May in Sarasota: Your Firsthand Look at Events and Festivals You Can’t Miss in May 2024.

Welcome to our guide to the best local events happening in Sarasota this May! As spring unfolds in our beautiful city, Sarasota comes alive with a variety of exciting activities and festivities. Whether you're a resident or visiting this charming coastal destination, discover the top events that showcase Sarasota's culture, arts, and community spirit. Join us as we explore what's happening in Sarasota this May 2024!

Ranch Nite

May 1st, 2024, 6pm-9pm| Lakewood Ranch, FL

A vibrant night market featuring new food trucks and a dessert truck weekly, live music by local artists like Kettle of Fish, and the nation's largest recreational cornhole league hosted by MVP Sports & Social. This lively event also includes a vintage mobile bar presented by Cornerstone and Co., ensuring a festive atmosphere with something for everyone to enjoy.

Classic Car Show

May 1st, 5pm-8pm| Main Street, Lakewood Ranch

Whether you bring your own wheels or simply come to enjoy the show, admission is free! For just $10 per vehicle, join in the fun with food, music, and exciting prizes at this lively event.

St. Armands Craft Festival

May 4th - 5th, 10am-5pm | St. Armands Circle

This annual event showcases diverse art forms including sculpture, photography, glass, paintings, ceramics, jewelry, and more, alongside a craft marketplace on the street, allowing patrons to meet artists, commission work, and gain insight into artistic inspiration.

Circo De Mayo Street Festival

May 4th 4pm-12am and May 5th, 12pm-9pm | Downtown Sarasota, FL.

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo at the Circo de Mayo Street Festival hosted by Circo: a Taco & Bourbon Joint! Enjoy a day filled with lively music, delicious tacos, refreshing drinks, and festive games with friends and family. Don't forget to mark your calendars and join us for this fantastic event that promises a vibrant atmosphere and exciting festivities.

For an enhanced experience, consider purchasing a VIP ticket which includes unlimited chips and salsa all weekend, 3 free tacos, a complimentary house margarita, and special discounts on house margaritas throughout the event. The first 50 ticket holders will also receive a swag bag from our vendors, so secure your spot early for this unforgettable celebration!

Manatee’s 3rd Annual Taco Fest

May 4th 12pm-7pm | Manatee County FairGrounds

Manatee's 3rd Annual Taco Fest is happening on May 4, 2024, at the Manatee County Fairgrounds in Palmetto, Florida. Building on the success of MAFT 2023, which featured over 85 of the Tri-State Area's Best Taco and Food Vendors, along with specialty cocktails, artisans, and entertainment, this year's festival will keep its doors open until 7:00 pm due to popular demand. Enjoy a range of family-friendly activities including a petting zoo, bull riding, jump houses, face painting, and more. Tickets are available through Eventbrite and at the door, with free entry for kids under 13, veterans, and a discounted rate for seniors over 65. Rain or shine, this promises to be an unforgettable event for all!

Venice Brew Fest

May 18th 11am-4pm | Venice, FL

Experience an afternoon of local beer tasting at the Venice Brew Fest, complete with live music, delicious food, and over 15 breweries pouring a variety of beers. General admission tickets grant access to the beer tasting from 12-4, while VIP tickets offer early entry at 11am, exclusive access to the VIP tent with local brewers, and preferred parking. Don't miss out on this exciting event.

Friday Fest

May 24th 5p-9pm, every Friday through the end of June | Van Wezel

Friday Fest, the popular free outdoor concert series at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, is back with an exciting lineup featuring bands that promise to get the audience dancing! Kicking off in May, each event from 5-9 p.m. on the Van Wezel lawn overlooking Sarasota Bay offers a lively atmosphere with a variety of musical genres.

The series begins on May 24 with Hot Tonic Orchestra, known for their energetic blend of swing, Latin jazz, and popular music. Led by bandleader Victoria Woods and musical director Josh Hindmarsh, their live show is a unique experience not to be missed. Then, on June 21, returning favorite Kettle of Fish brings their vibrant mix of blues, soul, funk, and rock 'n roll to the stage, promising a night of classic and original tunes.

St. Armands Fine Art Festival 

May 25th-26th, 10am-5pm | St. Armands Circle

The St. Armands Fine Art Festival takes place Memorial Day weekend, May 25-26, 2024, transforming St. Armands Circle into an extraordinary outdoor gallery of original art from a diverse range of mediums. Admission is free, offering visitors the chance to meet artisans and explore unique pieces that may enhance their homes or offices with inspiration and beauty.

AquaPalooza

May 26th 10am-4pm | New Sandbar Pass

Get ready for AquaPalooza 2024, presented by MarineMax Sarasota—an exciting summer kickoff event featuring live music, giveaways, and a raft-up with fellow boaters at New Pass Sandbar! Join us from 10 am to 4 pm for a day of fun in the sun right in front of our Marina. RSVP now to stay updated, and contact MarineMax Sarasota at 941-388-4411 for more information.

Tribute To Heroes Block Party & Parade

May 26th 5pm-8pm | Lakewood Ranch, FL

Join the annual community event on Lakewood Main Street, where thousands gather to support our local veterans and heroes! Get involved in this meaningful celebration starting at 5pm with a block party, followed by the parade at 6:30pm.

Memorial Day Concert

May 27th 5pm-7pm | Phillippi Estate Park

Memorial Day Concert at Phillippi Estate Park on Monday, May 27th, 2024, from 5pm to 7pm, honoring all branches of the military. The event features a presentation of colors by Nokomis Boy Scout Troop 1001, a Memorial Day address, patriotic vocal performances, and instrumental solos including music by American composers and John Philip Sousa marches. Bring a lawn chair, blanket, and snacks or enjoy offerings from on-site vendors. This free community event welcomes all to pay tribute to our veterans and enjoy an evening of patriotic music in a beautiful setting with handicapped parking available.

May in Sarasota promises an exciting array of events and festivals that capture the essence of our vibrant community. From lively street festivals celebrating Cinco de Mayo to craft showcases, classic car shows, and unforgettable concerts honoring our heroes, there's something for everyone to enjoy this May. Whether you're exploring art at St. Armands or indulging in local brews at the Venice Brew Fest, join us in experiencing the best of Sarasota's culture and entertainment this spring. Don't miss out—mark your calendars and make the most of these incredible experiences with family and friends!