2024 April Sarasota Events Calendar

The April Sarasota Events Calendar  - fun free (or next to nothing) things to do in Sarasota and around the Suncoast.

(*Every effort is made to provide as accurate of information as possible, however dates, times, places and event schedules are subject to change without notice due to weather conditions, last minute changes or cancellations made by event organizers, mistakes, misinformation from sources and/or events beyond anyone's control, etc. We encourage you to check with event organizers to be sure an event is going forward before making plans to attend.)

April Sarasota Events

April 1, 2024: Come out for Ringling by the Bay featuring live music and dancing with the Billy Rice Band on the Bolger Campiello. Food and drinks available for purchase. 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. Tickets will be available approx. one month prior to each event, and will include a 24 hour pre-sale period for members. Members please note: $10 tickets are limited to one for Individual Memberships and two for all other Membership levels. Additionally, members may purchase up to four additional tickets at full price ($20) during the pre-sale period. Tickets are limited and will be available on a first come-first serve basis. General public tickets on sale March 2, 2024.  Ringling Museum Grounds, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota, FL. 941-358-3180.

April 1 - June 29, 2025: Marie Selby Botanical Gardens will present George Harrison: A Gardener’s Life, which examines the work of major artists through the lens of their connection to nature and will explore the deep and meaningful connection between musician George Harrison – best known as the lead guitarist of the legendary rock band The Beatles – and the pastime of gardening, which became his greatest passion. George’s love of gardening was an integral part of his identity. In an interview in Rolling Stone magazine in 1979, the renowned singer-songwriter described himself as “just a gardener.” His strong association with gardening was further illustrated in his 1980 autobiography, I Me Mine, dedicated “to gardeners everywhere.” A selection of special programs will be scheduled throughout the run of the exhibit. A highlight will be An Evening with Patti Smith Dedicated to George Harrison on February 12 at Selby Gardens' Downtown Sarasota campus featuring Selby Gardens' iconic Artist in Residence Patti Smith. Members Free. Member guests $12. Adults $28. Ages 5-17 $12. Ages 4 and under Free. Open daily 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.* *Closed Christmas Day. Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, 1534 Mound Street, Sarasota, FL.

April 2 - 7, 2024: The US Olympic & Paralympic Team Rowing Trials are taking place at Benderson Park. Watch history being made as Olympic hopefuls battle it out on the water for a chance to be nominated to the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic rowing teams. This is the final step on the road to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games this summer. Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle, Sarasota, FL

April 3, 2024:  It's a free concert with live music with the Gentlemen of Jazz, which recreates the New Orleans Preservation Hall style of jazz. Enjoy the tunes from 3 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. This free concert take place every Wednesday through April 6, 2022 in Centennial Park's Gazebo in downtown Venice, FL. February Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.

April 4, 2025: Check out Jazz at Two with Jazz and classical bassist, Isaac Mingus who has performed to great acclaim at the Florida Studio Theatre with NYC cabaret vocalist Carole J. Bufford and with a trio led by the legendary
pianist, Dick Hyman. Mingus, also a cellist, performs with the Venice Symphony and has performed with rhythm section for the Jazz Club scholarship winners. Enjoy popular jazz standards and music from the American songbook with the Isaac Mingus Quartet. 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. Jazz Club members $15 - Guests $20. Unitarian Universalist Church 3975 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota, FL.

April Sarasota Events Calendar

April 4, 2024: This Sarasota Chamber welcomes you to our annual Grand Expo, where attendees will navigate Sarasota's business landscape and learn more about our local businesses! Attendees will enjoy complimentary light bites from local restaurants, door prizes, raffle items, a cash bar, and the opportunity to make valuable connections with our 80+ Chamber Member booths and learn more about local businesses so we can all shop local! Those attendees who complete the event passport, will have a chance to win a 40" Roku TV, Apple Airpods and more! Open to the public. Free admission and parking. 4:30 - 7 p.m. Robarts Arena, 3000 Ringling Blvd., Sarasota, FL

April 4, 2024: It's Ringling Underground. Enjoy live music, art and atmosphere in the Museum of Art Courtyard during Ringling Underground 8 p.m. -11 p.m. This event features an eclectic mix of local, regional, and national live music. Check out up-and-coming artists displaying their work in the Museum of Art Courtyard. $15 / Free for Students w/ ID & Members. Free with Art after 5 Admission. The Courtyard at The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL. (941) 359-5700

April 5, 2025: The Ringling Museum presents Free Family Day with free admission to the museum for families, and art-making in the MakerSpace using botanical debris from Hurricane Milton. We hope you can find solace on our campus and in works of art, as well as a mindful reprieve in art-making at The Ringling. No registration is required. FAM (Family Art Making) is a free program that's fun for the whole family! Join us for creative art projects inspired by an object in our collections. Afterwards, visit the museum to see that object in person! You will be able to visit the Museum of Art and the Circus Museum with your FAM wristband that is provided at check-in. Tickets: This program is free, however tickets are required. Tickets are limited and will be available online approx. 14 days prior to each program. Walk-ins will be accommodated as space allows. 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. This event runs on select Saturdays from October 19, 2024 - April 26. 2025 The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota FL

April 5, 2024: It's The 2024 Paws in Paris benefiting the Humane Society of Sarasota County. Leave your passport at home. You'll need only an event ticket to be transported to the City of Light, conveniently located right here in sunny Florida at the eternally elegant Ritz-Carlton Sarasota. When the doors to the ballroom open at noon, you'll be treated to a world-class lunch and decadent dessert, coupled with entertainment and activities that will have you saying "Oui!"--especially when you hear that all proceeds go directly to saving 3,300 animals this year!  Individual tickets are $225. Doors open at 11 a.m. The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, Ritz Carlton Drive, Sarasota, FL,

April 5, 2024: It's a new season of Music in the Park. On Friday evenings there are few better ways to relax and welcome in the weekend than listening to great local music in an outdoor setting. You can enjoy the best in local music at the Rossi Park Pavilion on the Riverwalk. Tonight's music is by Glass Onion Beatles Band (Beatles Tribute) from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. - bring a chair or blanket for relaxing and listening! Bradenton Riverwalk Mosaic Amphitheater,  606 3rd Ave W, Bradenton, FL

April Sarasota Events

April 5, 2024: The Bradenton Marauders home opener as they will embark on their 15th season in franchise history. The Marauders’ home opener is scheduled against the Clearwater Threshers at 6:30 p.m. LECOM Park, 1611 9th St W, Bradenton, FL

April 5, 2024: It's the first Friday of the month so that means Music on Main at Lakewood Ranch is from 6 p.m. -  9 p.m. Flashback to the 90s – Mojo Filter will fill the air with favorite hits from the 90s and the event will benefit Suncoast Charities for Children. Beer, wine and food sales. Bring your chairs, but leave coolers at home. Dogs are welcome, but must be kept on a short leash. Overflow parking is available at the Lakewood Ranch Medical Center. Lakewood Ranch is off University Parkway east of I-75.

