2026 January Sarasota
Events Calendar

The January Sarasota Events Calendar includes the best of the best fun free (or next to nothing) things to do in Sarasota.

*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 and that event has not been canceled at the last minute.) The Calendar is updated as information is made available.

January 1, 2026: Take part in The First Day Hike and park Bucket List at Oscar Scherer State Park. Hike as much (or as little) of the trails as you like while completing items from a park “bucket list.” Enjoy the trails and take photos as you complete items on the “Park Bucket List.” Show the photos to park staff (outside the Nature Center) to get a prize. Information available the morning of event at the Nature Center. Come alone or bring a friend or the family and kick off 2026 in a healthy and outdoorsy way! All ages. Park entry fees apply. No additional fees to participate in First Day Hikes. 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Free. Oscar Scherer State Park, 1843 S Tamiami Trl., Osprey, FL. January Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota

January 1, 2026: Clancy's Irish Pub in Bradenton sponsors their 18th Annual Shamrock Shiver Charity Plunge with volunteers braving the chilly Gulf of America waters off Coquina Beach. The event will take place at noon. Proceeds benefit Hungers End – Ending Hunger, Providing Hope. Blessing Bags Project – Dedicated to the homeless and less fortunate by providing basic, critical needs. Healthy Teens, Inc. – Empowering Youth To Make Positive, Healthy Decisions. A Post-Plunge Party will follow at Clancy’s, 6218 Cortez Road West, in Bradenton. To pledge, donate or for more info: 941-794-2481 ext 2. January Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.com

January 1 - 3, 2026:  More than two million lights shine and twinkle brightly during the Selby Gardens 22nd annual "Lights in Bloom" celebration where you can explore and view life-size garden-themed holiday lights that transform the gardens into a tropical wonderland. Don’t miss a holiday photo opportunity, activities, and entertainment for the whole family. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. 6:30 p.m.- 9:00 p.m. nightly. Early entry begins at 5:30 p.m.  Various tickets prices and packages. Free for those 4 and under. 1534 Mound Street, Sarasota, FL. January Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota

January 1 - 4, 2026: Yes! Wonderland is back with  BELIEVE!, a dazzling, never-before-seen production. This year’s show features fan favorites like the hilarious Johnny Rockett, the electrifying Ty McFarlan, and Sarasota’s own legendary Nik Wallenda for a show that promises a blend of thrilling circus acts, mesmerizing aerial performances, and uplifting holiday storytelling. Various dates and show times. Tickets $35.99 - $100.00 Circus Sarasota Big Top, Under the Big Top across from UTC - 195 UTC Dr., Sarasota, FL. Doors Open 1 hour prior to show time.

January Sarasota Events Calendar

January 1 - 4, 2026: Lace up your skates for some wintertime fun because a real ice rink is back at UTC! The Rink is located in the West District at UTC, right next to Ford’s Garage. Ticket Prices: Individual tickets: $16 - $20 per skater. Tickets include ice skate rental. Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable. All hours are subject to weather and rink conditions. You will be sent an email if your ice skating reservation must be rescheduled. In case of severe weather that causes a public safety concern, skaters may be asked to leave the outdoor event. Mon – Fri | 4 PM – 10 PM. Sat – Sun | 11 AM – 10 PM. School Holidays | 11 AM – 10 PM. Holiday hours: Thanksgiving Day | 11 AM – 6 PM, Christmas Eve | 11 AM – 6 PM, Christmas Day | 2 PM – 8 PM. All visits must be reserved in advance by purchasing timed ticket(s) online. All visitors will receive a confirmation email with a waiver and a receipt. Entry is not guaranteed to those who walk up to purchase tickets as tickets sell out quickly. Those who attempt the “walk-up” purchase of tickets in-person, will be shown a QR-code to purchase tickets on their smartphones; if the present time is fully-booked, the guest will be shown other available times to skate. University Town Center Sarasota, I-75 and University Parkway, 210 North Cattlemen Road, Sarasota, FL

January 2, 2026: It's Friday afternoon's Jazz at Two. The 2025 Jazz Club of Sarasota Scholarship Recipients perform in concert and jazz jam format. Please come to show support and encouragement for the talented youngsters. 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. Admission paid at the door. Jazz Club members $15 - Guests $20. Unitarian Universalist Church 3975 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota, FL.

January 2, 2026:  Dance along to the Music on Main at Lakewood Ranch from 6 p.m.- 9 p.m. Beer, wine and food. Check out the fountain area for a balloon twister, face painting and other fun. 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. Free admission. Main Street, Lakewood Ranch, FL. Lakewood Ranch is off University Parkway east of I-75. January Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.com.

