2025 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, 2025: Take part in The First Day Hike and Scavenger Hunt at Oscar Scherer State Park. Hidden among six trails will be concealed signs for you to find. Hike the trails, find the signs, and take a photo of each one and get a prize. Find them all and bring the images to the Nature Center and claim a prize. 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, 2024: TBA for 2025.Clancy's Irish Pub in Bradenton sponsors their Annual Shamrock Shiver Charity Plunge with volunteers braving the chilly Gulf of Mexico waters of Bradenton Beach. The event will take place at noon on Bradenton Beach at Gulf Drive between 4th Street South and 12th Street South. All participants will be socially distanced to ensure the health and safety of our community. 100% of the proceeds will fund Feeding Empty Little Tummies, Healthy Teens Coalition of Manatee County, Inc., and Take Stock in Children of Manatee County, all 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organizations. A Post-Plunge Party will follow at Clancy’s, 6218 Cortez Road West, in Bradenton with door prizes and music by Dr. Dave Band putting the “fun” in fundraising! To pledge, donate or for more info: 941-794-2481 ext 2. January Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.com

January 3, 2025: It's Friday afternoon's Jazz at Two. Skip Conkling and Dixie Mix plays some of your favorite Dixieland & swing tunes from down New Orleans way. They’ll have you toe tapping & finger snapping. Enjoy some familiar songs from the American songbook and jazz standards. Joining Skip are Mike Evans, Marv Luckett, John DeWitt, Harley Sommerfeld and others. 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. Jazz Club members $15 - Guests $20. Unitarian Universalist Church 3975 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota, FL.

January 1, 2025:  More than two million lights shine and twinkle brightly during the Selby Gardens 21st 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. **Closed on Christmas Day.** 1534 Mound Street, Sarasota, FL. January Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota

January Sarasota Events Calendar

January 3, 2024: TBA for 2025. It's a free concert with live music with the Gentlemen of Jazz, which recreates the New Orleans Preservation Hall style of jazz. Enjoy the tunes from 3 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. This free concert take place every Wednesday through April 6, 2022 in Centennial Park's Gazebo in downtown Venice, FL.

January 3, 2025: 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 5 - 7, 2024: TBA for 2025. 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 5 - 7, 2024: TBA for 2025. Sarasota BMX will celebrate 50 years of offering a place to play, practice and race in Sarasota County and will welcome USA BMX’s Sunshine State Nationals. An estimated 1,500 riders from around the United States and Canada are expected to travel to Sarasota to compete in the three-day race weekend. Friday, Jan. 5, 2024 races will include the first of four U.S. qualifiers for the UCI BMX World Championships to be held at Rock Hill, SC in May. Sunday, Jan. 7, 2024 will feature UCI Elite class racing where eligible riders can gain rider and nations ranking points towards the 2024 Olympic qualifications. Race viewing is free and open to the public, and a variety of food and merchandise vendors will also be onsite throughout the weekend. For additional information on the race, please visit SarasotaBMX.com. Sarasota County’s Youth Athletic Complex, corner of Tuttle Ave. and 17th St., Sarasota, FL.

January Sarasota Events Calendar

January 6 - 7, 2024: TBA for 2025. Enjoy the Annual Orchids Expo Show and Sale put on by the Sarasota Orchid Society. "Orchids in Paradise,” is the theme for 2023's celebration and the show will spotlight thousands of award-winning orchids in the displays created by orchid vendors and local orchid societies. Interact with growers, attend seminars, purchase orchids or just enjoy the beauty of orchids! Sat: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sun: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Admission $5. It all takes place at the Sarasota Municipal Auditorium, 801 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL. January Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota

January 6 - 21, 2024. TBA for 2025.  The popular Rainforest Masks of Costa Rica exhibition will return to Marie Selby Botanical Gardens’ Downtown Sarasota campus. Highlighting the traditional art of the Indigenous Boruca tribe of the Costa Rican rainforest, the show will feature hundreds of colorful masks on display in the Museum of Botany & the Arts and available for purchase by visitors. A limited-capacity preview on January 5 will give ticketholders the first opportunity to view and purchase the artworks in the 2024 exhibition. This year’s exhibition will highlight the history and tradition of Borucan mask-making, as well as celebrate the 20th anniversary of displaying masks at Selby Gardens. Downtown Sarasota Campus
1534 Mound Street, Sarasota, FL

January 8, 2024: TBA for 2025. It's Monday Night Jazz at the Florida Studio Theatre Court Cabaret. Monday Night Jazz at the Cabaret presents an exciting evening of jazz with top entertainment in an intimate cabaret setting in downtown Sarasota at the John C. Court Cabaret at FST; First St and Cocoanut Ave, Sarasota, FL. Concert begins at 7:30 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for food and beverage service. Click here for tickets and updated information on performer.

