Weather reports say that it should be sunny and mild this weekend, so it’s a great time to check out a few upcoming events in Sarasota and surrounding cities you might enjoy! There are a lot of amazing and enjoyable things to do this weekend in Sarasota for everyone in the family, both indoors and out.

As always, bring masks for everyone and especially for indoor events, as some locations do mandate their use. You’re also encouraged to practice reasonable social distancing when possible to keep yourself and everyone else safe!

January 28th-29th: Moonlight Kayak With MOTE

No doubt everyone loves the warm, beautiful Florida sunshine, but when you’re ready for a quick break and are looking for things to do in Sarasota at night, check out the Full Moon Paddle Kayaking With Mote. The Mote Marine Aquarium and Library offers this unique chance to kayak at dusk, enjoying some of the city’s nature that you can only see after the sun goes down. There is a fee for members and nonmembers, so to find out how to sign up and reserve your spot, check out their website. For this week I believe there are only waitlist spots available, however, this is an event running until April. https://mote.org/events/details/full-moon-paddle-kayaking-with-mote.

January 28th: Silent Art Auction

If you’d like to add some beautiful art to your home or office, check out the Angels for Artists – Silent Art Auction at the MARA Gallery in Sarasota, January 28 from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Your $20 admission price gets you wrapped eats and cocktails, and a chance to meet the artists in this socially distanced event. There is also a virtual auction as well on the 27th. To find out more and get your ticket, visit https://www.visitsarasota.com/angels-artists-silent-art-auction-music-benefit.

January 30th: FREE Yoga By the Bay With Erin

Weather permitting, you can join certified yoga teacher Erin for a free, relaxing yoga session on the Bay at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. Bring a yoga mat and water and join friends as you are guided through a basic yet challenging yoga routine. These free classes are held regularly on Saturdays and then again on Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m., so check out the Facebook page for more information, https://www.facebook.com/events/2765013623757306.

January 30th: Fantasea Mercrown Making at Gypsea Soul

A mercrown is made from seashells, beads, pearls, sea glass, and other beautiful materials, and it makes a lovely accessory for any outfit. A mercrown is an especially thoughtful touch for weddings, anniversaries, and even Halloween costumes! If you’d like to make your own mercrown, check out the two-hour Fantasea mercrown making class with artist Lynn Dahm, held on January 30 at 1:00 p.m. This event is sure to be relaxing and is even BYOB friendly! To find out more, visit https://thegypseasoul.com/classes.

January 30: “Fill the Truck” Food Drive

If you’re looking for things to do this weekend in Sarasota that help give back to the community, check out the Mayor’s Feed the Hungry, Fill the Truck food drive on January 30th. Held in the Van Wezel’s parking lot from 9:00 a.m. until noon, the drive features a refrigerated truck at the ready, so you can donate both perishable and nonperishable items to help your neighbors in need. To find out more including a list of items you might donate, visit https://impact100srq.org/events/fill-the-truck-event/.

January 17 through February 14: Tidewell Hospice Linen Drive

More charitable weekend events in 2021 include the area’s linen drive, serving the needs of local hospices with fresh sheets and towels for in-home and assisted living facilities. Donations can be dropped off at any Tidwell Hospice facility; You can also donate online. For a list of facilities in your area, check out their website at https://tidewellfoundation.org/news/tidewell-foundation-linen-drive/

January 30th: Intro to Clay Class

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There are always lots of things to do in Sarasota with the kids, and on January 30, you might consider an Intro to Clay class for everyone in the family! Offered by the Sarasota Clay Company, this class is open to all ages and offers a simple, basic course that’s perfect for everyone no matter their artistic skills. The class runs from 11:00 a.m. to noon and is only $15 per person. To find out more and reserve your spot, visit https://www.sarasotaclaycompany.com/event/intro-to-clay-all-ages-kids-and-clay-hand-building-with-clay-ages-6-100/2021-01-30/.