January 2 - 4, 2026: Enjoy warm gulf breezes, fresh seafood and live musical performances at the 8th Annual Sarasota Seafood & Music Festival. Enjoy the best and freshest cooked foods by local restaurants and food purveyors. Foods are cooked on-site using such ingredients as grouper, mahi mahi, stone crabs, oysters, shrimp and soft-shell crabs. A variety of vegetarian and rice dishes are available as well as non-seafood items. Live music, too: While savoring your meal, relax to some of Florida’s top musical groups from genres such as R&B, blues, jazz, rock and Caribbean sounds. On the breaks between performances, enjoy shopping in a marketplace of fine arts, crafts, and select fine products and food items. Free admission. Fri: 4:30 p.m. - 10 p.m., Sat 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. & Sun: 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sarasota Fairgrounds, Ringling Boulevard, Sarasota, FL.

January Sarasota Events Calendar

January 3 - 4, 2026: Enjoy the Annual Sarasota Winter Fine Art Festival and marvel at unique creations by 120 of America’s top artisans in the mediums of painting, jewelry, sculpting, photography, woodworking, ceramics, glass, fiber art, mixed-media and more. Enjoy the rare opportunity to meet and interact with the talented creators of the artwork. Discover how each came to their art form and how they are inspired. Free admission. Sat & Sun: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. JD Hamel Park at Gulfstream and Main Street, downtown Sarasota, FL

January 4, 2025: TBA for 2026. Check out some heavenly bodies during Sidewalk Astronomy courtesy of the local group of Deep Sky Observers. Telescopes will be up and available for public viewing from 6 p.m.. - 10 p.m. (weather permitting) at Sarasota’s Celery Fields Park. Saturn will be well-placed just below the crescent Moon throughout most of the evening, and though the rings are approaching edge-on (and thus invisible) status, they’re not quite there yet. So you’ll still have a chance to observe the rings at this event. Jupiter will be observable the entire night, and Mars will rise high enough above the tree line to view during the last half of the evening. The amazing stellar nursery, the Great Nebula in Orion, some 1400 light-years from the Earth will also be visible at this event. Parking will be available in the large lot just WEST of the Nature Center building. The telescopes will be set up in the parking lot on the east side of the Nature Center. (Telescopes will NOT be set up at the top of the hill.) Sarasota’s Celery Fields Park, Southeastern corner of Sarasota’s Celery Fields Park, 6893 Palmer Boulevard, Sarasota, FL.

January 5 - 7, 2024: TBA for 2026. Enjoy the Bradenton Boat Show with a huge selection of new boats, boating accessories, fishing gear and more. Plus the Captain Joe Fishing School where you can learn from expert anglers. Admission: $6, 12 and under are free. Free parking. Fri - Sat 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sun 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Bradenton Area Convention Center, One Haben Blvd, Palmetto, FL. January Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.

January 8, 2025: TBA for 2026. It's a free concert with live music with the Gentlemen of Jazz. Music selections represent traditional jazz from the 1920s and 30s to hot jazz and swing of the 20's and 30's. It's a traditional American art form that provided the basis for many songs that now comprise the Great American Song Book. Bring a lawn chair or blanket to sit around the Gazebo where musicians perform. Enjoy the tunes from 3 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. This free concert take place every Wednesday through March 26, 2025 in Centennial Park's Gazebo in downtown Venice, FL.

January Sarasota Events Calendar

January 9, 2026: It's another Jazz at Two! Eddie Tobin, on piano and vocals, is one of Sarasota’s favorite entertainers. Tobin has opened for Kenny Rogers and performed extensively with Brenda Lee. For eight years, he toured the world as pianist and music director for Englebert Humperdinck. After moving to Sarasota, he joined the area’s favorite club band, the Venturas in 2004. Always a fun show! 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. Admission paid at the door.Jazz Club members $15 - Guests $20. Unitarian Universalist Church 3975 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota, FL.

January 9, 2026: It's the North Jetty Food Truck Rally! Join in at North Jetty Park for this family-friendly event series. We’ll have fun yard games, music and, of course, plenty of food trucks. For more details, call 941-861- 7275 (PARK). 5 p.m. North Jetty Park, 1000 S Casey Key Road, Nokomis, FL

January 9, 2026: It's the Free Music Friday Night Concert. Enjoy the music of Latitude 26 in downtown's Centennial Park. Free and open to the public. 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. Attendees are asked to follow current CDC guidelines. Attendees are asked to bring their own chairs and blankets. No alcohol is permitted in Centennial Park. Attendees are asked to bring their own chairs and blankets. No alcohol is permitted in Centennial Park. Centennial Park, downtown Venice, FL

