Weekend of February 12th to 14th – Let’s Celebrate Valentine’s Day Sarasota!
Valentine’s Day weekend is upon us! If that reminder sends chills down your back, not because you’re excited to spend the day with your special someone but because you forgot to make plans, don’t worry! There is much to see and do this weekend in Sarasota and surrounding cities, including opportunities to meet someone special or spend the day with friends and family if you prefer.
As always, check ahead for weather-related and COVID-19 closures or restrictions, and bring masks for everyone especially for indoor events. Here’s hoping everyone enjoys a very memorable Valentine’s Day this year!
February 12th-14th: Sarasota Native American Art & Music Festival
Held at the Sarasota Fairgrounds, the Sarasota Native American Festival celebrates the history, culture, and art of Native American peoples. Red Boys are the guest drummers this year, and Lowery Begay of the Navajo nation will be the featured dancer.
The festival will also feature many other drummers, musicians, dancers, and storytellers for those interested in learning about and enjoying Native American culture firsthand. Ticket prices vary by age and time of admission, so be sure to visit their website for all the information you need, https://www.visitsarasota.com/sarasota-native-american-art-music-festival.
February 13th-14th: 33rd Annual Downtown Sarasota Festival of the Arts
If an art festival sounds like a great way to spend Valentine’s Day, or any day for that matter, be sure to check out the 3rd Annual Downtown Sarasota Festival of the Arts. The festival is held on Main Street for the entire weekend, with free admission and plenty of exhibits and artists on hand!
Sunshine Artist Magazine has ranked the Sarasota festival as one of the top 100 in the country, and you can find one-of-a-kind photography, painting, jewelry, and much more there. For more information including required safety measures, visit http://www.artfestival.com/festivals/downtown-sarasota-festival-arts.
February 13th: Swipe Right Singles Event
It wouldn’t be Valentine’s Day weekend without a singles event! This year’s Swipe Right Singles Event is sure to please, with complimentary champagne, 50% off admission for ladies, and a full four hours to meet and greet other singles in the area.
The event will also feature live music and raffles, so whether you’re looking to meet that special someone or just want to find some new friends, be sure to check it out! The event will be held at the Sarasota Modern Hotel on Boulevard of the Arts, from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. For more info, visit their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/events/256858462469308/.
February 13th: French Baking Class
Local grocery chain Publix is known for offering some amazing classes from their stores, and this weekend you can enjoy a French baking class at their Sarasota location, perfect for Valentine’s Day weekend! The class is scheduled to start at 11:00 a.m. and should run about 3 to 4 hours.
During class, you’ll learn to make an almond tart, quiche, and lovely croissants, plus a few other favorite recipes. To find out admission prices, location, and requirements, visit their website at https://stayhappening.com/e/french-baking-workshop-E3LUS252VU8B.
February 13th: Beer Run with Big Top Brewing
If you prefer to stay active no matter the weekend, check out the Beer Run with Big Top Brewing this Saturday! This 5K run starts and ends at the city’s popular taproom, with a cold beer waiting for you whenever you cross the finish line.
There is no pressure to finish this course before any given time and runners can choose just about any course they wish to follow. Whatever your pace, you take home a pint glass from the run and know that a large portion of your entry fee has gone to support some great local charities. To find out more including ticket prices, visit https://www.rswliving.com/events/197801/beer-run-big-top-brewing-co-2020-2021-florida-brewery-running-series.
February 13th: Music at Harts Landing
Harts Landing is an excellent spot to enjoy and support local musicians, and this weekend is no exception. Check out some tunes from Kara Nally & Kaleidogroove, making their debut at Harts Landing on Saturday the 13th. For more information including cover charge and directions, visit their Facebook event page at https://www.facebook.com/events/3980720505293160/.
February 14th: Beer, Cheese, and Chocolate Pairing with Jim K.
Jim K. is about to make a lot of Sarasotians very happy. Who doesn’t like beer, cheese, and chocolate? The three go together so well! Plus, you can surprise your partner with your sensual side and feed them the cheese and chocolate. Can I get a “rawr”?
The event takes place in a low-key brewery called Brew Life Brewing (think dim lights for extra romantic ambiance), so there won’t be any large crowds to deal with or noisy atmospheres. There were a limited number of spots open for this event, so make sure to secure your seat now while you still have a chance. You get three cheese, two chocolates, and 5-6 oz. Beers to try. The event costs $35 for one person or $60 for couples. Takes place 3:00pm-6:00pm.
If your other half is into small, intimate gatherings with a casual atmosphere, this beer, cheese, and chocolate extravaganza will totally make their heart melt.
February 14th: Marriage Vow Renewal
There is no more romantic way to spend Valentine’s Day with your spouse than by renewing your marriage vows! Held at Siesta Key Beach at sunset, this nondenominational ceremony is an excellent choice for all couples, young and old.
You can also visit the event and watch other couples renew their vows, and join in wishing them many more happy years together. To find out more, visit https://www.mustdo.com/events/valentines-day-siesta-key-beach-renewal-of-marriage-vows/.
February 14th: The Vintage Flea at Ginny’s & Jane E’s
The lovely owners of The Vintage Flea at Ginny’s & Jane E’s would like you to know that masks are REQUIRED and they have moved locations! They are located at 101 N. Bay Blvd. AND Pine Ave., “City Pier Park” on Historic Anna Maria Island, Florida. Across From the newly remodeled city pier! According to their facebook page, “The flea market is expecting over two dozen vendors featuring items ranging from vintage, antiques and art to coastal, repurposed, nauticals, jewelry and collectibles.” Join them this Sunday for a special Valentine’s Day flea market! Hours are 8:00am-4:00pm. Get out this weekend in Sarasota and enjoy!
https://www.facebook.com/TheVintageFleaAtGinnysAndJaneEs/
February 14th: Valentine’s Day Stroll on Siesta Key
If you’d prefer something a bit more low-key than a vow renewal, consider a Valentine’s Day stroll on Siesta Key with your special someone, or just with family and friends. More than just a casual walk on the beach, this weekend local businesses will be set up along the shoreline, offering specialty products and other promotional items.
This weekend, you can enjoy some sweet treats or check out local sales while also watching the water and setting sun during this relaxing event. To find out more, including how to register if your business would like to get involved, visit https://my.siestakeychamber.com/events/details/siesta-key-valentine-s-day-stroll-1605.
February 14th: Dance Circle
For a bit of fun, visit the weekly Dance Circle on Siesta Key Beach. Starting on Sunday at 4:30 p.m., the circle features lots of music perfect for dancing, including salsa, cha-cha, and much more. There is plenty of room for couples and singles, so don’t worry if you’re without a special someone this year!
Organizers encourage you to bring water or other refreshments, as you’re sure to work up a sweat! For more information including what to bring and what to leave at home, visit their Facebook event page at https://www.facebook.com/events/242864954011479/.
Thank you for checking out this list of Valentine’s Day Weekend activities you might enjoy in Sarasota and surrounding areas. If you found it helpful, please be sure to share it on social media and with family and friends. As always, check back next week for even more fun sights and sounds to experience in Sarasota, and here’s hoping you make this weekend one to always remember!