January 9, 2024 - February 3, 2024: TBA for 2025. It's the 35th Annual Gulf Coast Games for Life. The Gulf Coast Games for Life is a multi-sport event program for amateur athletes 50 and over. Events take place in Sarasota County, Manatee County and the City of North Port.16 events: Archery, Bag Toss (Corn Hole), Basketball Shooting, Bowling, Cycling, Golf, Pickleball, Race Walk/Power Walk, Racquetball, 5K Road Race, Rowing and Paddle, Shuffleboard, Swimming, Table Tennis, Target Shooting, Track and Field. The 2024 Gulf Coast Games for Life is a qualifier for the Florida Senior Games State Championship. One-time registration fee of $13. Entry fee of $4 per event. Bowling, Golf, Pickleball and 5K Road Race have an additional facility fee. More info here. First event registration deadline is: Dec. 26, 2023. Call 941-861-PARK (7275) to register.

January Sarasota Events Calendar

January 9, 2025: It's Ringling Underground. Enjoy live music, art and atmosphere in the Museum of Art Courtyard during Ringling Underground 8 p.m. -11 p.m. This event features an eclectic mix of local, regional, and national live music. Check out up-and-coming artists displaying their work in the Museum of Art Courtyard. $15 / Free for Students w/ ID & Members. Free with Art after 5 Admission. The Courtyard at The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL. (941) 359-5700

January 10, 2025: TBA for 2025.  It's another Jazz at Two with 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 performed 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. Jazz Club members $15 - Guests $20. Unitarian Universalist Church 3975 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota, FL.

January 10, 2024: TBA for 2025. It's a free concert with live music with the Gentlemen of Jazz, which recreates the New Orleans Preservation Hall style of jazz. Enjoy the tunes from 3 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. This free concert take place every Wednesday through April 6, 2022 in Centennial Park's Gazebo in downtown Venice, FL.

January 10, 2024: TBA for 2025. Check out Movies in the Park with a free family movie, Abominable. Bring your chairs and blankets. 6 p.m. Centennial Park Gazebo, 200 West Venice Avenue, downtown, Venice, FL. January Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.com.

January Sarasota Events

January 10, 2025:  It's the Free Music Friday Night Concert. Enjoy the music of Johnny Rawls 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 10 - 12, 2025: It's the  Sarasota Seafood and Music Festival featuring family entertainment, local bands with a variety of live music, food vendors, arts and crafts vendors, kids activities, magicians, face painters and more. Live musical performances in genres from rock, jazz, R&B, big band, calypso and Caribbean sounds. Food, music and family fun. The final ‘seasoning’ to the event is a marketplace of arts and crafts (e.g., painting, jewelry, ceramics, woodworking) along with gourmet food items and specialty products. Enjoy shopping during the breaks between band performances! What more can you ask for?  Free admission and parking where you can find it. Friday 4 p.m. - 10 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sarasota Fairgrounds, 3000 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota, FL . January Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.

January 10 - 12, 2025: 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 11, 2025: 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 11, 2025: You're invited to Repticon Sarasota 2025, 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 11 - 12, 2025: 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 - 12, 2025: Enjoy the 11th 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 11 - 15, 2024: TBA for 2025. The Sarasota Winter Carnival is returning to The Mall at UTC. Located in parking lot 4. 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, Saturday - Sunday from noon-5 pm, featuring music, more than two dozen food trucks, 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 Sarasota Events

January 12, 2025: 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 12 - 13, 2024: TBA for 2025. The Venice Symphony Returns to the Venice Performing Arts Center with "Tall Tales and Treasure" This concert features swashbuckling music from Captain Blood and Pirates of the Caribbean, Mulan and How to Train Your Dragon. Guest Vocalist Lauren Jelencovich, who has toured with Yanni as his featured vocalist, performing to sold-out venues all over the world, will wow you with songs from The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring and songs from Aladdin and The Little Mermaid in a concert that will be treasured by music lovers of all ages. Friday: 7:30 p.m. Saturday: 3:30 p.m./7:30 p.m. 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 12 - 14, 2024: TBA for 2025. There's a Gem, Jewelry and Bead Show featuring  exhibitors with a wide variety of the finest gem, jewelry and bead collections and more. Adults $5. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sarasota Municipal Auditorium, 801 N. Tamiami Trail, 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 13, 2024: TBA for 2025.  Park announces the next Party on the Plaza will feature the Landsharks Band. The Landsharks Band is the original, premier Jimmy Buffett Tribute band and have performed in concert with Buffett himself. General admission tickets are available for $15. VIP Squares are also available and include: four (4) tickets with chairs, four (4) beverages (soda, beer, or wine), and a reserved space near the stage. Patrons are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to sit on. Coolers and tents will not be permitted. The parking lot will open at 3:00 PM EST and tailgating will be permitted. Multiple food and beverage options will be available, along with drinks and a limited food menu at the Superior Pools Tomahawk Tiki Bar & Grill. Music on the plaza will begin at 7:00 PM EST, with gates opening at 5:00 PM EST. CoolToday Park, 18800 S. West Villages Pkwy, Venice, FL.