April 5, 2024: It's the Sarasota Film Festival's Opening Night Party at The Modern. Celebrate opening night of the Sarasota Film Festival with us by the pool at the beautiful Sarasota Modern hotel! We're putting on a very elegant soiree, with drinks, a DJ, and an amazing mix of filmmakers, celebrities, local personalities, & film fans. 8 p.m. - 11 p.m. The Sarasota Modern, 1290 Boulevard of the Arts, Sarasota, FL.

April 5 -  14, 2024: The 26th Annual Sarasota Film Festival, is one of the year's biggest events. It's 10 days of movies, celebrities and parties when Hollywood comes to Sarasota! Founded in 1998, the Sarasota Film Festival (SFF) has grown to be a ten-day festival that plays independent and international narratives, docs and shorts that are programmed into a schedule of over 200 films including features, themed shorts packages and additional programming sidebars that change each year to reflect the strengths of submitted films. The 26th Sarasota Film Festival will feature a lineup of films that includes 64 features, with 4 World Premieres, 1 North American Premiere, 7 East Coast Premieres, and 24 Florida Premieres; and 81 short films. On Saturday, April 13, the festival will close with a special presentation of Steve Buscemi’s THE LISTENER, a film that is a stirring testament to the power of empathy, following a crisis hotline worker (Tessa Thompson) enduring the pressures of her job. Director Steve Buscemi will also be in attendance and will participate in a Q&A conversation immediately following the film’s Florida Premiere screening. THE LISTENER is a Vertical release. One of the world’s largest regional festivals, SFF showcases over 200 films each year, including features, documentaries, shorts, and kid-friendly options. The festival also hosts conversations with film stars, celebrity guests, events, parties, and educational programs to support the art of filmmaking. Festival events include socially-driven parties and private receptions to honor guest filmmakers, community-wide street festivals and the black-tie Filmmakers Tribute Dinner. SFF patrons have enjoyed intimate performances from Aerosmith and The B52's as well as a host of special appearances from local and international musicians. Over the last two decades, the festival has screened groundbreaking films, documentaries and shorts that deliver key messages to audiences, as well as engaging them in conversations with actors, filmmakers and industry professionals. The Sarasota Film Festival is a favored destination for filmmakers, national press, industry executives and stars. In 2022 Jacqueline Bisset was awarded the Sarasota Film Festival Lifetime Achievement Award at the April 9th Closing Night screening of her latest project LOREN & ROSE. Hollywood Stars that appeared here in 2019 were Greg Kinnear, Blythe Danner, Anne Heche,and Tyne Daily. Hollywood Stars who made appearances in 2018 included actress Virginia Madsen and actor Steve Guttenberg, who received a career achievement award from the festival. The 2017 Film Festival included Diane Lane, Rory Kennedy, and Aisha Tyler. Actors Stanley Tucci, and Rosanna Arquette, who took part in the "In Conversation With" series, also attended the 2017 festival. On the 2016 appearance agenda were actresses and actors: Sophia Loren, Olympia Dukakis, George Hamilton, Mathew Modine, and Treat Williams. Making appearances in 2015 were actresses Cloris Leachman, Jane Seymour and Blythe Danner. Making an appearance at the 2013 Film Festival was actress Mariel Hemingway. The 2012 Feature actor and special guest was Frank Langella. 2011's special guest and honoree was the legendary Christopher Plummer, who received the "Cinema Master" Award. Also receiving an award in 2012 was Oscar Award winning actress Geena Davis. April Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.

April Sarasota Events Calendar

April 6, 2024: It's the Wild About Nature Festival, a day of fun and outdoor adventure. Reconnect with the great outdoors and help foster a love of nature in the next generation as you spend a day in the sun on the beautiful shores of Little Sarasota Bay at Bay Preserve. Families of all ages are encouraged to take part in this fun-filled day of nature-based education and exploration. The wide variety of activities include dip-netting, face painting, hula-hoop lessons, crafts, games, and more including a fossil dig, tree climbing, arts and crafts. There will be live music and food trucks, too. This is a FREE family festival open to all.  Registration is not required. 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.  Bay Preserve at Osprey, 400 Palmetto Ave., Osprey, FL

April 6, 2024: It's the 38th Annual Run/walk for the Turtles sponsored by Mote Marine on Siesta Key Public Beach. Run, walk or crawl to support Mote's sea turtle conservation and research!  6:30 a.m. - Packet pick up & race day registration opens, 7:00 a.m. - Warm Up! 7:30 a.m. - 1 Mile Fun Run, 8:00 a.m. - 5K Run sanctioned by Manasota Track Club, Award ceremony to follow 5K. Race registration (for both the 1 Mile Fun Run & 5K) includes a complimentary race t-shirt, access to the food station, kids activities area & more! This event is family friendly and spectators are welcome. 6:30 a.m. - 9 a.m. Siesta Key Beach, 948 Beach Road, Sarasota. FL.

April 6, 2024: It's The Tom Faling Memorial Kid’s Fish-A-Thon for kids ages 4 - 11 from 8 a.m. - noon. FREE BAIT provided by Kiwanis. TACKLE provided by FL Urban Fisheries. FREE HOT DOG cookout for the whole family. FREE Entry to the Park. For Information & to Register contact the Park: 941-483-5956. Oscar Scherer State Park, 1843 S Tamiami Trail, Osprey, FL.

April 6, 2024: The Ringling Circus Museum will premiere its newest exhibition space, The Greatest Show On Earth Gallery, on the second floor of the Tibbals Learning Center. This latest addition to the museum celebrates the era of modern circus that began with Irvin Feld’s purchase of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey in 1967. The Greatest Show On Earth Gallery modernizes the museum’s expansive history of the circus by exploring the first fifty years of the Feld family's stewardship during which the spectacle of the show brought the circus experience to new heights. The new exhibit continues the story, found throughout the Circus Museum, of how Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey grew to become one of the most well-recognized brands in the world. Open every day 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. except closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years Day. Adult: $25. Age 6-17: $5. Under 6: Free. Member: Free The Ringling, 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL

April Sarasota Events

April 6, 2024: The State College of Florida (SCF) Foundation will host "Evening under the Stars." The SCF Foundation presents an exciting affair that promises to transport you across the Atlantic to a land of British charm and a jolly good time. Prepare to be swept away as the Pops Orchestra celebrates the very best of British culture through music, concluding the night with a fireworks display while basking in the splendor of a magical starlit night. You are cordially invited to join us for Evening Under the Stars, the time-honored event of the season you don’t want to miss! This year’s theme is “The British are Coming!” VIP Seating also offered.  A firework show set to the Pops Orchestra will conclude the night. Gates open at 4 p.m. 5:30 p.m. - 10 p.m. Tickets $30 - $150. SCF Venice, 8000 S. Tamiami Trail, Venice, FL.