January 9 - 10, 2026: The Venice Symphony Returns to the Venice Performing Arts Center with "TV Classics!" Tune in for a binge worthy concert covering TV’s greatest theme songs. Hear game show classics like Merv Griffin’s Jeopardy Theme, to thrilling detective dramas Magnum P.I. and Hawaii Five-O or hum along to Danny Elfman’s Main Title from The Simpsons. Grab your remote, sit back, and let the music take you on a nostalgic ride through TV’s most iconic moments! Tickets on line or call 941-207-8822 or visit The Venice Symphony Box Office at 1515 S. Tamiami Trail, Suite 7, Venice from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. The Venice Performing Arts Center, 1 Indian Ave, Venice, FL.

January Sarasota Events

January 9 - 11, 2026: If you're a weekend D.I.Y'er you'll want to check out the Sarasota Bradenton Home Show. Featuring everything from kitchens and baths to landscapers and pools, solar, builders, contractors and more, you'll pick up some great ideas or find just the folks who can help you with everything for your home. Admission is free with online registration or $10 at the door & free parking. Fri & Sat: 10 a.m. - 7 p.m., Sun: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Robarts Arena, Sarasota Fairgrounds, 3000 Ringling Blvd., Sarasota. Off Fruitville Road. January Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.

January 10, 2025: TBA for 2026. It's the Moon Over Myakka Fundraising Concert at the South Pavilion lawn with Ben Prestage. Tickets: $25 per person, $20 for Friends of Myakka River Members. Park entrance fee waived after 5 p.m. with concert ticket. North gate will be open 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. Bring a chair and a picnic or food, wine and beer will be available for sale from the Lazy Gator Cafe. For more info call 941-361-6511. Tickets sold at Ranger Station day of event or buy them in advance and bring your ticket with you. 7 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. North gate will be open 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Myakka River State Park, 13208 State Road 72, Sarasota, FL. Entrance is on the left.

January 10, 2026: It's the Sarasota Half Marathon, the only Marathon in Sarasota, half marathon, 10k, and 5k. Awards in all age groups, finisher medals, food, music. Various entry fees $40 - $85. 7 a.m. - 1 p.m. 4081 Lakewood Ranch Blvd., Sarasota, FL.

Sarasota January Events

January 10 - 11, 2026: Enjoy the Annual Orchids Expo Show and Sale put on by the Sarasota Orchid Society. "Orchid Odyssey,” is the theme for 2026's celebration.  Over 20 vendors will fill the auditorium with an explosion of color and smells, exhibiting and selling thousands of blooming orchid plants, as well as presenting gorgeous displays. Accredited American Orchid Society judges will judge the orchids and displays presented by the region’s orchid societies and commercial and individual growers. There will also be educational orchid culture classes, accessories, growing supplies for sale, raffles, and experts on-site to answer questions. Sat: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sun: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Admission $5. Sarasota Municipal Auditorium, 801 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL. January Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota

January 10 - 11, 2026: The Venice Antiques Show features over 50 national and regional exhibitors. Featured: Art Glass, Pottery, Fine Art, Jewelry, Asian and  European Antiques, Americana. Also showcases furniture, sterling, toys, Tiffany lamps, cut glass and much more. $8. Saturday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Venice Community Center, 326 S Nokomis Ave, Venice, FL.

January 11, 2026: Enjoy a concert by the Sarasota Suncoast Concert Band. Showtime is 3 p.m. Admission is $5. Call 941-907-4123 for Availability. Northminster Presbyterian Church, on Lockwood Ridge, a block south of University Parkway. 3131 61st Street, Sarasota, FL.

January 13, 2024:  TBA for 2025. Check out the Annual Sarasota Dollhouse Miniatures Festival now called the Sarasota Fun in the Sun 2024 Miniature Show & Sale. The show has moved back to Sarasota. Dolls, teddy bears and more are being featured. $5 at the door. 10 a.m. - 3  p.m. Holiday Inn Sarasota Airport, 8009 15th Street East, Sarasota, FL. More info: 267-684-6276. January Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.com

January Sarasota Events

January 14 - March 15, 2026: Fox Lea Farm is hosting the 11th Annual "Show Jumping Under the Stars" Grand Prix series during the Venice Equestrian Tour Winter Horse Show Series offering over $1,000,000 of prize money. Friday Double Feature - 3:30PM $5,000 USHJA National Hunter Derby & 7:000PM $24,999 Grand Prix Under The Lights. VIP Tables are available. Gates open at 2:30pm, first horse on course at 3:30pm for the National Hunter Derby & first horse on course at 7:00pm for the Grand Prix. Show Jumping is an Olympic Sport requiring extraordinary athleticism from both horse and rider. A Hunter Derby is a two-round horse jumping competition. Both rounds typically include natural fences reminiscent of the hunt field. Live Music, Food, Beverages, Fun for Everyone! Admission $10 per person, Free Parking. Made in Italy will be selling their famous stone-fired pizzas! Fox Lea Farm, 800 North Auburn Road, Venice, FL. More info: 941-320-2018.

