Events

The most compelling happenings in Sarasota — arts, culture, philanthropy, and beyond.

Beginner’s Botanical Watercolor

Downtown Sarasota campus

Travel & Outdoors

Join us for a hands-on workshop exploring the art of botanical illustration and painting! Perfect for beginners and experienced artists alike who are new to botanical watercolor. No prior experience or materials needed — just bring your enthusiasm! This class focuses on foundational techniques to bring the beauty of flowers to life in a fun and approachable way. You'll learn essential watercolor skills, washes, blending, and layering, while exploring tonal values to capture light and shadow, along with the delicate textures and vibrant colors of plants and flowers. Basic drawing tips are included, but this isn't a drawing-focused class; tracings will be available so you can dive right into painting. General admission is included in the course fee. We encourage you to come early and enjoy the Gardens before class. All materials and supplies for this workshop are included in the tuition. If you have your own preferred materials, you are welcome to bring them. You may spend time both indoors and outdoors. Please check the weather and wear or bring any items you will need to be comfortable in an outdoor setting. About the Instructor: Cris Godoy is a botanical watercolor artist and instructor based between Florida and Rio de Janeiro whose teaching journey spans Europe, Asia, South America, and her local home in Florida conducting workshops at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. Grounded in the high standards of the Society of Botanical Artists (UK), Cris views watercolor as both a fun, creative adventure and a practice in deep awareness, inviting us to slow down, observe the present moment, and connect with nature and one another. Through delicate layering and expressive color, she brings students together to contemplate the vibrant beauty, geometry, and life force of the botanical world. For further questions regarding Beginner's Botanical Watercolor, reach out to programs-classes@selby.org.

Carrie: The Musical

Florida Cultural Group, Inc. aka Manatee Performing Arts Center

Entertainment

Prepare for a powerful and haunting theatrical experience with Carrie: The Musical, the electrifying stage adaptation of Carrie by Stephen King. Blending intense drama with a soaring contemporary score, this cult-favorite musical explores the devastating consequences of bullying, isolation, and the desperate need to belong. At the center of the story is Carrie White, a shy and sheltered high school student struggling to navigate the cruelty of her classmates and the oppressive control of her deeply religious mother. When a cruel prank at the senior prom pushes Carrie beyond her limits, she discovers a terrifying power within herself—one that will change everything. As emotions erupt and tensions rise, the story builds toward an unforgettable and shocking climax. With music by Michael Gore, lyrics by Dean Pitchford, and a gripping book by Lawrence D. Cohen, Carrie: The Musical is a bold and emotional production filled with powerful vocals, raw storytelling, and moments that will leave audiences on the edge of their seats. Dark, dramatic, and deeply human, this unforgettable musical reminds us of the impact of kindness—and the consequences when it’s absent.

Night of Wonder: Ringling Season Kickoff Party

The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art

Arts & Culture

Step into a night where rhythm, culture, and community come alive under the stars. Night of Wonder kicks off The Ringling Museum's 2026–2027 season with an unforgettable celebration in the Museum of Art courtyard. Tickets required; members receive a discount.

Little Sprouts Club

Downtown Sarasota campus

Travel & Outdoors

Little Sprouts Club is a family-guided interactive program designed for preschoolers and their caregivers to stimulate curiosity and build a lifelong love of nature. Created to engage young ones aged 2-5, Little Sprouts Club sessions feature hands-on activities and experiences to engage the young and the young at heart in a fun, relaxed atmosphere. Join us in the Ann Goldstein Children’s Rainforest Garden to explore The Terrific Textures of Nature, this year’s Little Sprouts Club theme! Smooth, rough, bumpy, soft, and fuzzy textures appear all around us in the natural world! From the smooth surfaces of stones and the rough bark of trees to the fuzzy leaves of plants and the delicate softness of flowers, attendees will explore the many textures found outdoors through nature-inspired crafts, sensory stations, story time, and a snack. Things to know: Little Sprouts Club sessions are included with admission – free for Selby Gardens members! Pre-registration is required. Activities begin at 10:30am. A healthy snack and story time will begin at 11:20, free play activities remain open until 11:30. All are welcome! Activities are geared toward children ages 2-5 and their grown ups. Wear clothes that are comfortable for outdoor play and messy crafts! Sunscreen and bug spray suggested! Important Note! There is no fee for your little sprout to participate in the Little Sprouts Club activities, however we do require that you register them ahead of time. General Admission is also required for any parent or guardian and any child above 5 years old; you will be prompted to purchase tickets after completing the registration process (Members may simply scan their membership at the Welcome Center).

