2026 August Sarasota Events Calendar

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

August 1, 2026: 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 1, 2026: Enjoy a short road trip and the 10th Annual Tiki Fest 2026. 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.

(*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, 2026: It's the Celtic Summer Jam. This Event will be sponsored by the New World Celts. As always they will be doing whiskey tastings and raffles for some really great prizes! They will have Live music all day long! Drunken Shrubbery will kick the day off at 12pm! Clovers Revenge will follow at 3:00pm! Black Thorne Brigade will be headlining, hitting the stage at 6:30pm! These are three great Celtic Rock bands that play Irish Classics as well as American favorites! Free admission, no cover. 1 p.m. - 10:30 p.m. Freckled Fin Irish Pub, 5337 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, AMI, FL.

August 1, 2026: Check it out! Laser Light Nights are back at The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature! Think concerts, but you’re inside a dome getting blasted with visuals from every angle. And this whole thing runs all summer, Thursdays through Saturdays, with multiple showtimes so you can stack your night. Now the lineup: Classic legends like Queen, The Beatles, and Elton John! Pop icons like Taylor Swift and The Weekend. Rock and alt like Metallica, Foo Fighters, and No Doubt. Special themed nights and throwback shows. Basically, every night hits different, so you can keep coming back and it still feels fresh. Just know it gets loud and flashy, so it’s more of a hype night out than a chill museum stroll. The event takes place every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night from May 21 through September 5. 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. Event listing courtesy of July Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.com. 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 on Escape-to-sarasota.com 

August Sarasota Events

August 1 - 2, 2026: 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 54 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 2026 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 - 2, 2026: 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 10 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 1 - 8, 2026: 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., 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. 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 1 - September 13, 2026: Celebrated American photographer Lynn Goldsmith, renowned for both her celebrity portraits and fine art images, presents a unique exhibition at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens this summer. Now on view through September 13 at the Downtown Sarasota campus, "Shared Light: Lynn Goldsmith" combines stunning images of flowers with intimate portraits of Selby Gardens’ artist in residence – the legendary singer, songwriter, and poet Patti Smith. The exhibition features photography in the galleries of the Richard and Ellen Sandor Museum of Botany & the Arts and outdoor installations. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Members Free. Member guests $12. Adults $28.. Ages 5-17 $12. Ages 4 and under Free Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, 1534 Mound Street, Sarasota, FL

August Sarasota Events

August 6 - 8, 2016: Check it out! Laser Light Nights are back at The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature! Think concerts, but you’re inside a dome getting blasted with visuals from every angle. And this whole thing runs all summer, Thursdays through Saturdays, with multiple showtimes so you can stack your night. Now the lineup: Classic legends like Queen, The Beatles, and Elton John! Pop icons like Taylor Swift and The Weekend. Rock and alt like Metallica, Foo Fighters, and No Doubt. Special themed nights and throwback shows. Basically, every night hits different, so you can keep coming back and it still feels fresh. Just know it gets loud and flashy, so it’s more of a hype night out than a chill museum stroll. The event takes place every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night from May 21 through September 5. 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. Event listing courtesy of July Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.com. 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 7, 2026: The Lakewood Ranch sponsored Music on Main Street free monthly street party is from 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. Ya Ya & The Diamond Chasers will fill the air with your favorite music and the event will benefit HOPE Family Services. 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 8, 2026: Get ready to kick off the new school year with an exciting Back to School Bash! Join in at the Mall at University Town Center for a day of celebration and preparation. School Essentials: 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 our interactive scavenger hunt to stock up on school supplies from all of our sponsors and vendors. Community Fun: Connect with local businesses as they come together 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. Free entry. 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. The Mall at University Town Center, 140 University Town Center Dr, Sarasota, FL

August 8, 2026: The Bradenton Marauders host Ft. Myers 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 Sarasota Events

August 13 - 15, 2026: Check it out! Laser Light Nights are back at The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature! Think concerts, but you’re inside a dome getting blasted with visuals from every angle. And this whole thing runs all summer, Thursdays through Saturdays, with multiple showtimes so you can stack your night. Now the lineup: Classic legends like Queen, The Beatles, and Elton John! Pop icons like Taylor Swift and The Weekend. Rock and alt like Metallica, Foo Fighters, and No Doubt. Special themed nights and throwback shows. Basically, every night hits different, so you can keep coming back and it still feels fresh. Just know it gets loud and flashy, so it’s more of a hype night out than a chill museum stroll. The event takes place every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night from May 21 through September 5. 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. Event listing courtesy of July Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.com. 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 14, 2026: It's the Free Music Friday Night Concert. Enjoy the music of Courtney Amber in downtown's Centennial Park. Free and open to the public. Bring your own chairs or picnic blankets. No alcohol is permitted in Centennial Park. Free. 7 p.m. - 9 p.m.  Centennial Park, downtown FL.

