Events in Sarasota County today

This casual office hours session with Peter Leman of White Sands Realty Group FL is set at Centennial Park in Venice. There is no set program, no sales talk, and no pressure. It offers a relaxed chance to chat about real estate, the local market, the neighborhood, life in Southwest Florida, or any other topic that comes up. Whether someone is exploring a purchase or sale or simply wants to say hello and connect with a community minded professional, the focus stays on community first, with real estate only if it surfaces in conversation. Participants can come as they are and stay as long as they like. This event is open to all. Get informed before you start your search.

Make space for yourself at a self-care pop-up focused on body, mind, and spirit. Offerings include aromatherapy massage, facials, Reiki energy healing, Emotion Code for nervous system regulation, and therapeutic coaching and hypnotherapy that incorporate attachment theory, energy work, and intuitive guidance. Bring your curiosity, explore the services, and book sessions in advance.

Schmidt Gallery at CENTURY 21 Schmidt Real Estate participates in the Venice Art Stroll with its current exhibition, THROUGH OUR LENS, featuring 70 works by local photographers. Exhibits rotate every three months to support local artists, and each new show opens with an evening reception that includes wine and cheese. An invitation email list is available for updates on upcoming exhibitions.

This family-oriented event spotlights what it means to be an SMA Eagle. Attendees can meet faculty, staff, and students, learn about the Academy’s values-focused approach, and see how cadets are readied for college, careers, and life. The program includes live music performed by SMA cadets and a variety of refreshments, including Flavors of Brazil Street Food, the Fresh Lemonade Stand, and desserts provided by cadets. It also highlights recent outcomes for the Class of 2026, with nearly $1.5 million in scholarships, more than half enrolling in college or university, 35 percent choosing trade school or military service, and a 99 percent graduation rate that is among the highest in the county.

Held on the third Thursday each month, this gathering offers food and drinks in a fun, welcoming atmosphere. Organizers keep the energy high with upbeat, danceable music, making it easy to get on the floor and enjoy the moment.

Dubz BBQ hosts a complimentary bingo night that blends friendly competition with barbecue favorites and chilled beverages. Attendees can play for prize giveaways in a relaxed, welcoming setting that is ideal for a casual get-together with friends. Savory bites, cool drinks, and lively bingo rounds make for an easygoing night out.

A high energy show packed with pop, rock, and dance favorites, spanning artists from Lady Gaga to AC/DC. The performance centers on audience interaction and surprise, offering a experience that is anything but background. Expect big sing along moments, plenty of dancing, and an all around feel good time.

This is a welcoming writing session for all genres held at Foxtail Coffee (UTC-Sarasota) in Sarasota. Participants can bring a novel, poetry, a screenplay, fanfiction, or any other creative project and settle into focused writing time. Sharing is optional, and there is friendly conversation with fellow storytellers. It suits anyone seeking motivation, feedback, or a cozy place to write. The club gathers on Thursdays and welcomes every genre. Every other week features an open free writing format, with the option to continue a work in progress or use free write prompts. There is dinner at Ford’s Garage afterward.

Explore hand-built pottery in an adult class led by Sabine at The Makery SRQ. Learn essential techniques like pinching, coiling, and slab building while crafting both functional ware and small sculptures, from mugs and bowls to planters and trays. Instruction blends demonstrations with supportive guidance and plenty of room to experiment, making it welcoming for newcomers and engaging for those with experience. Each session balances technique with creative exploration, so you leave with finished work and a stronger understanding of clay. Materials, firing, and glazing are included, and completed pieces will be ready for pickup after completion. Registration is nonrefundable because it reserves materials, staffing, and studio space. Private and group bookings are available in the studio or at your location for groups of at least ten people.