Highlights Tour

Sarasota

Arts & Culture

Learn more about the art on view by taking a tour! Our conversational tours are led by Museum Docents eager to share their knowledge and insight.

October Lunch with Ranchers at the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance Office

Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance

Entertainment

Connect with other professionals in Lakewood Ranch dedicated to promoting one another over lunch! Hosted this month at the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance Office. This is a perfect opportunity to expand your network and build rapport with like-minded individuals. Each attendee will have the opportunity to give a one minute "elevator speech". Door prizes are welcome! Members Only Event - One representative per company please. $33 fee includes lunch & non-alcoholic beverage.

October Lunch with Ranchers at the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance Office

Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance

Entertainment

Connect with other professionals in Lakewood Ranch dedicated to promoting one another over lunch! Hosted this month at the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance Office. This is a perfect opportunity to expand your network and build rapport with like-minded individuals. Each attendee will have the opportunity to give a one minute "elevator speech". Door prizes are welcome! Members Only Event - One representative per company please. $33 fee includes lunch & non-alcoholic beverage.

Carrie: The Musical

Florida Cultural Group, Inc. aka Manatee Performing Arts Center

Entertainment

Prepare for a powerful and haunting theatrical experience with Carrie: The Musical, the electrifying stage adaptation of Carrie by Stephen King. Blending intense drama with a soaring contemporary score, this cult-favorite musical explores the devastating consequences of bullying, isolation, and the desperate need to belong. At the center of the story is Carrie White, a shy and sheltered high school student struggling to navigate the cruelty of her classmates and the oppressive control of her deeply religious mother. When a cruel prank at the senior prom pushes Carrie beyond her limits, she discovers a terrifying power within herself—one that will change everything. As emotions erupt and tensions rise, the story builds toward an unforgettable and shocking climax. With music by Michael Gore, lyrics by Dean Pitchford, and a gripping book by Lawrence D. Cohen, Carrie: The Musical is a bold and emotional production filled with powerful vocals, raw storytelling, and moments that will leave audiences on the edge of their seats. Dark, dramatic, and deeply human, this unforgettable musical reminds us of the impact of kindness—and the consequences when it’s absent.

Yoga in the Gardens

Downtown Sarasota campus

Travel & Outdoors

Treat yourself to a peaceful mind/body yoga experience at the beautiful Selby Gardens Downtown Sarasota campus. This yoga practice will focus on body alignment, breathing techniques, and relaxation. Open to all skill levels. Must be age 18 or older. General admission is included in the course fee. We encourage you to stay and enjoy the Gardens after class. This class takes place outdoors. Please wear comfortable clothing and bring a yoga mat or blanket, refillable water bottle, and any items you will need to be comfortable in an outdoor setting such as sunscreen or personal insect repellent. Please arrive at the Welcome Center at 9:15 a.m. for a 9:30 a.m. start time. Same-day registrations are welcome if space is available. About the Instructor: Jessica Tuttle is our resident yoga teacher at Selby Gardens’ Downtown Sarasota campus. Jessica is a licensed physical therapist assistant in the state of FL and is a certified yoga teacher with 2000+ hours of training. With 20 years of combined experience as a PTA and yoga teacher, it is her passion to educate her students how to breathe, move, and live better. She has been teaching classes at the gardens since 2022 and offers an all-levels yoga class that is suitable to beginners and experienced yogis alike. Please note there are NO CLASSES ON 2/6/2027 and 5/8/2027. For further questions regarding Yoga in the Gardens, reach out to programs-classes@selby.org.

