Summer Vibes in Sarasota: 10+ Events & Things to Do this August

Summer in Sarasota is almost over, but that doesn't mean the fun has to end! With plenty of activities and festivals to attend, August is the perfect time to soak up the last of summer before fall arrives. From circuses and live music to shows and back-to-school bashes, there's something for everyone to enjoy in Sarasota this August. So get out there and take advantage of all the amazing events and activities that this city has to offer!

Summer Circus Spectacular

August 1st-12th, Showtimes vary | Historic Aslo Theater

Catch the last few shows of the summer and prepare to be amazed by the Summer Circus Spectacular! Featuring some of the finest circus acts from around the world, this event promises jaw-dropping performances that will leave you in awe. Show times are 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. on Saturdays. Admission is $20 for adults and $13 for children 13 & under. Witness the magic of the circus and create unforgettable memories!

Laser Light Nights

Thursday, Friday & Saturday Nights, 7pm & 9pm | The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature

Ready to experience an immersive laser show that will leave you breathless? Laser Light Nights is back at The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature! Running every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night through September 2nd, 2023, this spectacular laser light show is the perfect opportunity to get out of the summer heat and enjoy an unforgettable evening out.

This event features a mesmerizing laser light show set to the latest hits, as well as classic tunes that will make you want to get up and dance. There are also exciting special effects, including fog, haze, and bubbles, to create a truly immersive experience.

Laser Light Nights Shows in August

• Thursday 8/3: AC/DC at 7pm & Rush at 9pm

• Friday 8/4: *NSYNC with Britney at 7pm & Lizzo at 9pm

• Saturday 8/5: 2000's Pop at 7pm & Elton John at 9pm

• Thursday 8/10: Motown at 7pm & The Doors at 9pm

• Friday 8/11: Pink Floyd: The Wall at 7pm & Pink Floyd: Dark Side of the Moon at 9pm

• Saturday 8/12: Van Halen at 7pm & Aerosmith at 9pm

• Thursday 8/17: U2 at 7pm & Nirvana at 9pm

• Friday 8/18: The Rolling Stones at 7pm & Led Zeppelin at 9pm

• Saturday 8/19: Beastie Boys at 7pm & Metallica at 9pm

• Thursday 8/24: Elton John at 7pm & Queen at 9pm

• Friday 8/25: Prince at 7pm & Taylor Swift at 9pm

• Saturday 8/26: Pink Floyd: The Wall at 7pm & Pink Floyd: Dark Side of the Moon at 9pm

• Thursday 8/31: The Beatles at 7pm & A Medley of Summer Favorites at 9pm

Tickets for Laser Light Nights can sell out fast, so purchasing them online ahead of time is recommended to secure your spot. General admission is $15 per person, but you can also book a private Laser Light Night for $1,250. Overall, Laser Light Nights is the perfect way to kick back, relax, and let yourself be dazzled by one of the most breathtaking laser shows in town. Don't miss out on this amazing experience!

Music on Main

August 4th, 6pm-9pm | Lakewood Ranch Main Street

If you love food and live music, then Music on Main is the place to be! Presented by Grace Community Church, this free concert series is held on the first Friday of every month from 6 pm to 9 pm. The event features live music, local food vendors, beer trucks, sponsor booths, and games and activities for the kids.

One of the best things about Music on Main is that proceeds from the event go towards supporting a different local non-profit organization each month. This makes the event a great opportunity to give back to the community while enjoying a night of fun and music.

For the August 2023 edition of Music on Main, you can look forward to Silverback Rock N’ Roll Band and this time, proceeds will go towards the Bradenton Woman’s Club. So come on down to Main Street and enjoy a night of great music for a good cause!

Loomis Bros Circus

August 4th-6th, Showtimes Vary | Robarts Arena

If you're looking for a classic circus experience, the Loomis Bros Circus is a must-see event in Sarasota this August! This traveling circus features three rings, exotic animals, and live music, making it the only circus in North America to offer all three. The show includes juggling, dogs, Rolla Bolla, unicycles, motorcycle daredevils, aerialists, and elephants, among other acts. What's even more impressive is that the Loomis Bros Circus works with local communities to raise money for organizations in the areas in which it performs.

