2026 September Sarasota Events Calendar

The September Sarasota Events Calendar includes the best listing of fun things to do in Sarasota, Florida and around the sun coast.

(*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.)

September 1, 2026: It's Englewood Pioneer Days, an annual tradition with Monday being the Parade Day with a parade starting at 9 a.m. on September 1, 2026. **Englewood History Theme** Staging at 240 S Indiana Avenue – Arrive as early as you need to in order to be ready by 9:00 a.m. The Parade will run from Obee’s Parking lot down W Cowels Street, to McCall Road to Dearborn Street and finish at Veterans Memorial Pavilion. After Parade Festivities at Pioneer Park at approximately 10:00 a.m. Pioneer Park – 325 W Dearborn Street, Englewood, FL. Live music throughout the day, Pie Eating Contest, Watermelon Eating Contest, Beard Contest. Children’s games & activities will be taking place in the Plaza from 10:00 a.m.  1:00 p.m.

September 1 - 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

September Sarasota Events

September 1 - 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. September Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.com

September 3 - 5, 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. Event listing courtesy of September Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.com. Viewer discretion is advised. Laser Light Nights are at a volume similar to a rock concert, so earplugs are recommended for those who prefer a lower volume. Tickets: $15. The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St W, Bradenton, FL

September Sarasota Events

September 4, 2026: Lakewood Ranch presents Music on Main the first Friday of each month from 6 p.m.- 9 p.m. Jump Start Band will play classic danceable rock from the 60’s-80’s and the event will benefit Save Our Seabirds. 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.

September 4 - 6, 2026:  It's the Tampa Bay Comic Con, a huge event for fans and aficionados of everything comic books! The weekend will be filled with celebrity guests and appearances. Friday: 11 a.m. - 10 p.m., Sat: 9 a.m. - 10 p.m., Sun: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tickets: various prices and packages with single day tickets from $35. Tampa Convention Center, 333 S. Franklin St., Tampa, FL. 

September 5, 2026: It's Exotic Cars On The Circle car show sponsored by Sage Auto Studios. Admire exotic supercars and find a new favorite during this free event in St. Armand's Circle Park. Free admission. 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. St. Armand's Circle, St . Armand's Key, Sarasota, FL.

September 5, 2026:  Experience fan appreciation night with the Bradenton Marauders and Lakeland Flying Tigers. Fans will have a chance to win prizes throughout the entire game and will be treated to a postgame drone show! Gates open at 5 p.m. Games starts at 6:30 p.m. LECOM Park, 1611 Ninth St. W, Bradenton, FL.

September Sarasota Events

September 5 - 6, 2026: The Sarasota Sailing Squadron (SSS) will host the 78th Annual Labor Day Regatta. The Labor Day Regatta is the longest running annual regatta in the southeast since 1946. The signature event for the SSS, the regatta draws hundreds of competitive sailors from across the U.S. and Canada. its biggest event of the year. The event is attended by sailors from ages 8 to 80 and it draws about a thousand visitors each year. It's free viewing for spectators. Activities include a Friday night welcome party, five separate race courses, Saturday dinner and Sunday awards ceremony. Saturday: 8 a.m. - 7 p.m. Sunday: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. On City Island at 1717 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL.

September 5 - 6, 2026: It's time to enjoy The 17th annual Labor Day Weekend Downtown Venice Craft Festival. Art and craft vendors will be displaying their works. Everything from functional art to gift items including a wide variety of ceramics, jewelry, stained glass, metal works and much more. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Free admission parking. 200 Miami Avenue West in Venice, FL.

September 7, 2026 In honor and memory of Jimmy Buffett it's the Parrot Head Tribute Regatta put on by the Sarasota Sailing Squadron. All fleets welcome. Burgers/Dogs and live music starting at 2:00 pm - 11 a.m. Open to all. $20 per person. Sarasota Sailing Squadron. 1717 Ken Thompson Pkwy, Sarasota, FL More info: 941-388-2355.

September 7, 2026: Enjoy the 2nd Annual Labor Day Pig Roast with the Knights of Columbus. The menu includes roasted pig, plantains, BBQ beans, potato salad, coleslaw, ice cream sundae bar, ice tea, lemonade. water, beer & wine available. $25 per person. Kids $5. Doors open 3 p.m. Dinner at 4 p.m. Register on line at epiphanyknights.org by Aug. 29. Knights of Columbus Hall, 512 Substation Road, Venice, FL.