Yoga in the Gardens

Downtown Sarasota campus

Travel & Outdoors

Treat yourself to a peaceful mind/body yoga experience at the beautiful Selby Garden Downtown Sarasota campus. This class will focus on alignment, breathing techniques, and relaxation. Open to all skill levels. Must be age 18 or older. Recommended supplies: water bottle, sunscreen, sunglasses, comfortable clothes, towel, or yoga mat. Please arrive at the Welcome Center by 9:20 a.m. for a 9:30 a.m. start time. The address for our Downtown Sarasota campus: 1534 Mound St, Sarasota, FL 34236. Day-of drop-in payments can be made by cash, check, or credit card. To receive the membership discount, a Selby Gardens membership card must be presented at the time of drop-in. About the Instructor Jessica Tuttle is our resident yoga teacher at Selby Gardens' Downtown Sarasota campus. Jessica is a licensed physical therapist assistant in the state of FL and is a certified yoga teacher with 2000+ hours of training. With 20 years of combined experience as a PTA and yoga teacher, it is her passion to educate her students how to breathe, move, and live better. She has been teaching classes at the gardens since 2022 and offers an all-levels yoga class that is suitable to beginners and experienced yogis alike. For further questions regarding yoga in the gardens, reach out to education@selby.org.

Fall Sky & Scope: Session 1

The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature

Arts & Culture

The Planetarium at The Bishop is excited to launch Sky & Scope, a hands-on telescope workshop designed for beginners! Session One: The Basics of Telescopes and Observational Astronomy Join a Planetarium Educator in the Willis Smith Classroom for an inside look into telescopes with a 2-hour workshop from 10am to Noon! We’ll cover the basics of glass and mirrors, touch on techniques for navigating the night sky, and explore different types of telescopes. Most importantly, we’ll cover the practical steps to setting up and using your own telescope with confidence. Cost: Members: Both Sessions - $25, One Session - $15 Non-Members: Both Sessions - $30, One Session - $20

Fossil Day at The Bishop 2026

The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature

Arts & Culture

Explore Florida’s prehistoric past and discoveries from farther afield during Fossil Day at The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature! Join us for fossil displays, hands-on activities, a scavenger hunt, and a guided tour highlighting paleontology. Visit Gallery 3 to explore tables from the Florida Paleontological Society, The Bishop’s Florida’s Fantastic Fossils, and participants sharing fossils from their Nebraska Badlands trip. Head to the Willis-Smith Classroom for information and interviews about White Sands National Park, plus a chance to make your own fossil trackway. Pick up a Fossil Scavenger Hunt at the front desk between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm. When you finish, bring it to the Florida’s Fantastic Fossils table for a prize! Plan your visit: 10:00 am–Noon: Explore “What Is a Fossil?” during Backyard Science. 10:00 am–2:00 pm: Enjoy fossil tables, the scavenger hunt, and White Sands National Park activities. 11:45 am–12:30 pm: Join the Public Paleontology Highlight Tour, beginning in front of Priscilla. 2:00 pm: Finish your visit with fossil-themed Tales Under the Tree. Cost: Included with Museum admission.

Behind the Smile Memorial 5K Run/Walk

Sarasota

Travel & Outdoors

Honor SPC Jonathan Bryant and Raise Awareness of Military Suicide To honor his memory and help raise awareness of military suicide, join the Inaugural SPC Jonathan Bryant Memorial 5K Run/Walk on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at Nathan Benderson Park, with proceeds benefiting 22TOOMANY.org. This nonprofit organization honors those lost to suicide, raises awareness of military suicide, and provides support to those who are grieving.

Crush the Crisis Prescription Drug Take-Back Day

HCA Florida Braden River Emergency

Entertainment

HCA Florida Blake Hospital and HCA Florida Braden River Emergency invite the community to safely and anonymously dispose of unused or expired medications during the annual Crush the Crisis Prescription Drug Take-Back Day. Local law enforcement officers will be on site to collect eligible medications at convenient drive-up locations. Tablets, capsules and medication patches will be accepted. Liquid medications, needles, syringes and lancets will not be accepted. Participants should remove pills from their original containers and place them in clear plastic storage bags for disposal.

Tales Under the Tree

Bradenton

Arts & Culture

Come and join us every Saturday and Sunday at 2pm for a special storytime experience at The Bishop.