January 14, 2024 - April 8, 2025: TBA for 2026. Enjoy the Bayfront Gardens at The Ringling for Acoustic Sunsets with a solo musician on Ca' d'Zan Terrace! This Members only event features an evening with a live solo musician on Ca' d'Zan Terrace. Relax on the Terrace as the sun sets on Sarasota Bay. Sandwiches, snacks, and drinks will be available for purchase on the Terrace. Individual members may purchase up to 1 per event; Duo or higher may purchase up to 2 per event. The Ringling Museum, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota, FL

January 15, 2025: TBA for 2026. t's a free concert with live music with the Gentlemen of Jazz. Music selections represent traditional jazz from the 1920s and 30s to hot jazz and swing of the 20's and 30's. It's a traditional American art form that provided the basis for many songs that now comprise the Great American Song Book. Bring a lawn chair or blanket to sit around the Gazebo where musicians perform. Enjoy the tunes from 3 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. This free concert take place every Wednesday through March 26, 2025 in Centennial Park's Gazebo in downtown Venice, FL.

January 15, 2025: TBA for 2026. Marie Selby Botanical Gardens presents its 2025 “Performances at the Point” outdoor world class performances by local performing arts organizations at the Historic Spanish Point campus in Osprey with Future Joy. Future Joy takes the listener on a joyous adventure with no musical boundaries. Both artists DJ, sing, and play keyboard while Zach shreds tenor, baritone, and bass saxophones in the key of fun. The event is from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., doors open at 6:00 p.m., and guests will have time to enjoy the area around the historic White Cottage, Sunken Garden, and Pergola overlooking Little Sarasota Bay prior to the performance. Food and beverages will be available for purchase from Michael’s on East. Tickets are $25 for Selby Gardens members and $35 for non-members, children 5-17 $15.00, and may be purchased online at selby.org. Advance ticket purchase is required. Special Event tickets are non-refundable and non-transferrable. Historic Spanish Point. 401 N Tamiami Trail, Osprey, FL

January Sarasota Events

January 15 - 18, 2026: The St. Petersburg Power & Sailboat Show is the Largest Boat Show on the Gulf Coast. Explore an impressive selection of powerboats and sailboats in-water & on-land, including a 40,000 sq. ft. tent housing an extraordinary display of marine gear and accessories. Thursday (1/15) from 10am-6pm, Friday (1/16) from 10am-6pm, Saturday (1/17) from 10am-6 pm, Sunday (1/18) from 10am-4pm. General admission tickets are $23. Kids (15 & under) are FREE. Active Duty Military and Veterans are also FREE with proof of military service. Tickets are only available online. Duke Energy Center for the Arts Mahaffey Theater Yacht Basin and Albert Whitted Park in St. Petersburg, Florida.

January 15 - 25, 2026: It's not peanuts and crackerjack, but cotton candy and elephant ears at The Annual Manatee County Fair taking place at the Manatee County Fairgrounds,  General admission: $10 for ages 13 and older, $6 for daily military, $6 for kids 6-12, free for ages 5 and under. Parking $10. Happy fair-going from my Escape to Sarasota Calendar of Events! 303 17th St. W., Palmetto, FL.

January 16, 2026: Check out Jazz at Two! The Jazz Club is delighted to present the Grammy selected, critically acclaimed jazz vocalist Barbara King to our Jazz at Two audience. Recently relocated to the Bay area, from NYC where she performed in all the top jazz clubs. Since arriving in Florida, Barbara has wowed audiences and received rave reviews at every performance. 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. Admission paid at the door. Jazz Club members $15 - Guests $20. Unitarian Universalist Church 3975 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota, FL

January 16, 2026:   Check out Movies in the Park with a free family movie, Elemental. Bring your chairs and blankets. 7 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.  Centennial Park Gazebo, 200 West Venice Avenue, downtown, Venice, FL. January Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.com.