January 13 - 14, 2024:  TBA for 2025. It's the 5th Annual Sarasota Beer & Burger Festival with Burger Vendors, TONS of Craft Beer, Live Music, Beer & Burger themed activities, vendors & more! Burgers can be purchased from different burger food trucks. Sample multiple craft beers from multiple local breweries. Festival includes access to Burger Vendors, TONS of Craft Beer, Live Music, Beer & Burger themed activities, vendors & more! Located in Parking Lot 4 (East Grand Entrance) of The Mall at University Town Center, next to the Sarasota Winter Carnival! Parking is FREE. Kids under 18 are FREE. In 2023, entry was $15 per adult at the gate. Gates open at 12 p.m. The Mall at University Town Center, 140 University Town Center Dr., Sarasota, FL.

January 14, 2024: TBA for 2025. Enjoy an afternoon of jazz at the Gazebo in Centennial Park, Venice. This is a FREE concert co-sponsored by the Gulf Coast Community Foundation and the Jazz Club of Sarasota. A fun afternoon for the whole family. Bring chairs for seating and sun screen. Entertainment TBA. From 2 p.m.- 4 pm Centennial Park, 200 W. Venice Ave, Venice, FL.

January 14, 2025 - April 8, 2025: 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 Sarasota Events

January 16 - 19, 2025: 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 (1/16) from 10am-6pm, Friday (1/17) from 10am-6pm, Saturday (1/18) from 10am-6 pm, Sunday (1/19) 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 16 - 26, 2025: 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 17, 2025: Check out Jazz at Two with Synia Carroll's “A Jazz Journey.”. Synia Carroll has become one of the Bay area’s most accomplished and entertaining vocalists. Whether singing a ballad. blues or up tempo swing
number, she brings the same clear, smooth tones and excitement to the classic jazz standards. ​Synia’s quartet features songs from her recent and critically acclaimed CD “Water is My Song”. 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. Jazz Club members $15 - Guests $20. Unitarian Universalist Church 3975 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota, FL.

January 17, 2024:TBA for 2025.  It's a free concert with live music with the Gentlemen of Jazz, which recreates the New Orleans Preservation Hall style of jazz. Enjoy the tunes from 3 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. This free concert take place every Wednesday through April 6, 2022 in Centennial Park's Gazebo in downtown Venice, FL. January Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.

January Sarasota Events

January 17, 2024: TBA for 2025. Marie Selby Botanical Gardens presents its 2024 “Performances at the Point” outdoor evening concert series at the Historic Spanish Point campus in Osprey with Sweet Fleet featuring commemorative music originally composed by Fleetwood Mac. 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 $20 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 18, 2025: 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 18 - 19, 2025: The Venice-Nokomis Rotary's 33rd 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 19 – 21, 2024: TBA for 2025. 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. This will be a WSP show. 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. Sarasota Municipal Auditorium, 801 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL

January 19 - 21, 2024: TBA for 2025. It's the St. Armands International Food Truck & Music Festival at Ken Thompson Park! From local favorites to international delicacies, the food trucks will offer something for everyone. Whether you’re a foodie or simply looking for a fun culinary experience, you won’t want to miss out. But it’s not just about the food! As you savor the delectable dishes, you’ll be treated to performances by talented local musicians. No matter your taste in music, there's a beat for you. Free admission. Friday 4 p.m. - 10 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m. - 10 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Ken Thompson Park, 1700 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL.