Opening Day Talk: Chie Fueki

Sarasota

Arts & Culture

Join Ringling College of Art and Design alum Chie Fueki for an opening day talk inspired by the artists’ first mid-career survey exhibition, Painting the Floating World.

Water Lantern Festival

Sarasota

Travel & Outdoors

While they\'re called many things such as lantern festivals, lights festivals, floating lanterns, water fest, or Chinese lanterns - only Water Lantern Festival allows you to Light The Water in a way you\'ll never forget. Experience the magic of thousands of lanterns as the soft lights reflect upon the water. Water Lantern Festival is filled with fun, happiness, hope, and great memories that you\'ll cherish for a lifetime. This is a family friendly event that can be shared by everyone. Friends, families, neighbors, and lots of people that you haven\'t met can come together to create a peaceful, memorable experience. Gates open at 4 p.m., with launch from 7-8 p.m. Design your own lantern, and send your own well wishes aglow across the lake. Food trucks will be on-site, along with music and fun. For more details, visit Water Lantern Festival Info

Carrie: The Musical

Florida Cultural Group, Inc. aka Manatee Performing Arts Center

Entertainment

Prepare for a powerful and haunting theatrical experience with Carrie: The Musical, the electrifying stage adaptation of Carrie by Stephen King. Blending intense drama with a soaring contemporary score, this cult-favorite musical explores the devastating consequences of bullying, isolation, and the desperate need to belong. At the center of the story is Carrie White, a shy and sheltered high school student struggling to navigate the cruelty of her classmates and the oppressive control of her deeply religious mother. When a cruel prank at the senior prom pushes Carrie beyond her limits, she discovers a terrifying power within herself—one that will change everything. As emotions erupt and tensions rise, the story builds toward an unforgettable and shocking climax. With music by Michael Gore, lyrics by Dean Pitchford, and a gripping book by Lawrence D. Cohen, Carrie: The Musical is a bold and emotional production filled with powerful vocals, raw storytelling, and moments that will leave audiences on the edge of their seats. Dark, dramatic, and deeply human, this unforgettable musical reminds us of the impact of kindness—and the consequences when it’s absent.

Farmers' Market at Lakewood Ranch

Lakewood Ranch

Entertainment

Shop at the #1 Farmers' Market in America! Our market location can’t be beet! #YourSundayTradition is located at Waterside Place at Lakewood Ranch. Shop local every Sunday with 100+ local vendors including organic produce, flowers, specialty spices & rubs, honey, fresh bread, baked goods, prepared foods, pet products, jewelry, and more. Spend your Sunday mornings lakeside while enjoying a variety of local musicians, great food, and fun activities for the little ones at The Kids' Zone. Stay up to date with market happenings on www.themarketlwr.com.

Carrie: The Musical

Florida Cultural Group, Inc. aka Manatee Performing Arts Center

Entertainment

Prepare for a powerful and haunting theatrical experience with Carrie: The Musical, the electrifying stage adaptation of Carrie by Stephen King. Blending intense drama with a soaring contemporary score, this cult-favorite musical explores the devastating consequences of bullying, isolation, and the desperate need to belong. At the center of the story is Carrie White, a shy and sheltered high school student struggling to navigate the cruelty of her classmates and the oppressive control of her deeply religious mother. When a cruel prank at the senior prom pushes Carrie beyond her limits, she discovers a terrifying power within herself—one that will change everything. As emotions erupt and tensions rise, the story builds toward an unforgettable and shocking climax. With music by Michael Gore, lyrics by Dean Pitchford, and a gripping book by Lawrence D. Cohen, Carrie: The Musical is a bold and emotional production filled with powerful vocals, raw storytelling, and moments that will leave audiences on the edge of their seats. Dark, dramatic, and deeply human, this unforgettable musical reminds us of the impact of kindness—and the consequences when it’s absent.

BBBSSUN Annual Golf Classic

Lakewood National Golf Club

Entertainment

Join Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast for the 2026 Annual Golf Classic on Monday, October 19, 2026, at Lakewood National Golf Club. The day begins with a continental breakfast, followed by a 9:00 AM shotgun start. Golfers will enjoy a fun-filled day on the course while supporting one-to-one youth mentoring programs that create lasting impact throughout our community. The event will also feature a silent auction, 50/50 raffle, and golf cart chance drawing with exciting prizes. Following play, guests are invited to an awards reception in the clubhouse to celebrate the day’s winners and recognize the generosity of our sponsors and supporters. Gather your team, network with fellow business and community leaders, and help create brighter futures for local youth. We look forward to seeing you on the course!

