Winter on the Suncoast promises a tapestry of vibrant events and activities that cater to all tastes. I invite you to immerse yourself in the festive spirit, whether through captivating artistic displays, live music performances, or culinary delights that reflect the local flavors. From cultural gatherings to outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in the Sarasota, Bradenton and Venice areas during these wonderfully cooler months.

Upcoming Events

Dec 7 & 14 | 5-8pm: Experience Holiday Splendor at The Ringling, a festive celebration supporting the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots initiative in Sarasota and Manatee counties. Join in for a joyful occasion filled with musical performances by local schools, interactive art activities, and a complimentary Holiday Book Market where children can choose a free book. All venues will be open for self-touring of the Museum, Ca’ d’Zan, and the Circus Museum. Food and drinks available for purchase. Please enter through the Visitor’s Pavilion. The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art located at 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota, FL. Admission is free with the donation of an unwrapped toy per person, supporting Toys for Tots. Without a toy donation, regular admission applies: $15 for adults and $5 for children. Guests are encouraged to shop in the Museum Store, which has a large selection of toys under $20.

Dec 8 | 6-10pm: See big cats and other animals at the Big Cat Best of Bash at Big Cat Habitat & Gulf Coast Sanctuary. Featuring live music, prizes, an incredible animal show, a food drive, pony rides for kids, food trucks, beverages, animal Show, and more. Capture memorable moments with Santa, meet Special Animal Guests, and participate in exciting raffles. 7101 Palmer Boulevard, Sarasota. Adults $30, children 5-12 $20, 4 and under free.

Dec 8-9: Experience a dazzling rendition of the beloved holiday favorite, The Nutcracker, presented by The Sarasota Ballet School in collaboration with The Venice Symphony. Witness the ballet complemented by the enchanting melodies of Tchaikovsky’s timeless score performed by the Venice Symphony orchestra. Dec 8 at 7pm and Dec 9 at 3pm. Venice Performing Arts Center, located at One Indian Ave, Venice. $35 to $75.

Dec 8-Jan 3: Experience a stunning display of over 2 million lights at Selby Gardens’ 20th annual “Lights in Bloom” celebration, illuminating the gardens and walkways. Experience the enchanting display of life-size garden-themed holiday lights, transforming the gardens into a magical tropical wonderland. Capture unforgettable holiday photos amidst this breathtaking backdrop and enjoy family-friendly activities and entertainment. Food and beverages available for purchase from 6:30-9pm nightly; early entry at 5:30pm on select nights. Date are Dec 8-10, 12-23, 26-30, 2023; and Jan1-3, 2024. Various ticket prices and packages Admission free for children 4 and under.

Dec 9-10 | 10am-6pm: Bigger and bolder, the 4^th Annual Suncoast Renaissance Festival will take you on a journey back in time to experience Renaissance music, dancing, jousting, immersive experiences and more. Over 100 stage shows daily, various food and treats, and artisan merchants. Enjoy 4 different themed weekends, Pirate, Fantasy, Viking and Celtic Christmas. Sarasota County Fairgrounds, 3000 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota. Ticket prices vary. Kids under 5 are free.

Dec 13-17 | 6-9pm: Explore Winter Nights Under the Lights at Palma Sola Botanical Park! Experience acres illuminated with twinkling lights, meet Santa, indulge in delicious treats from food trucks, and enjoy live holiday music. Explore the gift market, savor hot cocoa and cider, and hop on delightful hayrides. Tree decorating contest, children’s crafts, and support Toys for Tots. 9800 17th Ave NW, Bradenton. Admission is free, donations appreciated.

Dec 14 | 5-8 pm: Experience Holiday Splendor at The Ringling, a festive celebration supporting the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots initiative in Sarasota and Manatee counties. Join in for a joyful occasion filled with musical performances by local schools, interactive art activities, and a complimentary Holiday Book Market where children can choose a free book. All venues will be open for self-touring of the Museum, Ca’ d’Zan, and the Circus Museum. Food and drinks available for purchase. Please enter through the Visitor’s Pavilion. The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art located at 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota, FL. Admission is free with the donation of an unwrapped toy per person, supporting Toys for Tots. Without a toy donation, regular admission applies: $15 for adults and $5 for children. Guests are encouraged to shop in the Museum Store, which has a large selection of toys under $20.

