2025 August Sarasota Events Calendar

The August Sarasota Events Calendar - A listing of fun, free or inexpensive, Sarasota happenings around the sun coast.

(*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.  Before making any major plans check with event organizers to confirm date of event. This Calendar is updated as information is made available.)

August 1, 2025: The Lakewood Ranch sponsored Music on Main Street free monthly street party is from 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. Mojo Filter will fill the air your favorite rock hits from the 90’s and the event will benefit the Bradenton Women’s Club. The street is lined with food vendors, beer trucks, and sponsor booths, as well as rides and activities for the kids. 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.

August 1 - 2, 2025: Check it out! Laser Light Nights are back at The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature! Break out your big hair and acid-washed denims and get ready to rock out with some of your favorite artists in the Planetarium. From the KING OF POP, Michael Jackson, to ROCK ROYALTY like Queen, you’ll be getting your satisfaction with The Rolling Stones and twisting and shouting with The Beatles! AND strap in for a double dose of pure genius: Pink Floyd. They’ll have nights grooving with the Motown Medley and the Starman himself, Laser Bowie! We’re staging a PUNK ROCK THROWDOWN: Green Day VERSUS The Offspring, backed by the titans of metal, Metallica! Plus, nights featuring the chart-dominator Taylor Swift and the uptown funk master Bruno Mars! The event takes place every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night from May 22 through August 30. There are various food and drink options available for purchase onsite with cash or card. Shows at 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. Please note that Laser Light Nights involve bright, flashing lasers that may not be suitable for people with photo sensitivities. Viewer discretion is advised. Laser Light Nights are at a volume similar to a rock concert, so earplugs are recommended for those who prefer a lower volume. Tickets: $15. The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St W, Bradenton, FL

August 1 - 3, 2025:  It's the Florida State Dance Sport Championships.' Formerly known as  the "Brakers competition."  Every day and night is filled with dancers competing from all over the world. Traditionally morning and afternoons are dedicated for all level Pro/Am dancers and this year they expect biggest participation in 53 years. Evenings will be set for Professional Championships, and every night will have different divisions and styles where professionals will try to win and be crowned as the new 2025 Champions. Additional events include seminars with dance sport legends (open to public), gourmet dinners, general dancing and awards ceremony. Various sessions and ticket prices. The Ritz Carlton, 1111 Ritz Carlton Dr, Sarasota, FL.

August 1 - 3, 2025:  It's the Tampa Bay Comic Con, a huge event for fans and aficionados of everything comic books! The weekend will be filled with celebrity guests and appearances. Friday: 12 p.m. - 10 p.m., Sat: 10 a.m. - 10 p.m., Sun: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tickets: various prices and packages with single day tickets from $35. Tampa Convention Center, 333 S. Franklin St., Tampa, FL. 

August Sarasota Events

August 1 - 9, 2025: The Ringling Museum presents their Summer Circus Spectacular. It's presented in collaboration with The Circus Arts Conservatory of Sarasota. The Summer Circus Spectacular highlights some of the finest circus acts from around the world .Show times are 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. on Saturdays. Tickets are $20 Adults/ $15 Children 12 and under. The Historic Asolo Theater, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota, FL. 941-360-7399 August Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.com

August 2, 2025: Get ready to kick off the new school year with an exciting Back to School Bash! A day of celebration and preparation. Stock up on all the supplies you need to start the school year right! Parents can pre-register their children for a free backpack (while supplies last) and participate in an interactive scavenger hunt to stock up on school supplies from  sponsors and vendors. Connect with local businesses to celebrate the back-to-school season. With healthcare, after school programs, community support groups, fun activities, health insurance, martial arts, dancing, and sports programs. There are all sorts of resources to start the year off right. Plus stage performances, free face painting, sports mascots, cartoon characters, photo stops, fitness activities, and healthcare resources. Don't miss out on the excitement with free bounce houses and more free activities! Parents can RSVP for backpacks while supplies last on Eventbrite.  10 am - 2 pm, Lower level. The Mall at UTC, 140 University Town Center Drive, Sarasota, FL.