Curator’s Tour | Presence

Sarasota

Arts & Culture

Look closely and learn more about the exhibition Presence: The Photography Collection of Judy Glickman Lauder with SAM’s Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art.

Mote’s Trivia Night at Florida Keys Brewing Company

Florida Keys Brewing Company

Travel & Outdoors

Grab a beer at Florida Keys Brewing Company, gather your smartest friends, and put your coral knowledge to the test at a fun-filled night of trivia! FREE to play! Fun Prizes! Any donations benefit Mote Marine Laboratory’s coral reef research and restoration efforts in the Florida Keys.

Yoga Nidra and Crystal Bowl Sound Bath (all levels welcome)

Downtown Sarasota campus

Travel & Outdoors

Yoga Nidra or “yogic sleep” promotes deep rest, rejuvenation, clarity and creativity. Unlike other forms of yoga, yoga nidra doesn’t involve poses. Rather, it is lying down in a comfortable position as you are guided through a somatic, meditative experience including a body scan, mindful breathing, and visualization. Basking in the Gardens’ tranquility, you will be invited to set an intention (sankulpa) which will, along with your breath, serve as your anchor throughout the practice. This peaceful practice will be brought to a harmonious close with a crystal singing bowl sound bath to immerse you in reverberating sounds aligned with each of the seven energy systems (chakras) of the body. Leave this experience with a greater sense of relaxation, calm, wholeness and well-being. General admission is included in the course fee. We encourage you to come and enjoy the Gardens before class. This class takes place outdoors. Please wear comfortable clothing and bring a yoga mat or blanket, refillable water bottle, and any items you will need to be comfortable in an outdoor setting such as sunscreen or personal insect repellent. Please arrive at the Welcome Center Gazebo by 3:15 p.m. for a 3:30 p.m. start time. Same-day registrations are welcome if space is available. Instructor: Paige Phelps, Yoga with Paige For further questions regarding Yoga Nidra and Crystal Bowl Sound Bath, reach out to programs-classes@selby.org.

Art at Noon | Christopher Jones

Sarasota

Arts & Culture

Join seasoned art collectors Richard and Ellen Sandor for an intimate walking tour and discussion about our exhibition, Something Borrowed, Something New.

Tranquil Tuesdays

Downtown Sarasota campus

Travel & Outdoors

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is a safe, inclusive, and welcoming space for all members of our community. Tranquil Tuesday is a private, sensory-friendly, after-hours Selby Gardens experience, designed with neuro-inclusivity in mind. The Gardens will remain open for an extra hour to offer quiet exploration of our grounds — without the crowds or noise. During this event, neurodivergent and sensory-sensitive guests, their families, and caregivers will receive complimentary tickets to Selby Gardens! Upon arrival, guests receive a customized map with easily identified icons to indicate areas of the Gardens with interactivity (touch, smells, etc.) or displays with a strong sensory component (loud noises, strong odors, etc.). The Tropical Conservatory, gift shop, cafe, and Museum of Botany and the Arts will be closed; however, the Children’s Rainforest Garden, Florida Lagoon, Mangrove Boardwalk, restrooms, and all walking paths will remain open. Noise-cancelling earmuffs, sensory kits and wheelchairs are available on loan, free of charge. You are welcome to bring any tools, toys, or stimming devices to make your visit as comfortable as possible. While admission to Tranquil Tuesday is free, advanced registration is required for all guests and accompanying family members or caregivers. A "see you tomorrow" informational email will be sent out the day before to all registrants. Tranquil Tuesday takes place from 5:15pm until 6:15pm. Check-in begins at 5:10pm. Guests check in at the Welcome Center. There will be signage directing you to the check-in location The best address for mapping is: 1534 Mound Street, Sarasota, FL 34236. Parking is in the Morganroth Family Living Energy Access Facility (LEAF) structure. Please note, Tranquil Tuesday is a special event, but accommodations such as sensory maps, wheelchairs, sensory kits, and noise-cancelling earmuffs are always available from the Welcome Center during Selby’s regular business hours. We hope that this event opens the door to many future visits to Selby Gardens for you and your loved ones! Email programs-classes@selby.org for the registration link or call 941.366.5731 ext. 243.