Pause midday for Yoga with Christal, a guided session at Blue Lotus Meditation Center that helps you reset, breathe deeply, and step back into your day feeling grounded and refreshed. In a peaceful setting, the practice weaves mindful movement, conscious breathing, and gentle meditation to support slowing down and reconnecting. Rooted in presence and accessibility, it encourages listening inward and making space for both stillness and easy, intentional motion. Suitable for those continuing their practice as well as anyone seeking a calm moment in the middle of the day.

Set in Centennial Park in Venice, this event features live bands and other performances, vendors with arts and crafts, and a bed race. A tent will offer beer and wine, a selection of food trucks will be available, and there will be both a raffle and an auction. Admission is free.

Enjoy craft beer and New Haven style pizza under the shade of the oak trees at Sun King Sarasota as Bill Vinhage provides the music. This stop is one of his select Friday sets, offering an inviting mix of flavors and live tunes.

Explore hoop dance in a tucked-away garden behind La Dolce Vita art studio. This one hour fusion session begins with a belly dance inspired core isolation warmup, then moves into focused on-body hooping with a few off-body tricks. Drop in for $20, or choose an 8-class card for $80. The card is nontransferable, valid for all regularly scheduled classes, and remains active for a full year. Cash, check, most cards, and Venmo are accepted. Training hoops are provided. Expect a vigorous workout that can burn more than 400 calories per hour, so wear comfortable exercise clothing and bring water. Arrive a little early to secure a spot. Hoops are also available for purchase, including custom builds, with more details available on the instructor’s Facebook page.

Settle into an aerial hammock for a floating immersion in sound and star-coded language with Robert Austin and JoAnn Cooke. Crystal and Tibetan bowls played by Robert send resonant vibrations through the body, while JoAnn voices light language of galactic origin, delivering high-frequency codes from higher realms and star-linked consciousness. These transmissions are intended to move past the analytical mind and engage the subtle energy field, supporting activation, clearing, emotional release, sharper intuition, and a widened sense of awareness. Shaped as more than a typical crystal bowl meditation, this journey invites the awakening of latent spiritual abilities, an uplift in personal vibration, and a deeper bond with your soul, guides, cosmic roots, and higher consciousness. Resting in the hammock encourages full surrender and receptivity as stagnancy, stress, and energetic weight soften. Many who attend describe the experience as profoundly activating, transformative, otherworldly, and unlike familiar sound baths or meditations.

Relive three decades of music with a performance dedicated to well-known songs from the 60s, 70s, and 80s. The set highlights familiar tunes that resonate across generations.

Ecstatic Dance Temple offers an open, supportive space at the Love and Light Center at Unity of Venice where people can move freely, dance, play, and explore healing and connection with themselves and others. The experience centers on a music-driven journey and concludes with a brief sound healing session. A contribution of $20 per person is requested. Please bring water along with a yoga mat or blanket for stretching. Payments are accepted via PayPal or Zelle at lucyskydance@gmail.com, and questions can be directed to Lucy at 941-483-0748. Open to everyone.

Next Stop Comedy brings stand-up to Golden Host Resort and Bahi Hut in Sarasota, with a new roster every time. Each show features comedians, including performers with television and podcast credits.

This group road ride sets out from Bicycles International and follows an out and back route to Manasota Key for a scenic spin along the Gulf Coast. Riders can choose a pace that suits their ability. The B group typically covers about 12 to 20 miles at roughly 15 to 20 miles per hour, while the A group aims for about 25 to 30 miles at 20 miles per hour or faster. Actual distance and routing may shift depending on the group, traffic, weather, and road conditions. With larger groups expected, the emphasis is on safe, predictable riding and clear communication. Participants are encouraged to follow traffic laws and signals, call out turns, stops, hazards and vehicles, hold a steady line without sudden movements, avoid overlapping wheels, give others space, and stay with the group that matches their pace. Courtesy to motorists, pedestrians, and fellow cyclists is a priority. Helmets are required, and front and rear lights are strongly recommended. This is a group ride, not a race. New and seasonal riders, locals, and visitors are welcome. Weather or road conditions may occasionally affect the ride.

