Suitable for all ages, this program will teach you how to identify these heavenly bodies and how you can stargaze at home.

Sun, Sept 24^th, Any Time | City Quest: Smurfs Great Escape | Selby Five Points Park | 1 Central Avenue

Embark on a Smurftastic journey through the heart of Sarasota while you combine the thrill of exploration with the excitement of solving a mystery. This is a self-guided adventure using your smartphone to follow cryptic clues, solve perplexing puzzles, and find secret places you’ve never been before as you help save the Smurfs from the evil wizard Gargamel. This is suitable to play as a family, group of friends, or solo!

WHAT’S HAPPENING THIS WEEKEND?!

Fri, Sept 15^th, 7pm | 7^th Annual Sanga-rita Showdown | Manatee County Fairgrounds, Veterans Hall | 1402 14^th Avenue W

Local restaurants will compete for the titles of Best Sangria, Best Margarita, and Best Bites on the Suncoast! You will be able to sample them all and vote for your favorites while you enjoy delicious restaurant appetizers and entertainment. A few of the participating restaurants will be Winghouse, Carrabba’s Italian Grill, Loaded Cannon Distillery, Sandbar Seafood & Spirits, and more!

Sat, Sept 16^th, 8am | 7^th Annual Reef and Beach Clean Up | Sea Breeze Park | 55 Horseshoe Loop Road

Calling all Scuba Divers, Fishermen, and Land Lubbers! Suncoast Aqua Ventures presents the 7^th Annual Suncoast Reef and Beach Clean Up. From 8-10am you can enjoy free breakfast while you register and pick up your t-shirt, trash bags, and other supplies. After that, you will collect trash until weigh-in from 2-5pm. All debris will be weighed and recorded, and there will be cash and prizes to be won!

Sat, Sept 16^th, 9:30am | UTC Fit | The Green at UTC | 125 North Cattlemen Road

Enjoy a free outdoor group workout led by instructors from our local fitness community. This class will consist of different styles and intensities to be sure there is something for everyone. Bring a mat and water, and you will receive a free workout, great music, and goodies from The Vitamin Shoppe.

Sat, Sept 16^th, 6:30pm | Jim Breuer’s True Breu Weekend | Art Ovation Hotel | 1255 North Palm Avenue

Jim Breuer brings together comedy and community with his True Breu Weekend! The event begins with a pre-show mixer where you can play fun games, win prizes, listen to great music, and enjoy drinks/appetizers. The comedy show and Q&A will begin at 7:30pm, followed by the meet & greet at 9pm. The best part of all? This event shares proceeds with the American Cancer Society’s “Men Wear Pink Campaign”!

Sun, Sept 17^th, 10am | The Velveteen Rabbit: A Toy Story | Florida Studio Theatre | 1241 N Palm Avenue

In this brand-new adaptation of The Velveteen Rabbit, Margery Williams’ classic story springs to magical life. When The Child gets The Rabbit, she is initially disappointed with her gift. As the two quest and adventure through her storybooks, both Rabbit and Child grow, change, and care for each other. Don’t miss out on this wonderful show!

WHAT’S HAPPENING THIS WEEKEND?!

Fri, Sept 8^th, 7pm | Be Our Guest: The Disney DJ Night | Jannus Live | 208 1^st Avenue North

Calling all 90s kids and/or Disney lovers! Dance the night away and get Bippity-Boppity-Boozed up with specialty drinks while you sing your heart out to your favorite Disney tracks being spun. Costumes are encouraged!

Sat, Sept 9^th, 10am | 6^th Annual Sarasota Wellness Expo | The Mall at UTC | 140 University Town Center Drive

Back for its 6^th year, the Sarasota Wellness Expo is bringing you over 50 exhibitors including fitness instructors, insurance agents, holistic practices, medical professionals, veterinarians, and more! You may also take advantage of free health screenings, product samples, giveaways, and more.