Homeschool Days

Mote Science Education Aquarium

Travel & Outdoors

Meet us at Mote SEA to explore exciting aspects of Mote research and marine science through engaging, hands-on learning experiences for homeschool students ages 6–14. Join us for monthly classes designed for 6–9 year olds,

think + drink presents Florida’s Endangered Sawfish: Past, Present, and Future

The Planetarium at The Bishop

Arts & Culture

Sawfish are large shark-like rays that once were relatively common in Florida's coastal waters. Now, Florida's smalltooth sawfish is endangered, and scientists are striving to learn as much as possible about this iconic and fascinating fish. Tonya Wiley, President of Havenworth Coastal Conservation and Palmetto resident, will provide a presentation with interesting facts about sawfish, updates on Florida sawfish research (including in Tampa Bay), explanations of management tools such as the Endangered Species Act, details of ongoing threats to the population, and descriptions of ways you can be involved in the conservation of smalltooth sawfish. Join us to see a three-foot sawfish replica, feel some real sawfish rostra (saws), and get some great free sawfish swag. Doors open at 6pm. The presentation begins at 6:30pm in the Planetarium. Preregistration required. $10/$3 for Members/Members under 17; $15/$5 for Non-Members/Non-Members under 17. Beer, wine, and concessions are available for purchase. Seating in the Planetarium is on a first-come, first-served basis. think + drink is a series presented by Mosaic.

Botanical Paint & Print

Downtown Sarasota campus

Travel & Outdoors

Get ready to explore the amazing art of printmaking with a botanical twist! Find inspiration from the vibrant Selby Gardens collection, then carve your very own stamp based on your chosen reference image. First, let go and flow with watercolors to create an abstract background on the paper provided for your print. While that dries, you will carve your chosen botanical into your rubber block using the provided carving tools. Then, you ink your handmade stamp onto the paper, embellishing your watercolor design with ink, to create a final multimedia masterpiece! Guests will learn linocut carving techniques to produce a relief print stamp, how to ink their design and transfer it to paper, and add additional details and hues using watercolors. No prior experience needed in either medium - just bring your enthusiasm! General admission is included in the course fee. We encourage you to come early and enjoy the Gardens before class. All materials and supplies for this workshop are included in the tuition. You may spend time both indoors and outdoors. Please check the weather and wear or bring any items you will need to be comfortable in an outdoor setting. Instructor: Bianca Clyburn, Art on Fire, LLC For further questions regarding Botanical Paint & Print, reach out to programs-classes@selby.org.

EXCEL - LEVEL 3 - HANDS-ON CLASSES at SCF

Lakewood Ranch

Entertainment

EXCEL - LEVEL 3 - HANDS-ON CLASSES at SCF This class is for the advanced user of Excel. Topics include custom and conditional formatting; working with ranges, including VLOOKUP; date and time functions; working with charts; managing workbooks; and more. REQUIREMENTS: You must have taken Excel Level 2 to register for this class and have a working knowledge of tables and filtering. Register Here.

Your Wednesday Playdate

Sarasota

Arts & Culture

For early learners with an adult, Your Wednesday Playdates deliver an art project led by a professional teaching artist and interactive story times.

Homeschool Days

Mote Science Education Aquarium

Travel & Outdoors

Meet us at Mote SEA to explore exciting aspects of Mote research and marine science through engaging, hands-on learning experiences for homeschool students ages 6–14. Join us for monthly classes designed for 6–9 year olds,