Spectators are welcome. Admission works on the honor system at $10 per person. Please stop by the show office, which is located next to the cafe. The cafe will be open while the show is in progress.

Ongoing outdoor yoga sessions led by certified instructor Erin Collins are offered each week at no cost to the community. Everyone is welcome, whether trying yoga for the first time or returning with years of practice. Classes weave mindful breathing with intentional movement and light reflections that nurture gratitude, reinforce a sense of worth, and encourage releasing unhelpful self-judgment. The atmosphere invites time outside, connection with others, and a chance to move with purpose and feel at home in your own skin. Please bring a mat and water, and arrive with a receptive spirit.

Families Unplugged encourages families to put away electronics and reconnect through simple, screen-free time together. Offered by the Y and grounded in the idea that healthy habits start at home, it provides a welcome break from daily routines and a chance to focus on one another. Most activities are included with a YMCA membership.

Move to the music with a lively Zumba session led by Yaël Campbell at The Bay. Expect upbeat rhythms and an energizing group that will have you dancing, smiling, jumping, shaking and maybe even singing. Bring a friend, bring the kids, and meet new Zumba companions along the way. Free parking is available in the lots in front of the Van Wezel and in front of the Municipal Auditorium, Art Center and Blue Pagoda. Some entrances, walkways and parking areas are affected by construction, so follow posted signs for vehicle and pedestrian access and allow extra time. The park remains open, and most paths, the Ibis Playground and the living resilient shoreline can be enjoyed. Crowds can be large, so plan ahead and be patient. Pets must be on a leash, non aggressive and cleaned up after. To report unsafe behavior, contact the Sarasota Non Emergency Police at (941) 316-1199. Friends of The Bay support the park’s programs and help keep many events free for everyone.

Celebrate a free neighborhood festival by the water with food, music, environmental demonstrations, guided e-bike activities, kayak tours, and a raffle overlooking Alligator Creek at Lemon Bay. Organized by the local nonprofit Science and Environment Council in partnership with Sarasota County Stormwater and hosted by the South Venice Yacht Club, the event brings together environmental organizations and green business partners to share information and hands-on ways to support the health of Alligator Creek and Lemon Bay. Lunch is offered at no cost on a first come, first served basis while supplies last, and registration is requested to help plan for meals. On arrival, attendees can register on site for complimentary guided kayak tours of Alligator Creek and self-guided e-bike rides, with all gear provided including kayaks, paddles, life vests, and e-bikes. To reduce the festival footprint, walking or biking is encouraged due to limited street parking. Attendees are asked to bring a reusable water bottle to use at the refill station, as the festival is plastic free and aims for zero landfill waste.

Design dazzling pumpkins in a hands-on class that welcomes all skill levels. Choose a two and a half hour option with one large pumpkin for $55 or go for a set of five mini pumpkins for $50. All materials are provided, along with a splash of liquid inspiration. Begin by painting in your favorite colors, then add shells, pearls, and plenty of sparkle to finish your creations. To reserve a spot, call Yvonne at (941)238-7617. A $10 deposit is required to hold your reservation.

The 10th Annual Big Mama’s Collard Greens Fest brings Newtown’s spirit to the Robert L. Taylor Community Complex with a day dedicated to food, culture, music, and plenty of collard green pride. Launched in 2016 to honor family recipes and community connection, it has grown into a signature gathering for the neighborhood. A centerpiece of the celebration is the Collard Green Cook-Off, where home cooks and professional chefs compete for prizes, bragging rights, and the coveted Big Mama title. Entries are judged blind by a selected panel, keeping the focus squarely on flavor, with awards for first, second, and third place. This family-friendly, alcohol-free event welcomes all ages. Guests can enjoy soul food favorites, support local vendors, take in live entertainment, and celebrate how collard greens continue to bring people together across generations. Lawn chairs, blankets, family, friends, and healthy appetites all fit right in for a relaxed day of community celebration. The festival supports the mission of Newtown Nation and the Newtown Farmers Market by promoting food access, healthy eating, local entrepreneurship, and economic opportunity, with every vendor, sponsor, volunteer, cook, performer, and guest helping move that work forward. Presented by Newtown Nation and Newtown Farmers Market. Please note an official scam alert from the organizers: fraudulent comments may appear on social posts. Official registration for vendors, sponsors, and entertainers is handled only through the organizers’ official channels, and money or personal information should not be sent to anyone via Facebook comments or Messenger. Fraudulent comments are actively removed, though some may appear briefly.

