There’s always something to celebrate in Sarasota. Whether it’s music, other cultures, safety, or Sarasota itself, there’s a festival happening this year. Make plans now to attend one, more, or all of these festivals coming to Sarasota in 2019.

Sarasota Winter Carnival

On January 17 at 5 p.m., head over to The Mall at University Town Center to enjoy a family-friendly event. With free admission, you and your whole family can enjoy rides, games, fair food, and more entertainment without breaking the bank.

4th Annual Sarasota Seafood & Music Festival

Downtown Sarasota on Gulf Stream once again welcomes all seafood and music lovers to this year’s festival. Beginning January 18 at 4 p.m., join the festivities for free admission.

25th Sarasota Highland Games & Celtic Festival

Taking place January 26 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Sarasota County Fairgrounds, this fest is a one-day only event that will surround you with authentic music, dancing, and sporting events. Join other locals with Scottish and Celtic heritage and celebrate the Highland culture.

S.A.F.E. Day Festival

This event is a free educational festival that will teach your whole family about safety with instructors from the Sarasota Fire Department, Police Department, and Health Department. All ages are welcome to attend at the Sarasota Fairgrounds on February 2 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Thunder by the Bay Music and Motorcycle Festival

Beginning February 15 at 6 p.m. and continuing through the weekend at the Sarasota Fairgrounds, celebrate biker culture by enjoying a bike show, food and drink vendors, games, and more. Admission is $5 for attendees over 12 years old and free for children under 12 years.

Sarasota Veg Fest

The Sarasota Fairgrounds will welcome the Sarasota Veg Fest on May 4 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Join other locals who value the environment in the community and around the world. Live music and educational presentations are just a couple of the features of this celebration.

My Hometown Festival

This bash focuses on the Sarasota locals, community, and culture. On March 23, celebrate your hometown at Nathan Benderson Park. Enjoy food, drinks, and live music with people who share and value your town.

Sarasota Chalk Festival 

You’ll want to check out the Burns Square Historic District April 5 through April 7 when incredibly talented artists turn ordinary pavement into extraordinary works of art using chalk as their medium.

International Dragon Boat Parade

Bringing Asian culture to Sarasota, this event features a time-honored sporting event with races beginning at 8:30 a.m. on May 11 at Nathan Benderson Park. Bring the whole family out to experience this free event!

10th Annual Harvey Milk Festival

Harvey Milk has supported the arts and the Sarasota community for years, and the community is invited to celebrate local arts in Sarasota nights May 9 through May 11 at JD Hamel Park.

Make memories this year by bringing your family and friends to attend one of these Sarasota festivals and experience amazing culture, music, and cuisine.

Find more events in Sarasota by registering on 941area, your free, local guide to the Sarasota area.

 

Cover photo courtesy of Unsplash