Dec 15: Get ready to put bells on your toes at the 12th Annual Lakewood Ranch Jingle 5k Run/Walk, supporting the Lakewood Ranch Medical Center Foundation Nursing Scholarship Program. Runners will receive a special commemorative 2022 medal and bib number. Onsite registration starts at 4pm, race starts at 7pm. Stay for the post-race party featuring food and beverages. Main Street, Lakewood Ranch. Entry fees vary.

Dec 16 | 5:50pm: Experience the festive Christmas Glow Run 5K—a fun event for  the whole family. Filled with festive holiday ornaments, lights, music, and glowing decor, this run/walk takes place around the lakeside course. Enjoy complimentary glow products, live tracking, and a magical snowfall finish. Nathan Benderson Park, Sarasota. $45; $55 race day.

Dec 16-17 | 10am-5pm: Time for 2nd Annual Bradenton Riverwalk Holiday of the Arts Festival, which showcases the talents of over 100 artisans from Florida and across the US, presenting an outdoor gallery brimming with exquisite original artwork. Explore a diverse range of artistic creations, including paintings, photography, sculptures, metalwork, digital art, jewelry, glass, ceramics, woodworking, mixed-media, fiber art, and more. Should you seek something unique, consider commissioning a personalized, one-of-a-kind piece of art crafted just for you. Riverwalk Pavilion, 452 3rd Ave W, Bradenton. Free admission.

Dec 16-Dec 30: Celebrate the season with high-spirited, uplifting songs with the Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe’s Joyful! Joyful! Singers, dancers and musicians perform a blend of new takes on traditional holiday, gospel-infused and pop songs offering a joyful, soulful twist on your favorite seasonal music. Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, 1012 N Orange St, Sarasota. Matinees 2pm; Evenings 7:30pm; ticket prices vary.

Dec 18 & 17 | 6:30pm: Experience the enchantment of The Nutcracker with two mesmerizing performances at the Sarasota Opera House. Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with magical performances by The Sarasota Ballet Studio Company, students from The Sarasota Ballet School and The Sarasota Ballet Conservatory. Sarasota Opera House, 61 N Pineapple Ave, Sarasota. Ticket prices vary.

Dec 18 | 5:30-9pm: Come out for Ringling by the Bay—an evening filled with live music and dancing to the tunes of Paisley Craze at the Bolger Campiello. Food and drinks for purchase amidst the vibrant atmosphere. Ringling Museum Grounds, located at 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Tickets $20/$25.

Dec 23 | 4-8pm: Celebrate the biggest Christmas party in town at Christmas on Main in Lakewood Ranch! Free games, rides, photo booths, and attractions for all ages and a candlelight service. Santa makes an appearance from 4-7pm. Main Street, Lakewood Ranch. Free.

Dec 26-Jan 3: Experience a stunning display of over 2 million lights at Selby Gardens’ 20th annual “Lights in Bloom” celebration, illuminating the gardens and walkways. Experience the enchanting display of life-size garden-themed holiday lights, transforming the gardens into a magical tropical wonderland. Capture unforgettable holiday photos amidst this breathtaking backdrop and enjoy family-friendly activities and entertainment. Food and beverages available for purchase from 6:30-9pm nightly; early entry at 5:30pm on select nights. Date are Dec 8-10, 12-23, 26-30, 2023; and Jan1-3, 2024. Various ticket prices and packages Admission free for children 4 and under.

Dec 31 | 1pm-1am: It’s 2024 SRQ New Year’s Eve Pineapple Drop Block Party! Festivities begin at 1pm with the Pineapple Drop at midnight, taking place at Lemon Avenue and Main Street, accompanied by a dazzling firework display over Sarasota Bay. Enjoy live music, carnival rides, games for kids, food and drinks, including special offerings at local bars and restaurants. The music kicks off at 8:30pm. Free admission.