May

Feasts and festivities abound to suit any dad’s style this Father’s Day. Here are some ideas for a weekend fit for fathers and the rest of the family, too.

If you’re spending Father’s Day weekend with Dad or Grandpa in Southwest Florida, you’re in luck! There are loads of gatherings in Dad’s honor throughout Sarasota County. 

Summer in Sarasota means different things to different people: the beach; family getaways; long, lazy afternoons escaping the heat; easy reservations at restaurants, and best of all -- a special menu of performances and festivals at the area's celebrated arts and culture venues. The temperatures may be rising, but so are the opportunities for music, opera, dance and theater lovers from around the world.

Sarasota Orchestra

Beatrice Friedman Symphony Center
709 N. Tamiami Trail
Sarasota, FL 34236
941-953-4252

Head to Sarasota County's beaches and many waterways to spot a variety of native animal life by the sea.

Sarasota County beaches, bays, lakes and rivers are great for spotting many of the area’s animal inhabitants – from playful dolphins and lazy manatees to the actual, winged version of our beloved snowbirds and even the elusive alligator.

Feathered Finds

Ten Englewood & North Port area events for every age and interest

The summertime calendar in Sarasota County is filled with activities focused on everything from local art to aquatic animals. Here are 10 cool events to check out over the next 10 weeks in North Port and Englewood.

Cruzin' on Dearborn Cars and Oldies

August 2 and September 6, 5 to 8 p.m.

Spas

• The Ritz-Carlton Members Spa Club gives its members and Ritz-Carlton hotel guests special treatment. The spa features treatment rooms, saunas, steam rooms and whirlpools, in addition to lounges, products with all organic ingredients, and special relaxation therapies.
• Tranquil treatment rooms and custom treatments will leave guests feeling transformed after a visit to the recently remodeled Island House Spa at the Resort at Longboat Key Club.

With its blend of coastal flavors and global cuisines, the Sarasota region is becoming a must-visit destination for both avid foodies and casual diners.

Sarasota County's dining is a vibrant medley of cultural heritage, diversity and a deep appreciation for fresh, local ingredients. While bigger Florida cities might get the buzz, Sarasota steadily holds its own with a culinary scene that rivals the best. From island tiki bars to white-tablecloth dining and everything in between, Sarasota proves that great food doesn’t need a big-city zip code to shine. 

Get off Interstate 75 at Fruitville Road in Sarasota, and your tendency might be to go west. After all, that direction will take you toward downtown Sarasota, the beaches, and attractions like Mote Aquarium.

But head east on Fruitville Road, and you’ll find all kinds of cool sites to explore perfect for outdoorsy types, animal lovers, and folks who enjoy a slower pace.

If you visit Sarasota County (or live here) and want to catch a fish, consider hiring a fishing pro!

Sarasota County offers many natural resources for us and our 4-legged friends to enjoy!

Sarasota County is definitely dog-friendly. How do we know? Because there are over 80 parks that are either ‘dog friendly’ or ‘Paw Parks,’ and that’s a lot of options when it comes to taking your furry pal out for some exercise!