April 6, 2024: The Manatee Community Concert Band performs its season finale, "Let's Set the Stage" featuring some of your all time favorite show tunes. Tickets are $15 each. 7 p.m. All Concerts are at the Neel Performing Arts Center on the campus of State College of Florida. SCF Neel Performing Arts Center - 5840 26th Street West, Building 11 East, Bradenton, FL.

April 6 - 7, 2024: Check out Spirit Fest, a Metaphysical and Holistic Fair. 90+ booths with vendors, practitioners, readers, artists, & demonstrations,. You'll find crystals, jewelry, divination tools, holistic health specialties, natural products, and much more! Speakers all day, both days, with special guests. Free parking, food available on site. Special Mediumship Gallery and workshops. Face painting for kids and adults, chair massage, story time for kids, and more! Special workshops also available. Tickets $12 - $18 (two day pass).  Robarts Arena, 3000 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota, FL

April 7, 2024: Enjoy Sarasota's own Ski-A-Rees Water Ski Team and their Sunday afternoon show at 2 p.m. at Ski-A-Ree Stadium. This free show takes place at 1602 Ken Thompson Parkway (near/behind Mote Marine Aquarium on the water.) 2 p.m. 941-388-1666.

April Sarasota Events

April 7 - 14, 2024: It's the 2024 Elizabeth Moore Sarasota Open as Sarasota kicks off the U.S. Clay Court Swing with the first stop on the United States clay court tour. Some of the game's biggest stars have lifted the trophy in Florida, with Kei Nishikori prevailing in 2010, followed by James Blake (2011), Sam Querrey (2012), Nick Kyrgios (2014), Frances Tiafoe (2017), Tommy Paul (2019) and Daniel Altmaier (2023). Enjoy a week of great tennis, charity and fun. Payne Park Tennis Center, 2050 Adams Ln, Sarasota, FL

April 8, 2024: It's Monday Night Jazz at the Florida Studio Theatre Court Cabaret. Monday Night Jazz at the Cabaret presents an exciting evening of jazz with top entertainment in an intimate cabaret setting in downtown Sarasota at the John C. Court Cabaret at FST; First St and Cocoanut Ave, Sarasota, FL. Concert begins at 7:30 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for food and beverage service. Click here for tickets and updated information on performer.

April 9, 2024: Enjoy the Bayfront Gardens at The Ringling for Acoustic Sunsets with a solo musician on Ca' d'Zan Terrace! This event will feature Sonny performing acoustic music as the sun sets on beautiful Sarasota Bay. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. 6 p.m. $15 Members. Tickets will be available 30 days prior to each event. In the case that there are tickets still available one week prior to each event, members will be able to purchase up to 4 guest tickets for $20 each. These tickets, if available, will go on sale at 9:00 a.m. one week prior to the event. 2nd Wednesday of the month January -  April 2023. The Ringling Museum, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota, FL

April 10, 2024: Check out Movies in the Park with a free family movie, Mary Poppins Returns. Bring your chairs and blankets. 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. Centennial Park Gazebo, 200 West Venice Avenue, downtown, Venice, FL.

April Sarasota Events

April 11, 2025: Get your toes tappin' at Jazz at Two and enjoy the music of the great composers of the American Songbook and some jazz favorites with the Danny Sinoff Trio. Sinoff, on piano and vocals, lists his influences as Oscar
Peterson, Bill Evans, Kenny Barron and Mulgrew Miller. Danny will be singing and the music swinging. He performs favorites sung by Frank Sinatra, Bobby Darin, Tony Bennett and Nat Cole. 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. Jazz Club members $15 - Guests $20. Unitarian Universalist Church 3975 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota, FL.

April 12, 2024: The USFSM Carnival Celebration is free and open to the public to celebrate the campus during USF week 2024! Admission and carnival rides are free. There will be rides, games, food, and so much more! Admission is FREE for all, so bring family and friends! 4 p.m. - 9 p.m. USFSM, Sarasota-Manatee Campus South Parking Lot 3,  8350 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL.

April 12, 2024: It's Music in the Park. On Friday evenings there are few better ways to relax and welcome in the weekend than listening to great local music in an outdoor setting. For seven Fridays you can enjoy the best in local music at the Rossi Park Pavilion on the Riverwalk. Tonight's music is by SweetFleet (Fleetwood Mac Tribute) from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. - bring a chair or blanket for relaxing and listening! Bradenton Riverwalk Mosaic Amphitheater, 606 3rd Ave W, Bradenton, FL

April 12, 2024: Join Lakewood Ranch Main Street as they celebrate life on the Ranch at their annual LWR Block Party, in partnership with Lakewood Ranch Community Activities and the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance. This free event features live music, beer trucks, activities, and the chance to meet with local businesses, builders, groups and clubs that call Lakewood Ranch home. It’s sure to be a great time for the entire family! 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. 8100 Lakewood Main Street, Lakewood Ranch, FL.

April Sarasota Events

April 12, 2024: Join us at Waterside Park every 2nd Friday of the month for a free, outdoor, family-friendly movie! Showtimes begin at sunset. This event is graciously sponsored by Grace Community Church. April 12: Cars. Grace Community Church will be providing one (1) FREE cotton candy for the first 300 attendees. Seating is available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Please bring a blanket and/or lawn chairs. Concessions available from We B’ Poppin Popcorn and Kettle Corn. Inflatables for the kids will be available from 7 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Waterside Park, 7301 Island Cove Terrace, Lakewood Ranch, FL.

April 12, 2024: It's the Fantastical Friday Night Street Party, Sarasota Film Festival’s famous annual street party, this time more Fantastical than ever! Featuring DJ Nati and production by SRQ Beats, this year’s street party will redefine Sarasota’s night life. Whether you’re a disco-dancing dynamo or a contemporary music connoisseur, you’ll have a great time. Fantastical outfits welcome! Drinks and food trucks will be onsite! 7 p.m. - 11 p.m. 332 Cocoanut ave, Sarasota, FL 34236

April 12 - 14, 2024: If you're a weekend D.I.Y'er you'll want to check out the Sarasota Bradenton Home Show. Featuring everything from kitchens and baths to landscapers and pools, solar, builders, contractors and more, you'll pick up some great ideas or find just the folks who can help you with everything for your home. Admission is free with online registration or $10 at the door & free parking. Fri & Sat: 10 a.m. - 7 p.m, Sun: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Robarts Arena, Sarasota Fairgrounds, 3000 Ringling Blvd., Sarasota. Off Fruitville Road. April Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.com