August 2, 2025: It's a Back to School Youth Activity Fair. Come out to the Venice Community Center for this free event to gather all the resources you need to prepare for your family's return to school. No registration required! Event includes: Free swag, activities/games, vendor booths, demonstrations, entertainment and food trucks. No registration required. Free. 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. For more information, call 941-861-7275. Venice Community Center, 326 S. Nokomis Ave., Venice, FL.

August 2, 2025: Enjoy a short road trip and the 9th Annual Tiki Fest 2025. Enjoy authentic live island music and dance presented in various locations throughout and around Fisherman's Village. Enjoy a fun day on Charlotte Harbor. Island flavors and culture will be featured throughout the promenade and at the dry beach, including Hawaiian dance, steel drums, live demonstrations, shopping, and dining. Dine at waterfront restaurants, shop at independently owned boutiques and enjoy the day. Free admission / Free parking! Noon - 6 p.m. Fisherman's Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda, FL.

August Sarasota Events

August 2, 2025: The Bradenton Marauders host the Clearwater Threshers on Back to School Night. Head back to class in style! The first 500 kids ages 12 and under will receive a Marauders backpack. Gates open at 5:30 p.m. Tickets $10 - $14. 6:30 p.m. LECOM Park, 1611 Ninth St., W., Bradenton, FL.

August 2 - 3, 2025: Here's your chance to audition for this year's Sarasota Medieval Fair. Auditions will be Saturday and Sunday at the Woods of Mallaranny The auditions will start promptly at 9 a.m. each audition day (you only need to come one day, not both), site of the Fair during November weekends. All ages welcome for General Cast and other categories of players but children 15 and under must have a parent present at the time of auditioning.. Woods of Mallaranny. 29847 FL-70 E, Myakka City, FL 34251.

August 7 - 9, 2025: Check it out! Laser Light Nights are back at The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature! Break out your big hair and acid-washed denims and get ready to rock out with some of your favorite artists in the Planetarium. From the KING OF POP, Michael Jackson, to ROCK ROYALTY like Queen, you’ll be getting your satisfaction with The Rolling Stones and twisting and shouting with The Beatles! AND strap in for a double dose of pure genius: Pink Floyd. They’ll have nights grooving with the Motown Medley and the Starman himself, Laser Bowie! We’re staging a PUNK ROCK THROWDOWN: Green Day VERSUS The Offspring, backed by the titans of metal, Metallica! Plus, nights featuring the chart-dominator Taylor Swift and the uptown funk master Bruno Mars! The event takes place every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night from May 22 through August 30. There are various food and drink options available for purchase onsite with cash or card. Shows at 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. Please note that Laser Light Nights involve bright, flashing lasers that may not be suitable for people with photo sensitivities. Viewer discretion is advised. Laser Light Nights are at a volume similar to a rock concert, so earplugs are recommended for those who prefer a lower volume. Tickets: $15. The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St W, Bradenton, FL

August 8, 2025: It's the Free Music Friday Night Concert. Enjoy the music of Jillian Brown in downtown's Centennial Park. Free and open to the public. Attendees are asked to follow current CDC guidelines. Bring your own chairs or picnic blankets. No alcohol is permitted in Centennial Park. Free. 7 p.m. - 9 p.m.  Centennial Park, downtown Venice, FL.

August Sarasota Events

August 9, 2025: The Sarasota County Fire Department (SCFD) is excited to continue its monthly open house events in 2025, inviting the community to connect with their local firefighters and learn about fire safety. These free, family-friendly open houses are held one Saturday each month from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Car seat safety inspections and bike helmet fittings will also be available. Station 5, 400 N. Beneva Road Sarasota, FL

August 10, 2024: TBA for 2025. It's SarasotaCon - ComiCon.SarasotaCon is a collectors’ mecca convention striving to be Florida’s best and truest comic convention featuring fandoms of multiple genres. SarasotaCon will have exhibitors that cater to a wide-spectrum of interests including: comic books • magazines • toys • video games • movies • wrestling • sci-fi • sports cards •anime manga •cosplay • artwork sketches • apparel • gaming • sports cards • retro toys • horror. In addition, a roster of comic industry professionals and fandom-related celebrities are guaranteed in attendance for fans to meet and greet. This will be one show not to miss! General admission $20. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Carlisle Inn & Conference Center Sarasota 3727 Bahia Vista Street Sarasota, FL