Carrie: The Musical

Florida Cultural Group, Inc. aka Manatee Performing Arts Center

Entertainment

Prepare for a powerful and haunting theatrical experience with Carrie: The Musical, the electrifying stage adaptation of Carrie by Stephen King. Blending intense drama with a soaring contemporary score, this cult-favorite musical explores the devastating consequences of bullying, isolation, and the desperate need to belong. At the center of the story is Carrie White, a shy and sheltered high school student struggling to navigate the cruelty of her classmates and the oppressive control of her deeply religious mother. When a cruel prank at the senior prom pushes Carrie beyond her limits, she discovers a terrifying power within herself—one that will change everything. As emotions erupt and tensions rise, the story builds toward an unforgettable and shocking climax. With music by Michael Gore, lyrics by Dean Pitchford, and a gripping book by Lawrence D. Cohen, Carrie: The Musical is a bold and emotional production filled with powerful vocals, raw storytelling, and moments that will leave audiences on the edge of their seats. Dark, dramatic, and deeply human, this unforgettable musical reminds us of the impact of kindness—and the consequences when it’s absent.

Dogs Inc Ribbon Cutting

Dogs Inc

Entertainment

You’re invited to join us for a Ribbon Cutting celebration for Dogs Inc! Date: Tuesday, September 22nd Time: Ribbon Cutting at 10:00 AM, arrival 9:45AM Location: 5815 Lakewood Ranch Blvd, Bradenton FL 34211 We look forward to celebrating this exciting Ribbon Cutting and we hope you can join us!

Homeschool Days

Mote Science Education Aquarium

Travel & Outdoors

Meet us at Mote SEA to explore exciting aspects of Mote research and marine science through engaging, hands-on learning experiences for homeschool students ages 6–14. Join us for monthly classes designed for 6–9 year olds,

October 2026 YLA Networking Social at Loaded Cannon Distillery

Loaded Cannon Distillery

Entertainment

Join us for an evening of networking and Halloween themed trivia with Lakewood Ranch's Young Leaders Alliance at Loaded Cannon Distillery. Enjoy light bites, a cash bar, and an evening of connections with other young professionals in the area. Be sure to bring a friend! Door prizes welcome. Halloween costumes optional. Not a YLA member? Sign up today! If your business is an LWRBA member, click here. If your business is not an LWRBA member, click here.

October 2026 YLA Networking Social at Loaded Cannon Distillery

Loaded Cannon Distillery

Entertainment

Join us for an evening of networking and Halloween themed trivia with Lakewood Ranch's Young Leaders Alliance at Loaded Cannon Distillery. Enjoy light bites, a cash bar, and an evening of connections with other young professionals in the area. Be sure to bring a friend! Door prizes welcome. Halloween costumes optional. Not a YLA member? Sign up today! If your business is an LWRBA member, click here. If your business is not an LWRBA member, click here.

Dear Evan Hansen

Florida Cultural Group, Inc. aka Manatee Performing Arts Center

Entertainment

Dear Evan Hansen is a deeply moving, Tony Award®-winning musical that has become a defining story of our time. Featuring a Tony Award®-winning book by Steven Levenson (Fosse/Verdon) and a powerful, contemporary score by EGOT® winners Benj Pasek and Justin Paul (The Greatest Showman, La La Land), this modern classic speaks to anyone who has ever felt invisible—or longed to truly belong. Seventeen-year-old Evan Hansen has spent his life on the sidelines. When an unexpected tragedy turns his world upside down, Evan finds himself at the center of a story he never intended to tell. As his desire for connection pulls him deeper into a web of well-meaning lies, Evan must face the truth about honesty, identity, and the courage it takes to be yourself. Since its Broadway debut at the Music Box Theatre, Dear Evan Hansen has captivated audiences worldwide, earning six Tony Awards® including Best Musical, along with Drama League, Drama Desk, Obie, Outer Critics Circle, and Helen Hayes Awards. With unforgettable songs and a message of hope, acceptance, and human connection, Dear Evan Hansen reminds us all that—even in our loneliest moments—you will be found. Don’t miss this powerful and unforgettable theatrical experience and make sure you catch the area premiere of Dear Evan Hansen!