April 13, 2024: Join Manatee Village Historical Park on a FREE 45-minute, staff-guided tour of the 1850 Manatee Burying Ground. Each tour is a little different, but potential topics include burial traditions, iconography, Yellow Fever, family lore and history, and more! Limited availability of 30 persons. First come first served. Free to the public. Check in at the Wiggins General Store at Manatee Village Historical Park on the morning of the tour to receive your free wrist band at 9 a.m. Tour begins at 10 a.m. Please note that this is an outdoor event. Participants will traverse over curbs and uneven terrain. There will be no seating during the tour. Tours may be canceled due to inclement weather and rain dates will not be given. For the most up to date information, please follow us on social media or call 941-749-7165. Manatee Village Historical Park, 1404 Manatee Ave E (SR64), Bradenton, FL

April Sarasota Events

April 13, 2024:  Warriors on the Water and Catch Sarasota, presents the SRQ Inshore Grand Slam. Captains meeting on April 11th 6pm at Hooters Sarasota. Check In Station open on April 13th 2024 from 3 p.m. -6 p.m. in Sarasota at Harts Landing. This tournament is catch and release only. Outboard Entry Fee $250 – Kayak Entry Fee $100, .Fly Division- main entry fee – $300.  All proceeds benefit Warriors on the Water 501(c)(3) and help  serve their mission of facilitating and funding a positive outlet for veterans within nature and one of a kind charter fishing experiences.

April 13, 2024: Keep Sarasota County Beautiful is excited to announce that registration is now open for the 2024 Great American Cleanup.  Various locations offered throughout Sarasota County.  All volunteers MUST individually register to participate by submitting a unique registration form. Volunteer groups may no longer register as one entry. "Walk-up" volunteers will NOT be accepted the day of the event. Register online or by calling 311. 8 a.m. - 10 a.m. April Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.

April 13, 2024: It's the De Soto Landing Event at De Soto National Memorial. This is a recreation of the landing of Hernando de Soto in Tampa Bay. Along the shores of the memorial living historians will talk about the impact the De Soto expedition had on the indigenous people and the history of the United States. Landing times are at 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Arrive 15 minutes prior to the landing time you select to give you time to walk out to our shore, the site of the landing. De Soto National Memorial, 8300 Desoto Memorial Hwy, Bradenton, FL

April 13, 2024: It's the Sarasota Film Festival's Closing Night Film with the *FLORIDA PREMIERE* of the Film THE LISTENER by USA Director Steve Buscemi. In this stirring testament to the power of empathy, Tessa Thompson (in a masterful performance) plays a crisis hotline worker enduring the pressures of her job in this new film from director Steve Buscemi. 6:30 PM at Regal Hollywood Theaters 7, 3, & 8. Regal Hollywood screens, 1993 Main St, Sarasota, FL

April Sarasota Events

April 13, 2024: Check out some heavenly bodies during Sidewalk Astronomy courtesy of the local group of Deep Sky Observers. Telescopes will be up and available for public viewing from shortly after 8:00 p.m., and continuing until 10 p.m.. (weather permitting). Observing highlights for the evening will include the gas giant planet Jupiter along with all four of its Galilean moons, as well as extraordinary close-up views of the features on our own Moon. Depending on the sky conditions that night, the comet Pons-Brooks *may* be visible as well. A variety of other deep-sky objects will also be featured in the club member’s telescopes. Sarasota’s Celery Fields Park, 6893 Palmer Boulevard, Sarasota, FL. (If you are attending this event as a member of the public, parking will be available in the large lot just WEST of the Nature Center building. The telescopes will be set up in the small parking lot on the east side of the Nature Center.)

April 13, 2024: Check out the Closing Night Party of the Sarasota Film Festival at the gorgeous Sage Restaurant in downtown Sarasota! We've organized a classy closing event with drinks, music, and a fun atmosphere to celebrate another amazing festival. 8 p.m. - 11 p.m. Sage, 1216 1st St, Sarasota, FL.

April 13 -14, 2024: Enjoy Hunsader Farm's Flower Festival with free activities like Craft Show - Live Music - Kid's Games - Hayrides Pony Rides - Sunflower Field - Wildflower Field Zinnia Flower Field - Ice Cream - Face Painting - Axe Throwing - Comedy Show- Food Vendors - Kid's Train Ride - Big Train Ride - Fresh Produce Playground - Petting Zoo - Cut your own flowers - Magic & Illusion Show - Kid's Hay Maze. Zinnias and wildflowers start at $8 for a cup worth of flowers (Note: you are not paying for the cup. The cup is a measurement for $8 worth of flowers). If you do not buy a cup, that does not mean you can cut a handful of flowers for free. Cups are provided. Remember to bring scissors or cutters! Sunflowers start at $2 each (If you are ONLY picking sunflowers, you do not need to purchase a cup). Live entertainment through out the festival with various performance days and times by these groups: West Bound and Down, Highway 41 South Blue Grass Band, Bob & Tom The Band, The 301 Travelers Country Rock Band, Lee Cole and the Wranglers Country Band, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Admission: $15 | Parking: FREE. Kids 10 years & under: FREE. *CASH ONLY* (some vendor accept cards). Repeats April 20- 21, 2024. Hunsader Farms, 5500 C.R. 675, Bradenton, FL.

April 13 - 14, 2024: Want to go hunting for Shark tooth fossils? Want a simple and inexpensive way to do it? Then attend the  Venice Sharks Tooth Festival in a new location: Centennial park in downtown Venice. Admission is free. There are fossils, food trucks, arts and crafts, live music and children's activities. No pets allowed. Saturday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Centennial park, Venice Avenue, Downtown Venice FL

April Sarasota Events

April 14, 2024: Enjoy Sarasota's own Ski-A-Rees Water Ski Team and their Sunday afternoon show at 2 p.m. at Ski-A-Ree Stadium. This free show takes place at 1602 Ken Thompson Parkway (near/behind Mote Marine Aquarium on the water.) 2 p.m. 388-1666. April Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.

April 17, 2024: Enjoy Painting with the Police. Get creative and get to know Officers from the Sarasota Police Department while you follow along with a step-by-step painting lesson. For just $10 per person, all supplies (paint, canvas, brushes) will be provided, and you will get to take home a work of art. Stop by the Robert L. Taylor Community Complex front desk or call (941) 263-6562 to register. 11 a.m. -12:30 p.m. The Robert L. Taylor Community Complex 1845 John Rivers (34th) Street, Sarasota, FL. Also May 15.

April 18, 2024: It's the inaugural season of the Manatee Music Series. Trevor Bystrom & Zion Albert are scheduled to perform. Born and raised in Holmes Beach, Trevor developed a passion for world music at an early age, falling in love first with the sounds of the Caribbean and later immersing himself in the work of a wide array of African artists. At 16, he began performing live and writing his own songs. Zion hails from the island of Dominica and grew up in the U.S. Virgin Islands. His musical inspiration is Bob Marley, whose music has touched the hearts of many, spreading positivity to the world. Free. 5 p.m. - 8 p.m. G.T. Bray Amphitheater, 2811 51st St. W., Bradenton, FL.

