Sarasota Weekend of September 17th to 19th

Are you looking for some upcoming events and things to do in Sarasota to enjoy this weekend, either by yourself or with the entire family? The heat and humidity are finally lifting slightly throughout the state, making it an excellent time to get back outdoors and enjoy some great shows, outdoor entertainment, and more!
If you’re looking to spend time at the beach when you’re not enjoying other Sarasota events for 2021, remember to check red tide warnings before heading out. That way you can ensure nothing gets in the way of enjoying all these great things to do this weekend in Sarasota!
Friday, September 17th: Food Truck Friday
There’s no better way to enjoy the outdoors and some great eats while also supporting local small businesses than with Food Truck Friday! Held at the Bay Preserve in Osprey at Little Sarasota Bay, this week’s event features Killik’s Kitchen, specializing in modern Asian-Hawaiian fare you’re sure to love.
Also available for the event will be Zo’s Snow-ballz, with cool and tasty snow cones and other frosty treats for everyone. The gathering is picnic style, so bring your own chairs and blankets and other accessories as needed. You can also visit the event page and follow the links for both food providers if you want a sneak peek of their menu:
https://www.conservationfoundation.com/events/detail/2021/09/17/september-food-truck-friday-night/
Saturday, September 18th: Sarasota Arts LIVE
The Sarasota Arts LIVE event is a chance for local artists to mix and mingle, and for art lovers to enjoy amazing creations in real-time! Held at the main stage of St. Armand’s Circle, this event allows artists to paint, perform, and otherwise create while visitors go from quadrant to quadrant, enjoying the shows and some interactive exhibits.
The event runs from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information including directions and a link to the venue’s Facebook page, visit:
https://www.visitsarasota.com/sarasota-arts-live
Saturday, September 18th: Limelight Market
If you’re looking for even more artistic things to do this weekend in Sarasota, be sure to check out the Limelight Market, this Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the courtyard of The Bazaar on Apricot & Lime. The Limelight Market features a wide array of vendors, including local artisans, pet rescues, homemade pastries and other food items, and lots more.
The Market is free to attend and visitors are requested to use masks when browsing. For more information including a map and directions to the event, visit the webpage:
https://www.visitsarasota.com/limelight-market-2
Saturday-Sunday, September 18th-19th: 50% Off Mote Aquarium
The Mote Aquarium is offering half-off admission prices this weekend, to encourage everyone to enjoy their collection of stunning marine life and their habitats. To get your discount, you must buy tickets online and use the promo code HALF during checkout. To find out more and to purchase your tickets, visit:
https://sarasotaarts.org/calendar/mote-aquarium-half-off-weekends/2021-09-19/
Saturday, September 19th: Manatee Pride Festival
Show your pride or support for the LGBTQ community this weekend at the Manatee Pride Festival. This festival and fundraiser supports gay and trans youths in Manatee county, and offers food, music, and other fun for everyone in the family.
The festival will also showcase local craft vendors so you can stock up on handmade artwork for the home, as well as unique jewelry and other items. To find out more about the event, visit:
Saturday, September 18th: Laughter Yoga In the Park
There are always lots of fitness-related things to do in Sarasota, and this weekend you can try out Laughter Yoga at Centennial Park. Laughter yoga is a great aerobic exercise sure to burn off some calories and get your heart pumping.
Unlike standard yoga, there is no need to bring a mat and other accessories. The event runs from 10 to 10:30 a.m. To find out more, visit:
Saturday, September 18th: Venice Farmers Market
The Venice Farmers Market is an excellent spot for anyone looking to stock up on homemade foodstuffs as well as locally created art and craft items. You can pick up some fresh meat, produce, artisanal bread, pastries, and more at the farmer’s market this weekend, so be sure to arrive hungry!
The market is open from 8 a.m. until noon and is free to attend. Masks are requested. To find out more including a map and directions, visit:
https://www.facebook.com/events/178560780835776
Saturday, September 18th: Music & Food Truck Festival
If you’re looking for things to do in Sarasota with the kids and love events with food trucks that everyone in the family can enjoy, check out the Music & Food Truck Festival this Saturday. This family-friendly festival will feature music by The Andy Pursell Band as well as a dunk tank, corn hole tournaments, face painting booths, and more!
The event will be held at the Sarasota Farm Bureau Pavilion on Palmer Boulevard in Sarasota, starting at 4:30 p.m. To find out more, visit the sponsor page at:
Sunday, September 19th: Ballet Aladdin
If you need some upcoming events in Sarasota for a special date or something classic the kids will love, there is no better choice than Ballet Aladdin, this Sunday the 19th at the Sarasota Opera House. There are two performances scheduled, at 1 p.m. and again at 5 p.m.
Presented by the School of Russian Ballet, this show offers stunning costuming and dance routines that are sure to please. Tickets are $20 and up and are available in advance. For more information and a link to purchase your tickets, visit:
https://www.visitsarasota.com/ballet-aladdin
Hopefully this list of upcoming events in Sarasota has given you some great ideas on what to do this weekend! As always, be sure to call or check a website before heading out, as some businesses and in-person events are still experiencing COVID-19 shutdowns, limited capacity, and the like.
It’s also recommended that you always purchase tickets in advance for any event collecting admissions, to ensure your spot and so you know the show won’t be sold out. If you found this list helpful, don’t hesitate to share it with family and friends and on social media. Come back next week for even more great things to do in Sarasota, FL. You’re sure to love the beautiful city of SRQ!