Sat, Sept 9^th, 2pm | Families Flock Together: Saltwater Fishing Clinic | Emerson Point Preserve | 5801 17^th Street West

Are you interested in fishing but don’t know where to start? Join this special saltwater fishing clinic to learn the basics of catch and release fishing in Florida, practice your fish identification skills, and tie an improved clinch knot. You may use their provided fishing equipment or cast your own line into the waters to see what you can catch! Suitable for all ages.

Sun, Sept 10^th, 5pm | Shabby Chic Vintage Resin Workshop | Lush Farmhouse | 11411 SR 64 E

Enjoy a fun-filled evening of creativity as you make stunning resin jewelry pieces with vintage country-style mixed media and décor. During this hands-on workshop, you will learn various techniques and have your choice of necklace, keychain, or ornament. Snacks and beverages (including mimosas and sangria for 21+) will be available. This is perfect for all ages and experience levels!

Sun, Sept 10^th, 11am | Free Second Sundays | Sarasota Art Museum | 1001 South Tamiami Trail

On the second Sunday of each month, the Sarasota Art Museum offers a FREE day of art and family fun. Enjoy artmaking for all including ceramics, figure drawing, watercolor, and more. You will also enjoy music and special performances!

WHAT’S HAPPENING THIS WEEKEND?!

Fri, Sept 1^st, 5pm | First Friday Art Walk | Gulfport | Beach Boulevard South

Gulfport’s First Friday Art Walk welcomes the area’s most innovative artists for a showcase of creativity and community as you walk the scenic Beach Boulevard storefronts and restaurants. Enjoy entertainment, locally owned businesses, and the arts!

Sat, Sept 2^nd, 8:30am | Ashtanga Yoga by the Ocean | Nokomis Beach Pavilion Center | 100 Casey Key Road

Connect body, mind, breath, stretch, strengthen, relax, and rejuvenate in Ashtanga Yoga by the ocean with Sandi! Sandi will guide you safely through a led vinyasa sequence following the classical Ashtanga Primary Series with movement options and adaptations for each individual.

Sat, Sept 2^nd, 9am | Flower Power Family Fun Day | Palma Sola Botanical Park | 9800 17^th Ave NW

Bring the kids to take a color hike through the garden where they will look for items to use in their craft. They will then be guided through a craft where each child creates a mosaic from their collected flowers and leaves. Finish off your morning with food and drinks at the Tea Tree Café after the program!

Sun, Sept 3^rd, 10am | 14^th Annual Downtown Venice Labor Day Weekend Craft Festival | 200 W Miami Avenue

Located in the vibrant and historically charmed town of Venice, this weekend-long art festival brings together incredible artists, vendors, local restaurants, and independently owned shops. What a great way to enjoy the beautiful outdoors and support local!

Sun, Sept 3^rd, 1pm | Labor Day Pool Party | Art Ovation Hotel | 1255 North Palm Avenue

Head up to the Perspective Rooftop at the Art Ovation Hotel for a Labor Day pool party you don’t want to miss out on! Soak up the rays and take in the breathtaking views from the pool deck while DJ Val Verra keeps the vibes upbeat and chilled-out with house music. Enjoy drink specials, pool games, and a swimsuit walk competition.

WHAT’S HAPPENING THIS WEEKEND?!

Fri, Aug 25^th, 7pm | Screen on The Green: Vivo | The Green at UTC | 125 N Cattlemen Road

Fridays are for family flicks! Take a break from the back-to-school bustle and bring your family out for this month’s outdoor movie night. The featured movie will be Vivo; a movie about a music-loving kinkajou embarking on the journey of a lifetime to fulfill his destiny and deliver a love song for an old friend. The movie will begin after sunset.

Sat, Aug 26^th, 8:30am | Ride and Paddle at The Bay | The Bay Park Conservancy | 1055 Boulevard of the Arts

Take a free two-hour tour through The Bay’s restored mangroves and to the north and south end of the park led by experienced guides while you explore and learn. Kayaks and life jackets are provided, and this tour is recommended for anyone 12 years and older.

