November

Easy ways to spend a day with your family on Siesta Key — one of Sarasota County's many beach vacation destinations.

Looking for something unique to stuff those stockings? Check out Sarasota’s one-of-a-kind markets for vintage clothing, jewelry and home décor.

No sooner has the table been cleared of Thanksgiving dinner and the leftovers shuffled into tupperware containers when Black Friday deals beckon and the holiday shopping season goes full throttle.

For those whose goal is to find that truly one-of-a-kind gift, the month of December holds a treasure trove in Sarasota County, one just needs to know where to look.

North Port offers lots of spots where kids—and adults—can get out and play

For five years running, North Port, in Sarasota County, has been named a Playful City USA community by the nonprofit KaBOOM!, which works to ensure that children have plenty of places and ways to play.

It's always hard to think of good, creative holiday gifts for your loved ones. Instead, try exploring for some great holiday gifts and while you're out and about, enjoy some festive happenings around town.

We've all been there at this time of year: it's a few weeks before the holidays, and you're still scratching your head at what to give to your family members for the holidays. Try exploring some of the shopping districts in Sarasota County and while your out enjoy festive events and activities around the area.

Downtown Sarasota is a popular nightlife scene flowing with craft beer and cocktails, light bites and unique characters. Check out where the locals go to enjoy a night out.

I have two words for you: The Siren.

Many might know the Siren Greek mythology — a beautiful creature that beckons sailors toward rocky cliffs and ultimately, their doom — yikes!

Don’t miss this shop- and restaurant-filled stretch in downtown Venice

In downtown Venice, Venice Avenue can sometimes get all of the attention. But just a block away, Miami Avenue also makes a great spot for strolling, shopping, sipping, and snacking.

Start at the intersection of Miami and Nokomis Avenues, where a gurgling fountain in a pretty pocket park provides a soothing soundtrack for the beginning of your visit. Then head west to get shopping.

Enjoy the beaches of Sarasota County in a new light by visiting during wintertime

There are many things that are destined to be together and create a dream team – peanut butter and jelly, pumpkin pie and whipped cream, movies and popcorn. Others are a less obvious match, such as figs and bacon, string cheese and apples, pigs and litter boxes. For me, one of the perfect matches of the world fits in this latter category. Originally not considered to meld, but when experienced, it’s a dream: the beach and winter.

Load up for your next meal at Dakin Dairy Farm and Grove Ladder Farm.

Food that’s fresh from a farm makes all the difference in taste—and two Sarasota area farms make it easier to whip up memorable meals full of flavor.

Dakin Dairy Farms in Myakka City produces milk, cheese, and butter available at several locations throughout Southwest Florida; it’s also a family-friendly destination that offers tours.

Grove Ladder Farm produces eggs and chickens (and even turkeys around Thanksgiving).

Learn how to make an Authentic Florida dish for the holidays.

Looking for something to add to your holiday “comfort” menu? Florida Gulf Shrimp and Pasta may be the perfect go-to dish for your busy holiday season. It’s simple to make, full of flavor and incorporates local seafood: Florida Gulf Shrimp. Florida’s tasty seafood, particularly Gulf Shrimp, is something we love to enjoy year around, but especially during the holidays.