April 19, 2024: Cheers! Wine Walk 2024 at The Ringling is Back! Calling all wine lovers and foodies to support the legacy of John and Mable Ringling and join us on our Wine Walk Around the World with Ringling’. This year we will explore wines and food around the globe by indulging in a wine tasting tour along the drive to John and Mable Ringling’s historic mansion and culminating at the legendary Ca’ d’Zan Terrace overlooking Sarasota Bay with live music and entertainment. VIP $250 / General Admission $150. VIP Entry @ 5:30 PM. General Admission Entry @ 6:00 PM. The Ringling Museum, 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL

April Sarasota Events

April 19, 2024:  It's Music in the Park. On Friday evenings there are few better ways to relax and welcome in the weekend than listening to great local music in an outdoor setting. For seven Fridays you can enjoy the best in local music at the Rossi Park Pavilion on the Riverwalk. Tonight's music is Monkey Finger (Rock) from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. - bring a chair or blanket for relaxing and listening! Bradenton Riverwalk Mosaic Amphitheater, 606 3rd Ave W, Bradenton, FL

April 19, 2024: It's Myakka's Full Moon Ghost Story Ride! Ever felt a sudden chill in the air as you ventured down Ranch House Road? Or perhaps something invisible brushed against your cheek as you turned onto All Weather Road? You might have just stumbled upon one of Myakka River State Park's many ghosts! Join a fun and thought provoking Full Moon Bike Ride down Main Park Drive and into Myakka's backcountry, when we'll tell stories about phantoms from Myakka River State Park's past that haunt the park to the day!6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.Tickets: $25 per person, $15 for Friends of Myakka River Members. Limited to 20 participants. General registration opens on Thursday, March 28 and closes on Tuesday April 16, or once the event is full. Park admission is NOT included in the event fee. Best suited for hybrid, mountain or e-bikes.Total ride distance will be approximately 7 miles) Myakka River State Park, 13208 State Road 72, Sarasota FL.

April 19 - 21, 2024: The annual Suncoast Boat Show takes place at downtown Sarasota's Bayfront Marina. 100s of watercraft on display. Along with boats and yachts there will be marine products and accessories. Cruisers, Runabouts, Bowriders, Sportfishers, Center Consoles, Motor Yachts, Inflatables and more. Food, drinks, music, and more. Fri -  Sat: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Last year ticket prices were: Adult One-Day General Admission Tickets are $18. Military Veterans, Active Duty, and children 15 and under are free. Tickets are only available for purchase online, and there will not be a ticketing box office at the show. Marina Jack’s, #2 Marina Plaza, Sarasota, FL. April Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.

April 20, 2024: The Sarasota Succulent Society is sponsoring Come and Say Hello to Aloe. David Uguccioni will provide an informative talk on the easy to grow, maintain, and discuss the healing qualities of Aloe along with other drought resistant Plants. The garden opens at 9:00 a.m. and Presentation starts at 10:00 a.m.. Tour our garden, meet our gardeners, and shop our large selection of aloe, air plants, succulents, and tropical plants. Sarasota Succulent Society, 1310 38th St, Sarasota, FL

April Sarasota Events

​April 20, 2024: Stop by this free event to learn how you can prepare for the 2024 Hurricane Season! Still recovering from the impacts of Hurricane Ian? Make sure to visit the Long-Term Recovery Group booth for information about Hurricane Ian recovery resources currently available to residents or listen to presentations about the upcoming hurricane season by the National Weather Service, meet the new Sarasota County Emergency Management Chief. Or learn about flooding from the City’s Storm Water Manager. 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. George Mullen Activity Center, 1602 Kramer Way, North Port, FL

April 20, 2024: Celebrate Earth Day with the Venice  Monty Andrews Arboretum with Butterfly garden, orchid, composting, and rain barrel discussions. Tree and plant giveaway. Arboretum tours. Children activities [Little Bookworms; Treasure Quest (sponsored by UF/IFAS Extension, Sarasota County); Coloring station; Sidewalk chalk drawing] The City Arborist will be on hand to answer your tree questions. 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. West Blalock Park, 401 Pensacola Rd., Venice, FL.

April 20, 2024: Celebrate the third annual Suncoast Remake Learning Days with "Hands-On Habits," a FREE outdoor learning event hosted by the Florida Maritime Museum, Rowlett Middle Academy, and William Monroe Rowlett Academy for Arts and Communication! "Hands-On Habits" will feature students from Rowlett Academies teaching the basics of the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People® to participating families through fun, interactive activities. This engaging event is open to the public, and registration is not required. 10 a.m. - Noon. Florida Mariteime Museum, 4415 119th St W, Cortez, FL. Parking is available for FREE at the F.I.S.H. Preserve field, adjacent to FMM grounds.

​April 20, 2024: Eco-Adventurers Wanted for an Earth Day Celebration at the Cortez Cultural Center! FREE hands-on learning activities focusing on our natural environment @ the FISH Preserve! Learn about protecting our natural resources and the history of the unique Cortez fishing village. Giveaways and fun activities for all. 10:00 a.m. – Noon. Food available for purchase. Free parking at the FISH Preserve. Cortez Cultural Center, 11655 Cortez Road West, Cortez, FL.

April Sarasota Events

April 20, 2024: Check out Public Safety Day with Venice Fire Rescue Firefighters and EMS, Officers from the Venice Police Dept., including K-9 Palmer, demonstrations, search & rescue, crime scene van, ladder truck and other exciting activities. Enjoy hot dogs, candy, face painting, music, give aways and more. Free. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Venice Community Center, 326 Nokmis Ave S., Venice, FL.

April 20 2024: It's time to Celebrate World Circus Day at the Circus Museum at the Ringling. Enjoy free admission to the Ringling Circus Museum and Bayfront Gardens. See the world's largest miniature circus while you're there along with John Ringling's Club Cars and explore the history of the circus from ancient times till now. It's amazing. It's enchanting. It's fun! 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. The Ringling Museum Complex is at 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota, FL. April Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.