September Sarasota Events

September 7, 2026: Check out Monday Night Jazz at the Florida Studio Theatre’s John C. Court Cabaret! Overjoyed—A Stevie Wonder Tribute featuring pianist Richard "STretch" Bruyn and his group, Rubberband. The show celebrates the six-decade career and iconic songbook of Stevie Wonder. Doors open 6:30 for food and beverages. Showtime is 7:30 pm. The John C. Court Cabaret 1265 First St, Sarasota, FL

September 10, 2026: Check out Jazz Thursdays at the Sarasota Art Museum. The Colin Leonard New Generation Quartet performs classic and contemporary jazz on the Marcy and Michael Klein Plaza at the Sarasota Art Museum. Concert is co-hosted by the Art Museum and the Jazz Club of Sarasota. The galleries and shop remain open and the Bistro is open for food and beverages. Concerts 5:30 pm- 8:00 pm at the Sarasota Art Museum 1001 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL

September 10, 2026: Check out the Summon the Heroes benefit concert commemorating 9-11. Sarasota Orchestra conductor Evan Roider leads an inspiring program featuring beloved works including Fanfare for the Common Man, Adagio for Strings, and John Williams' Summon the Heroes. The evening also includes Liberty for All with narration by Nate Jacobs and stirring performances by soprano Amy Owens. More than a concert, this special event is an opportunity for our community to gather in remembrance, celebrate resilience, and honor those who continue to inspire us. Proceeds from this special evening will benefit four local charities: Resilient Retreat, Sarasota County Sheriff's Office Charitable Foundation, Sarasota Firefighters Benevolent Fund, and Sarasota Police Foundation. Tickets $25 - $50. 7 p.m. Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL

September 11, 2026: The 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb & Day of Remembrance – 25th Anniversary, will take place at Nathan Benderson Park. This inaugural 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb event invites community members, local first responders, active military, and families to walk, climb, or run all 6 flights of steps on both sides of the Finish Tower staircase in solemn remembrance and community unity. Whether you are aiming to complete the full equivalent of the 110 stories or simply climb in reflection at your own pace, every step taken honors the fallen and shows your patriotism. Free Registration: Open to all ages and fitness levels. Complimentary Breakfast & Coffee: Enjoy free breakfast items and coffee served for all participants. Rooftop Live DJ: Conquer the stairs and celebrate at the top with a live rooftop DJ set and panoramic park views. Opening Ceremony: Featuring local first responder honor guards and a brief moment of silence. 8 a.m. - 12 p.m. Finish Tower. Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle, Sarasota, FL.

September Sarasota Events

September 11, 2026: The traditional annual 9/11 remembrance ceremony hosted for years on the USF Sarasota-Manatee campus is no longer active under USF, as the campus facilities transferred to the New College of Florida. For the 25th anniversary on September 11, 2026, a regional commemoration is being presented instead by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County and New College of Florida at 8 a.m. Special Recognition: Honoring Kay Daniels, the local elementary school teacher who was in the classroom with President George W. Bush in Sarasota when the 9/11 attacks occurred. Participants: Local elected officials, regional school leadership, New College representatives, and area students. Reflection speeches, a traditional moment of silence, color guard presentation, and bagpipe tributes. Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa, 600 US-41, Palmetto, FL

September 11, 2026: The State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota (SCF) will host its 9/11 Memorial Ceremonies on Friday, Sept. 11, in remembrance of the lives lost during the attacks in New York, Pennsylvania and Washington, D.C. on September 11, 2001. The community is invited to attend. The events will be held from 8:30-9:15 a.m. at SCF Venice, 8000 S. Tamiami Trail (southeast parking lot flagpoles), and from 9-9:45 a.m. at SCF Bradenton, 5840 26th St. W. (south entrance flagpole on 60th Ave. W., near the Carol F. Probstfeld Library & Learning Center, Building 3). SCF's Veteran Services Office and Student Veterans of America Club will present the events. SCF Bradenton's ceremony will include remarks from guest speaker John "Captain" Phillips, a retired U.S. Coast Guard chief warrant officer 4 with more than 31 years of distinguished service. Watch the live broadcast of the SCF Bradenton ceremony on the SCF's YouTube page.

