Sarasota Weekend of November 19th to 21st
You’ve got plenty of choices for upcoming events in Sarasota this weekend, which you don’t want to miss. After all, this is the last weekend before the Thanksgiving holiday, and the start of Christmas shopping season! For many families, that means the last weekend to relax before the rush of holiday planning begins.
The cooler weather also means it’s a great chance to get outdoors and enjoy some relaxing things to do this weekend in Sarasota, without worrying about excessive sun exposure or too much heat. Check out a quick list of things you can enjoy in and around the city of Sarasota this weekend, so you can make your plans before it’s too late!
Friday and Saturday, November 19th-20th: Gazebo Concert Music of the 60s
Musician Kim Jenkins is providing a free outdoor concert this weekend, featuring music of the 60s and beyond. Held in Centennial Park in nearby Venice, the show starts at 5:00 p.m. and 6:30 on Saturday.
Guests should bring their own chairs, blankets, and other such items. For more information including a map to the park, visit:
Saturday and Sunday, November 20th-21st: Holiday Gift Markets at UTC
If you’re eager to get a jumpstart on your holiday shopping, there is no better chance than at the Holiday Gifts Market at the Mall at University Town Center this weekend. You can shop from more than 70 local crafters featuring everything from handmade jewelry to artwork and more.
There will also be several food trucks on hand both days, so you can relax and shop in full comfort! Saturday hours are 1 to 9 p.m., and Sunday the shops are open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fireworks start at 9 p.m. on Saturday, so don’t leave early! For more information, visit the Facebook events page:
https://www.facebook.com/events/626603011643046/
Saturday and Sunday, November 20th-21st: Sarasota Fine Arts Festival
If you’re an art lover looking for weekend events in 2021, you must check out the Sarasota Fine Arts Festival! Held at JD Hamel Park this Saturday and Sunday, the 20th and 21st, the festival features a wide range of artists from all over the state.
At the festival, you can browse handmade jewelry, paintings, ceramics, photography, glass, and more. The festival runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days and is free to attend. To find out more including directions to the park, check out the website:
https://www.sarasotafl.gov/Home/Components/Calendar/Event/13938/18?curm=11&cury=2021
Saturday, November 20th: Santa’s Grand Arrival & Fireworks
If you’re like many people, you might find it hard to believe that it’s actually time to get ready for a visit from Santa! This weekend you can join others for Santa’s Grand Arrival and Fireworks at the University Town Center mall in Sarasota.
This weekend’s festival will feature a holiday lights display, a parade with lighted floats, live music, and more. The festival runs from 6 to 9 p.m., and the parade should end at approximately 7:30. After that, the fireworks begin! For more information including a map to the mall, visit the Facebook events page:
https://www.facebook.com/events/2939344209649521/
Saturday, November 20th: Sunrise Yoga at the Sarasota Farmers Market
If you’re looking for things to do this weekend in Sarasota to get your blood flowing and get you into shape, check out Sunrise Yoga at the Sarasota Farmers Market this Saturday. Starting at 7 a.m. and running for about 45 minutes, this is a simple yet challenging class that anyone can join and follow along easily.
The class is held at Paul Thorpe Park at the south end of the farmers market and is hosted by Pineapple Yoga studio. Participants should bring their own mat, water, towel, and other accessories. The event is free and everyone is welcome, no matter your fitness levels. To find out more, check out the Facebook events page:
https://www.facebook.com/events/329719158844184/
Sunday, November 21st: Lakewood Ranch Farmers Market
There is no better way to wind down your weekend events in 2021 than by visiting a farmers market, so that you can stock up on delicious, healthy foods for the holidays! The Lakewood Ranch Farmers Market, held every Sunday through the first of next year, features over 70 local vendors you’re sure to love. You can browse locally grown produce and harvested honey, baked goods, fresh bread, specialty spice combinations, handmade jewelry, and more.
The market is only open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. so you’ll want to come early and ensure you don’t miss out on some amazing treats! Held at Waterside Place at Lakewood Ranch, you can also enjoy nearby hiking trails and other outdoor attractions. For a map and other vital info, check out the Facebook events page:
https://www.facebook.com/events/421285292718375/
Friday-Sunday (Running until January 2nd): Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story
The Buddy Holly Story is a timeless classic! This true life story tells about the legendary rocker whose life was tragically cut short in a plane crash that also claimed the lives of Ritchie Valens and The Big Bopper. Holly is most remembered for such hits as Peggy Sue, That’ll Be the Day, and Oh Boy.
Starting this weekend and running until January, you can enjoy a great rendition of all of Holly’s hits in Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story, at The Florida Studio Theatre. This live performance is sure to get your toes tapping and bring back fond memories for anyone missing these iconic performers! Performance times and ticket prices vary, so check out the Facebook events page for more information and a link to get your tickets in advance:
https://www.facebook.com/events/546041586712527/
Did you find some great upcoming events in Sarasota for yourself and everyone in the family? If so, please share this list on social media, so others can make their weekend plans as well!
As always, check ahead of time before going out in case of unexpected closures, sold out shows, and the like. It’s still recommended that you bring masks for indoor events and practice social distancing as much as possible. Come back next week for more great events you can enjoy in the beautiful city of Sarasota, Florida!
