Check Out This List of Fun Holiday Events Happening in Sarasota and Manatee
There are many great events happening to celebrate the holiday season along the Suncoast. From Music, to Movies, to special performances and shopping destinations, adding special attractions. Check it all out here
Holiday's at St. Armands Circle
Now Through Sunday, Dec. 19, 300 Madison Drive, Sarasota, (941) 929-3104
Enjoy events hosted on St. Armands Circle throughout the month of December. Holiday Lights surround you as you Dine, Shop and Enjoy the Circle.; Thursday, Dec. 9 is “Songs on the Circle: Holiday Edition”; Saturday, Dec. 11 is “Porsches in the Park”; Thursday, Dec. 16 is ladies’ night and Sunday, Dec. 19 is St. Armands Family Day.
Holiday's at UTC
Now through Saturday, January 1, 140 University Town Center Drive, (941) 552-7000
There are plenty of things to do this holiday season at University Town Center. Enjoy light shows, outdoor holiday movies, horse-drawn carriage rides and fireworks. Or, attend the Hands on Hanukkah with Temple Sinai Sarasota (Nov. 28-Dec. 5) as well as Santa’s Flight Academy (now through Dec. 24) and Santa Paws photos (Nov. 28 and Dec. 5). Click here for details.
Florida Studio Theatre’s “Deck The Halls” Show
Sundays through-Dec. 24, 1241 North Palm Ave., Sarasota, (941) 366-9017
This interactive, family-friendly and music-filled show is sure to please your kiddos. The show, created by Sarah Durham and Caroline Saldivar, represents everything that makes the holidays in Sarasota special. Purchase tickets online or by calling the box office at (941) 366-9017.
Crosley Christmas-Holiday Songs & Fables
Thursday, Dec. 9-Sunday, Dec. 19, 502 3rd Ave. W., Bradenton, (941) 748-5875
The Crosley Theater Company will share a sing-a-long and fables at the Manatee Performing Arts Center this holiday season. There will also be an excerpt of “A Christmas Carol” after intermission. Shows take place at 2 p.m., 7:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. Tickets can be purchased here.
An Old Florida Christmas at Manatee Village
Saturday, Dec. 11, 1404 Manatee Ave. E., Bradenton, (941) 741-4075 ext. 3226
Experience an old-fashioned Florida holiday celebration at Manatee Village Historical Park from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Vendors will be selling handmade goods, food and free “make and take” seasonal crafts. Buildings will be decorated for Christmas, perfect for photo opportunities. Admission is free. Cash is encouraged for vendor purchases. Learn more here.
Sarasota Holiday Boat Parade of Lights
Saturday, December 11, 2 Marina Plaza, Sarasota,
Suncoast Charities for Children presents the 35th Annual Sarasota Holiday Boat Parade of Lights. Area boaters are invited to enter free of charge. The parade begins at 6 p.m. The best viewing spots are Marina Jack restaurant, Bayfront Park and Centennial Park. For more information, click here.
Lights in Bloom at Selby Gardens
Saturday, December 11-23; 26-30; Saturday, January 1-2; 1534 Mound St., Sarasota, (941) 366-5731
Become immersed in a magical lights at Selby Botanical Gardens. More than 2 million lights will be strewn across the campus, with opportunities for photos and face painting and balloon artistry for kids. Live entertainment and food from Michael’s on East and cash bar will be available for purchase. Early entry tickets (5 p.m.) cost $30 for members, $35 for non-members and $15 for children 5-17. General admission (6 p.m.) costs $20 for members, $25 for non-members and $7 for children 5-17. Purchase here.
Sailor Circus presents Let it Snow
Sunday, December 26-Thursday, December 30, 2075 Bahia Vista St., Sarasota, (941) 355-9335
Watch heart-stopping acrobatics and stunning aerial tricks from the students of Sailor Circus Academy at Sailor Circus’ annual holiday show. The show will be set to holiday music, festive costumes and decorations. Shows start at 1 p.m., 2 p.m., 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. Tickets cost $20-$35 per person. All ages are welcome! Buy tickets here.
Photo: Getty Images