September 11, 2026: You're invited to commemorate 9-11-2001 and join in for a morning of remembrance as we honor the lives lost, recognize the courage and sacrifice of our first responders, and reflect on the resilience that united our nation following the events of September 11, 2001. This meaningful community gathering will take place from 8:30 a.m. –10:00 a.m. Complimentary coffee and donuts will be provided. Greenbrook Adventure Park Pavilion. 13010 Adventure Place Lakewood Ranch, FL Help honor our local heroes. The’re accepting nominations for Lakewood Ranch residents who served in the response and recovery efforts following 9/11/2001. Email info@lwrca.org to submit a nomination.

September 11, 2026:  City of North Port to host Patriot Day Ceremony honoring 9/11. NPPD, along with North Port Fire Rescue and City of North Port staff, invite the community to join them as they come together to remember and honor those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001. The ceremony is a time for the community to pause, reflect and honor the lives lost and the courage and sacrifice of those who responded that day. The North Port Police Department will host its annual Patriot Day ceremony on Sept. 11 from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at the Circle of Honor, 4970 City Hall Blvd, North Port, FL.

September Sarasota Events

September 11, 2026: Join the Manatee County Fire Chiefs’ Association for the annual Tribute to Heroes ceremony as we remember the lives lost on September 11, 2001, and honor the service and sacrifice of first responders. The community is invited to attend to join local first responders in remembrance and will include an honor guard, flag ceremony, 21-gun salute, and dove release. 9:30 a.m. Rossi Park, 452 3rd Ave W., near the First Responder Memorial.

September 11, 2026: The City of Venice 25th Anniversary 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony is being hosted by the City of Venice Police and Fire Rescue. The event will include speakers and music to mark the 25th anniversary of the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. Limited seating available; bringing chairs is encouraged. Cold water will be handed out. Ceremony to begin at 9:30 a.m. Patriots Park, 800 Venetia Bay Blvd, Venice, FL.

September 11, 2026: The Sarasota County Fire Rescue on-duty crews will observe a moment of silence at 10:28 a.m., the time the South Tower collapsed, at stations where crews are in quarters, in commemoration of September 11, 2001. 

September 11, 2026: It's Sarasota’s 25 Year Commemoration of September 11 AMERICA 250 Concert and Service to stand for our 9/11 Fallen. The Sarasota Ministerial Association in collaboration with the Diocese of Venice and Sarasota County Emergency Services is hosting the remembrance service. In the days leading up to the Commemoration, those planning to attend will be able to privately choose from the names of those killed on September 11 and represent each by standing, saying their name(s) during THE TOLLING OF THE BELL. For no cost optional tickets and/or to ADOPT A FALLEN from the 2,977 inscribed in bronze on the 9/11 Memorial in New York City, Go To https://givebutter.com/911-twenty-fifth-year-commemoration. People arriving before 4:55 pm, may place memorabilia of their chosen on the FALLEN PHOTO GALLERY. Many sites on the internet such as http://www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/2001/memorial/lists/by-name/ may be helpful in locating information on the 9 /11 Fallen. Come to witness the Sheriff, Police and Fire Chiefs, Commissioners, Clergy Prelates, the Ensemble of First United Methodist Church, the Knights of Columbus, ELKS, Military Officers and Veterans presenting. The Ensemble gathers our area's accomplished professional musicians and vocalists. A procession of all clergy and distinguished 9 / 11 presenters will begin the service. 5:00 p.m. – 6:15 p.m. Patriot Plaza, Sarasota National Cemetery, 9820 State Road 72, Sarasota, FL.

September Sarasota Events

September 2025: TBA for 2026. It's the Sarasota Offshore Boat Racing. Sarasota Powerboat Races Paused Until 2026 Powerboat P1, race organizer for the Sarasota Powerboat Grand Prix, recently released plans to launch an innovative Triple Crown race series in 2025 featuring venues in New Orleans, Sheboygan, and St. Petersburg; however, Sarasota was omitted. After careful consideration and exploring numerous options, Powerboat P1 made the difficult decision not to organize the event in 2025 but to revisit opportunities in 2026. This decision was influenced by budget concerns by the race organizer about producing a high-quality, safe race and uncertainties surrounding the ongoing construction of The Bay’s master plan, which impacted the Van Wezel parking lot and Centennial Park.

