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Your Guide to Sarasota's Annual Events
From culinary feasts to dazzling art, Sarasota County’s events calendar is packed with can’t-miss moments all year long. Here’s a seasonal snapshot of some of our top annual happenings.
Winter
Trade snow boots for flip-flops and kick off the year with Forks & Corks, where top chefs, winemakers, and brewmasters serve up indulgent flavors in the Florida sunshine. Feel the rumble at Thunder by the Bay, experience the passion of the Winter Opera Festival, and sway to world-class performances at the Sarasota Jazz Festival.
Spring
Hunt for prehistoric treasures at the Venice Sharks Tooth Festival and enjoy indie favorites and international films at the Sarasota Film Festival.
Summer
Savor Sarasota offers multi-course menus from top local restaurants at a sweet seasonal price, perfect for tasting your way through the region.
Fall
Stroll streets transformed into 3D masterpieces during the Sarasota Chalk Festival, or head to the beach for jaw-dropping sand sculptures at the Siesta Key Crystal Classic. November brims with culture, from performances at the Living Arts Festival to knights, jousts, and merriment at the Sarasota Medieval Fair, plus a deep dive into midcentury style at Sarasota MOD Weekend.
Holiday Season
Watch the water sparkle during the Venice or Sarasota Holiday Boat Parades, experience nightly holiday magic at Holidays at UTC and Wonderland, or stroll through a tropical holiday light display at Selby Gardens’ Lights in Bloom.