August 10, 2024: TBA for 2025. It's the Big Art Blow Out at ArtCenter Manatee! Original art for your home or office by local artists at blowout prices. All local artists. All priced $100 or less. All media. One day only. All sales final. 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. ArtCenter Manatee , 209 9th St W, Bradenton, FL

August 2, 2025:  It's the 5th Annual Celtic Summer Jam at the Freckled Fin Irish Pub on Anna Maria Island Florida!. Free admission. No cover. 3 p.m. - 10 p.m. Freckled Fin Irish Pub, 5304 Holmes Blvd, Bradenton Beach, FL

August Sarasota Events

August 14 - 16, 2025: Check it out! Laser Light Nights are back at The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature! Break out your big hair and acid-washed denims and get ready to rock out with some of your favorite artists in the Planetarium. From the KING OF POP, Michael Jackson, to ROCK ROYALTY like Queen, you’ll be getting your satisfaction with The Rolling Stones and twisting and shouting with The Beatles! AND strap in for a double dose of pure genius: Pink Floyd. They’ll have nights grooving with the Motown Medley and the Starman himself, Laser Bowie! We’re staging a PUNK ROCK THROWDOWN: Green Day VERSUS The Offspring, backed by the titans of metal, Metallica! Plus, nights featuring the chart-dominator Taylor Swift and the uptown funk master Bruno Mars! The event takes place every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night from May 22 through August 30. There are various food and drink options available for purchase onsite with cash or card. Shows at 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. Please note that Laser Light Nights involve bright, flashing lasers that may not be suitable for people with photo sensitivities. Viewer discretion is advised. Laser Light Nights are at a volume similar to a rock concert, so earplugs are recommended for those who prefer a lower volume. Tickets: $15. The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St W, Bradenton, FL

August 16, 2025: It's the Special Olympics Florida Stand-Up Paddle Competition. Did you know Florida was the first state to declare standup paddling as an official competition sport for Special Olympics? Special Olympics athletes from all over Florida will show off their paddle power in a variety of SUP races Saturday. 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle, Sarasota, FL.

August 21 - 23, 2025: Check it out! Laser Light Nights are back at The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature! Break out your big hair and acid-washed denims and get ready to rock out with some of your favorite artists in the Planetarium. From the KING OF POP, Michael Jackson, to ROCK ROYALTY like Queen, you’ll be getting your satisfaction with The Rolling Stones and twisting and shouting with The Beatles! AND strap in for a double dose of pure genius: Pink Floyd. They’ll have nights grooving with the Motown Medley and the Starman himself, Laser Bowie! We’re staging a PUNK ROCK THROWDOWN: Green Day VERSUS The Offspring, backed by the titans of metal, Metallica! Plus, nights featuring the chart-dominator Taylor Swift and the uptown funk master Bruno Mars! The event takes place every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night from May 22 through August 30. There are various food and drink options available for purchase onsite with cash or card. Shows at 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. Please note that Laser Light Nights involve bright, flashing lasers that may not be suitable for people with photo sensitivities. Viewer discretion is advised. Laser Light Nights are at a volume similar to a rock concert, so earplugs are recommended for those who prefer a lower volume. Tickets: $15. The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St W, Bradenton, FL

August 22, 2025: It's the Free Music Friday Night Concert. Enjoy the music of The Funky Munky Band in downtown's Centennial Park. Free and open to the public. Attendees are asked to follow current CDC guidelines. Bring your own chairs or picnic blankets. No alcohol is permitted in Centennial Park. 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. Centennial Park, downtown Venice, FL. August Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.com

Augusts Sarasota Events

August 23, 2025: Check out Beertopia 2025 with a sampling of local craft beers, seltzers and liquor paired with dishes from your favorite local restaurants. Live music, silent and live auction and raffle tickets. 6 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. $75 donation. Veteran's Hall (indoor), Manatee County Fairgrounds, 1402 14th Avenue W, Palmetto, FL. (Must be 21 to attend).

August 23, 30, September 1, 2025: It's Englewood Pioneer Days, an annual tradition taking place on Labor Day Weekend with fun events like the Little Miss/Mr. Englewood Pageant, Miss Englewood Pageant, Cardboard Boat Races, Annual Parade on Dearborn Street, Family Activities at Pioneer Plaza, and a Beard Contest. August 23, 2025: It's the Little Miss/Mr. Englewood Pageant for ages up to 12 years old. 9 am - 12 p.m. at Englewood Methodist Church, 700 E. Dearborn Street, Englewood, FL.