January 30: Zumba on Siesta Key Beach (FREE; $5 Donation Recommended)

If you’re looking for more free things to do this weekend in Sarasota that keep you fit and healthy, check out Zumba on Siesta Key Beach. Hosted by Yael Campbell, this high-energy Zumba class lets you get in some much needed exercise while enjoying the great view on one of the country’s most stunning beaches. The class is free, although a $5 donation is recommended. To find out exactly where to park and meet for the class, check out the Facebook event posting at https://www.facebook.com/events/1053720645095132/.

January 30th: Movie on the Beach Featuring “Lego Batman” (FREE)

Hosted by the Siesta Key Chamber, the Siesta Public Beach will be hosting a showing of The Lego Batman Movie, a perfect choice for those looking for things to do in Sarasota with the kids! Seating begins at 5:30 p.m. and the movie starts at 6:30 p.m. Admission is free but the event is limited to the first 200 persons. To find out more including what’s allowed and prohibited on the beach, visit their website at https://my.siestakeychamber.com/events/details/family-movie-night-1584.

January 30th: David Julia at the Blue Rooster ($5 Cover Charge)

David Julia is quickly becoming recognized as one of the area’s leading blues guitarists and he will be performing at the Blue Rooster on January 30, from 8:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. There is only a $5 cover charge per person, and the Blue Rooster is known for its classic southern fare prepared with locally sourced ingredients. For an excellent evening of great food and entertainment, check out their website at https://blueroostersrq.com/event/david-julia-band.

January 31st: Rising Stars of Sarasota

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If you’re looking for great musical upcoming events in Sarasota and want to support local talent as well, check out the Rising Stars of Sarasota, held outdoors on January 31 at the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. This hour-long concert, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., allows young musicians to showcase their talent in front of a live audience while providing a show you’re sure to enjoy. To find out more including ticket prices, visit https://www.artistseriesconcerts.org/events/2021/2/25/suncoast-music-scholarship-winners.

January 31st: Sarasota Antique, Art, and Design Show

Held at the Sarasota Municipal Auditorium from 10 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., the Sarasota Antique, Art, and Design Show features some 40 dealers from across North America and Europe, offering unique furniture, paintings, sculptures, bronzes, and much more. Tickets are $8 and the show benefits the Designing Women charity, which provides funding for Sarasota’s arts and humanities organizations. To find out more, visit https://www.sarasotaartandantiques.com/.

January 31st: Drag Brunch at Oasis Restaurant

Join Oasis Restaurant for some brunch fun with bottomless mimosas and Drag Queens. There will be stellar performances. Showtime begins at 1:00PM and they’re asking people to show up 30 minutes prior. Please email gabrielle@oasis-srq.com with your party size once you purchase your tickets. For ticket information visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/drag-brunch-131-tickets-138352041681?aff=erelexpmlt

January 31st: Beach Market at Coquina Beach

This outdoor market is the perfect and possibly most beautiful way to end the weekend! Enjoy the beach while also strolling through the market and vendors. There is fresh produce, arts and crafts, jewelry, local artists, apparel, pottery, purses, health and beauty items, and live music. The Beach Market is from 10am – 4pm at 2650 Gulf Drive, S. Bradenton Beach at the trolley stop, concession stand area. Manatee County does not allow dogs within the park. The market is wheelchair and stroller accessible. Come and join the FUN! Visit the Facebook page for additional info https://www.facebook.com/BeachMarketAtCoquinaBeach/

Hope Everyone Has a Stellar Sarasota Weekend

If you found this short list of upcoming events in Sarasota helpful, please feel free to share it with friends and family on your social media pages. To ensure you enjoy your weekend plans, double-check availability, admission prices, and other vital information on the websites provided before heading out. As always, secure your belongings and wear comfortable shoes so you can enjoy your outings without distraction! Check back again for more things to do in Sarasota next weekend, and thanks again for reading.