2024 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 - 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 - 4, 2024:  It's the Florida State Dance Sport Championships' 52nd Anniversary. 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 52 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 2024 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 - 17, 2024: 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/ $13 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 1, 2024 - September 15, 2024: Selby Gardens is Featuring the “Florida Highwaymen” in a 2024 Summer Exhibition. The legendary Black landscape artists known as the Florida Highwaymen emerged in the 1950s in the agricultural communities of Fort Pierce and Gifford, Florida. Largely self-taught, these talented artists produced colorful scenes of Florida’s unique landscapes that appealed to residents and tourists alike. Their iconic images captured the natural beauty of the Sunshine State prior to the impact of increased urbanization. They were prolific painters, who sold their artwork from the trunks of their cars during the post-World War II boom because they were unable to exhibit through traditional means due to the color of their skin. While making ends meet, they also made a significant contribution to the genre of Florida landscape painting. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Members Free, Member guests $11, Adults $26, Ages 5-17 $11, Ages 4 and under Free.
Downtown Sarasota Campus, Selby Gardens , 1534 Mound Street, Sarasota, FL

August Sarasota Events

August 2, 2024: The Lakewood Ranch sponsored Music on Main Street free monthly street party is from 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. 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 2 - 4, 2024: It's the Summer Sarasota Gem Show. Something for everyone. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Daily, free parking. $5 Admission good for all three days! Sarasota Municipal Auditorium, .801 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL.

August 3, 2024: Get ready to kick off the new school year with a bang at The Mall at UTC's Annual Back to School Bash. You'll have the chance to meet with community resources, after school programs, healthcare providers, pediatricians, optometrists, and tutors. And that's not all! Kids will enjoy meet & greets with their favorite characters, live entertainment, kids activities, face painting and an interactive scavenger hunt for free school supplies! 10 am - 2 pm, The Mall at UTC, 140 University Town Center Drive, Sarasota, FL.

August 3 - 4, 2024: 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 Sarasota Events

August 3, 2024: Kick off the new school year with a bang at The Mall at UTC's Annual Back to School Bash. They'll have all the best resources for families in the Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, University Town Center area to make sure your kids are set up for a successful year of education and growth. There will also be live entertainment, kids activities, face painting and more! They're giving away backpacks and thousands of school supplies through our interactive scavenger hunt. Parents can pre-register their children for the free backpack giveaway on Eventbrite.com and participate in the free school supply scavenger hunt. Visit the official Facebook Pages to RSVP today and get notifications when the registration is available. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. UTC Mal, The Mall at University Town Center, 140 University Town Center Drive, Sarasota FL

August 3, 2024: Enjoy a short road trip and the 8th Annual Tiki Fest 2024. Enjoy authentic live island music and dance presented in various locations throughout and around Fisherman's Village. Enjoy a fun day on Charlotte Harbor. 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 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 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 9, 2024: It's the Free Music Friday Night Concert. Enjoy the music of Steve Haines 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 10, 2024: Check out Breakfast with the Sharks and start your day with their sharks before the Mote Aquarium opens to the public. You and your chums will have a great time sinking your teeth into a light continental breakfast while you learn about our favorite finned friends and Mote’s breakthrough shark research. During this program, you'll meet our resident sharks, watch a narrated feeding of our bonnet heads, and have all of your shark questions answered. After breakfast, you’ll learn about the breakthrough research going on at Mote during a guided tour of our Aquarium. 8 a.m. - 9:30 p.m. Breakfast with the Sharks does not include general admission to Mote Marine Laboratory. Advanced reservations are required. All participants under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a paid adult participant. Fee: $36 member adults, $40 non-member adults; $27 member youth, $30 non-member youth; 2 and younger are free. Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL

August 10, 2024: 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: 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 10, 2024: It's the 4th Annual Celtic Summer Jam at the Freckled Fin Irish Pub on Anna Maria Island Florida!. Music Kicks off at 12:00 p.m. with Kevin McGuire playing all your Irish favorites! Following Kevin is Drunken Shrubbery at 3:00pm! Kicking up the excitement when they hit the stage! You do not want to miss this amazing 3 hour set! Headlining this event will be Mac Tier High energy band with bag pipes and all! Playing a mix of Irish Rock classics and well know American tunes! New world Celts will be here with their famous raffle prizes and whiskey tastings! Free admission. No cover. 12 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 - 17, 2024:  It's the Special Olympics Florida Stand-Up Paddle Competition with competition among 150 athletes. 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 events: 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Sunday events: 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle, Sarasota, FLNathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle, Sarasota FL

August 17, 2024: It's a Back to School Youth Activity Fair. All parents and children are invited to visit with many local providers of youth activities to help them plan their back to school fun! There will be games, demonstrations, inflatables, music, food, fun and more! No registration required. Free. 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. For more information, call 941-486-2595. Venice Community Center, 326 S. Nokomis Ave., Venice, FL.