Sat, Aug 26^th, 11am | Amazing Anna Maria Island Scavenger Hunt | Anna Maria Island Beach Café | 4000 Gulf Drive

You will start at the Anna Maria Island Beach Café where you will receive your digital quest from your live and interactive remote host. This family and dog-friendly event will alternate between the indoors and outdoors and will come with plenty of bonus challenges, too! You will walk or drive to various checkpoints as you interpret creative tasks, accept wacky challenges, and get outside your comfort zone!

Sunday, Aug 27^th, 11am | Sarasota Showdown Scavenger Hunt | Pastry Art Café & Dessert | 1512 Main Street

Are you unable to make Saturday’s scavenger hunt on AMI or just prefer Sarasota in general? The same amazing scavenger hunt is being brought right to you in Sarasota, too! With this one, you will meet at Pastry Art Café & Dessert for your quest before you take off to experience a wide variety of carefully curated locations in town. Have fun, uncover hidden gems and local secrets, and make memories with old and new friends!

Sun, Aug 27^th, 12:30pm | Yin Yoga & Sound Healing | Circusoul Yoga | 4141 S Tamiami Trail #6

This is a powerfully rejuvenating Yin Yoga sequence paired with the healing sound vibrations of Tibetan Singing Bowls. While everyone experiences sound baths in different ways, you are likely to enjoy feelings of peace, deep relaxation, and rejuvenation as you are immersed in beautiful sound.

WHAT’S HAPPENING THIS WEEKEND?!

Fri, Aug 18^th, 10:30am | Garden Workshop - Planning a Raised Garden | Reflections of Manatee | 1302 4th Ave E

It’s time to start planning those fall gardens! Come out for a free workshop led by IFAS Extension Agent Alyssa Vinson for an educational session on planning a raised garden, best garden practices, soil composition, appropriate plant selections, and more!

Sat, Aug 19^th, 1pm and 7pm | Monster Jam | Amalie Arena | 401 Channelside Drive

Unexpected, unscripted, and unforgettable, Monster Jam features incredible, massive trucks pushing themselves to the limit as they compete in three categories: racing, two-wheel skills, and freestyle. This action-packed event is a memorable experience for both adults and kids! There is a Pit Party beforehand for an even more up close and personal experience with meet and greets, autographs, and up-close view of the monster trucks.

Sat, Aug 19^th, 9am | Zumba with Ya’el Campbell | Bayfront Community Center | 803 North Tamiami Trail

Whether you just like to dance or you’re looking for a fun way to get active and burn some calories, this Zumba class led by Ya'el Campbell is the perfect solution! Grab a friend, bring your kids, and get ready to move, shake, dance, smile, and jump!

Sat, Aug 19^th, 10:30 | MOVE | Sarasota Art Museum | 1001 South Tamiami Trail

This class will invite a deeper exploration of the art on view while you enjoy a joyful hour of movement and human connection. Open to all skill levels and no dance experience required! Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended.

Sun, Aug 20^th, 6pm | Universal Championship Wrestling | Veterans Hall at MC Fair Grounds | 1402 14^th Avenue West

UCW is set to ignite the stage with its highly anticipated event, Battle Star. This event promises to deliver a thrilling experience with an exhilarating blend of both established stars and emerging talents as they battle strength, agility, and strategy. Don’t miss this unforgettable experience!

WHAT’S HAPPENING THIS WEEKEND?!

Fri, Aug 11^th, 6:30pm | Totally Awesome 80’s Murder Mystery & Dance Party | Pineapple Kitchen | 4914 Lena Road Unit 104

Don’t miss this 4-hour interactive murder mystery and dance party! This includes a 4-course dinner, two adult or non-alcoholic beverages, a dance party with munchies, and a Totally Awesome 80’s keepsake cup. Each guest will be assigned a character and you are encouraged to dress up in costume to really bring the excitement!