Guided by Paula Rowe, this breathwork workshop centers on personal growth and the release of limiting patterns. It offers a deeper experience than a typical group session, with guidance on recognizing unconscious thoughts and outdated programming so new, empowered choices can emerge. Paula shares approaches she has taught to face challenges, address both past and present issues, and cultivate higher awareness for the good of all. The experience emphasizes a sense of unified consciousness inspired by the idea of One Breath, inviting a renewed relationship with self.

Presented by Bayside Pet Resort, this Halloween edition of Venice Night Market & Music brings a festive evening by the water to Maxine Barritt Park. Expect local vendors, food trucks, live music, and a friendly community atmosphere. Costumes are welcome for all ages, with costume photo spots for kids, pets getting in on the dress-up fun, and a parade through the park. Stroll the market, try something tasty, and catch performances from Rock Candy Arena Rock Experience and Scott Lawrence. Admission is free and the event is open to all ages.

Experience a coastal tradition on Nokomis Beach where a welcoming drum circle brings together rhythm, community, and the colors of sunset. Drummers, dancers, and spectators gather near the main beach access to share lively beats and beachside energy. This recurring gathering happens on Wednesdays and Saturdays around sunset, with music kicking off before sundown and continuing afterward. Bring a chair, a blanket, or a drum if you have one, and take part by playing or dancing, or simply relax and enjoy the scene. Everyone is welcome, and the timing of sunset changes with the season.

This fall-themed gathering offers a nostalgic trip to the 1960s, embracing the season with a retro vibe and a playful look back at that iconic decade.

Back for a second year, this pajama glam gala at The Westin Sarasota in Sarasota, FL features dinner, dancing, auctions, and mission moments. Organized by Teen Court of Sarasota, it supports local youth and families through restorative justice, prevention, counseling, and second chances. Following a sold out debut that raised more than $300,000, the celebration returns with an emphasis on community impact. Attendees are encouraged to embrace pajama glam style, from elevated sleepwear and chic robes to stylish slippers, silk sets, smoking jackets, sparkle, feathers, and other creative loungewear. Sponsorship opportunities and tickets are available.

A full-throttle Bon Jovi tribute takes the stage at Venice Community Center as Shot Thru the Heart celebrates the band’s biggest anthems with arena-style energy. Presented by MarEmil Music in collaboration with the venue, the performance channels the charisma of Jon Bon Jovi and the guitar firepower of Richie Sambora with powerhouse vocals, dynamic showmanship, and plenty of sing-along moments. The set spans fan favorites including Livin’ on a Prayer, Wanted Dead or Alive, You Give Love a Bad Name, Bad Medicine, Runaway, I’ll Be There for You, It’s My Life, and more. The venue offers refreshments, adult beverages, and snacks, and does not permit coolers, outside food or drink, or pets. VIP tickets are $40 plus fees with reserved seating in the first four rows, and they invariably sell out. Advanced general admission is $30 plus fees for a total of $34.40, or $35 plus tax and fees at the show. For additional information, contact Maremil Music Productions at 360-878-3474.

Rumours of Fleetwood Mac brings a faithful celebration of Fleetwood Mac to Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, presented with the personal endorsement of founding member Mick Fleetwood. The performance captures the feel of the band in top form, inviting both longtime followers and newcomers to revisit the songs and stagecraft that helped make Fleetwood Mac one of rock’s most beloved groups.