January Sarasota Events

January 16 – 18, 2026: The Sarasota National Stamp Expo is scheduled to be held. It is planned that the show will feature a full complement of dealers along with philatelic and literature exhibits. FREE Parking and $5 Admission good for all shows. FREE Appraisals. 200 Frames of Informative Exhibits. Learning Center for Young and Not-so-Young. Show Hours: Friday & Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., Sunday: 10:00 a.m.– 3:00 p.m. Sahib Shrine Temple, 600 N Beneva Rd, Sarasota, FL

January 16 - 18, 2026:  Check out the 5th Annual Punta Gorda Seafood & Music Festival. Outdoor fun awaits along with delicious food, live music, and festive activities. This seafood and music festival is designed like a gourmet meal, blending the finest ingredients to create an unforgettable experience. Choose from a variety of entrees including seafood, meat, and vegetarian options, all cooked fresh onsite. Enhance your meal with an assortment of side dishes and decadent desserts. A selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages will also be available. Please ensure that your pet is leashed at all times while on event grounds. Friday evening from 4pm-10pm, continuing Saturday 11am-10pm, and concluding Sunday 11am-6pm. General admission is FREE!!! Laishley Park, 120 Laishley Court, Punta Gorda, FL.

January 16 - 20, 2025: TBA for 2026. The Sarasota Winter Carnival is returning to The Mall at UTC. Located near the East side by Urban Outfitters. Enjoy midway fun for the whole family with rides and games for all ages and favorite fair food. The 5-day carnival is part of the annual Sarasota Winter Festival. Food trucks, beer samples, craft beer and vendors. Admission and parking are free. Carnival hours: 5-10 pm Thursday, 5-11 pm Friday, noon-11 pm Saturday - Sunday, noon-9 pm Monday (no unaccompanied minors).The Mall at University Town Center, 140 University Town Center Dr., Sarasota, FL.

January 17 - 18, 2026: The Venice-Nokomis Rotary's 34th Annual Fine Art & Craft Festival features talented artists and craftspeople. The thousands of attendees enjoy the array of over 85 talented artists, antique/classic automobiles, live music, family fun, kids' area, food trucks,, beer & wine. Live music. Proceeds benefit local non-profit organizations. Saturday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. last year tickets were $5 at the gate. Kids 10 and under free. Free parking. It all takes place at the Venice Airport Festival Grounds. 610 Airport Ave E, Venice, FL

January Sarasota Events

January 17, 2026 - February 21, 2026:  The 37th annual Gulf Coast Games for Life (Senior Games) are open to amateur athletes 50 and older as of Dec. 31, 2026 and are a local qualifying senior games for the Florida Senior Games, to be held in December 2026. For more information, please visit floridaseniorgames.com. You may register for all events by mail to: Gulf Coast Games for Life, Pompano Trailhead, 601 S. Pompano Ave., Sarasota, FL 34237 or online at: SarasotaCountyParks.com. For any questions regarding online registration, or to register by phone, please call 941-861-PARK (7275). The first event registration deadline is Saturday, Jan. 3, 2026 for the 5K Road Race. Each event closes two weeks prior to the event date. No on-site registrations are allowed. A one-time registration fee of $13 entitles each participant to a T-shirt. There is an additional $4 fee for each event (including your first event). Additional facility fee will be charged onsite for the following events: Bowling, Golf, and Pickleball. Also, the 5K Road Race has an additional fee payable at the time of registration. All refunds may be subject to a $25 administrative fee. No refunds will be issued after each event registration deadline. Exception: refunds will be issued if an event is canceled by Gulf Coast Games for Life official. Gulf Coast Games for Life officials highly recommend that participants choose their events carefully so as not to create scheduling conflicts. Keep in mind that event directors reserve the right to combine, modify, delay, postpone or cancel any event due to inclement weather. More info here. Call 941-861-PARK (7275) to register.

January 17 - April 19, 2026:  Sarasota's Bayfront Park has been the backdrop for Embracing Our Differences' colorful, larger-than-life canvases integrating powerful imagery and thought-provoking messages celebrating diversity. The scale and impact of this outdoor exhibition has continued to grow. In 2023, 320,616 people visited the exhibition—bringing the total amount of visitors to more than 4.3 million since 2004.  (Park entrance is located at the corner of Ringling Boulevard and Bayfront Drive/US Route 41). Free. 7 a.m. - 11 p.m. Daily. For more information about Embracing Our Differences, call 941-404-5710. January Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota

January 18, 2025: TBA for 2026. Kids and kids at heart can enjoy fun art and nature activities as Family Saturdays Return to Selby Gardens’ Downtown Sarasota Campus. Several activity stations with different art projects will be set up in the Ann Goldstein Children’s Rainforest Garden during each monthly event. Elementary school age children will have the opportunity to create their own nature-inspired art with a variety of materials. Similar events scheduled for February 22, March 29, April 26, and May 31. Activities will run from 10 a.m. to noon each session, and participation is included in admission to the Gardens, which is always free for Selby Gardens members. Admission to Selby Gardens’ Downtown Sarasota campus is $28 for adults, $12 for ages 5 to 17, and free for children 4 and under. Tickets may be purchased online in advance at selby.org. Selby Gardens members always receive complimentary admission as well as discounts for guests. Selby Gardens, 1534 Mound St, Sarasota, FL