April 20, 2024:  It's Oscar Scherer State Park’s 35th Annual Sarasota Earth Day Festival! Celebrate Earth Day at Oscar Scherer State Park with live music, fun-filled activities for kids, various environmental and informational booths, environmental speakers, photo contest, guided hikes, tram tours, food vendors, and much more! Free event and free park admission. 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Oscar Scherer State Park is located in Osprey, FL, south of Sarasota, north of Venice, at 1843 S. Tamiami Trail. (941) 483-5956

April 20, 2024: This year, The Bay Park is hosting Earth Day at the Bay from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Engage your senses and curiosity at The Bay through hands-on, family-friendly FREE experiences that showcase the wonder of nature, art, and science. Enjoy kid-friendly activities to explore, discover and be inspired by nature with hands-on experiences provided by Art Center Sarasota, First 1000 Days Suncoast, Ride & Paddle, The Sarasota Butterfly Club, Sidewalk Science, Southface Sarasota and Wholehearted Education. The Bay Park, 1055 Blvd of the Arts, Sarasota, FL

April Sarasota Events

April 20, 2024: Spend a full day enjoying FREE hands-on family fun at the Palmetto Historical Park and Manatee County Agricultural Museum. Each site will be holding a Suncoast Remake Learning Event, as part of the 15-day Remake Learning Festival held in four area counties. From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. visit “Crafts from the Past,” and create fun art projects related to the history of each building in Palmetto Historical Park. The many projects offered include making ice cream, pioneer dolls, journals, and more. While on-site, families will receive a chance at winning a family gift basket and visit a fun selfie station. From Noon to 2 p.m join the Agricultural Museum and Soar in 4 Manatee as they host “Moo-velous Dairy Cows” at the Ag Museum. Participants will learn all about cows through learning games, making crafts, participating in a milk tasting, and more. The Florida Ag Experience will be on site with a cuddle calf and a milking demonstration. Here families will have another chance at winning a different family gift basket and take some udderly wonderful selfie photos. Along with the free events, have lunch on the grounds with the North Manatee Kiwanis Club. They will be selling hotdogs, drinks, and snacks. Lunch will be available from 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. It can be a full day of fun and food for you and your family along with lots of take-home goodies! Palmetto Historical Park and Manatee County Agricultural Museum, 515 10th Ave. West, Palmetto, FL.

April 20, 2024: Join in for the official grand opening of Waterside Park—an 8-acre island community park on Kingfisher Lake next to Waterside Place town center. They’ll be celebrating with local food trucks, live music by Jesse Daniels Band, a photobooth, caricaturists, inflatables, face painting, and even more activities for kids. Waterside Park features a splash pad, volleyball courts, an event lawn, walking paths, exercise pods, hammocks, pavilions and restrooms, and is connected to Waterside Place by a pedestrian bridge. *This event will be photographed. By attending you consent for your photo to be taken and used in marketing materials. 12 p.m. - 3 p.m. Waterside Park, 7301 Island Cove Terrace, Lakewood Ranch, FL.

April 20, 2024: It's Margaritaville Night with the Bradenton Marauders. Come watch the Marauders take on the Daytona Tortugas in special themed Margaritaville jerseys that will be auctioned off. The auction will last from 5 p.m. on Friday night until 5 p.m. on Sunday afternoon with all proceeds benefiting the Pace Center for Girls. Fans can also purchase a special ticket package that includes a Marauders Margaritaville Hawaiian Shirt. The Bradenton Marauders are the Single-A affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates. For more details, head to BradentonMarauders.com. Gates open at 5 p.m. First pitch 6:30 p.m. LECOM Park, 1611 9th St W, Bradenton, FL.

April 20 - 21, 2024: Enjoy Hunsader Farm's Flower Festival with free activities like Craft Show - Live Music - Kid's Games - Hayrides Pony Rides - Sunflower Field - Wildflower Field Zinnia Flower Field - Ice Cream - Face Painting - Axe Throwing - Comedy Show- Food Vendors - Kid's Train Ride - Big Train Ride - Fresh Produce Playground - Petting Zoo - Cut your own flowers - Magic & Illusion Show - Kid's Hay Maze. Zinnias and wildflowers start at $8 for a cup worth of flowers (Note: you are not paying for the cup. The cup is a measurement for $8 worth of flowers). If you do not buy a cup, that does not mean you can cut a handful of flowers for free. Cups are provided. Remember to bring scissors or cutters! Sunflowers start at $2 each (If you are ONLY picking sunflowers, you do not need to purchase a cup). Live entertainment through out the festival with various performance days and times by these groups: West Bound and Down, Highway 41 South Blue Grass Band, Bob & Tom The Band, The 301 Travelers Country Rock Band, Lee Cole and the Wranglers Country Band, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Admission: $15 | Parking: FREE. Kids 10 years & under: FREE. *CASH ONLY* (some vendor accept cards). Hunsader Farms, 5500 C.R. 675, Bradenton, FL.

April Sarasota Events

April 20 - 21. 2024: The Showfolks Club of Sarasota invites you to World Circus Day with all active members of the Diamond Jim Parker Ring #89 also invited to display their circus models at the two day event. The Showfolks Club will be open to the public and hamburgers, hot dogs and chicken strips with fries and drinks will also be available for sale. During both days there will be live circus entertainment multiple times during the day by some very special circus artists who are members of the Showfolks Club. In addition there will be sales tables of circus memorabilia including of course models, but also memorabilia of the circus including costumes and collectibles from the members of the Club and the local CFA Tent members, etc. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Show Folks of Sarasota, 5204 N Lockwood Ridge Rd, Sarasota, FL

April 20 - 21, 2024: You're invited to Repticon Bradenton 2024, a two-day expo highlighting reptile shows, events, activities and sales. You'll have a chance to see live reptiles from around the world plus the chance to purchase pets and supplies direct from experts. Saturday: 9:00 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sunday: 10 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Various ticket prices on line. Online ticket sales only. Tickets not sold at the door. Note: Recent changes in Florida law prohibit the display of pet Iguana species and Tegus in public settings. For everyone's protection, pet Green Iguanas and Tegus are not allowed within the show, regardless of permit status. Bradenton Convention Center, 1 Haben Blvd.., Palmetto, FL

April 21, 2024:  It's the Sarasota International Dragon Boat Festival. Everyone ages 12+ are invited to take part. Boats, life-vests, paddles and coaches are provided...you provide the fun! Race distances include 200m, 500m, and the ever-thrilling 2k pursuit for Sport Division teams, while Community Division teams will race 3x500m. Various entrant/team fees. Beer garden, food trucks, Health & Wellness Village, Marketplace, Entertainment and more. This event is open to the public for free. $5 parking (cash only). Race day check in begins at 6:30 a.m. For more information: info@gwndragonboat.com. Join in on the fun and get bit by the dragon! Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle, Sarasota, FL 

April 21, 2024: Get your motor running at the 20th Annual "Building to a Cure" Benefit Classic Car Show featuring classic and vintage vehicles from pre-1950s - 1990s. Always a great show with cars from every era on display for close up viewing. Participants compete for 28 Trophies. Money raised benefits Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital. 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Free Admission. New location: Venice Community Center, 326 Nokomis Avenue S, Venice, FL. April Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota

April Sarasota Events

April 21, 2024: Enjoy Sarasota's own Ski-A-Rees Water Ski Team and their Sunday afternoon show at 2 p.m. at Ski-A-Ree Stadium. This free show takes place at 1602 Ken Thompson Parkway (near/behind Mote Marine Aquarium on the water.) 2 p.m. 388-1666. April Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.