With its diverse acts and engaging performances, the Loomis Bros Circus will undoubtedly spark the imagination and take the audience on a magical journey. Showtimes vary, and tickets are $30 for adults, $8 for children ages 3-12, and free for little ones ages 2 and under. Add the Loomis Bros Circus to your list of things to do this August in Sarasota!

The Mall at UTC's Annual Back to School Bash

August 5th, 10am-3pm | The Mall at UTC

Calling all Sarasota parents! One of the best things to do in Sarasota this August is to attend The Mall at UTC's Annual Back to School Bash. This fun-filled event provides a valuable resource for parents and students getting ready for the upcoming school year. There will be community resources, after-school programs, healthcare providers, pediatricians, optometrists, and tutors present, providing parents with valuable information and services for their children.

But the fun doesn't stop there. Tampa Bay's favorite sports mascots and some of your favorite characters will also be on hand, taking pictures and providing entertainment for the kids. There will also be live entertainment, kids activities, face painting and more. Over 250 backpacks and thousands of school supplies will be given away through an interactive scavenger hunt, making this event even more exciting.

Parents must pre-register online to receive a backpack, and children must be present to collect a backpack and participate in the scavenger hunt. The Back to School Bash is open to the public, so anyone can attend and take advantage of this great event. School supply donations are also welcomed, so come and support your community while having a great time with family and friends!

Movie in the Park

August 11th, 7pm - 10pm | Waterside Park

Looking for a fun and free event to enjoy with the whole family? Look no further than Movie in the Park, happening every 2nd Friday of the month in Sarasota. This event, sponsored by Grace Community Church, is a great way to spend a summer evening outdoors while enjoying a family-friendly movie.

For the August 11 show, grab a blanket or lawn chair and head over to Waterside Park to watch Princess and the Frog. The first 300 attendees will even receive a free Popsicle from Siesta Pops! Plus, you won't want to miss the chance to meet Tiana herself during a meet and greet from 7pm-9pm.

Concessions will also be available, courtesy of We B’ Poppin Popcorn and Kettle Corn. And the kiddos will love the face painting and inflatables available from 7-9pm! Don't forget to bring your own blanket and/or lawn chairs to make yourself comfortable while you enjoy the movie. With so many things to do in Sarasota this August, Movie in the Park is definitely an event you don't want to miss!

The Van Wezel's Friday Fest

August 11th, 5pm-9pm | The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall Lawn

One of the best things about summer is outdoor concerts, and Sarasota's Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is delivering just that with their free Friday Fest concert series! This month's event is from 5-9 p.m., featuring TEN-76, a powerhouse high-energy band that covers classic and modern rock, will take the stage on the lawn of the Van Wezel.

Bring your blankets or lawn chairs, take in the music and the sunset, and enjoy food and beverage from local vendors. Note that bringing in food, beverages and coolers from outside Friday Fest is prohibited, but don't worry, there will be plenty of food and beverage options from local vendors right at the event.

Friday Fest is a family-friendly event, so bring the whole gang. This is an excellent opportunity to soak up the beautiful summer weather and have some fun with friends and family!

SarasotaCon

August 12th, 10am-5pm | Carlisle Inn & Conference Center Sarasota

SarasotaCon is Sarasota's very own ComiCon, a collectors' mecca convention that celebrates all things pop culture. Held in Sarasota, Florida, SarasotaCon strives to be the state's best and truest comic convention, featuring fandoms of multiple genres.

At SarasotaCon, attendees can expect to find a wide range of exhibitors, including comic books, magazines, toys, video games, movies, wrestling, sci-fi, sports cards, anime manga, cosplay, artwork sketches, apparel, gaming, sports cards, retro toys, and horror. Whether you're a hardcore collector or just a casual fan, there's bound to be something that catches your eye.

Admission to SarasotaCon is $20, and children under 11 get in for free. With so much to see and do, SarasotaCon is a must-attend event for fans of all ages. Don't miss out on the chance to immerse yourself in the world of pop culture and connect with fellow fans at SarasotaCon this August!