August 18 - 20, 2023: TBA for 2024. There's a Gem, Jewelry & Bead Show with lots on display to see from dealers from around the country selling gems, jewelry, beads, crystals and more. Adults $5. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sarasota Municipal Auditorium, 801 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL. August Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.com

Augusts Sarasota Events

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 23, 2024:  It's the Free Music Friday Night Concert. Enjoy the music of Zac Regan & The 776 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

August 23 - 25, 2024: 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 from from $35. Tampa Convention Center, 333 S. Franklin St., Tampa, FL. 

August 24, 2024: 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 Sarasota Events

August 24, 2024: Up for Bluegrass anyone? The Heartland/Southwest Florida Bluegrass Association events fall on the 4th weekend of each month. There is camping and jamming Friday and Saturday, and stage show from 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. on Saturday afternoon. Membership for family is $25/yr.  Craig's RV Park, 7895 NE Cubitis Ave, Arcadia, FL.

August 24, 2024: Check out Beertopia 2024 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. 6:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. $60 donation. Manatee County Fairgrounds, 1402 14th Avenue W, Palmetto, FL. (Must be 21 to attend).

August 24 -25, 2024: 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 27, 2024: Round up your loved ones, grab your comfiest lawn chairs, and head over to the plaza at Waterside Place for an unforgettable free live performance by the talented The Manatee Community Concert Band. Make this an evening to remember with great music and even better company. Don't miss out on this community-oriented event that promises to uplift spirits and bring us all together through the power of music. So, what are you waiting for? Mark your calendars to grab your spot, kick back, and enjoy the magic of live music with us! 7PM Waterside Place at Lakewood Ranch, 1561 Lakefront Dr, Lakewood Ranch, FL.

August Sarasota Events

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 29 – September 30, 2024: Marie Selby Botanical Gardens will present its 44th Annual Juried Photographic Exhibition. Selby Gardens’ 44th Annual Juried Photo Exhibition will be on view August 29 – September 30! The open call for submissions will run from August 5 through 12,2024.. 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 - 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, 2024: Check out the Jimmy Buffett Tribute with live music all day, Cheeseburgers in Paradise, Lost Shaker of Salt Scavenger Hunt, and other fun activities. Save The Manatee will be joining us so you can learn more about one of Jimmy's favorite organizations. The new Jimmy Buffett license plate will be on display and Kelly Stilwell is on hand for a book signing of her debut book, “100 Things To Do in Sarasota Before You Die.” Starts at 11 a.m. The Bazaar on Apricot & Lime, 821 Apricot Avenue, Sarasota, FL.

August 31, 2024: Experience the last fireworks of the season at fan appreciation night with the Bradenton Marauders and Tampa Tarpons. Join them for a chance to win prizes through our Nine Innings of Winnings at their game against Tampa! They'll also honor those battling childhood cancer for Childhood Cancer Awareness Night. And don't miss the final fireworks show of the season. Gates open at 5 p.m. Games starts at 6:30 p.m. LECOM Park, 1611 Ninth St. W, Bradenton, FL.

August Sarasota Events

August 31, 2024 - September 2, 2024: After some confusion it appears that the Englewood Pioneer Days is taking place in 2024 after all. It has been an annual tradition taking place on Labor Day Weekend. After receiving notice from The Englewood Pioneer Days committee that all events were canceled it looks like the local Chamber of Commerce has taken over and brought the event back to life. The annual Englewood Pioneer Festival is a family-friendly occasion filled with fun events. Click this link for a rundown of events including the cardboard boat races on August 31, 2024..  

August 31 - September 1, 2024: It's time to enjoy The 15th annual Labor Day Weekend Downtown Venice Craft Festival. Art and craft vendors will be displaying their works. Everything from functional art to gift items including a wide variety of ceramics, jewelry, stained glass, metal works and much more, to a green market with plants and things!  10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Free parking. Miami Avenue West in Venice, FL.

August 31 - September 2, 2024: 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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