- December 26, 2024
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There is always something happening in Sarasota, and 2024 looks set to offer a smorgasbord of events to suit all interests. From local eats, to the arts, to fun in the sun, here are some experiences to mark on your calendar for the new year.
Jan. 25-29 at various locations. Visit EatLikeALocal.com.
Have a taste of Sarasota to start the year. Held by the Sarasota-Manatee Originals, a group of local restaurants seeking to preserve the culinary identity of the community, Forks & Corks features multiple events, including its signature event, The Grand Tasting held at the Ringling Museum, which offers dishes by more than 40 restaurants along with more than 300 wines from around the world.
Feb. 9-10, Potter Building, Robarts Arena, 2896 Ringling Blvd. Visit SarasotaShellClub.com.
Are you looking for a new hobby this year? Here's a chance to get into shell collecting, a pursuit that intersects with both science and art. Browse displays at the Sarasota Shell Club's annual show. The collections range from scientific displays, to artistic creations, and come from both club members and members of the community.
March 17-23 at various locations. Visit SarasotaJazzFestival.com.
Each year, the Jazz Club of Sarasota produces this festival, a fixture of the community's music scene that brings together award-winning performers in the jazz world. This year's lineup includes Terell Stafford, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Wycliffe Gordon, Jeff Hamilton, Chucho Valdés, Steve Kovalcheck, Akiko Tsuruga, Valerie Gillespie, Grace Kelly and Houston Person.
April 19-21, Marina Jack, 2 Marina Plaza. Visit SuncoastBoatShow.com.
If you're hoping to spend time at sea this year, you can explore your boating options at the Suncoast Boat Show. Promoted as the Gulf Coast's premier boat show, the event features a variety of on-land and in-water displays across 65,000 square feet of dock space, and also keeps kids entertained with fishing clinics exploring fishing techniques and fish species.
June 8 at Selby Public Library, 1331 First St. Visit SCGovLibrary.LibraryMarket.com.
The annual pop culture convention at Selby Public Library will return in 2024, sure to offer a scene where you will find fellow attendees cosplaying as your favorite superheroes and more. Come as your favorite character, meet other cosplayers and take part in a costume contest. Some of the activities are discussion panels, demonstrations, trivia, gaming, scavenger hunts and crafts.
June 21 to July 4 at various locations. Visit SuncoastSummerFest.org.
As summer arrives, enjoy some fun for a good cause, as you help support Suncoast Charities for Children. The Suncoast Summer Fest begins with the Annual Bob Rizi Memorial Golf Classic on June 21 and continues with the “Friendliest Catch” Fishing Tournament, a private event for special needs clients on June 26. On June 28 - 29, you can enjoy the “Waves & Wheels” Kickoff Party & Fun Run, with the fun run being a self-guided vehicular journey to locations around Sarasota where participants can earn points. The events conclude with the Bayfront Fireworks Spectacular on July 4.
October at The Bay Park 1055 Boulevard of the Arts. Visit TheBaySarasota.org.
As the end of 2024 draws near, one of Sarasota's signature parks will be celebrating its second year. The Bay Park's anniversary celebrations will include free concerts; Boo! at the Bay, a family-friendly Halloween event offering trick or treating, free pumpkin pickings, games and more; and Taste of The Bay by the Sarasota Originals, an event featuring dishes by some of the most highly regarded Originals restaurants.
Nov. 15-18 at Siesta Key Beach, 941 Beach Road. Visit SiestaKeyCrystalClassic.com.
In this annual event, watch professional sculptors from around the world at work, as they turn a section of Siesta Key Beach into an art gallery of sand sculptures. Artists compete to see who can claim prizes for the best sculpture, with other fun activities for spectators.
Oct. 11 at Phillippi Estate Park, 5500 S. Tamiami Trail. Visit VisitSCGov.net.
As Halloween approaches, witches and wizards are invited to celebrate the occasion at the Edson Keith Mansion with music, dancing, shopping at booths by local vendors and drinks.
Early December, Selby Five Points Park, 100 Central Ave. Visit DestinationDowntownSarasota.com.
When the holiday season comes around again, get into the spirit with an annual Sarasota tradition. The ceremony typically includes various performances and festivities and, of course, Santa Claus.