Queens' sixth annual All Shades of Purple Gala features a live performance by saxophonist Marlon Boone. The event includes dinner and a cash bar, with cocktails available before the program begins for an evening of live music and dining.

Summer brings a relaxed continuation of the Sunday taco ride along the Legacy Trail. 3 Bridges Brewing and Pigfish, located inside Calusa Brewing, serve tacos on Sundays throughout the season, giving riders the choice to cap a longer morning spin with a well-earned bite or meet friends for tacos first before cruising to a few other refreshment stops. The open format welcomes every pace and experience level, letting each group shape the outing to match their plans and enjoy a simple Sunday tradition centered on bikes and tacos.

Explore the restorative vibrations of crystal bowls in a workshop led by Robert Austin. Learn how sound can align the chakras, calm the nervous system, support healing, and elevate your energy. Robert provides guidance on choosing a bowl that suits you and offers instruction in playing techniques for personal self healing and group sessions. Participants gain a clear understanding of how crystal bowls work and how to apply different frequencies for the body. No experience is required, and an open heart is encouraged.

A multi-decade showcase of music and dance unfolds as talented students and professionals bring favorites from across the years to the stage. Expect energetic performances, creative choreography, and a mix of timeless classics and modern hits that celebrate the sounds and styles of different eras. Seating is open at Venice Performing Arts Center.

Take a calming midday break at Blue Lotus Meditation Center with a guided yoga session that blends mindful movement, focused breathing, and gentle meditation. It offers time to pause, recalibrate, and head back to the rest of the day feeling centered and refreshed. Emphasizing mindfulness and an inclusive approach, the practice invites you to tune in to your own pace, allowing room for quiet stillness as well as soft, flowing movement. It is suitable for those continuing an ongoing practice and for anyone simply looking for a peaceful moment in the middle of the day.

Held twice each month at Unity of Venice, this group offers an opportunity to experience Reiki, a gentle and intuitive energy practice that promotes balance and deep relaxation to support the body’s natural healing. Reported benefits include help with anxiety, grief, insomnia, side effects from chemotherapy and radiation, gastric upset, panic attacks, migraines, joint pain, neck pain, stress and depression. It can also encourage creativity and support a quicker recovery while cultivating a calm state of mind. Carolyn Nicolson Fowler, a Certified Medical Master Teacher in USUI and Karuna Reiki, is the Founder of Peaceful Healing School and the owner of Peaceful Heling Reiki, LLC. She offers classes in Englewood, Venice and Sarasota. Participation is by donation, and all proceeds go to Unity of Venice.

With Karen and Robert, this uplifting session focuses on personal growth, mindfulness, intuition, and inner peace. Explore practical spiritual tools and simple practices in a supportive, welcoming environment. Suitable for all experience levels.

Enjoy free mat Pilates at The Bay Sarasota, presented by BODYBAR Pilates Sarasota. Taught by qualified BODYBAR instructors, this class features a sequence of floor exercises designed to strengthen the core while building overall strength, balance, and body awareness. Pilates can ease stress and discomfort and support a sense of well-being, and it is appropriate for all ages and ability levels. Please bring an exercise mat and a bottle of water. When the fitness program moves indoors, BODYBAR offers two back-to-back 45 minute sessions on Monday evenings to create more space and a comfortable experience for participants. This activity takes place rain or shine, and in the event of poor weather it may be relocated indoors. If an indoor space is not available, the class will be canceled. Any location changes or cancellations are shared through The Bay’s website calendar, Eventbrite, Facebook, and Instagram. Due to high demand, space is available on a first come, first served basis. Free parking is available around the site, with some areas reserved for Sarasota Orchestra parking. Construction near the new Town Square may affect walking routes, so allow extra time to reach the venue. Pets must be non-aggressive, kept on a leash at all times, and owners are responsible for cleaning up after them. Please report any risky or unsafe behavior to the Sarasota non-emergency police.