Sat, Aug 12^th, 8am | Cars & Coffee | Ford’s Garage | 295 North Cattlemen Road

It’s that time of the month! Sarasota Cars and Coffee is back from 8-10am at UTC near Ford’s Garage, and this time with a special bonus! Two world-famous monster trucks from Monster Jam, Grave Digger and ThunderROARus, will be on display for you to see up close and personal. There will also be a unique display of luxury, classic, and exotic cars, live music, and complimentary coffee.

Sat, Aug 12^th, 10am | SarasotaCon – ComiCon | Carlisle Inn & Conference Center | 3727 Bahia Vista Street

Striving to be Florida’s best and truest comic convention featuring fandoms of multiple genres, SarasotaCon is a collectors’ mecca convention! There will be exhibitors catering to a wide spectrum of interests including comic books, anime manga, cosplay, sci-fi, wrestling, video games, gaming, retro toys, and much more! Additionally, a roster of comic industry professionals and fandom-related celebrities are guaranteed in attendance for fans to meet and greet.

Sat, Aug 12^th, 11am | Splash & Bubbles Yard Pawty | Boo’s Ice House & Dog Bar | 1314 Tenth St

Bring your bathing suit and four-legged friends to beat the heat at this fun, outdoor, pet-friendly event! Boo’s Ice House & Dog Bar will transform the outdoor dog park into a water park with various size pools, splash pads, sprinklers, bubbles, and a slip n slide! Enjoy a cocktail while your pup enjoys dog-friendly, dairy-free ice cream, too!

Sun, Aug 13^th, 1pm | Changing Lanes Bowling Tournament | AMF Gulf Gate Lanes | 7221 South Tamiami Trail

This event will give you two hours of bowling with shoe rental, pizza, and unlimited soft drinks. Come alone, with friends, family, or even bring the kids! You may join a team if you’d like, and there will be lanes reserved just for the children. This event will support the nonprofit organization Project 180!

WHAT’S HAPPENING THIS WEEKEND?!

Fri, Aug 4^th, 6pm | Music on Main | Lakewood Ranch Main Street | 8100 Lakewood Main Street

Silverback Rock N’ Roll Band will fill the air with songs from the 50s, 60s, 70s, and 80s and the event will benefit the Bradenton Woman’s Club. Local food vendors, beer trucks, sponsor booths, and games and activities will be present for no shortage of fun for everyone!

Fri, Aug 4^th, 7:30pm | Loomis Bros. Circus 2023 Tour | Robarts Arena | 3000 Ringling Boulevard

America’s award-winning circus is coming to you this Friday! Enjoy over 90 minutes of mesmerizing wonder and excitement featuring performing animals, aerialists, hilarious clowns, daredevils, acrobats, and more! Kids 2 and under attend free.

Sat, Aug 5^th, 11am | Mommy and Me Dance Class | Fred Astaire Dance Studio | 4414 Bee Ridge Road

Are you looking for something fun and different to do with your child? Try this Mommy and Me dance class welcoming all ages and children! Your ticket will include one parent and one child for a one-hour class.

Sat, August 5^th, 11am | Siesta Key Rum Tour | Drum Circle Distilling | 2212 Industrial Blvd

Embark on a 30-45 minute tour of Drum Circle Distilling, home of Siesta Key Rum! During this time, you will learn about the rum-making process and barrel aging, as well as see how Siesta Key Rum is put into bottles using the bottle room equipment. Be sure to arrive 10 minutes early to the Tasting Room to receive some FREE SAMPLES!

Sun, Aug 6^th, 3pm | Andy Warhol’s Birthday Art Walk | The Floridian Social | 687 Central Avenue North

This unique art walk will showcase a collection of captivating Andy Warhol-inspired pieces created by local artists from the St. Pete and Tampa Bay area. There will be an art exhibition, Andy Warhol Impersonator, live music, signature cocktails, and plenty of opportunity to socialize and network with fellow artists and creatives. Embrace your inner 60s pop artist with a Warhol-inspired outfit!

WHAT’S HAPPENING THIS WEEKEND?!

