February Fun in Sarasota: 20+ Must-Do Activities for 2024

Hey there, Sarasota friends! February is rolling in, and guess what? The city's turning into a playground of awesome events! From old-school fairs to festivals and art events, Sarasota's got something for everyone. Foodies, art geeks, and families, listen up! We've got the info on the coolest events and things to do in the Sarasota area this February 2024. Let's dive into the fun vibes that'll make your month unforgettable!

1. Charlotte County Fair

February 1st-4th, Hours Vary | 2333 El Jobean Rd, Port Charlotte, FL 33948

Step into the magic of the 35th annual Charlotte County Fair! Live entertainment, family activities, and the aroma of classic fair food await, promising an enchanting experience for all ages. Click here for hours and admission.

2. Fresh Fridays Downtown Sarasota

February 2nd, 7pm-10pm | Downtown Sarasota

Embrace the freshness of Friday at the Fresh Fridays Downtown Sarasota! From 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., the streets come alive with live music, trendy boutiques, and delightful wine tastings along Palm Ave, Lemon Ave, and Main Street. Come on down to celebrate the vibrant downtown culture and community!

3. Music on Main

February 2nd, 6pm-9pm | Lakewood Ranch Main Street

Groove to the beats at Lakewood Ranch's Music on Main! With live music, beer, wine, food, and family-friendly activities, this event on Lakewood Ranch Main Street ensures a night of lively entertainment. Plus, the proceeds from the event will benefit Sarasota-Manatee Association for Riding Therapy. Join in for a lively night for a good cause on Lakewood Ranch Main Street!

4. Bradenton Cigar Box Festival

February 2nd-3rd, Hours Vary | Village of the Arts

Indulge in the celebration of cigar box guitars at the Annual Bradenton Cigar Box Festival. Located at the Village of the Arts, 1227 12th St. W, Bradenton, FL, this event features live music, workshops, and a showcase of handmade cigar box guitars and accessories. Join in on the fun on Friday, February 2nd, 6-9:30pm and Saturday, February 3rd, 11am-4pm!

5. Woodmere Bark

February 3rd, 9am-1pm | Woodmere Park

For a fur-tastic community event, head to Woodmere Bark at Woodmere Park in Venice! Explore pet-related businesses, discover valuable resources for your furry friends, and perhaps find a new companion through pet adoption.

6. Sarasota County's Fire Fest

February 3rd, 10am-2pm | Carlton Reserve

Join the excitement at Sarasota County's Fire Fest, a family-friendly event highlighting the importance of prescribed burns in protecting communities! From live fire demonstrations to nature tours and kid-friendly activities, this event is both educational and entertaining.

7. The First Ski-A-Rees Water Ski Team Show of the Season

February 4th, 2pm | 1602 Ken Thompson Parkway (Behind Mote Marine Aquarium)

Witness the spectacular Ski-A-Rees Water Ski Team's FIRST Sunday afternoon show of the season at Ski-A-Ree Stadium! This free show starts at 2 p.m. and takes place every Sunday through May 5th, 2024, offering thrilling water stunts and entertainment.

8. Sarasota Jewish Food Festival

February 4th, 10am-3pm | Temple Sinai

Indulge in a culinary journey at Temple Sinai's 16th Annual Sarasota Jewish Food Festival. From kugel to homemade desserts, this event at 4631 S. Lockwood Ridge Road promises a delicious exploration of traditional Jewish cuisine!

9. Florida State Fair

February 8th-19th, Hours Vary | Florida State Fairgrounds

Embark on a journey of fun and excitement at the Florida State Fair, where the gates open daily for a spectacular display of entertainment, rides, and fair delights! Gates open at 11am Monday thru Thursday and 10am on Friday thru Sunday. Click here to get your tickets online!

10. Sarasota Shell Club's 59th Annual Shell Show

February 9th-10th, 10am-5pm | Robarts Arena/Potter Building

Delve into the beauty of shells at the 59th Annual Shell Show presented by the Sarasota Shell Club! With exhibits showcasing exquisite shell crafts and rare specimens, is a haven for shell enthusiasts. Plus, guests receive a free bag of shells with their $5 paid admission fee! Children 12 and under are admitted free with a paid adult and the fee is half-price for students ages 12-18. Save the date and enjoy the opportunity to “shellabrate” with the seashell community at this unique event!

11. Superhero 5K & Fun Run

February 10th, 8:30am | Nathan Benderson Park

Be a hero for a day at the 13th Annual Superhero 5K & Fun Run at Nathan Benderson Park in Sarasota! Whether you participate in the race or enjoy the family-friendly atmosphere with music, a kiddie zone, and giveaways, this event from 8:30 a.m. onwards is a celebration of foster care awareness. Click here to sign up for the race!

12. Downtown Sarasota Festival of the Arts

February 10th-11th, 10am-5pm | 1718 Main Street in Sarasota, FL

Immerse yourself in creativity at the 36th Annual Downtown Sarasota Festival of the Arts! With life-size sculptures, paintings, photography, and more on display along Main Street, this festival is a visual feast for art lovers.