April 21, 2024: Enjoy a concert by the Sarasota Suncoast Concert Band. Final concert of their season. Showtime is 3 p.m. Admission is $5. Call 941-907-4123 for availability. Northminster Presbyterian Church, on Lockwood Ridge, a block south of University Parkway. 3131 61st Street, Sarasota, FL. April Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.com

April 22, 2024: It's Monday Night Jazz at the Florida Studio Theatre Court Cabaret. Monday Night Jazz at the Cabaret presents an exciting evening of jazz with top entertainment in an intimate cabaret setting in downtown Sarasota at the John C. Court Cabaret at FST; First St and Cocoanut Ave, Sarasota, FL. Concert begins at 7:30 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for food and beverage service. Click here for tickets and updated information on performer. April Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.

April 25, 2025: A first time performer at Jazz at Two, Hot Club SRQ plays Gypsy Jazz, music that is deeply rooted in the style of Django Reinhardt and Stephane Grappelli. This music simply swings and is full of beauty and romance’. Enjoy a mix of swing, ballads, tango, Flamenco, bossa nova and straight ahead jazz. Keven Aland, violin; Jon McLaughlin, guitar; Glenn Stevenson, bass and Francois de Lima on valve trombone. 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. Jazz Club members $15 - Guests $20. Unitarian Universalist Church 3975 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota, FL.

April Sarasota Events

April 25 - 26: TBA for 2024. It's the always popular 42nd annual Siesta Fiesta which takes place in Siesta Key Village from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. It's sort of a farewell party for all of our “snowbird” friends from the colder climates of the northern U.S, Canada and afar, who come to be with us in Sarasota throughout the winter season. It's one of the most awaited fests of the year and it's on my April Sarasota Events Calendar for you to enjoy. See more of what’s special at the Siesta Fiesta! April Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.

April 26, 2024: Celebrate Arbor Day at the Gillespie Park Canine Club with ceremonial tree palnating, special activity for the first 30 dog owners. It will be a tree-riffic event where you can watch the ceremonial planting of a Red Bay tree and hear the City's Arbor Day proclamation. Plus, the first 20 dog owners there will get to enjoy a special free activity. Don't miss out on this opportunity to celebrate Arbor Day with your furry friend! 10 a.m. - 11 a.m. Corner of N. Osprey & 10th Street, Sarasota, FL.

April 26, 2025: The Ringling Museum presents Free Family Day with free admission to the museum for families, and art-making in the MakerSpace using botanical debris from Hurricane Milton. We hope you can find solace on our campus and in works of art, as well as a mindful reprieve in art-making at The Ringling. No registration is required. FAM (Family Art Making) is a free program that's fun for the whole family! Join us for creative art projects inspired by an object in our collections. Afterwards, visit the museum to see that object in person! You will be able to visit the Museum of Art and the Circus Museum with your FAM wristband that is provided at check-in. Tickets: This program is free, however tickets are required. Tickets are limited and will be available online approx. 14 days prior to each program. Walk-ins will be accommodated as space allows. 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. This event runs on select Saturdays from October 19, 2024 - April 26. 2025 The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota FL

April 26, 2024: Get your fingers snappin' and toes tappin' at Jazz at Two which is pleased to present the James Suggs Quartet. One of the finest jazz trumpeters and most in demand musicians in the Bay area, James Suggs is from Harrisburg, PA. Suggs has performed with Ken Peplowski, Houston Person, John Lamb and others. He has performed critically acclaimed tribute shows to Louis Armstrong, Miles Davis and Harry James. His CD, You’re Gonna Hear From Me, has received rave reviews from critics. Concert from 2 - 4 pm Admission $15-$20 at the door. Unitarian Universalist Church 3975 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota, FL. For information call: (941) 260-9951.

April 26, 2024: It's  Music in the Park. On Friday evenings there are few better ways to relax and welcome in the weekend than listening to great local music in an outdoor setting. Enjoy the best in local music at the Rossi Park Pavilion on the Riverwalk. Tonight's music is by Kristopher James (Singer/Songwriter). Music from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. - bring a chair or blanket for relaxing and listening! Bradenton Riverwalk Mosaic Amphitheater, 606 3rd Ave W, Bradenton, FL

April Sarasota Events

April 26, 2024: The DeSoto Heritage Festival Ball. An elegant, black-tie, evening where they crown a Queen and invest the newest Hernando de Soto in grand style with pomp and circumstance. Come join De Soto’s new Crewe for dancing, fun, and entertainment lasting throughout the night. This glittering affair has been one of Manatee County’s most prestigious social events for several decades Bradenton Area Convention Center, 1 Haben Blvd, Palmetto, FL.

April 26, 2024: It's the Free Music Friday Night Concert. with live music at Centennial Park Featuring Joe Lawhorne. Attendees are asked to follow current CDC guidelines. Attendees are asked to bring their own chairs and blankets. No alcohol is permitted in Centennial Park. Free. 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. Bring your folding chairs or blankets. Centennial Park, Downtown Venice, FL. April Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.com

April 26 - 27, 2024:.The Venice Symphony Returns to the Venice Performing Arts Center with The Crown Jewel Finale. The season concludes with our biggest concert ever and nearly 200 musicians and singers on stage as Sarasota’s own Key Chorale, and acclaimed vocalists, Deanna Breiwick and Dashon Burton join the orchestra on the VPAC stage. The program includes The Crown, William Walton’s Crown Imperial, Ralph Vaughan Williams’ English Folk Song Suite and the choral masterwork Dona nobis pacem by Vaughan Williams. Tickets on line or save on fees and call 941-207-8822 or visit The Venice Symphony Box Office at 700 U.S. 41 Bypass North, Suite 4, Venice, FL  from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. The office closes at 2 pm on Concert Fridays. Concert Venue: The Venice Performing Arts Center, 1 Indian Ave, Venice, FL. April Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota

April 26 - 28, 2024: Check out the Sarasota Tattoo Expo with Live tattooing all weekend by over 80 award winning tattoo artists from around the country! Up to 80  talented tattoo artists all to one location for your tattoo needs! All different styles from realism, traditional, black and grey, to color tattoos. Don't forget the FREE RAFFLES of up to $1,200 in free tattoos throughout the weekend! Tickets will be available at the door only. Friday: 1:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. $20 ($5 off before 5 p.m.), Saturday: 11:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. $20, Sunday: 11:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. $20,  3-day weekend pass $35. Sarasota Memorial Auditorium, 801 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL

April Sarasota Events

April 27, 2024: The Annual Tree Fair, sponsored by People for Trees,  a non-profit native tree advocacy group, since 1997! Celebrating 25 years of promoting the native trees of Florida and the importance of maintaining our native tree canopy. Hundreds of native trees for sale: 3-gallon ($15), 7-gallon ($25). Selections include: Longleaf Pine, Sweetgum, Bald Cypress, Dahoon Holly, Pignut Hickory, Red Maple, Sycamore, Sugarberry. "Ask an Arborist", vendors, food trucks, music. Contact Alice White (941) 468-2486  9 a.m. - 1 p.m. City Center Green, 4970 City Hall Blvd., North Port, FL. April Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota

April 27, 2025: Big trucks are rolling into CoolToday Park for Big Truck Day. Now in its 28th year, kids can learn more about the vehicles and trucks they see on the streets. Families and individuals of all ages are invited to honk horns, pull levers and take a closer look at over 40 big trucks and heavy machines. Enjoy crafts and activities for the whole family, take a tour of CoolToday Park. 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Free. CoolToday Park.18800 S W Villages Pkwy, Venice, FL. More at 941-861-5000. April Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota

April 27, 2024: Kids and kids at heart can enjoy fun art and nature activities on Saturday morning. It’s the first of four monthly “Family Saturdays” coming up at Selby Gardens’ Downtown Sarasota campus. Activities will run from 10 a.m. to noon each day, and participation is included in admission to the Gardens, which is always free for Selby Gardens members. These Family Saturdays celebrate the current exhibition on view, Yayoi Kusama: A Letter to Georgia O’Keeffe. Several activity stations with different art-focused projects will be set up in the Ann Goldstein Children’s Rainforest Garden during each monthly event. The goal is to invite kids of all ages to explore the artwork of Yayoi Kusama and Georgia O’Keeffe through activities that also connect them to the natural environment. Similar event scheduled for May 25. 10 a.m. - Noon. Admission to Selby Gardens’ Downtown Sarasota campus is $26 for adults, $11 for ages 5 to 17, and free for children 4 and under. Tickets may be purchased online in advance at selby.org. Selby Gardens members always receive complimentary admission as well as discounts for guests. Downtown Sarasota Campus, 1534 Mound Street, Sarasota, FL.

April 27, 2024:  Celebrate the 3rd annual FloFest, the Florida Lifestyle. This all day fest with food trucks and 2 stages of live music, free parking, food trucks, live bands. LIVE Reggae Music. Undercover Rasta, The Dub Collectors, The Sun Herbs, Vio-Cast, Ian Nelson, Badda Skat. Live art demos, beer booths, cannabis chefs, VIP lounge. Music starts at noon. Tickets: $30 - $100 (VIP). 12 p.m. - 8 p.m. Charlotte County Fairgrounds,  2333 El Jobean Road, Port Charlotte, FL

April Sarasota Events

April 27, 2024: Enjoy the De Soto Heritage Festival Grand Parade, a parade for all ages to see with over 150 parade entries will feature beautifully decorated floats and krewes from throughout the southwest Florida area. Historically, it has been on of the largest parades in Florida. Tens of thousands of people will line the streets of Bradenton to view the illuminated floats and catch a glimpse of the new Hernando DeSoto, Captain of Crewe and their newly crowned Queen and Princess. Beads, coins and other fun items are handed to the crowd throughout the night. New Parade Route: The parade will now stage on Manatee Avenue between 1st Street and 9th Street West. This nine block section of Manatee Avenue will close at 1:00PM on parade day with westbound Manatee Avenue traffic re-routed around the parade staging area via 9th Avenue W. East bound traffic will not be affected. As in past years, the remainder of Manatee Avenue from 9th Street W to 43rd Street W will close at 5:00pm to enable crowd protection barricades to be placed along the 1.75 mile route. This year, northbound lanes of the Green Bridge going to Palmetto will remain open during the parade. The southbound lanes will close at 7PM, roughly one hour before parade start. Third Avenue West and Ninth Avenue West will remain open throughout the parade. This new route will greatly improve traffic flow into and out of the downtown area during and after the parade. 8 p.m. April Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.

April 27 - 28, 2024: It's the first of 2 April weekends of the Florida Scholastic Rowing Association Sweep Championships featuring High School teams and clubs vying for the State Champion Title for the pairs, fours and eights rowing events. Over 1800 participants are expected to attend. 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Cir, Sarasota, FL. Happens again on April 28 - 30, 2023.

April 28, 2024: Sharky's Ride the Beaches is BACK for another spin! Register today for the 20th Annual Sharky's Ride the Beaches cycling event. Join us on Sunday, April 28th to pedal along some of the most incredible coastal riding areas Venice and South Sarasota County has to offer. Gear up for a 15-mile, 35-mile or 70-mile route - the choice is yours! Plus, Ride the Beaches supports three amazing charities: Team Tony Cancer Foundation, LIVESTRONG & Friends of The Legacy Trail. All riders will begin the day with breakfast on the beach at Sharky's - fresh fruit, juice, bagels, fruit bread and coffee. All rest stops will be stocked with water, sports drinks, fresh fruit, snacks (Shark Bites!) and/or sandwiches. Lunch will also be served on the beach at Sharky's. Space is limited, so sign up NOW to guarantee your spot! Full details on web site. 6 am - 2 p.m. Sharky's is at 1600 Harbor Drive on Venice Island. April Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.

April 28 2024: The Sarasota Firefighters Benevolent Fund presents the 53rd Annual Devereaux Kaiser Car Show featuring classic and antique cars, trucks, and motorcycles. Customs, hot rods, military and service vehicles 25 years and older only. Also celebrating 60 years of the Mustang. Plus food trucks, beer tent, and vendors. $5 donation. Kids under 10 are free. 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Sarasota County Fairgrounds, 3000 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota, FL.

April 28, 2024: Enjoy Sarasota's own Ski-A-Rees Water Ski Team and their Sunday afternoon show at 2 p.m. at Ski-A-Ree Stadium. This free show takes place at 1602 Ken Thompson Parkway (near/behind Mote Marine Aquarium on the water.) 2 p.m. 388-1666. April Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.

April 29, 2024:  Join the Venice Concert Band for "Strike up the Band." Enjoy a wide variety of musical selections that will both entertain and inspire you!  Join the Venice Concert Band as they present a variety of selections showing off the expressive abilities of the modern-day concert band. Tickets will be available for this performance April 15, 2024. If you do not have season tickets, you can purchase $14 tickets online two weeks before each performance or $14 (cash only) tickets at the door on concert dates. For assistance in purchasing tickets, contact the the VPAC box office at 941-218-3779. All concerts are at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6:15 p.m. Venice Performing Arts Center (VPAC), 1 Indian Avenue, Venice, FL April Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.

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