The Settlement of Manatee
Date: March 28
Time: 2:00 - 3:00 PM
Where: Manatee Village Historical Park
Learn how early residents of the Manatee County area lived on the land, fought over it, and shaped the pioneer community. Find out who the earliest settlers were, why they came, how they survived, and how their decisions shaped Manatee County.
BAM! Fest
Date: March 28
Time: 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Where: Bradenton Riverwalk
Bradenton art and music festival immerses attendees in a world of vibrant art and music. Admission to the event is free! Just park in one of the Bradenton parking garages and take the short walk down to the event entrance.
Fruit Tree Paradise Tour
Date: April 4
Time: 1:00 - 4:00 PM
Where: SweetSong Groves
This tour gives a complete introduction to fruit tree horticulture through a hands-on demonstration. From grafting to pruning, many horticultural concepts are taught with completely non-toxic and ecologically friendly methods.
Dakin Dairy Farms Easter Bull Bash
Date: April 4
Time: 4:30 - 7:30 PM
Where: Dakin Dairy Farms
Dakin Dairy is hosting an Easter event that includes an Easter egg hunt, food trucks, vendors, bounce houses, and more. The gates open at 4:30 PM, with live music, bull riding action and more happening throughout the duration of the event.
Easter Egg Hunt Celebration
Date: April 4
Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Where: Palmetto Marriott Resort and Spa
This family-friendly community event celebrates Easter with a festive morning hunting eggs and having fun with activities, crafts, and lots of seasonal cheer. Guests are encouraged to bring their Easter baskets and enjoy an exciting gathering perfect for both children and families.
Planting Trees for the Suncoast
Date: April 9
Time: 12:00 - 1:00 PM
Where: Betty J. Johnson North Sarasota Library
The Suncoast region lost a large amount of trees due to many hurricanes over the years, and this event seeks to replant the urban and residential areas better and stronger. Joining the class allows you to learn how to grow wind resistant trees by using non-invasive, native, and Florida friendly methods.
Poetry Open Mic!
Date: April 12
Time: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Where: Bookstore1Sarasota
Whether you want to present your poem to an audience or simply listen to others, this is the place for you. You can sign up to read an original poem and discover the incredible literary talent of the local area. Free tickets can be bought in advance.
Snatch It! Art & More for Grabs
Date: April 18
Time: 6:00 - 10:00 PM
Where: Herring Center for the ARTS
Join the art community at this unique gala! The variety of prizes sold here include paintings, jewelry, pottery, quilts, trips, wine baskets, boat rides, weekend getaways, and more. All prizes are valued from $250 to over $1,000.
Backyards for Birds
Date: April 23
Time: 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Where: Palma Sola Botanical Park
This event at the Palma Sola Botanical Park allows guests to experience the wonders of birdwatching. It is an in person event that is very cheap and also very rewarding! Many different types of birds will likely be spotted.
Manatee Taco Fest
Date: May 2
Time: 12:00 - 7:00 PM
Where: Manatee County Fairgrounds
This will be the 5th annual festival of its kind! Bring the whole family, as the event will feature a kids zone with free face painting, as well as over 100 of the best taco and food vendors in the area! General admission is $10.00.
This Is Not a Book Club!
Date: May 12
Time: 11:00 AM
Where: Sarasota Art Museum
At the Sarasota Art Museum, you can explore the intersection of literature and art, diving into art world classics or new releases with each meeting. This can improve understanding by giving insights to the people, places, and ideas that shape many contemporary artworks.
Florida Friendly Landscaping
Date: Thursday, May 19
Time: 11:00 AM-12:00 PM
Where: Palma Sola Botanical Park
Creating a garden in Florida can be hard, what with Florida’s unique climate and weather. If you’re a new resident or interested in landscaping, this event will prepare you with knowledge of eco-friendly and sustainable ways to plant your own garden.
Greetings from Old Florida
Date: January 20 - June 26
Time: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Where: The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature
Visit the Bishop Museum to see a temporary exhibit provided by the Florida Maritime Museum (FMM) to highlight the history of Cortez as a fishing village, Manatee County’s early tourist boom, and the charm that came with it. All of these details, exhibits, and more are all included with the admission to the Museum.
Perico Preserve Tour
Date: Every fourth Saturday of the month through April
Time: 9:00 AM
Where: Perico Preserve Pavillion
Perico Preserve is one of the newest preserves for native Floridian plants. Learn about incredible ecosystems and how Floridian plants can benefit them. This event is family-friendly, so feel free to bring the kiddos!
Yoga on the Riverwalk
Date: Every Saturday through July 4th, 2026
Time: 8:30-9:30 AM
Where: Bradenton Riverwalk
All skill levels are welcome at this tranquil yoga session next to the beautiful manatee river. Led by Julia, the group will go through many relaxing poses and stretches. Bring a mat, water bottle, and small donation!
Music In The Park
Date: Fridays, April 3rd through May 22nd
Time: 6:00-8:00 PM
Where: Bradenton Riverwalk Pavilion
Featuring local musicians and bands, this free family-friendly event has live music from all genres. Sit back and relax to rock, country, or pop music as the kids play on the nearby playground.
North River Market
Date: Every 1st Sunday, November 2025 through October 2026
Time: 10:00 AM-2:00 PM
Where: Palmetto Marriott Resort and Spa
This market features over 70 vendors and artisans selling fresh food and unique products. A kids area with face paint will also be available. Feel free to bring your furry companions, as leashed dogs are welcome!
Bradenton Public Market
Date: Saturdays, October 2025 through May 2026
Time: 9:00 AM-2:00 PM
Where: Old Main Street in Bradenton
Join the Bradenton community in enjoying fresh produce, art, and music at this lively outdoor market. Vendors sell everything from fresh bread to abstract sculptures!