Are you searching for things to do this weekend in Sarasota? Despite the heavy rains and high temperatures that are typical for July in Florida, residents and visitors alike can still enjoy the city’s many attractions and some fine entertainment this weekend!

Check out this quick list of upcoming events in Sarasota, for yourself or everyone in the family. As always, check ahead for unexpected closures and bring masks for indoor events.

It’s also vital to ensure you’re hydrated and protected from heat and sun exposure when enjoying any outdoor activities this summer, especially during the day. These simple steps will keep you safe so that nothing interferes with enjoying any Sarasota weekend events in 2021!

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Saturday-Sunday July 17th-18th: Mobile Blood Drive

There is no better way to kick off the weekend than by participating in a blood drive! Blood transfusions are used to treat those with anemia, severe burns, and other chronic and emergency conditions, and are often needed during routine surgical procedures.

This weekend you can become a donor at Pier 22 restaurant in Sarasota, a spot known for offering views of the water that are as amazing as their menu! Donors receive a $10 Pier 22 gift card as well as 10% off their order that day, and a quick wellness check during their visit. To find out more, check out their Facebook events page:

https://www.facebook.com/events/133345101846744/

Saturday July 17th: Cornhole & Cocktails Festival

Held in nearby Bradenton, the Cornhole & Cocktails Festival is an excellent chance to enjoy a friendly game of cornhole along with some great cocktails and appetizers. Area restaurants will be offering samples of their menu, and you can also enjoy regular raffles, live music, and more!

Held at the Manatee Fairgrounds, the event kicks off at 3 p.m. and tickets are just $35. For more information or to get your tickets in advance, visit the Eventbrite page at:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/cornhole-and-cocktails-festival-2021-tickets-142153193027

Saturday July 17th: Fit & Fun Bootcamp

If you’re searching for things to do this weekend that will get your heart pumping and get you back into shape, check out the Fit & Fun Bootcamp being held this Saturday, July 17th, at Nathan Benderson Park. Led by Coach Maddy of Mad Fit Coaching and Becky the Ripped Realtor, this class is sure to help kickstart your weight loss and fitness goals.

The bootcamp runs from 9 to 10 a.m. and is FREE to join. Be sure to dress properly for class and bring your own towel, water, and other supplies, and arrive early to sign a waiver. For more information, visit their Facebook events page at:

https://www.facebook.com/events/142113388013396/

Saturday July 18th: Yoga by the Bay with Erin

If a rousing bootcamp isn’t quite your style, you might check out Yoga By the Bay With Erin, this Saturday the 18th, starting at 9 a.m. Erin’s yoga classes are tailored to ensure anyone can follow no matter your fitness levels and even if you’re new to a yoga routine.

The class is held outside the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. Participants are asked to bring their own towel, mat, water, yoga blocks, and other accessories. It’s also vital that you check weather reports ahead of time, as this outdoor event is always held “weather permitting”! For more information, visit their Facebook events page:

https://www.facebook.com/events/886910915372517/

Friday-Sunday July 16th-18th: Bradenton Boat Show

No list of Sarasota events in 2021 is complete without a boat show! This weekend you can enjoy a great showcase of boats and other watercraft at the Bradenton Boat Show, held at the Bradenton Area Convention Center.

The Bradenton Boat Show usually counts anywhere from 100 to 500 exhibitors so you’re sure to find everything you need for enjoying your time on the water including fishing gear, apparel, and much more. For more information, check out their website:

https://10times.com/boat-show-palmetto

Sunday July 18th: Three Man Tribute to Michael Buble

If you love music and are looking for things to do this weekend in Sarasota, check out Shades of Buble: A Three Man Tribute to Michael Buble, Sunday the 18th at the Florida Studio Theater. Showtimes are 2:00 to 3:30 p.m. and then again at 7:30 to 9:00 p.m.

This high-energy concert event is an excellent choice for anyone and the evening show is excellent if you need a special date night idea or things to do in Sarasota at night! For more information and to get your tickets in advance, visit:

https://sarasotaarts.org/calendar/shades-of-buble-a-three-man-tribute-to-michael-buble/2021-07-18/

Sunday July 18th: Great Balls of Fire

Fans of Jerry Lee Lewis, the original bad boy of classic rock, will love seeing the tribute performance Great Balls of Fire this Sunday the 18th. The show is led by Jason Cohen and features many classic Lewis hits including “Good Golly Miss Molly” and “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On.”

Showtime is 2:00 to 3:30 p.m. and tickets are $36 to $39. To find out more or to get your tickets in advance, visit the website:

https://sarasotaarts.org/calendar/great-balls-of-fire/2021-07-18/

Red Tide Alert!

If your personal list of things to do this weekend in Sarasota includes quality time at the beach, it’s vital that you check red tide alerts first, before heading out! Red tide refers to an overabundance of various algal blooms in the water; exposure to red tide often kills fish and causes respiratory irritation and other health concerns in humans.

Hurricane Else may have pushed various algae toward Florida’s shores, and red tide has been spotted along area bays. Fish kills, a sign of red tide, have already been seen in Longboat Pass and Siesta Beach.

Since red tide warnings can fluctuate over time, it’s vital you check local conditions before heading out. Sarasota Magazine recently ran an article about red tide and includes a list of local agencies that monitor alerts; visit the article and scroll to the bottom for helpful links to check before you decide if a beach visit is safe this weekend:

https://www.sarasotamagazine.com/news-and-profiles/2021/07/red-tide-sarasota-manatee-july-2021

Hopefully this list has offered some ideas for fun things to do this weekend in Sarasota! If you found it helpful, be sure to share with family and friends and on social media. As always, check back next week on Sarasota Local Blogger for even more great suggestions for what to do on the weekend in Sarasota, and be sure to stay safe no matter your plans.