January 18, 2025: TBA for 2026. Fishermen’s Village and the Cultural Heritage Center of Southwest Florida are hosting the 6th Annual International CultureFEST. Immerse yourself in a vibrant celebration of cultures from around the world. Bring your lawn chairs, beach throws, sunblock, and even your drums to create a drum circle as they celebrate global unity. Along the covered Breezeway, artisan vendors will showcase handmade crafts, accessories, gems, and educational displays from diverse countries. Feast on delicious cuisine representing the rich flavors of Asia, South America, and the Islands. Live global music and cultural dance performances will take center stage at the Sunset Beach Club Stage from 1:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Join in for a day of global culture, music, food, and fun at the 6th Annual International CultureFEST! Admission is FREE and Parking is FREE! Noon - 6 p.m. Fisherman's Village, 1200 W Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda, FL

January Sarasota Events

January 18, 2025: TBA for 2026.The Ringling Museum presents Free Family Day with free admission to the museum for families, and art-making in the MakerSpace using botanical debris from Hurricane Milton. We hope you can find solace on our campus and in works of art, as well as a mindful reprieve in art-making at The Ringling. No registration is required. FAM (Family Art Making) is a free program that's fun for the whole family! Join us for creative art projects inspired by an object in our collections. Afterwards, visit the museum to see that object in person! You will be able to visit the Museum of Art and the Circus Museum with your FAM wristband that is provided at check-in. Tickets: This program is free, however tickets are required. Tickets are limited and will be available online approx. 14 days prior to each program. Walk-ins will be accommodated as space allows. 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. This event runs on select Saturdays from October 19, 2024 - April 26. 2025 The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota FL

January 19, 2026: Join the Venice Concert Band for Seems Like Old Times. This program will look back at tunes from the Roaring Twenties as well as the sounds of the 60’s. You will hear recognizable favorites from some early classical music in the band and orchestra repertoires. Tickets will be available for this performance January 5, 2026. If you do not have season tickets, you can purchase $14 tickets online two weeks before each performance or $14 (cash only) tickets at the door on concert dates. All concerts are at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6:15 p.m. Venice Performing Arts Center (VPAC), 1 Indian Avenue, Venice, FL. January Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.

January 19, 2026: Come out for Ringling by the Bay featuring live music and dancing with Weather Boys and Gustav Viehmeyer. (Pop Night featuring FSU) on the Bolger Campiello. Food and drinks available for purchase. 5:30 p.m. - 9 p.m. Tickets $20/$25.M embers please note: $20 tickets are limited to one for Individual Memberships and two for all other Membership levels.  Ringling Museum Grounds, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota, FL. 941-358-3180. January Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.

January 20, 2025: TBA for 2026. The Sarasota MLK Celebration Committee has been dedicated to honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. since 1987, and the tradition will continue this year. A Unity Walk will start at 11 a.m. at the Robert L. Taylor Community Complex, 1845 34th St. and conclude at Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Park, 2523 Cocoanut Ave., where a celebration will take place until 4 p.m. with live music, soulful cuisine and more.

January Sarasota Events

On going through January 25, 2026: It's not peanuts and crackerjack, but cotton candy and elephant ears at The Annual Manatee County Fair taking place at the Manatee County Fairgrounds, 1303 17th St. W., Palmetto.  General admission: $10 for ages 13 and older, $6 for daily military, $6 for kids 6-12, free for ages 5 and under. Parking $10. Happy fair-going from my Escape to Sarasota Calendar of Events! January Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.com

January 22, 2025: TBA for 2026. It's a free concert with live music with the Gentlemen of Jazz. Music selections represent traditional jazz from the 1920s and 30s to hot jazz and swing of the 20's and 30's. It's a traditional American art form that provided the basis for many songs that now comprise the Great American Song Book. Bring a lawn chair or blanket to sit around the Gazebo where musicians perform. Enjoy the tunes from 3 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. This free concert take place every Wednesday through March 26, 2025 in Centennial Park's Gazebo in downtown Venice, FL.

January 22 - 26, 2026: . It's the 19th Annual Forks and Corks for Foodies and Wine Connoisseurs with winemaker events and upscale dinners to casual tasting and sampling events. The Grand Tasting, January 25, annually takes place at the Ringling Museum Courtyard and sells out fast each year. Various dates, events, costs, times and locations. Enjoy! January Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.