August 15, 2026:  It's the Big Art Blow Out at the Herrig Center for the ARTS.! 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. 9 a.m. -  2 p.m. Herrig Center for the ARTS, 888 3rd Ave W, Bradenton, FL.

August 15, 2026: It's Sarasota Anime-Fest is an anime collectors’ mecca convention located in the beautiful City of Sarasota, Florida. Striving to be Florida’s best and truest anime convention featuring fandoms of multiple genres. Sarasota Anime-Fest will have exhibitors that cater to a wide-spectrum of interests including: anime candy • comic books & magazines • toys • video games, manga • cosplay • artwork sketches • apparel & jewelry. In addition, a roster of anime industry professionals and fandom-related celebrities are guaranteed in attendance for fans to meet and greet. This will be one show not to miss! Various ticket prices. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Robarts Arena, Sarasota Fairground's, Sarasota, FL.

Augusts Sarasota Events

August 15, 2026: Families throughout the community are invited to join Music Compound for their annual Back to School Bash. 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-register for your chance to win a membership). 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 20 - 22, 2026: Check it out! Laser Light Nights are back at The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature! Think concerts, but you’re inside a dome getting blasted with visuals from every angle. And this whole thing runs all summer, Thursdays through Saturdays, with multiple showtimes so you can stack your night. Now the lineup: Classic legends like Queen, The Beatles, and Elton John! Pop icons like Taylor Swift and The Weekend. Rock and alt like Metallica, Foo Fighters, and No Doubt. Special themed nights and throwback shows. Basically, every night hits different, so you can keep coming back and it still feels fresh. Just know it gets loud and flashy, so it’s more of a hype night out than a chill museum stroll. The event takes place every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night from May 21 through September 5. 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. Event listing courtesy of July Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.com. 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, 2026: Join Moms Incredible for the 2nd annual Incredible 6 paddle race! All human-powered vessels; kayaks, canoes, SUP, prone paddle, OC, let's go! Our course is The Venice Fishing Pier to the South Jetty and back. After the race, we'll have our awards celebration and enjoy food and friends at Sharky's on the Pier. Register and sponsor today! 7 a.m. - Venice Fishing Pier, 1600 Harbor Dr S, Venice, FL.

August 22, 2026: The Sarasota County Fire Department (SCFD) is excited to continue its monthly open house events in 2026, 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 8, 840 Apex Rd, Sarasota, FL.

August Sarasota Events

August 22, 2026: Check out Beertopia 2026 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 22 - 23, 2026: You're invited to Repticon Bradenton 2026, 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 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 25, 2026: Enjoy the Manatee Community Concert Band as it Presents A Summer to Remember. “A Summer to Remember" is all about celebration, nostalgia, and the pure joy of the season. This concert will have your feet tapping and your hands clapping. Mark your calendar and get ready for an evening of memories. (Looking to purchase tickets? Instead, bring a non-perishable food item for the Manatee Meals on Wheels Plus program) 7 p.m. Harvest United Methodist Church, 14305 Covenant Way, Lakewood Ranch, FL

August Sarasota Events

August 28, 2026: It's the Free Music Friday Night Concert. Enjoy the music of The Junction 41 Band in downtown's Centennial Park. Free and open to the public. 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 27 - 29, 2026: Check it out! Laser Light Nights are back at The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature! Think concerts, but you’re inside a dome getting blasted with visuals from every angle. And this whole thing runs all summer, Thursdays through Saturdays, with multiple showtimes so you can stack your night. Now the lineup: Classic legends like Queen, The Beatles, and Elton John! Pop icons like Taylor Swift and The Weekend. Rock and alt like Metallica, Foo Fighters, and No Doubt. Special themed nights and throwback shows. Basically, every night hits different, so you can keep coming back and it still feels fresh. Just know it gets loud and flashy, so it’s more of a hype night out than a chill museum stroll. The event takes place every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night from May 21 through September 5. 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. Event listing courtesy of July Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.com. 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 27, 2026 – September 30, 2026: Marie Selby Botanical Gardens will present its 46th Annual Juried Photographic Exhibition. Selby Gardens’ 46th Annual Juried Photo Exhibition will be on view August 27 – September 30! The VIRTUAL Annual Juried Photographic Exhibition is your chance to showcase what Marie Selby Botanical Gardens means to you. This exhibition invites guests to share their most creative, meaningful, and inspiring photographs capturing the beauty and spirit of Selby Gardens’ Downtown Sarasota and Historic Spanish Point campuses.  The open call for submissions will be announced soon. Photographs that are entered for consideration for the show must have been taken at either Selby Gardens campus—Downtown Sarasota or Historic Spanish Point. August Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.com

August 30, 2026, September 1, 2026: 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. 

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