Sarasota Weekend of December 3rd to 5th
It’s hard to believe that December is already upon us, but there are still lots of great upcoming events in Sarasota you can enjoy even as the year winds down. Of course, December also means the official start of the Christmas season, and you can get yourself and the family in the mood for the holiday with many of these weekend events for 2021!
As you browse this list and prepare your weekend plans, remember to dress in layers for outdoor events especially. The temperature in Sarasota is expected to dip to the mid 70s for Friday and Saturday before hitting a comfortable 80 degrees again on Sunday, so having a jacket or extra shirt is vital for everyone. You don’t want the cold to detract from your enjoyment of any of these things to do this weekend in Sarasota!
Friday-Sunday, December 3rd-5th: Siesta Key Seafood & Music Festival
There is no better way to enjoy the weekend than with live music and fresh seafood! This weekend you can enjoy both at the Siesta Key Seafood & Music Festival, running Friday through Sunday, December 3rd through the 5th.
This festival features a wide range of musical performances including Gas House Gorillas, Shaw Davis, and more. Seafood will be cooked on site, and there will also be alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks for purchase.
You can also browse a number of vendors offering everything from crafts to jewelry and items for the home! For more information including directions to the event location, visit:
http://www.seafoodfestivals.com/S-28-Siesta+Beach+Seafood+%26+Music+Festival.html
Friday-Sunday, December 3rd-5th: Bradenton Blues Festival 2021
If you love blues music, you won’t want to miss the Bradenton Blues Festival this weekend at LECOM Park. The festival runs from noon to 10 p.m. all three days and features a lineup of some of the best blues performers in the area.
There will also be a great selection of craft beer and wine, freshly made soul food, and lots of merchandise to purchase and take home. There is an admission price for the festival all three days, and ticket prices vary according to the day of performance and seating. To find out more and to get your tickets in advance, visit:
https://www.bradentongulfislands.com/events/2371/bradenton-blues-festival-2021
Sunday, December 5th: Sarasota Veg Fest
If you’re trying to eat healthier and incorporate more plant-based foods in your diet, you’ll find everything you need to get started at this weekend’s Sarasota Veg Fest. The festival features a wealth of information on plant-based alternatives to many favorite dishes as well as how to source locally grown plant-based food items.
Along with expert speakers there will be cooking demonstrations, vendors, and even animal rescues. You’ll also enjoy some entertainment and other activities perfect for the entire family! For more information, visit the website:
Saturday, December 4th: Sarasota Holiday parade
If you need things to do in Sarasota with kids this weekend, you can’t go wrong with a holiday parade! This Saturday, December 4th, you can enjoy the Sarasota Holiday Parade starting at 7 p.m. The parade begins on Main Street and U.S. Hwy. 301, and ends at J.D. Hamel Park.
Every year the parade features a variety of participants and displays, including fire trucks, floats, live performers, and more. To find out more and browse a list of street closures in preparation for the event, visit the website:
Saturday, December 4th: Bradenton Beach Holiday Boat Parade
There are lots of great things to do in Sarasota at night, and this weekend you can enjoy a stunning boat parade in nearby Bradenton, sure to get you in the holiday spirit! The parade runs along the Intercoastal Waterway and is free to attend and for participants on the water.
Organizers encourage boat owners to be in place and ready to sail at 6 p.m., gathering around the south end of Jewfish Key. The parade eventually ends at the Bradenton Marina.
Every year there are typically dozens of boats, fully decorated in the best holiday lighting displays, you can enjoy from the shores. To find out more including the best places to park and see the parade, visit the Facebook events page:
https://www.facebook.com/events/4389314854484622
Saturday, December 4th: Toy Drive & Breakfast
There’s no better way to celebrate the season than with this year’s Toy Drive & Breakfast, hosted by SRQ Veterans and Goodwill. A $10 suggested donation or new, unwrapped toy gets you a hot breakfast at this year’s drive, benefiting the Marines Toys for Tots program.
The event is held at the VFW post on Tuttle Avenue and begins at 9 a.m. If you wish to have your breakfast in person, you can enjoy a visit from Santa and great fellowship. A drive-through breakfast option is also being offered. To find out more, visit:
https://allevents.in/sarasota/3rd-annual-toy-drive-and-breakfast/200021889869122
Saturday, December 4th: Pop-Up Hanukkah Party and Toy Drive at UTC
Christmas is not the only holiday celebrated this month! You can celebrate Hanukkah with Temple Emanu-El and Community Day School at a popup party and toy drive, Saturday the 4th from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., at University Town Center.
This event will feature all your Hanukkah favorites including chocolate gelt, donuts, latkes, and more. There will also be lots of entertainment on hand including storytime and activities for the kids. It’s encouraged that you bring a new, unwrapped toy for the Boys and Girls Club of DeSoto Counties. For more information, visit:
Saturday, December 4th: Palmetto Kris Kringle Market
In the tradition of open-air European markets that have been popular around this time of year, you can visit the Kris Kringle Market in nearby Palmetto this weekend! At this market you can find one-of-a-kind holiday items including handmade wreaths and decorations, as well as jewelry and home décor.
The market will be open this Saturday the 4th from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and be sure to bring CASH as vendors won’t be accepting cards. To find out more including directions to the market, visit the Facebook events page:
https://www.facebook.com/events/172592421574375
Has this quick list given you some great ideas for upcoming events in Sarasota you want to check out? If so, be sure to share it with friends and family and post it on your social media pages, so everyone can also make their weekend plans! Be sure to come back next week for even more great events you can enjoy in and around the beautiful city of Sarasota.