January 23, 2026: It's Jazz at Two! Pete Carney returns with a tribute to another legendry jazz performer. Carney’s past tributes to the music of Dave Brubeck and last season to the music of Stan Getz were highlights of past seasons. Carney, the State College of Florida’s Director of Jazz Studies, ​ brings an outstanding quartet of musicians for this season’s performance. 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. Admission paid at the door.Jazz Club members $15 - Guests $20. Unitarian Universalist Church 3975 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota, FL

January Sarasota Events

January 24, 2026: In shape? Join hundreds of other runners for the 26th annual  Scrub Jay 5K & 10K run at Oscar Scherer State Park. Event presented by Friends of Oscar Scherer Park and all proceeds support Florida Scrub-jay conservation and habitat restoration. Choose your distance: 5K mostly hardtop/hard packed trails or the technical trail run “Scramble 10K.” Visit FriendsofOscarScherer.com or runsignup.com/Race/FL/Osprey/ScrubJay5K10 for more information, to volunteer for the races, or to register to run or walk (registration fees apply with reduced pricing for youth 18 & under.) Advance packet pick up at New Balance Sarasota, Thursday, 1/22, 4:30 PM— 6:30 PM. Race Day Packet Pick Up 6:45 AM—7:45 AM at the Nature Center. Saturday 5K & 10K start time—8:00 AM. Location: Meet at the Lake Osprey Picnic area. Fee: Rates will vary based on participant’s age, Oscar Scherer State Park is located in Osprey, south of Sarasota, north of Venice, at 1843 S. Tamiami Trail. More information at (941) 483-5956.

January 24, 2026: You're invited to take in Sarasota County's Fire Fest. Fire Fest provides a first-hand look at how prescribed burns protect our communities and property from wildfires, as well as maintain Florida’s natural ecosystems for present and future generations. Fire Fest is a fun family event that explores how prescribed burns protect communities and property from wildfires while maintaining Florida's natural ecosystems for present and future generations. At this event, agencies from around the state come together to talk fire. Enjoy live fire demonstrations, helicopter bucket drops and nature tours. Kids will have a blast on the obstacle course and enjoy games and face painting in the Kid Zone. Due to the ecologically sensitive nature of the area, dogs are not permitted at this event. For more information, visit scgov.net or call 311. 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. (Weather permitting). Free. T. Mabry Carlton, Jr. Memorial Reserve (Carlton Reserve). 1800 Mabry Carlton Parkway, Venice, FL. 941-861-7275.

January 24, 2026: You're invited to Repticon Sarasota 2026, an 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  10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Various ticket prices on line. Online tickets only. Tickets not sold at the door. Sahib Shrine Center, 600 N Beneva Rd., Sarasota, FL

January 24 - 25, 2026: t's the 18th Annual Downtown Venice Craft Festival featuring a blend of contemporary craft, all handmade in the U.S. This is one of the very popular fests on my Sarasota Calendar of Events. You'll find  a wide variety of ceramics, jewelry, stained glass, metal works and much more. In addition to the incredible crafts, the Green Market offers live flora, freshly popped kettle corn, gourmet spices, and sauces. Free admission. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.  West Venice Avenue in downtown Venice, FL. January Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.

January Sarasota Events

January 24 - 25, 2026: The Sarasota Florida Antiques Show will feature a full show of outstanding booths of antiques, spectacular jewelry, art and Objects of virtu and more. Specialty booths will show Tiffany, Pairpoint  and other special pieces of antique lighting, Rare instruments and barometers, Fine pieces of Americana, European, Asian and American antiques and so much more. Admission: $8. Sat: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sun: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sarasota Municipal Auditorium, 801 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL.

January 24 - 25, 2026: Check out the 23rd annual St. Armand's Circle’s Art Festival for fun and creativity at new levels. Usually held on the last weekend in January on St. Armand’s Circle in Circle Park, there are over 200 artists and craftsmen displaying their works from across the globe in a prestigious show encompassing life-sized sculpture, fine jewelry, exquisite works of art and hand-crafted apparel and decor. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Free. Click here to read more about the St Armands Art Festival. 

January 25, 2026: Enjoy a concert by the Sarasota Suncoast Concert Band. Showtime is 3 p.m. Admission is $5. Call 941-907-4123 for Availability. Northminster Presbyterian Church, on Lockwood Ridge, a block south of University Parkway. 3131 61st Street, Sarasota, FL.