January Sarasota Events

January 20, 2024: TBA for 2025. In shape? Join hundreds of other runners for the 23rd annual  Scrub Jay 5K & 10K run at Oscar Scherer State Park. Registration required for the race. Event presented by Friends of Oscar Scherer Park. ALL proceeds support Florida Scrub-Jay conservation, habitat restoration. (No pets on course please). Separate courses. 10K “Scramble” will be a challenging trail course.  Virtual Option: Virtually Anywhere & Almost Anytime $40. Start time 8 a.m. 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 20, 2024: TBA for 2025. The Sarasota African American Cultural Coalition would like to invite you to the Historic Leonard Reid House to remember Dr. Martin Luther King Jr and his inspiring speech at the march in Selma, Alabama.  Also enjoy music of the times, student speakers and musicians. 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Historic Leonard Reid house, 2529 N. Orange Ave, Sarasota FL

January 20, 2025: Come out for Ringling by the Bay featuring live music and dancing with Kettle of Fish 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, 2024: TBA for 2025. 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). Observing highlights for the evening will include the final opportunity (until this fall) to see the beautiful ringed planet Saturn, giant Jupiter and up to four of its Galilean moons, as well as extraordinary close-up views of the features on our own Moon. Other deep-sky objects, as well as a couple of additional planets will also be featured in the club member’s telescopes. 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 Sarasota Events

On going through January 26, 2025: 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 21 - April 14, 2024: TBA for 2025. 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. The 2023 Exhibit has had an impressive response to the call for artwork and inspirational quotes, with 13,733 entries pouring in from 119 countries and 45 states. Students from 424 schools around the world submitted artwork or quotes.. (Park entrance is located at the corner of Ringling Boulevard and Bayfront Drive/US Route 41). For more information about Embracing Our Differences, call 941-404-5710. January Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota

January 22, 2022: TBA for 2025. It's the Sarasota Water Lantern Festival, a family friendly event that can be shared with friends, families and neighbors. Experience the magic of thousands of lanterns as the soft lights reflect upon the water. The lanterns are made from rice paper and wood so they are as eco-friendly as possible. Each adult ticket comes with the following: - Wristband for entry into the festival area with access to food trucks - Floating lantern kit - LED candle  - Commemorative drawstring bag - Marker  - Lantern retrieval and water clean up, 3 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. Tickets: various prices from $25.99. Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Cir, Sarasota, FL January Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.

January 22, 2024: TBA for 2025.  It's Monday Night Jazz at the Florida Studio Theatre Court Cabaret. Monday Night Jazz at the Cabaret presents an exciting evening of jazz with top entertainment in an intimate cabaret setting in downtown Sarasota at the John C. Court Cabaret at FST; First St and Cocoanut Ave, Sarasota, FL. Concert begins at 7:30 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for food and beverage service. Click here for tickets and updated information on performer.

January Sarasota Events

January 22, 2024: TBA for 2025. Join the Venice Concert Band for No Strings Attached This program highlights the repertoire of both the symphony orchestra and today’s concert band as the band performs pieces from Samuel Barber to Duke Ellington and Rimsky-Korsakov to Lerner and Lowe. Tickets will be available for this performance January 8, 2024. 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 23 - 26, 2020: TBA for 2025. Venice Airport will once again host The Wings of Freedom Tour. On display and available for walk through tours will be the B-25 Mitchell, a B-24 Liberator and P-51 Mustang. Walk through tours are $10 adults, $5 for 12 and under. WWII vets get into the ground tours free. Walk through tour times are: Thurs: 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., Fri - Sun: 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Flight Experiences take place before and after tours. Venice Municipal Airport, Sun Coast Air Center, 400 Airport Ave E, Venice, FL. January Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.

January 24, 2025: It's Jazz at Two with Eddie Tobin and Friends. 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. Jazz Club members $15 - Guests $20. Unitarian Universalist Church 3975 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota, FL.

January 24, 2024: TBA for 2025. It's a free concert with live music with the Gentlemen of Jazz, which recreates the New Orleans Preservation Hall style of jazz. Enjoy the tunes from 3 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. This free concert take place every Wednesday through April 6, 2022 in Centennial Park's Gazebo in downtown Venice, FL.

