🌴 Sarasota & Manatee Counties Weekly Newsletter
🌟 Did You Know?
"Oyster River"
The Manatee River was once so abundant with oysters that it was historically known as the "Oyster River." Oysters play a crucial ecological role by filtering water, supporting biodiversity, and stabilizing shorelines. Efforts are underway to restore oyster populations in the river, with the nonprofit Oyster River Ecology leading the charge. Their first fundraising event, the "Oyster Rag Pot Shindig," will feature food, drinks, and live music, with proceeds supporting oyster restoration efforts.
Learn More📅 Sarasota & Manatee's Best Events (May 25 - 31, 2025)
AquaPalooza 2025 -- Fun on the Water
MarineMax Sarasota invites you to kick off the summer at AquaPalooza 2025! Gather with friends and family for a day of fun in the sun, live music, and giveaways. Raft up with fellow boaters and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at the New Pass Sandbar. For more details or questions, contact MarineMax Sarasota at 941-388-4411.
Event InfoAJGA Florida Preview at Bobby Jones Golf Club
The American Junior Golf Association (AJGA) brings its first-ever tournament to Sarasota with the AJGA Florida Preview presented by ICL Academy. This national-level event features 78 talented junior golfers, ages 12–15, competing in a 36-hole stroke play tournament. The event kicks off on Sunday, May 25, with a qualifier round, followed by official rounds on May 26 and 27, culminating in an awards ceremony. Spectators are welcome to attend and witness the next generation of golf stars in action.
Event InfoBradenton Memorial Day Service at Donald L. Courtney Veterans Park
Join the Manatee County Veterans Council for Bradenton's annual Memorial Day Service at the newly named Donald L. Courtney Veterans Park. Come together with the community to honor and remember those who served, including those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. The park is located behind Manatee Memorial Hospital along the Riverwalk.
Event InfoMemorial Day Patriotic Symphony Salute at Anna Maria City Pier
Celebrate Memorial Day at the annual Patriotic Symphony Salute on the Anna Maria City Pier. This 90-minute observance and concert is free to attend and features a special flag presentation by the U.S. Marine Corps. Bring your patriotic spirit and enjoy the beautiful bayfront setting.
Event InfoSarasota Memorial Day Parade & Ceremony
Join the City of Sarasota for the 2025 Memorial Day Parade, themed "We Will Never Forget." The event will feature the Sarasota Police Color Guard and Motorcycle Contingent, as well as Veterans groups including SRQ Veterans, American Legion, VFW, Vietnam Veterans, Sarasota Military Academy Band, and many more. The parade begins at 10:00 a.m. at Osprey and Main, followed by a commemorative ceremony at 11:00 a.m. in Chaplain J.D. Hamel Park, with featured speaker Sonny Bywaters.
Event InfoAnnual Knights of Columbus Memorial Day Picnic
Celebrate Memorial Day with a classic picnic hosted by the Knights of Columbus, featuring hamburgers, hot dogs, baked beans, potato salad, cole slaw, corn, and ice cream. Doors open at 11:30 a.m., with a flag raising ceremony at noon. RSVP by May 22. Adults $15, kids $5.
Register HereAnnual Memorial Day Concert at Phillippi Estate Park
Enjoy an evening of music and remembrance at the Annual Memorial Day Concert, presented by the Sarasota Concert Band. Bring your lawn chairs, family, and friends to the Phillippi Estate Park gazebo for this free outdoor performance honoring those who served.
Learn MoreMonday Night Jazz with Paul Gavin & Friends
Join the Jazz Club of Sarasota for a swingin' night of jazz featuring Paul Gavin and Friends. Known for his standout performance at the 2024 Sarasota Jazz Festival, Gavin brings his talent as a drummer, composer, arranger, and entertainer to the John C. Court Cabaret stage. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for food and beverage service. Tickets range from $34 to $39, with discounts available for Jazz Club members.
Event InfoVenice Hurricane Expo
Get prepared for hurricane season at the annual Venice Hurricane Expo, hosted by the City of Venice and the Venice Gondolier. Learn from expert speakers about storm prep, emergency services, flood risks, evacuation plans, and what to do after a hurricane. Vendors will provide essential storm-related products, services, and information. Enjoy giveaways, raffles (including weather radios at the City of Venice table), and food and drinks for purchase. This free event is especially helpful for newcomers to the area.
Event InfoFamily Saturdays at Selby Gardens
Kids and kids at heart can enjoy creative art and nature activities as Family Saturdays return to Selby Gardens' Downtown Sarasota campus. Activity stations with hands-on, nature-inspired art projects will be set up in the Ann Goldstein Children's Rainforest Garden. Designed for elementary-aged children, participation is included with garden admission. Tickets are $28 for adults, $12 for ages 5–17, and free for children 4 and under. Selby Gardens members receive free entry and guest discounts.
Event Info📰 Community News & Local Developments
Sarasota Hosts Stormwater Drainage Workshop
The City of Sarasota conducted a public workshop to address stormwater drainage issues, focusing on infrastructure improvements and community feedback.
Read MoreSarasota City Commission Approves Land Use Change for Historic Mira Mar Plaza
The Sarasota City Commission voted unanimously on May 19 to approve a comprehensive plan amendment that changes the land use designation for part of the Mira Mar Plaza property from "downtown core" to "downtown bayfront," paving the way for an 18-story redevelopment behind the historic building on Palm Avenue.
Read MoreSarasota County OKs Rezoning for Major Lakewood Ranch Expansion
On May 15, Sarasota County approved a rezoning request for a significant expansion of Lakewood Ranch, which will eventually accommodate 5,000 new homes on 4,100 acres east of I-75. The development has faced some opposition from local residents and officials.
Read MorePotbelly Opens First Sarasota Location
Potbelly, a popular sandwich shop, opened its first Sarasota location on May 22 at 1635 S. Tamiami Trail, across from Sarasota Memorial Hospital. The eatery also offers salads, shakes, and cookies, and is situated next to Buffalo Wild Wings in a space that previously housed Tijuana Flats.
Read MoreAstoria on 9th Opens in Bradenton
A new $37.4 million affordable housing community for seniors has opened in Bradenton. Astoria on 9th, developed by Housing Trust Group in partnership with AM Affordable Housing, offers 120 one- and two-bedroom apartments. Located at 2244 Ninth Street West, the five-story building features amenities such as a clubhouse, cybercafé, fitness center, and dog park. Monthly rents start at $322, making it one of the most affordable options in the area. Applications are currently being accepted.
Read More☀️ Weekly Weather Outlook (May 25 - 31)
Enjoy warm and sunny days perfect for Memorial Day Weekend activities. Here's the forecast:
