Events in Manatee County today

Toddlers can enjoy several stories shared by the Manatee Library Palmetto Branch, followed by coloring activities that encourage creativity. Families may choose to add a paintable figure for $10, which includes the pottery, paint, and firing. To reserve a figure, call Canvas & Clay Art Studio at 941-212-6943.

At 88 Piano Live, Crossfire Creek brings a high-energy blend of rock and country, mixing originals from the album Music Out The Box with favorite covers. They are promoted for commanding vocals, infectious grooves, and a set that keeps the dance floor moving from the first song to the last. Fans who join the email list can receive a free coozie, early access to digital releases, pre-sale discounts, and more.

Teams square off in a brain-bending trivia competition in Downtown Bradenton. Play is free with the purchase of a drink, and weekly prizes include drinks, merchandise, and gift cards. Hosted by Ryan C, the event features inventive question rounds, lively energy, and plenty of laughs.

The Annual Goblin Gathering brings a festive Halloween atmosphere to G. T. Bray Park, presented by Prime Time Event Rentals. Expect hayrides, inflatables, a petting zoo, and spooky photo opportunities, along with candy and other goodies shared by local businesses and community groups. Costume contests offer prizes across several divisions, including ages 2 and under, 3 to 5, 6 to 8, 9 and older, and families or groups, with a new category just for dogs. Community support is provided by Abrazo at Robinson Gateway.

Step into a seasonal book fair with a delightfully spooky twist. Browse horror and gothic books and comics for all ages, discover creations from local artists and artisans, and come dressed in your spookiest costume or goth-inspired attire. More information will be shared soon.

Hot Club of SRQ brings a spirited blend of jazz and world music to Post Kitchen & Bar in Bradenton, FL. A patio with shade and an open lounge setting provide a relaxed backdrop as the trio of Keven Aland on violin, Jon McLaughlin on guitar, and Glenn Stevenson on double bass delves into gypsy jazz, bossa nova, tango, samba, and Django-influenced swing. The music will happen rain or shine.

Prom night turns ominous in Carrie: The Musical, which brings Stephen King’s chilling story to the stage with a powerful score and gripping drama. The production is presented at the Bradenton Kiwanis Theatre.

Devoted Canine Training offers a free, casual group walk at Bob Gardner Community Park in Lakewood Ranch for dog owners of all experience levels. The session centers on improving leash manners on real community trails, helping dogs stay attentive around typical park activity like disc golf, joggers, and playground noise, and practicing calm, neutral behavior near other dogs and handlers. A professional trainer will be available for friendly questions and guidance. Participants can plan to meet near the main pavilion and trailhead by the playground and look for the trainer with a treat pouch. For safety, this is a structured training environment. Please give other teams 6 to 8 feet of space, and skip on-leash greetings or play during the walk to keep things comfortable for nervous or easily distracted dogs. All friendly, leashed dogs are welcome. Attendees should have a flat collar, martingale, or harness with a short, non-retractable leash. High-value treats such as small pieces of hot dog, cheese, or freeze-dried liver can boost focus, and bringing water and waste bags is recommended.

A planetarium educator leads a two hour introduction to telescopes and observational astronomy in the Willis Smith Classroom. Topics include how glass and mirrors function in telescopes, practical methods for navigating the night sky, and a comparison of common telescope types. The session focuses on clear, step by step guidance for setting up and operating your own telescope with confidence.

This gathering of Resilient Women shifts into a relaxed, come-as-you-are day centered on belonging at the Hunsader Farms Pumpkin Festival in Bradenton, FL. Bring family, a partner, kids, or friends, or come solo and connect with others throughout the festival. The spot to find one another is the Saloon Barn. To make it easier to locate each other in the crowds, wear an orange top. Expect farm conditions that can be hot, dusty, and busy, so choose comfortable shoes and clothing you do not mind getting a little dirty. This is not a ticketed event through The Collective. Each person handles their own entry directly with Hunsader Farms. Current festival pricing is listed as $15 for ages 10 and up, $5 for ages 5 to 9, free for children under 5, and $5 for parking. Admission and parking are cash only. Some individual vendors may accept cards, and select activities such as the corn maze and train rides have additional small fees set by outside vendors. The festival offers plenty to explore, including live music and shows, pumpkins, hayrides, animals and a petting zoo, Tiny Town, craft vendors, and foods like homemade ice cream and roasted sweet corn, plus a corn maze and more. For the latest festival information, refer to the official Pumpkin Festival page before you go.

Psychic Fair: Practical Magic offers a welcoming day devoted to insight, connection, and everyday enchantment. The atmosphere invites curiosity and trust in intuition, with meaningful moments often appearing in surprising ways. The fair features 24 psychic and mediumship readers, with the option to reserve a reading in advance or choose a reader on site. Readings are 15 minutes and cost $25. Throughout the day, 20 short talks and workshops provide opportunities to learn something new and enjoy those satisfying aha moments. Admission is $10 and includes access to all mini talks and workshops. The Mystical Treasures Boutique adds to the experience with spiritual tools, thoughtful gifts, and unique finds. It is a relaxed setting for wandering, discovering, and connecting. Attend a session, sit for a reading, explore the space, or simply enjoy the ambiance as conversations flow easily and unexpected connections take shape.

A new hands-on workshop at GypSea Soul Boutique & Studios invites you to craft a coastal-inspired wreath on a 14-inch wooden form, decorated with sparkling sea glass in your choice of soothing colors. All materials and supplies are provided, the experience is great for beginners, and BYOB is welcome, making it a relaxed outing for friends and family. Expect a calm, creative atmosphere where every wreath becomes a one-of-a-kind piece. Capacity is limited.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County marks 80 years of impact with an inaugural alumni and friends reunion paired with a Wing Fest. Expect a lively college football tailgate feel with games from the Club’s playbook, wings served by local restaurants, chilled drinks, and the big games on several large TVs. The gathering centers on reconnecting with fellow Club kids across generations, sharing stories, and celebrating friendships and mentorship that started at the Club. Alumni who were members in other counties, states, or on U.S. military bases and who now live in the area are included in the celebration. Admission is free, and registration is encouraged. The event honors the past, celebrates the present, and looks ahead to inspiring the next generation of Club youth.

An evening of live blues comes to the Village of the Arts as The Cadillac Cats take the stage at Cottonmouth Southern Soul Kitchen. Look forward to heartfelt blues and soul, comforting Southern soul dishes from the kitchen, and a warm, lively atmosphere. This outing is suitable for families, and guests can arrive with a big appetite and settle in for a fun night.

Celebrate the sounds of the 80s hard rock era at Woody’s River Roo in Ellenton. Enjoy music from Metallica, Van Halen, Bon Jovi, Def Leppard, Guns and Roses, Ozzy Osbourne, Scorpions, Aerosmith and Mötley Crüe, along with more from that era.

Get hands-on with a friendly baking class where flour-dusted fingertips and the aroma of something fresh from the oven bring everyone together. One session dives into pizza, starting with dough made from scratch and ending with hot slices straight from the oven. Another centers on cinnamon rolls for Mother’s Day, offering a thoughtful gift and a chance to spend time together while creating a warm treat to share with the whole family. Space is limited.

Massage Nights brings together table and chair bodywork with soothing foot massages. The focus is relaxation and renewal, offering a peaceful reset for the week through gentle, restorative care.

A relaxed coffee meetup created for women seeking real connection without pressure to perform or have everything figured out. There is no set agenda and no sales pitches. Conversations unfold naturally... some gatherings focus on business, others center on life, and it is just as welcome to simply listen. The environment encourages slowing down, being seen, and spending time with women who value depth, honesty, and genuine connection. Newcomers can explore the experience with a 30 day trial period of coffee meetups to get a true sense of what The Collective offers. After the trial, continued coffee access is included with membership. Attendees may bring a friend. Settle in with a cup, stay for meaningful conversation, and head out feeling a little more grounded. Whether it is a first visit or a regular stop, there is always a seat available.

Enjoy a lively pool party at John Marble Rec Center featuring several instructors, guided activities in the water set to music, opportunities to meet new people, and a few surprise touches. The atmosphere embraces a pink theme, and participants can expect an active session in the pool. Registration is available through the organizer. GT Bray Rec Center is also hosting a Party in the Pool in a separate listing, and additional Breast Cancer Awareness Pink Out activities are planned.

Grow Mandarin and Chinese language skills in a welcoming, interactive setting designed for both newcomers and experienced learners. Each lesson blends guided conversation, cultural context, and practical exercises to build confidence and steady progress over time.

Connect quickly at a fresh, efficient, and energizing networking session held at Chicken Salad Chick. It begins with casual mingling so you can settle in and catch up, then moves into a structured portion that starts promptly and keeps things simple. Expect a fast pace without the chaos, no shouting over others or hurried card swaps, just a straightforward way to build meaningful relationships with local business owners. This event is free for DBBN members and $10 for guests. Space is limited and RSVPs are required.

JJ’s Backyard Bar & Grill sets the stage for a taco-centered celebration with options in every style, complemented by margaritas that feel well deserved. The energy runs hot and playful, blending salsa, spice, and a buzz as lively as a late-night group chat. Whether the choice is crispy shells, soft tortillas, or a mix of both, this flavorful spread is built for big appetites and good company.

Local business professionals come together to exchange referrals, explain what they do, and build connections. The group is part of the National Exchange Clubs and supports the Parenting Matters Center, a child abuse prevention organization that offers programs to help families understand and better care for their children. The network is growing and keeps its focus on collaboration and community support.

A faculty-led lecture explores how nursing has evolved from caregiving during the American Revolution to the contemporary health care workforce. It covers defining milestones, the profession’s growth through periods of war and social change, and the role of nursing education at State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota in preparing future nurses. The session welcomes the public and takes place in the State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota Library and Learning Center, Rooms 143 and 146.

The Tampa Bay Old Time Jam brings American traditional music that came before bluegrass to Cottonmouth southern soul kitchen. A group of pickers takes the spotlight in an old-time session, and attendees can enjoy southern fare alongside the music. There is a schedule change this month.

This invitation-only chess session at Kava Social Club brings together experienced players for advanced play and focused strategy. The broader Chess Club offers training with skilled players and weekly mini-tournaments, creating a clear path to work toward a place on the official Chess Team and potentially earn an invitation to the advanced group.