September 11, 2026: It's the Free Music Friday Night Concert. Enjoy the music of The Generation Gap/Oldies Review 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.

September 11 - 13, 2026: Check out the Sarasota Bradenton Fall Home Show for new ideas for your home. See home improvement experts for advice and interesting products for your home. Friday & Saturday: 10 a.m. 7 p.m., Sunday: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. $10 admission at the door, free passes on line. Free parking. Free admission with on line registration. Event listing courtesy of September Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.com. Robarts Arena at the Sarasota Fairgrounds, 3000 Ringling Blvd., Sarasota, FL. September Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota

September 12, 2026: Sarasota National Cemetery Volunteer Opportunity for the National Day of Service & Remembrance.Saturday, September 12, join communities across the country as we honor the nearly 3,000 lives lost on September 11, 2001, and pay tribute to the first responders and service members who answered the call in the days that followed. In partnership with the National Cemetery Administration, the National Day of Service and Remembrance brings volunteers together at more than 140 participating national, grant-funded, and local cemeteries across the country. Volunteers will help clean headstones and beautify these sacred grounds in tribute to our military members, veterans, first responders, and their families. 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Registration is free, but required. Sarasota National Cemetery, 9820 State Road 72, Sarasota, FL.

September Sarasota Events

September 12, 2026: One of Keep Manatee Beautiful's biggest events of  the year is the International Coastal Cleanup. This year's International Coastal Cleanup will take place at the following locations: Coquina Beach Cafe, Manatee Beach Cafe, Sheltair (Tellevast), Woodys River Roo. By participating in the International Coastal Cleanup, volunteers play a direct role in preserving natural resources and ensuring that coastal and marine environments remain vibrant and accessible for future generations. Find out how to participate. More info at: (941) 795-8272 or keep@manateebeautiful.com

September 12, 2026: It's the 14th Annual Southwest Florida Martial Arts Open.  Martial Arts schools from across Florida will come together to compete with each other in a friendly and spirited competition in Punta Gorda, Florida at the Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center. The Southwest Martial Arts Open Tournament promises to be a fun, exciting and competitive tournament. Doors will open at 8:00 am and competition begins at 10:00 am. Tickets and more info here. Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center, 75 Taylor St, Punta Gorda, FL.

September 14, 2026: Check out Monday Night Jazz at the Florida Studio Theatre’s John C. Court Cabaret! Coltrane at 100 - The Jeremy Carter Quartet celebrates the challenging and timeless catalogue of jazz icon, John Coltrane. For the 100th anniversary of his birth. Doors open 6:30 for food and beverages. Showtime is 7:30 pm. The John C. Court Cabaret 1265 First St, Sarasota, FL

September 17, 2026: It's the Smithsonian's Annual Museum Day. Museum Day is a one-day event in which participating museums and cultural institutions across the country provide free entry to anyone presenting a Museum Day ticket. Participants are allowed to download one ticket per email address. Check their site for participating local museums. September Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota

September Sarasota Events

September 17, 2026: The State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota (SCF) Music Program will open its Fall 2026 season with Inferno: SCF Music Faculty on Fire. The concert will be held in the Studio for the Performing Arts Recital Hall, Building 11A, where the faculty will perform their top brass, string, vocal and jazz solo pieces. As music educators and artists, they have performed locally and worldwide while teaching, directing and preparing SCF's music, music production and theater students for performing arts careers. Tickets are $15 for general admission, $10 for faculty and staff and $8 for students. Purchase tickets by phone at 941-752-5252, online at SCF.edu/Neel or at the SCF Box Office in the SCF Neel Performing Arts Center, Building 11 East, on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from noon to 5 p.m. The State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota (SCF) SCF Bradenton, 5840 26th St. W., Bradenton, FL.