UTC Night Market

August 17th, 6pm-9:30pm | The Green at UTC

If you're looking for a fun evening activity, the UTC Night Market is the perfect place to be! This monthly outdoor market event features live music and a curated collection of local artisans selling handmade goods, jewelry, art, gifts, and more. Whether you're shopping for unique souvenirs or simply enjoying the lively atmosphere, the UTC Night Market is a great way to spend a Thursday evening.

Held every third Thursday of the month from 6:30-9:30 pm on the Green at UTC, this night market is an excellent opportunity to connect with the Sarasota community while enjoying some fantastic local art and culture. Be sure to come hungry because you'll find plenty of food trucks and vendors serving up delicious eats!

Special Olympics Florida Stand-Up Paddle Competition

August 18th-19th, Event Times Vary | Nathan Benderson Park

If you're looking for a unique and inspiring event to attend in Sarasota this August, don't miss the Special Olympics Florida Stand-Up Paddle Competition! This event showcases the incredible talents of Special Olympics athletes in the sport of stand-up paddling (SUP).

Florida was the first state to declare stand-up paddling as an official competition sport for Special Olympics, and this competition brings together athletes from all over the state to demonstrate their paddle power. With a roster of 150 athletes, the competition is sure to be fierce and exciting!

On Saturday, the events run from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on Sunday, the events begin at 8 a.m. and conclude at 3 p.m.

This event not only showcases the incredible skills of these athletes but also celebrates inclusivity and the power of sports to bring people together. Whether you're a fan of paddle sports or simply looking for an uplifting and inspiring event, the Special Olympics Florida Stand-Up Paddle Competition is not to be missed.

Annual Back to School Bash at Music Compound

August 19th, 11am-2pm | Both Music Compound Locations

Mark your calendars for the Annual Back to School Bash at Music Compound, a free event that is open to the public and perfect for families! Taking place on August 12th from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, this event is a great way to celebrate the end of summer and gear up for the new school year.

The Back to School Bash will be held at two Music Compound locations: 1751 Cattlemen Road in Sarasota and 4740 SR 64 E in Manatee. At both locations, attendees can enjoy live music, bounce houses, beer samples, food trucks, crafts, and face painting.

This event is not only a fun way to spend a summer day, but it also provides an opportunity to support Music Compound, a local organization that offers music lessons and programs to aspiring musicians of all ages. So gather the family, head over to the Back to School Bash, and make some lasting memories before the school year kicks off!

Music in the Gardens

August 20th, 5:30pm-7:30pm | Sarasota Garden Club

Looking for a relaxing way to spend a Sunday evening in Sarasota? Look no further than Music in the Gardens. With the fabulous violinist Elijah Luzginov, you can stroll through or sit in a beautiful garden maintained by the members while enjoying wine refreshments and hors d'oeuvres. It's the perfect opportunity to enjoy some beautiful music, good friends, dancing and more.

To attend this event, simply RSVP at klgbrg@me.com or call 941-718-3359. The cost is $30 per person or $25 for members. This is a great chance to unwind after a busy week and soak up the beautiful scenery that Sarasota has to offer!

Beat the Heat Challenge with Camp Gladiator

August 26th, 8am | Nathan Benderson Park

If you're up for a fitness challenge this August, don't miss the Beat the Heat Challenge with Camp Gladiator! This event is a one-mile fitness race with four challenge stations designed to push you to your limits. Participants are divided into four age groups, so you'll be competing against people in your own age range (20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59). The four challenge stations are designed to test your strength, endurance, and mental toughness. A sandbell challenge, a ruck-sack challenge, a body weight challenge and a 1000m row challenge await!

This challenge is not for the faint of heart, but it's a great way to test your fitness and push yourself to new heights. Plus, you'll get to meet and compete against other like-minded individuals who are up for a challenge. So grab your sneakers and get ready to Beat the Heat!

Let's Have Some Fun This August!

August in Sarasota is shaping up to be an exciting month filled with a variety of events and activities for everyone to enjoy! From circus spectacles and laser light shows to music festivals and back-to-school bashes, there's no shortage of fun to be had. No matter what your interests may be, Sarasota has something to offer this August. So gather your friends and family and make the most of the remaining days of summer in this vibrant and lively city!