Carrie: The Musical

Florida Cultural Group, Inc. aka Manatee Performing Arts Center

Entertainment

Prepare for a powerful and haunting theatrical experience with Carrie: The Musical, the electrifying stage adaptation of Carrie by Stephen King. Blending intense drama with a soaring contemporary score, this cult-favorite musical explores the devastating consequences of bullying, isolation, and the desperate need to belong. At the center of the story is Carrie White, a shy and sheltered high school student struggling to navigate the cruelty of her classmates and the oppressive control of her deeply religious mother. When a cruel prank at the senior prom pushes Carrie beyond her limits, she discovers a terrifying power within herself—one that will change everything. As emotions erupt and tensions rise, the story builds toward an unforgettable and shocking climax. With music by Michael Gore, lyrics by Dean Pitchford, and a gripping book by Lawrence D. Cohen, Carrie: The Musical is a bold and emotional production filled with powerful vocals, raw storytelling, and moments that will leave audiences on the edge of their seats. Dark, dramatic, and deeply human, this unforgettable musical reminds us of the impact of kindness—and the consequences when it’s absent.

The Market at NBP – Every Friday, 9am-1pm

Sarasota

Travel & Outdoors

Check out the latest and greatest weekly market in the area - The Market at NBP Eat, Drink, and Shop with us at this brand new, mid-week market conveniently located right at the Homewood Suites Additional Parking lot, adjacent to the playground at Nathan Benderson Park! This is a community market featuring over 20 local artists, small businesses, coffee and infused drinks, produce, fresh baked good, gluten-free options, and crafters from all walks of life. Free Parking! In addition, there will be food trucks, live music and themed events. All vendors must reach out to My Promotions directly for consideration and participation in The Market. Interested in being a vendor? Contact My Promotions to sign up.

Griffin Concierge Medical Ribbon Cutting!

Griffin Concierge Medical

Entertainment

You’re invited to join us for a Ribbon Cutting with Griffin Concierge Medical! Date: Friday, October 23rd Time: Ribbon Cutting at 10:00am Location: 6220 University Parkway, Sarasota FL 34240 We look forward to celebrating this exciting Ribbon Cutting and we hope you can join us!

Dear Evan Hansen

Florida Cultural Group, Inc. aka Manatee Performing Arts Center

Entertainment

Dear Evan Hansen is a deeply moving, Tony Award®-winning musical that has become a defining story of our time. Featuring a Tony Award®-winning book by Steven Levenson (Fosse/Verdon) and a powerful, contemporary score by EGOT® winners Benj Pasek and Justin Paul (The Greatest Showman, La La Land), this modern classic speaks to anyone who has ever felt invisible—or longed to truly belong. Seventeen-year-old Evan Hansen has spent his life on the sidelines. When an unexpected tragedy turns his world upside down, Evan finds himself at the center of a story he never intended to tell. As his desire for connection pulls him deeper into a web of well-meaning lies, Evan must face the truth about honesty, identity, and the courage it takes to be yourself. Since its Broadway debut at the Music Box Theatre, Dear Evan Hansen has captivated audiences worldwide, earning six Tony Awards® including Best Musical, along with Drama League, Drama Desk, Obie, Outer Critics Circle, and Helen Hayes Awards. With unforgettable songs and a message of hope, acceptance, and human connection, Dear Evan Hansen reminds us all that—even in our loneliest moments—you will be found. Don’t miss this powerful and unforgettable theatrical experience and make sure you catch the area premiere of Dear Evan Hansen!

Carrie: The Musical

Florida Cultural Group, Inc. aka Manatee Performing Arts Center

Entertainment

Prepare for a powerful and haunting theatrical experience with Carrie: The Musical, the electrifying stage adaptation of Carrie by Stephen King. Blending intense drama with a soaring contemporary score, this cult-favorite musical explores the devastating consequences of bullying, isolation, and the desperate need to belong. At the center of the story is Carrie White, a shy and sheltered high school student struggling to navigate the cruelty of her classmates and the oppressive control of her deeply religious mother. When a cruel prank at the senior prom pushes Carrie beyond her limits, she discovers a terrifying power within herself—one that will change everything. As emotions erupt and tensions rise, the story builds toward an unforgettable and shocking climax. With music by Michael Gore, lyrics by Dean Pitchford, and a gripping book by Lawrence D. Cohen, Carrie: The Musical is a bold and emotional production filled with powerful vocals, raw storytelling, and moments that will leave audiences on the edge of their seats. Dark, dramatic, and deeply human, this unforgettable musical reminds us of the impact of kindness—and the consequences when it’s absent.