September 17 - October 4, 2026: The Sarasota Players opens its milestone 97th Season with As You Like It, a pastoral comedy by William Shakespeare that follows Rosalind, who flees her uncle’s court to find safety and love in the Forest of Arden. Accompanied by her cousin Celia, Rosalind disguises herself as a young man named Ganymede. The play explores themes of love, identity, and the contrast between court life and rural life. Ultimately, misunderstandings are resolved, and multiple couples, including Rosalind and Orlando, find happiness. The Crossings at Siesta Key, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL. Please park and enter the mall by Connor’s Steak and Seafood.

September 19, 2026: It's "Talk Like a Pirate Day" with the Anna Maria Island Privateers. The Skullywag will be invaded by the local Bradenton Moose Club for a Distillery Tour. They are visiting 3 local Distillery's: Siesta Key Rum, Good Liquids and Loaded Cannon. The ship departs at 11 a.m. at the moose and returns at 5 p.m. If interested in joining, please call Cindy at 941-725-4033. Ticket price is $50pp 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Bradenton Moose Lodge 310 44th Ave E Bradenton, FL.

September 19, 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 22, 4531 Englewood Road, Venice, FL.

September Sarasota Events

September 19, 2026 It's Fishermen’s Village 11th annual Key Lime & Tropical Fest. Fishermen's Village annual Key Lime & Tropical Fest has become a highly anticipated event each year! Live Music on the beach and in center court, Village Restaurants and participating merchants will feature tropical food, drink and specialties and vendors will showcase their unique creations throughout the promenade 12 noon-6 pm. Free admission/free parking! 12 noon-9 pm. Live entertainment to be featured includes: The Kollections Band, 12 noon-3 pm, Center Court. Pirates of the Floridan, 12 noon-4 pm, Sunset Beach. Chillakaya, 5-9 pm, main stage, Sunset Beach Dave Lapio, Tropical Steel Drums, 5-9 pm Center Court.  Event listing courtesy of September Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.com. Admission and parking for the Key Lime & Tropical Fest is free. Noon - 9 p.m. Fishermen’s Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda, FL  September Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.com

September 19, 2026: Enjoy Woodmere Bark! Get ready for a fur-tastic time exploring a paw-sitively adorable lineup of pet-related businesses and finding valuable resources to keep your furry pals happy and healthy! Consider fetching yourself a rescue pet and experience the joy and unconditional love they can bring. Their wagging tails and purr-fect personalities will steal your heart! 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Woodmere Park - 3951 Woodmere Park Boulevard, Venice, FL

September 19, 2026: Help Keep Sarasota County Beautiful on the Annual International Coastal Clean Up Day. Join Keep Sarasota County Beautiful for the International Coastal Cleanup from 8–10 a.m. Help remove litter from Sarasota’s shores, protect marine life, and keep our coast beautiful. Various cleanup sites across Sarasota County. All ages welcome! Be sure to register early and reserve your volunteer spot by clicking on the above link.  Please note: Walk-up registration will not be allowed. Registration closes at 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 2. Interested in leading a cleanup site? Sign up to be a Site Captain during registration! They’re looking for 2–3 leaders per location (ages 16+). Site Captains receive training, earn up to 6 volunteer hours, and gain valuable leadership experience.

September 19 - 20, 2026: It's the 4th Annual St Armand's Art Festival with Craft Marketplace. With over 175 artisans you're bound to find something nice. Everything from functional art to gift items including a wide variety of ceramics, jewelry, stained glass, metal works and much more. The festival will feature two separate sections; the fine art section located in the park and the craft section positioned along the street. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Free. St. Armand's Circle, Sarasota, FL.

September Sarasota Events

September 25, 2026: It's the Free Music Friday Night Concert. Enjoy the music of Rocky Rick 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. No alcohol is permitted in Centennial Park. Centennial Park, downtown Venice, FL. September Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota

September 25 - October 25, 2026: Celebrate their 14th Annual Oktoberfest at Edelweiss in Bradenton. A month of fun. Get out all your German Garb, grab your best drinking buddy and work up a hefty appetite for the best Oktoberfest in Bradenton!! FREE ADMISSION. Live Entertainment, OKTOBERFEST FOOD & DRINKS. Every Saturday best dressed contest, $50 Gift certificate to win. $13 Liter and $6.50 1/2 Liter all beers. $7 all wines. Live Music Tuesday to Sunday. Oktoberfest Food Specials, Beergarden and inside fun for everyone. One month of fun. Daily Giveaways. Thursday 12pm-8 pm, Friday and Saturday 12pm-9 pm. Edelweiss, 611 Manatee Ave E, Bradenton, FL. September Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota

September 26, 2026: It's National Public Lands Day at Shamrock Park and Nature Center. THEME: "Caring for our Shared America" From trail maintenance to litter clean up and invasive plant removal, volunteers of all ages and abilities will roll up their sleeves and join forces for a common goal—stewarding America’s natural resources for future generations to enjoy. Register and volunteer and take part in the work service projects. National Public Lands Day (NPLD) is the nation's largest single-day volunteer event to improve and enhance America's public lands. Please join Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources and help us connect to nature through volunteer service. More info: Sarasota County Contact Center at 941-861-5000. Event is from 8:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. Shamrock Park and Nature Center, 3900 Shamrock Drive, Venice, FL September Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota

September 26, 2026: You're invited to participate in National Public Lands Day at Oscar Scherer State Park. Give back to your public lands by volunteering for a service project. Oscar Scherer State Park will have a choice of service projects available to chooses from. Workday at Oscar Scherer State Park, to include hand pulling invasive plants, spreading mulch around playgrounds, litter pick up, & trail maintenance. Free park entry for volunteers. 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. (Long pants, close toed shoes, water and sunscreen recommended)  Oscar Scherer State Park, 1843 South Tamiami Trail, Osprey, FL. More info: jamie.butler@floridadep.gov  September Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota

September Sarasota Events

September 26, 2026: Celebrate the back-to-school season at the Van Wezel's annual Family Fest, a free, one-day celebration featuring live performances, literacy activities, food trucks, games, a photo booth, and more. As part of the day's festivities, the Van Wezel will present two sensory-friendly performances of Asolo Rep on Tour's BEANSTALK: The Adventures of Jack and the Giant at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Designed to create an inclusive theater experience, the performances feature flexible seating, with headphones, fidget tools, and other sensory supports available. A designated quiet space will also be provided for families who need a break during the performance. Families can also enjoy Florida Studio Theatre Improv as they lead fast-paced, family-friendly games at 11:30 a.m. where kids and adults can laugh, play, and create stories together in the moment. Event listing courtesy of September Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.com.  Throughout the day, young entrepreneurs with Kids Market will provide shopping and activities with a Jack and the Beanstalk theme. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the Van Wezel's back lawn and in the Grand Foyer. Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N Tamiami Trl., Sarasota, FL

September 26, 2026: Check out the Sarasota Opera Food & Wine Festival 2026! Formerly known as Taste of Downtown, the Sarasota Opera Food & Wine Festival returns with a roster of participating restaurants from across the Sarasota and Manatee region. It's hard to think of a better way to support Sarasota Youth Opera than an afternoon of great food and fabulous wine while enjoying performances from one of the nation's top youth music training programs. Event listing courtesy of September Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.com. $75 per person if purchased in advance. $85 per person at the door. Doors Open 1:00 p.m. Sarasota Opera House, 61 N Pineapple Ave., Sarasota, FL

September 26, 2026: It's the Venice Beach Party. Enjoy live music, food trucks, beer, wine and specialty drinks on the beach! Catch the free trolley running from Centennial Park to Venice Beach, plus free parking and free entry! Hosted by Venice MainStreet. 1 p.m. - 6 p.m. Rain or shine. No coolers. No pets. 101 The Esplanade South, Venice, FL.

September 27, 2026: Enjoy Sarasota's own Ski-A-Rees Water Ski Team and their Sunday afternoon show at 2 p.m. at Ski-A-Ree Stadium. This is their first show of the 2025 fall season. This free show takes place at 1602 Ken Thompson Parkway (near/behind the old Mote Marine Aquarium on the water.) 2 p.m. Free. 388-1666.  September Sarasota Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.com

September 27, 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 7:30 p.m. - 10 p.m. (weather permitting). Observing highlights at this weekend’s event will include the first quarter Moon which will be visible throughout the evening, and the majestic ringed planet Saturn will rise above the treetops starting about midway through the event. Sarasota Audubon Society, The Celery Fields, 6893 Palmer Blvd, Sarasota, FL. Parking will be available in the large lot just WEST of the Nature Center building. The telescopes will be set up in the small parking lot on the east side of the Nature Center.

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