Hopefully you’ll be recovered from your St. Patty’s Day celebrations enough to go out and enjoy some upcoming events in Sarasota this weekend, as there are lots of events in the city that you won’t want to miss! The warmer weather has also settled in, so it’s an excellent chance to get some fresh air and enjoy the great outdoors before the heat and humidity of summertime arrives.

As always, call or otherwise check ahead before making final plans, as there may still be unexpected closures and restrictions due to COVID-19 precautions, social distancing restrictions, and the like. You’ll also want to bring masks for everyone in the family for indoor events, so you stay safe and comfortable and nothing detracts from enjoying all these great Sarasota weekend events for 2021!

Friday March 19th thru Sunday March 21st: Sarasota County Fair

The Sarasota County Fair offers a full weekend of fun events for everyone in the family, and is always one of the best things to do in Sarasota with kids of all ages! Held on the Sarasota fairgrounds and running until the 28th, you can enjoy a number of carnival rides and games as well as all the food vendors you expect at the fair, for a full day of fun and excitement.

This year the Sarasota County Fair also offers its traditional petting zoo, where the kids can take camel rides or watch racing pigs and trained bears. In the Ken Clark building, you can check out the agriculture-related science fair, or head over to the Potter Building for the creative arts show.

As visitors might expect from the Sarasota fair, this year’s event also offers a wide range of live shows, including a swine show and auction, a steer show and auction, a plant show and sale, and a small animal exhibit, perfect for those looking for a new pet to take home! There will also be magic shows and live music for you to enjoy throughout the entire fair.

This year’s ticket prices are:

• adults ages 13 and up, $10 at the gate or $8 online
• children ages 6- 12, $6 at the gate or $4 online
• seniors ages 55 and up, $5.00
• military, $5.00
• children 5 and under, free

For directions, parking information, or to get online tickets, visit the website, https://www.sarasotafair.com/events/2021/wwwsarasotafaircom.

Saturday March 20th: March Clothing and Food Drive

This past year has been especially difficult for many people, and if you’re looking for a way to help your fellow Sarasota residents, the March Clothing and Food Drive is an excellent choice! Hosted by the Trinity United Methodist Church, organizers are accepting clothes, shelf-stable food items, and toiletries.

The drive is being held from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., although you can drop off items at the church office early, anytime before the 20th. You can also volunteer to help accept and then sort donations, or donate cash rather than material items. To find out more, visit the website at https://stayhappening.com/e/march-food-and-clothing-drive-E2ISTH7LG2S.

Saturday March 20th: Spring Markets at UTC

The Spring Markets are back at the University Town Center mall, offering a range of handcrafted items from vendors all over the state. This year’s spring market will include handmade jewelry, crafts, snacks and homemade goods, and much more.

The Spring Market is free to attend and pets are allowed in the market but not in the mall. If you need direction or are interested in becoming a vendor, check out the Facebook events page at https://www.facebook.com/events/715624639065378/.

Saturday March 20th: Screening of “City Lights” for the 90th Anniversary at Burns Court Cinema

When planning some things to do this weekend in Sarasota, why not support your local cinemas? “City Lights” is considered a masterpiece Charlie Chaplin film, featuring his iconic Tramp character who falls in love with a blind girl. The film is being brought back to the screen by the Sarasota Film Society for this special event at the Burns Court Cinema.

There will be 7 screenings of the film this weekend, so you’re sure to find a time that works for you. Tickets are $15 each or 2 for $25. To find out more, visit their Facebook events page at https://www.facebook.com/events/176517394076892/.

Saturday March 20th: Le Marche Bohemian Parisian-Inspired Outdoor Marketplace

If you love vintage or one-of-a-kind merchandise, and are looking for things to do in downtown Sarasota this weekend, check out the Le Marche Bohemian Persian-Inspired Outdoor Marketplace on Saturday! Held at Five Points Park, this outdoor market will feature a number of vendors offering a wide array of items including wall hangings, repurposed furniture, handmade clothing and jewelry, and much more.

Bohemian chic is a favorite style choice for many people, especially in Florida where living is casual and comfortable! If you’re shopping for yourself or need a gift, this is a can’t-miss event. The market opens at 10 a.m. and closes at 5:00 p.m. so be sure to arrive early and secure a parking spot and get first dibs on some amazing Parisian-themed items. To find out more, visit the Facebook events page at https://www.facebook.com/events/410756650206038/.

Saturday March 20th: U-Pick Season for Blueberries Begins at Albritton Fruit Farms

If you’re looking for healthy things to do this weekend in Sarasota, there is nothing better than getting some exercise and fresh air while also stocking up on freshly picked blueberries! The 2021 U-pick season for blueberries begins this Saturday at Albritton Fruit Farms, on State Road 72 in Sarasota.

The farm provides the buckets you need for picking and bags for taking your fruit home, at only $5.50 per pound. Hours of operation are 9:00 a.m. to 2 p.m. To find out more, visit the farm’s website at https://www.albrittonfruitfarms.com/.

Sunday March 21st: Gospel Brunch with Truality

***Be sure to call ahead and reserve your table. 

Truality is back at the Blue Rooster for their signature Gospel Brunch performing live gospel music both traditional and contemporary from 11:30-2:30 on Sunday. Enjoy a refreshing brunch menu by the Blue Rooster for adults and kids alike including Southern comfort foods. (Not to mention mimosas and delightful brunch cocktails!) 

https://blueroostersrq.com/event/gospel-buffet-brunch-with-truality

Sunday March 21st: Dock Yoga at Marina Jacks

There are more fitness and active things to do this weekend in Sarasota, including dock yoga at Marina Jacks. This gentle, slow motion yoga class allows you to stretch while facing the Sarasota Bay, for an inspiring view you’re sure to love. You can also support the restaurant by staying for brunch afterwards!

Preregistration is required and tickets are $25 each. Space is limited, to support proper social distancing. It’s also required that you bring your own mat, towel, water, and other equipment. To find out more including directions and how to register, visit their Facebook events page at https://www.facebook.com/events/637520056952203/.

Hopefully this quick list of upcoming events in Sarasota gives you lots of ideas for how to spend your weekend. If you found it helpful, please share on social media and with family and friends. As always, stay safe no matter your plans and come back again next week, for another short guide of great things to do in this beautiful Florida city!