Are you searching for some great upcoming events in Sarasota this weekend? The city’s warm weather and longer days make it an excellent time to get outdoors and have some fun! Check out this quick list of things to do this weekend in Sarasota, for yourself or the entire family. Ensure you check ahead for unforeseen closures or overbooking, so nothing gets in the way of your weekend plans.

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Until January 23rd: Manatee County Fair

If you need things to do in Sarasota with the kids, check out the Manatee County Fair! This year’s fair, as always, offers a wealth of attractions for everyone. Along with amusement park rides, you can check out some circus acts or join their whip popping contest, among other events.

The Wolves of the World show is also a favorite crowd pleaser. The county fair also has lots of livestock shows and sales, if you’re in the market for new cattle. There will also be arts and crafts booths you can browse, just in time for Valentine’s Day.

The county fairgrounds are in nearby Palmetto. For a map to the venue and of the fairgrounds, as well as daily hours and other info, visit:

https://www.manateecountyfair.com/

Saturday, January 22nd: Celebrate Lakewood Ranch

You’re invited to celebrate Lakewood Ranch’s contributions to the community this weekend! This family-friendly event is free and open to the public. You can pet a baby alligator, get a snack from the food trucks, or watch a rescue dog demonstration.

The day’s activities also include a hands-only CPR demonstration and family safety tips. There will also be a bloodmobile on hand! To find out more, visit the Eventbrite site at:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/lwr-cert-presents-celebrate-lakewood-ranch-tickets-220206943897

Saturday, January 22nd: Volunteer Day at Limelight Garden

There is no better way to spend the weekend than by giving back to your community! This Saturday you can help create and manage a community plot at the Limelight Garden, on Apricot Avenue. Volunteers are needed to help plant, weed, and otherwise keep up the space.

Organizers appreciate an RSVP so they know how many donuts to provide their guests! Volunteers are also encouraged to wear closed-toe shoes and other appropriate clothing, and sunscreen. If you have gardening tools, please bring them; otherwise, equipment is provided.

The event runs every second and fourth Saturday, from 8 to 11 a.m. To find out more, visit the Eventbrite page at:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/limelight-community-garden-volunteer-days-tickets-189741912167

Saturday, January 22nd: Zumba at NBP

If you need some fitness related weekend events for 2022, check out Zumba at Nathan Benderson Park! Zumba is a great chance to get your toes tapping and your body moving. This outdoor class is also an excellent chance to enjoy some fresh air while burning calories!

The class runs from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. and is just $5 per participant. Bring your own towel, water, and other accessories. For more information including where to meet in the park, check out the website:

​​https://nathanbendersonpark.org/event/zumba/

Saturday January 22nd: Guided Birdwatching at Celery Fields

If you love birdwatching but think you might be missing out on something when you go it alone, this event is for you. Guided birdwatching ensures you don’t miss any feathered friends when on the trail. You can also learn more about the birds you see when you watch with an expert.

This Saturday’s guided birdwatching at Celery Fields starts at 8:00 a.m. Participants should meet in the nature center. There is a $4 suggested donation per participant. To find out more, visit the website:

https://www.visitsarasota.com/sarasota-audubon-society-guided-walks-celery-fields-fourth-saturdays

Friday-Saturday, January 21st-22nd: Pops Revolutions: Music of the Beatles

Check out this symphonic tribute to the Fab Four, an excellent choice for Beatles lovers everywhere! You can enjoy everyone’s favorite hits including Yesterday, Hey Jude, Got to Get You Into My Life, and more.

The show is held at Van Wezel Hall, and showtimes and tickets vary. To find out admission prices and to get your tickets in advance, visit the website:

https://www.sarasotaorchestra.org/concerts/pops/music-of-the-beatles

Friday-Sunday, January 21st-23rd: Englewood Seafood & Music Festival

There is probably no better way to enjoy the weather and all things Sarasota than with a seafood and music festival! This weekend’s Englewood Seafood Festival will bring good eats and some great beats to the Englewood Shopping Plaza, Friday through Sunday. Admission is free, and vendors will be featuring a wide range of seafood and vegetarian options.

The festival runs from 4 to 10 p.m. on Friday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday. For more information including a current list of performers, check out:

https://www.visitsarasota.com/englewood-seafood-music-festival-jan-21-23-2022

Friday-Sunday, January 21st-23rd: Sarasota Bradenton Home Show

There’s no better time than now to plan a stunning renovation for your home! Whether your property needs major repairs or just a quick facelift, you can find a wealth of inspiration and ideas at this weekend’s Sarasota Bradenton Spring Home Show.

Held on the Sarasota Fairgrounds, this weekend’s show features a wide range of exhibitors. You’re sure to find everything you need for your plans, from windows to appliances and much more. There will also be lots of design ideas and experts on hand, eager to answer all your questions.

The show runs from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Online passes are free, or $10 at the door. To find out more including directions to the venue, visit:

https://www.homeshowflorida.com/

Friday & Saturday, January 21-22nd: Blue Rooster; Rusty Wright Band & Big Night Out

For folks looking for things to do in Sarasota at night, check out the Blue Rooster this weekend. The Blue Rooster is known for its comfort food as well as its awesome lineup of great bands, and this weekend’s shows are no exception.

Friday you can check out Rusty Wright and his band, offering a wealth of blues you’re sure to love. On Saturday, it’s time for Big Night Out, a 7-piece tropical band that is bound to get your toes tapping. Both shows run from 8 to 11 p.m., with a $10 admission fee. To find out more, check out the sites:

Friday: https://blueroostersrq.com/event/rusty-wright-band-5

Saturday: https://blueroostersrq.com/event/big-night-out-8

Hopefully this list has given you some great ideas for upcoming events in Sarasota you might love. If so, be sure to share it with family and friends, and on social media. As always, check back next weekend for even more great ideas and area events. There is always lots to do in the beautiful city of Sarasota!