January 25, 2025: TBA for 2026. A fun day full of great live music, great chili, and over 50 craft beers to experience at the 14th Annual Chili, Beer, & Blues Fest.  Now on the waterfront in Laishley Park, Punta Gorda- Live Music: 11:30 a.m.: Marty Marty Mosstones, 1:30 p.m.: Mike Imasciani & his Bluez Rockerz 3:30 p.m.: Dwayne Dopsie & The Zydeco Hellraisers- direct from New Orleans. Over 50 Craft Beers, Food Vendors, Chili Teams, Full Liquor Bar. Advance General Admission- $7.50 ($10 at the gate).11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Laishley Park, 150 Laishley Ct., Punta Gorda, FL. January Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota

January Sarasota Events

January 25 - February 8, 2026: Join Crowley Museum & Nature Center for their Myakka River Rendezvous for another trip back in history. See living history demonstrations, blacksmithing, black powder demonstrations and archery along with old time games and food vendors. Pre-1840s living history event with early setup days for traders and campers on January 26 -, February 9, 2025. The event will be open to the public on February 1, 2 & 8. School days will be February 6 & 7. Admission for school days is $5 per person. On the weekends and public days, it is $10 per adult and $5 per child 3-12 Tickets at the gate. Free parking. Crowley Museum & Nature Center, 16405 Myakka Road, Sarasota, FL.

January 27, 2026: t's the Free Music Friday Night Concert. Enjoy live music (TBD) in downtown's Centennial Park. Free and open to the public. 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. Attendees are asked to bring their own chairs and blankets. No alcohol is permitted in Centennial Park. Centennial Park, downtown Venice, FL

January 29, 2025: TBA for 2026. It's a free concert with live music with the Gentlemen of Jazz. Music selections represent traditional jazz from the 1920s and 30s to hot jazz and swing of the 20's and 30's. It's a traditional American art form that provided the basis for many songs that now comprise the Great American Song Book. Bring a lawn chair or blanket to sit around the Gazebo where musicians perform. Enjoy the tunes from 3 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. This free concert take place every Wednesday through March 26, 2025 in Centennial Park's Gazebo in downtown Venice, FL.

January 30, 2026: Check out Jazz at Two! One of the finest jazz musicians in the Bay area, trumpeter James Suggs is from Harrisburg, PA. Much in demand in the area, he has shared the stage with Houston Person, Ken Peplowski, John Lamb, La Lucha and others. Suggs has performed critically acclaimed tribute shows to Louis Armstrong, Miles Davis and Harry James. His CD, You’re Gonna Hear From Me, continues to receive rave reviews from critics. 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. Admission paid at the door. Jazz Club members $15 - Guests $20. Unitarian Universalist Church 3975 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota, FL

January Sarasota Events

January 30, 2026:  It's The Circus Arts Conservatory Singin' Through the Rain Gala 2026, a night of sheer delight under the Big Top, an exhilarating evening of wonder and thrills under the Big Top on Regatta Island at Nathan Benderson Park. The fun begins at 6:00 p.m. World Class Circus Performance. Festive Cocktail Hour. Elegant Dining by Michael's on East. Valet Parking. 6 p.m. - 11 p.m. Individual tickets $350. Under the Big Top at Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Cir, Sarasota, FL

January 30 - February 8, 2026:  More cotton candy fun! It's the 37th annual Charlotte County Fair with live entertainment, family fun and that good old fashioned fair food! The Charlotte County Fair,  2333 El Jobean Rd, Port Charlotte, FL. January Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota

January 31, 2026: If you don't mind a short drive the downtown streets of Tampa host the Annual Gasparilla Festival from 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. The Gasparilla Invasion is from 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. complete with the annual re-enactment of Tampa's historic pirate invasion at the Tampa Convention Center at 1 p.m. The invasion is free to the public. The Gasparilla Parade Of Pirates is from 2 p.m. - 6 p.m. and begins at Bay to Bay and Bayshore Boulevard. It continues along Bayshore Boulevard to Brorein Street, turns east on Brorein Street, then north on Ashley Drive. The parade ends at Cass Street & Ashley Drive. Free and open to the public. January Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.

January 31, 2026: It's the 3rd Annual Suncoast Scots Highland Games and Celtic Festival. Some of the sights, sounds, and tastes you can expect are as follows: Bagpipe Band and Solo Competitions, Highland Athletic Competitions, Best Shortbread, Whiskey Tasting, Scottish Dancers, modern Celtic Rock mixed with traditional music, great ethnic food, and adult beverages for all. Sarasota Fairgrounds. 8:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. Tickets: $15 - $35. Sarasota County Fairgrounds.3000 Ringling Boulevard, Sarasota, FL.

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