January Sarasota Events

January 24, 2025:  It's the Free Music Friday Night Concert. Enjoy the music of Tamiami Jam (formerly known as Assisted Living Band) 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 25 - 26, 2025: It's the 17th 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 25 - 29, 2024: TBA for 2025. It's Forks and Corks for Foodies and Wine Connoisseurs with winemaker events and upscale dinners to casual tasting and sampling events. The Grand Tasting, January 28, 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 26, 2025: 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 Sarasota Events

January 26, 2024:TBA for 2025.  It's the Moon Over Myakka Fundraising Concert at the South Pavilion with The Firewater Tent Revival. Tickets: $25 per person, $20 for Friends of Myakka River Members. Half price tickets for children under 12 available at the door only. Park entrance fee waived after 5 p.m. with concert ticket. 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 or 941-373-7839. Tickets sold at Ranger Station day of event or buy them in advance and bring your ticket with you. 7 p.m. - 11 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 26 - 27, 2024: TBA for 2025. Browse vintage and handmade treasures at the American Vintage Markets which bring together a wide array of carefully curated vendors who will showcase their best re-cycled, re-purposed, handcrafted, and re-imagined treasures. Find vintage delights from vendors who are passionate pickers, makers, collectors, creators, and artisans. 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. General admission: $8. 16 & under free. Free parking. Robarts Arena, Sarasota Fairgrounds, 3000 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota FL

January 26 - February 4, 2024:  TBA for 2025. More cotton candy fun! It's the 35th 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 27, 2024: TBA for 2025. It's the 35th Annual Gulf Coast Games for Life - Senior Games Series is a multi-sport event program for amateur athletes ages 50+. The series consists of events throughout FL and provide fun, fellowship, fitness and healthy competition for FL's fastest growing age group. Sports include archery, pickleball, swimming, and many more! Nathan Benderson Park is pleased to host the following watersports - rowing, outrigger canoe, SUP and Kayak. Come out and watch the competition! 9 a.m. Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle, Sarasota, FL

January Sarasota Events

January 27, 2024: TBA for 2025. A fun day full of great live music, great chili, and over 50 craft beers to experience at the 13th Annual Chili, Beer, & Blues Fest.  Now on the waterfront in Laishley Park, Punta Gorda- January 27th featuring Deb & the Dynamics at noon, Mike Imbasaciani & his BluezRockerz at 1:45 p.m. and Dwayne Dopsie & The Zydeco Hellraisers - direct from New Orleans at 3:30 p.m. 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 27, 2024: TBA for 2025.  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 27 - 28, 2024: TBA for 2025. 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 27 - 28, 2024: TBA for 2025. Check out the 21s 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 Sarasota Events

January 28 - February 12, 2024: TBA for 2025. 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 28 -, February 12, 2024. The event will be open to the public on February 3 & 4 and February 10 & 11. School days will be February 8 & 9. . 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 29 - 31, 2021: This event has been discontinued. Take in the 14th Annual Sarasota Native American Indian Festival and experience the culture and artistry of the of the Native American people. Find authentic, handmade, one-of-a-kind fine arts and crafts, paintings, pottery, jewelry, sculpture, bead work and leather work along with story telling, dance and Native American food. The festival will continue to be a tribute to the extraordinary life of artist Rex A. Begaye, its founder. Friday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., and Sunday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tickets at the gate in 2020 were: $10 adult, $5 ages 6 - 12, 5 and under are free. Sarasota Fairgrounds, 3000 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota, FL. More info: pobsrq@gmail.com January Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.com

January 30 - February 3, 2024: TBA for 2025. It's the 35th Annual Gulf Coast Games for Life. The Gulf Coast Games for Life is a multi-sport event program for amateur athletes 50 and over. Events take place in Sarasota County, Manatee County and the City of North Port.16 events: Archery, Bag Toss (Corn Hole), Basketball Shooting, Bowling, Cycling, Golf, Pickleball, Race Walk/Power Walk, Racquetball, 5K Road Race, Rowing and Paddle, Shuffleboard, Swimming, Table Tennis, Target Shooting, Track and Field. The 2024 Gulf Coast Games for Life is a qualifier for the Florida Senior Games State Championship. One-time registration fee of $13. Entry fee of $4 per event. Bowling, Golf, Pickleball and 5K Road Race have an additional facility fee. More info here. First event registration deadline is: Dec. 26, 2023. Call 941-861-PARK (7275) to register. register by phone January Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota

January 31, 2025: TBA for 2025.  This week Jazz at Two features the Trace Zacur Quartet. Zacur amazes the audience with his explosive sax sound and high energy. A graduate of Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts. Trace’s mission to take his playing to the next level has been realized via roles as a bandleader and sideman in Florida and beyond. Enjoy an afternoon of swinging jazz! 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. Jazz Club members $15 - Guests $20. Unitarian Universalist Church 3975 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota, FL.

January 31, 2024: TBA for 2025. It's a free concert with live music with the Gentlemen of Jazz, which recreates the New Orleans Preservation Hall style of jazz. Enjoy the tunes from 3 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. This free concert take place every Wednesday through April 6, 2022 in Centennial Park's Gazebo in downtown Venice, FL.

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