Manasota Key Mondays brings riders together for a weekly road outing that departs from Bicycles International and heads toward Manasota Key for a scenic spin. Two pace options are offered. The B group typically covers about 20 to 25 miles at roughly 15 to 18 miles per hour, while the A group rides approximately 25 to 35 miles at speeds above 20 miles per hour. The route and total distance can shift based on the group, traffic, weather, and road conditions. Safety and cooperation are a priority. Please obey all traffic rules and lights, call out turns, stops, road hazards, and approaching vehicles, ride predictably without sudden moves, avoid overlapping wheels, and leave comfortable space between bikes. Choose and remain with the group that fits your ability, be courteous to drivers, pedestrians, and fellow cyclists, and bring front and rear lights, which are strongly recommended. Helmets are required. Local riders, seasonal residents, and visitors all take part, and conditions may occasionally influence the plan.

Enjoy a gentle, low impact workout that combines cardiovascular training with resistance exercises, designed for active seniors and newcomers alike. This total body session focuses on core strength, especially the abdominals and glutes, using creative bodyweight movements that build overall strength, support posture and balance, and prepare the body for everyday activities. Complimentary parking is available around the site, including lots along Blvd of the Arts and by the Van Wezel, Municipal Auditorium, and Blue Pagoda. Please avoid areas reserved for Sarasota Orchestra parking. Construction of the Town Square between the Municipal Auditorium and the Art Center is affecting walking routes between the lot along N. Tamiami Trail and venues west of Van Wezel Way, including The Bay park, Van Wezel, and Holley Hall, so follow posted signs and allow extra time to walk. This program takes place rain or shine. Because Florida weather can change quickly, location decisions are made closer to the start. In inclement weather the class moves indoors, and if an indoor space is not available it will be canceled. Any updates or changes are shared on The Bay website calendar, Eventbrite, Facebook, and Instagram. Pets must be non-aggressive, kept on a leash at all times, and owners are responsible for cleanup. To report risky or unsafe behavior, contact Sarasota Non-Emergency Police at 941-316-1199. Friends of The Bay support the care of park greenspace and help keep many events free for everyone.

Englewood’s longest-running open mic offers a weekly gathering with music, a friendly community atmosphere, and tasty food every Tuesday.

Experience yoga as more than a workout at Rosemary Court Yoga in downtown Sarasota. This mindful session weaves gentle movement with conscious breathing and an intention you can carry into the rest of your day. The emphasis is on what the practice invites in the moment rather than targeting specific muscles or pushing for intensity. It is not a power or hot vinyasa class. Expect quiet pauses, time shared in community, and space to leave feeling more at ease with yourself. All levels of asana practice are welcome, and no background in philosophy is needed. Participants only need themselves and a bit of curiosity.

The North Port City Commission meets at the City Commission Chambers inside North Port City Hall in North Port, Florida.

Boost strength and conditioning with a focused 45-minute bootcamp at The Bay Sarasota. This session uses body-weight exercises and interval training to build muscle, reduce body fat, and elevate cardiovascular fitness while keeping calorie burn high. Expect push-ups and planks, and move through well-planned circuits that keep the intensity manageable and effective. Modifications are available so participants of any fitness level or with physical limitations can take part comfortably. Please bring a mat or towel and a water bottle. The workout takes place rain or shine, and it may be moved indoors if weather requires it. If an indoor space is unavailable, the session will be cancelled. Any changes or cancellations are shared through The Bay website calendar, Eventbrite, Facebook, and Instagram. Free parking is available around the site, and several nearby lots remain open. Please avoid parking in areas designated for the Sarasota Orchestra. Construction related to the new Town Square is affecting some pedestrian routes, with signs posted to guide you, so allow extra time to walk from your vehicle. All pets must be non-aggressive, kept on a leash at all times, and owners are responsible for cleanup.