August 24, 2024: TBA for 2025. Families throughout the community are invited to join Music Compound for their annual Back to School Bash – this year to be held at its new Sarasota location. Highlights to include sample lessons, live musical performances, food truck, bounce house, various family activities, and more. During the event, families can enjoy a tour of the new Music Compound facility and meet nearly 30 team members who will be dedicated to making the day special for all attendees. There will be giveaways for guests as well as a drawing to win a membership (pre-registration is required to participate). The Back to School Bash is free and open to the public. 11 a.m.- 2 p.m. Music Compound 775 Bell Rd., Sarasota, FL. Call 941-379-9100 or click here for more information or to pre-register for the event.

August 24 - 25, 2024: TBA for 2025. The 2nd Annual Sarasota Shark Tooth Festival will feature displays, vendors, activities, and education displays., August 24 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.. Sunday, August 25 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tickets: Adults: ages 13 & up: $12.00. Children: 12 and under: FREE. Seniors and Military: $6. FREE Parking. Tickets can be purchased at the box office at the day of the event! Robarts Arena, 3000 Ringling Blvd. Sarasota, FL

August 28 - 30, 2025: Check it out! Laser Light Nights are back at The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature! Break out your big hair and acid-washed denims and get ready to rock out with some of your favorite artists in the Planetarium. From the KING OF POP, Michael Jackson, to ROCK ROYALTY like Queen, you’ll be getting your satisfaction with The Rolling Stones and twisting and shouting with The Beatles! AND strap in for a double dose of pure genius: Pink Floyd. They’ll have nights grooving with the Motown Medley and the Starman himself, Laser Bowie! We’re staging a PUNK ROCK THROWDOWN: Green Day VERSUS The Offspring, backed by the titans of metal, Metallica! Plus, nights featuring the chart-dominator Taylor Swift and the uptown funk master Bruno Mars! The event takes place every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night from May 22 through August 30. There are various food and drink options available for purchase onsite with cash or card. Shows at 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. Please note that Laser Light Nights involve bright, flashing lasers that may not be suitable for people with photo sensitivities. Viewer discretion is advised. Laser Light Nights are at a volume similar to a rock concert, so earplugs are recommended for those who prefer a lower volume. Tickets: $15. The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St W, Bradenton, FL

August Sarasota Events

August 28 – September 30, 2025: Marie Selby Botanical Gardens will present its 44th Annual Juried Photographic Exhibition. Selby Gardens’ 45th Annual Juried Photo Exhibition will be on view August 28 – September 30! The open call for submissions will run from August 4 through 11,2025. Photographs that are entered for consideration for the show must have been taken at or of either Selby Gardens campus—Downtown Sarasota or Historic Spanish Point. August Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.com

August 30, September 1, 2025: It's Englewood Pioneer Days, an annual tradition taking place on Labor Day Weekend with fun events like the Little Miss/Mr. Englewood Pageant, Miss Englewood Pageant, Cardboard Boat Races, Annual Parade on Dearborn Street, Family Activities at Pioneer Plaza, and a Beard Contest. August 30, 2025: Check out the Cardboard Boat Races at Indian Mound Park. 10 a.m. and it's the Miss Englewood Pageant for 15 - 18 year old girls. 5 p.m. - 8 p.m. Location TBA

August 30 - 31, 2025: 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

August 31 - September 2, 2024: TBA for 2025. The Sarasota Sailing Squadron (SSS) will host the 76th Annual Labor Day Regatta. The Labor Day Regatta is the longest running annual regatta in the southeast since 1946. The signature event for the SSS, the regatta draws hundreds of competitive sailors from across the U.S. and Canada. its biggest event of the year. The event is attended by sailors from ages 8 to 80 and it draws about a thousand visitors each year. It's free viewing for spectators. Activities include a Friday night welcome party, five separate race courses, Saturday dinner and Sunday awards ceremony.  Friday: 5 p.m. - 7 p.m., Saturday: 8 a.m. - 7 p.m. Sunday: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. On City Island at 1717 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL.

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