Market on Longboat Key returns, now with preorders for baked goods

Looking to enjoy local vendors, art and food right on Longboat Key? The Market on Longboat Key is soon returning in full force after taking a year off. 

The outdoor market kicks off on Dec. 11 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and will feature a special performance by the Manatee School of the Arts Jazz Choir on its opening day. Throughout the market’s five planned dates, it will host a variety of local vendors and will feature various food trucks. 

Nancy Ambrose of Markets by Nancy is organizing the market with help from Longboat Key Support Services Director Carolyn Brown.

Ambrose and Brown also coordinated the event on Longboat Key two years ago, which was the first year the market took place on Longboat Key. Last year, the market was unable to continue due to the construction of the Karon Family Pavilion and Town Center Green. 

Food trucks will be serving dishes ranging from lobster rolls to burgers and gyros. For those with a sweet tooth, there will be multiple vendors offering cakes, cupcakes, banana bread and more. 

To name a few of the vendors already in the lineup: Sarasota Honey Company will sell raw, local honey; Siesta Key Rum will make an appearance for sampling and selling; and for furry companions, Oh Yeah Pet Treats has what they need. 

For items like handbags, purses, aprons and T-shirts, there will be local artisan vendors like Lena’s Beachside Emporium. A variety of local artists are also on the list for the market. 

The Manatee School of the Arts Jazz Choir will be performing in 30-minute sets from 10 a.m. to noon during the opening market on Dec. 11. The performance will take place at the newly opened Karon Family Pavilion. 

The choir, under direction of William Coleman, is raising money via donations to attend the Puerto Rico Choir Festival in spring 2024.