13. Say "I Do Again!" Vow Renewal

February 14th, 4:30pm-7pm | Siesta Beach

Celebrate love at the Say "I Do Again!" Vow Renewal on Siesta Beach! With a picturesque sunset setting, this nondenominational ceremony includes commemorative certificates, gifts, music, and light refreshments. Check-in begins at 4:30 p.m. and activities begin at 5 p.m. The service begins promptly at 6 p.m. What better way to celebrate Valentine’s Day!

14. Movies in the Park - Beauty and the Beast

February 14th, 6pm | Centennial Park Gazebo

Enjoy a romantic movie night under the stars at Centennial Park Gazebo in Venice! The free family movie, "Beauty and the Beast," starts at 6 p.m., inviting you to bring your chairs and blankets for a cozy evening. It’s a fun Valentine’s Day activity for the whole family!

15. Palm Grove Amish Quilt & Craft Show

February 14th-17th, Hours Vary | Palm Grove Mennonite Church

Discover the artistry of quilts at the Palm Grove Amish Quilt & Craft Show! From handmade quilts to various crafts, this event at Palm Grove Mennonite Church showcases the talent of local artisans. Show hours are 8am-5pm from Wednesday to Friday and 8am-12pm on Saturday.

16. Circus Sarasota

February 14th - March 10th, Showtimes Vary | Nathan Benderson Park

Step under the Big Top for the 25th season of Circus Sarasota! Featuring an international cast of circus artists, this thrilling event at Nathan Benderson Park on Regatta Island promises awe-inspiring performances, blending tradition with contemporary flair. Click here for tickets and showtimes!

17. Thunder By The Bay Sarasota Music & Motorcycle Festival

February 16th-18th, Hours Vary | The Sarasota Fairgrounds

Rev up your engines for the 26th Annual Thunder By The Bay Sarasota Music & Motorcycle Festival! With bikes, live music, and a festive atmosphere, this outdoor festival promises a weekend of fun at the Sarasota Fairgrounds. Click here to get your tickets!

18. St. Barbara Greek Festival

February 16th-18th, Hours Vary | St. Barbara Greek Orthodox Church

Savor the flavors of Greece at the 40th Annual St. Barbara Greek Festival! With traditional food, live music, and vibrant dancing, this event at 7671 N. Lockwood Ridge Road offers a cultural immersion, delicious Greek foods, prizes, and more! Event hours are Friday & Saturday 11am-9pm and Sunday 12pm-6pm.

19. Bradenton Area River Regatta

February 17th, 8am-10pm | Various Locations

Gear up for water sports excitement at the annual Bradenton Area River Regatta on the Manatee River! From Formula 2 powerboat racing to live music, food, and a kid zone, this free event from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. promises a day full of thrills. Experience the added magic of a drone light show above Manatee River during the opening night on Friday, February 16, 2024, starting at 7:15 p.m. Click here for the full event schedule and details!

20. Pittsburgh Pirates Block Party

February 17th, 6pm-9pm | Old Main Street, Bradenton

Celebrate your love for Spring Training and the Pittsburgh Pirates at the Pittsburgh Pirates Block Party! With vendors, player autographs, and family-friendly fun, this event on Old Main Street keeps the excitement alive after the Bradenton Area River Regatta!

21. Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival

February 17th-18th, Hours Vary | The Historic Fishing Village of Cortez

Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the commercial fishing industry at the 42nd Annual Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival! With marine life exhibits, seafood delights, and live music, this event from 10am-6pm on Saturday and 10:30am-6pm on Sunday promises a weekend of maritime festivities. Click here for the full event lineup!

22. Venice Italian Feast and Carnival

February 22nd-25th, Hours Vary | The Venice Airport Paved Midway

Savor the flavors of Italy at the 35th Annual Venice Italian Feast and Carnival! From traditional Italian dishes to carnival rides and live entertainment, this four-day fest, starting at 4 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, and 12 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, invites you to indulge in a cultural celebration.

23. Sarasota Florida Antiques Show

February 24th-25th, Hours Vary | Sarasota Municipal Auditorium

Discover timeless treasures at the Sarasota Florida Antiques Show! From antique lighting to rare instruments, this event from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday is a haven for collectors and vintage enthusiasts!

24. Longboat Key Festival of the Arts

February 24th-25th, 10am-5pm | Longboat Key Town Center Green

Stroll amidst life-size sculptures, paintings, and jewelry at the Longboat Key Festival of the Arts! This event showcases the work of local and national artists, providing a vibrant art experience for residents and visitors.

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Alright Sarasota, February's bringing the heat with a bunch of the best events! Whether you're into old-school fun, artsy vibes, or live music, Sarasota's got your back. So, grab your crew, mark those calendars, and let's make this February in Sarasota one for the books!