Festivals & Fairs

Sarasota is a destination for gatherings that glisten with prestige and purpose. Events run the gamut from celebrating our world-renowned botanic gardens to experiencing a robust and full spectrum of the arts.

Year-round guests flock in their season finery from all reaches of the world to join Sarasotans for a stream of toney and titillating parties, fundraising galas and exciting events. 

Sarasota's Rocktoberfest, set to rock this October, promises a day and night filled with music, food and vibrant downtown energy. 

Whether you're a rock music enthusiast or just looking for a fantastic weekend getaway, this festival is not to be missed. The authentic three-day Oktoberfest experience is coupled with fantastic live musical performances, big pints of beer and hearty good food! Be sure to bring your festival spirit, a comfortable lawn chair and a hefty appetite!

For years, Sarasota’s popular public art exhibit “Embracing Our Differences” has celebrated diversity and inclusion through the eyes of an equally diverse group of artists

Those craving a spiced, slow-cooked delicacy and live music will find both in Sarasota County this March.

To make the most of your early spring trip to Sarasota County, you have got to get outside. Beyond leisurely strolls, and dips in the water, we have a weekend chock full of fabulous festivals to help you soak up the community culture as well as the warm sunshine. This year, March 29 and 30 features not one, but two big BBQ and music festivals.

Beer, Bands and BBQ Festival

If you’re looking for something to do this March through May, you’ll find plenty of options on the calendar in Venice, North Port, and Englewood.

From food-centric festivals to artistic happenings, there are all kinds of events to check out this spring in southern Sarasota County.

Authentic food and tradition of Eastern European cultures that have become prevalent in Sarasota County’s southern City of North Port.

North Port, in Southeast Sarasota County, is a short 30-minute drive from Sarasota.  A little-known fact is that it is considered the hub of the Ukrainian community in Southwest Florida. European accents and languages can be heard everywhere -- in restaurants, shops and markets - it’s a microcosm of Eastern Europe. Here you’ll likely meet Ukrainians, Russians, Serbians and Poles – to name a few.

So, why North Port?

9 Sarasota Events in October You Won’t Want to Miss

Savor the warm winter nights and holiday cheer this holiday season in Sarasota and the surrounding areas

Make this holiday season on the Suncoast one to remember with these holly jolly al fresco events – from captivating boat parades, family-fun movie nights and a 5K "glow run" to photos with Santa at the farmers' market and ice-skating under the warm starlit sky. 'Tis the season for bright lights and festivities – and there's no better place to enjoy the most wonderful time of the year than where you can wear a light jacket in Florida's "winter" weather.