Fri, July 28^th, 7:30pm | Family Movie Night: Shrek | The Oval at The Bay | 1055 Boulevard of the Arts

Family Movie Night is back at The Oval! Bring your family and friends and blanket or chair to enjoy the movie Shrek under the stars. Rise & Nye’s will be providing ice cream to the first 100 people, and Simply Greek Food Truck will also be available for purchase.

Sat, July 29th, 9am | Family Fishing Clinic | Bay Preserve | 400 Palmetto Avenue

This exciting fishing clinic is designed for both children and adults! Instructors will teach you how to tie an improved clinch not, the art of casting, and tips for ethical angling in Florida. All fishing equipment will be provided, and no experience is necessary.

Sat, July 29th, 12pm | 1950’s Sock Hop | Town Square University Parkway | 8450 Lockwood Ridge Road #55

Dust off your poodle skirts, leather jacks, and bobby socks and transport back to the fabulous 50’s with this groovy event that’ll have you twisting and shouting to the rhythm of rock ‘n’ roll! Enjoy food, drinks, and raffles while jiving the afternoon away.

Sun, July 30^th, 2pm | Kailey’s Butterfly Garden | Painting with a Twist | 5543 Palmer Crossing Circle

Time to relax, uncork, and get smocked up! Enjoy a guided painting session with friends while sipping your favorite wine or other beverage. You are welcome to bring food or snacks, the studio will provide cups, napkins, and plates. Additionally, you may arrive 30 minutes early to create your own all-natural soy candle before you paint!

Sun, July 30^th, 12pm | Back To School Giveaway + Day of Fun | Ringling College Library | 1228 Dr Martin Luther King Jr Way

This incredible event will offer 500 free backpacks and supplies to those who need them. In addition to being a great resource, this will also be a fun day with virtual reality games, food, and free haircuts!

WHAT’S HAPPENING THIS WEEKEND?!

Fri, July 21^st, 5pm | Friday Fest | Van Wezel | 777 North Tamiami Trail

Located on the lawn of the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, this free outdoor event is the summertime concert series you don’t want to miss. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and take in the music and sunset while you enjoy food and drinks from local vendors. One Night Rodeo will be the American contemporary country band filling the air with music that’ll bring you to your feet!

Sat, July 22^nd, 8:30am | Lemur Yoga | Big Cat Habitat | 7101 Palmer Boulevard

This unique interactive animal experience will leave you feeling transformed. Instructor Erika Cain will guide you through a gentle yoga flow while two beautiful Ruffed Lemurs, Ziggy and Marley, leap around freely and connect with you. This alignment-based class synchronizes breath with movement to help deepen your mind-body connection and tune in to your spirit animal as you become immersed in the outdoor environment and powerful energy of the lemurs.

Sat, July 22^nd, 11am | Breakfast with Santa | Hamlet’s Eatery | 821 Apricot Avenue

Hamlet’s Eatery will be serving up a delicious breakfast of fluffy chocolate chip pancakes, crispy bacon, and more of your favorite breakfast treats fit for the jolliest of elves. Santa will be stopping by from 11am-1pm during which time you are welcome to take photos and tell him all about your holiday wishes.

Sat, July 22^nd, 4pm | Greg’s Magic Mayhem | Mon Ami Café | 1740 East Venice Avenue, Suite 19

Hosted at Mon Ami Café in Venice, Greg’s Magic Mayhem is a new original magic show, musical, and puppet show that puts a twist on one of our favorite childhood stories. Children and adults will receive a food voucher to enjoy food and drinks before the show, and there will be a magic “class” after the show with a custom magic kit included to take home.

Sun, July 23^rd, 11am | Live Blues Brunch | Mattison’s Riverwalk Grille | 101 Riverwalk Boulevard

Every fourth Sunday of the month, you can enjoy a Live Blues Brunch with both local and international blues musicians. The tranquil tunes will be paired with a delicious, chef-crafted brunch served a-la-carte and al fresco on the covered outdoor patio. Don’t forget their Signature Bloody Marys and bottomless mimosas!