50 Years at the Village
10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, July 11. Manatee Village Historical Park, 1404 Manatee Ave. E, Bradenton. Celebrate 50 years of historic preservation. Enjoy food trucks, entertainment, crafts, hands-on activities, historical highlights, face painting and more. Get involved in the celebration by joining the build contest or renewing your vows in the historic 1887 Church. https://tinyurl.com/3mj9au7x
Dance Fantasy Showcase
7 p.m. Saturday, July 11. Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 Third Ave. W., Bradenton. Step into a world of imagination at the Dance Fantasy Showcase, presented by Fred Astaire Dance Studios Lakewood Ranch and North Port. Experience breathtaking performances, stunning costumes, and unforgettable moments as our students and professional dancers bring fantasy to life on stage. $29. https://tinyurl.com/2s42ps4d
Stars, Stripes & Second Chances
7-9 p.m. Friday, July 10. Oasis Church, 5215 Lorraine Road, Bradenton. Featuring Alex-Zsolt, known as “America’s Gospel Pianist.” Enjoy a night of music, gourmet snacks and refreshments. Tickets start at $27.50. https://tinyurl.com/bdd98kjy
THURSDAY
Casual Cornhole
10-11 a.m. July 9. Waterside Place, 7500 Island Cove Terrace, Lakewood Ranch. Whether you’re a cornhole pro or a newbie, don’t miss this chance to show off your tossing skills and have a blast with friends. Grab a partner or go solo, we’ve got enough beanbags and boards to keep everyone entertained. Occurs weekly.
Summer Learning: Wildlife Encounter
10-11 a.m. July 9. Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Join Krista from Wildlife Inc. for a fun-filled and information program featuring live exotic animals. Learn the difference between turtles and tortoises. Discover different types of birds. Learn how to be a responsible pet owner. https://tinyurl.com/39hst647
Summer Learning: Water Conservation Fun
3-4 p.m. July 9. South Manatee Branch, 6081 26th St. W., Bradenton. Bring water conservation to life with this fun water conservation program. Enjoy hands-on activities, engaging videos, and take-home materials. https://tinyurl.com/msexx85j
Thursday Live Music Nights
6-9 p.m. July 9. Remy’s on Main, 8138 Lakewood Main St., Lakewood Ranch. A full-time local musician since 2008, Joe Thayer brings a dynamic piano performance featuring favorites from across the decades and genres. Enjoy classics from the American Songbook alongside hits from Billy Joel, Elton John, Van Morrison, and more.
FRIDAY
Heroes breakfast
8-10 a.m. July 10. ActivAge Sarasota, 3801 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota. Held each second Friday of the month, ActivAge Sarasota picks an honored Veteran of the Month to be celebrated. Sometimes, there will be a guest speaker. All veterans are welcome to attend and enjoy a free breakfast. Call 941-269-2273 to RSVP.
Sweat & Connect
9-10 a.m. July 10. James L. Patton Park, 5725 White Eagle Blvd., Lakewood Ranch. Hosted by Habits You Love, this community-driven workout experience is designed to help women move their bodies, build confidence, and create genuine connection in a supportive, uplifting environment. Please bring a mat, towel and water. Registration required. https://tinyurl.com/4mh6e6p4
Pops Orchestra Jazz Combo
6-7 p.m. July 10. Waterside Place, 1560 Lakefront Drive, Sarasota. Made up of members of the Pops Orchestra of Bradenton & Sarasota, this five-piece jazz combo will provide an unforgettable evening of dynamic jazz melodies, soulful improvisations, and timeless American Songbook classics. Limited seating available, please feel free to bring a lawn chair. No outside food or drinks permitted.
Classic Movies at the Opera House
7-8 p.m. July 10. Sarasota Opera House, 61 N. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota. This week’s feature is “Dead Again.” Rated R. A private investigator takes on the case of a woman who can neither speak nor remember her name. After enlisting the help of a hypnotist, the two learn that they share a strange connection to a decades-old murder mystery. $12. https://tickets.sarasotaopera.org/8545/8549
Movie in the Park
7-9 p.m. July 10. Waterside Park, 7301 Island Cove Terrace, Sarasota. Grace Community Church will be providing one free popsicle from Florida Pops to the first 260 attendees. This month’s movie is “Tangled.” Don’t miss a special appearance from Rapunzel & Flynn during the event. Seating is available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Bring a blanket and/or lawn chairs. Concessions available. Inflatables for the kids will be available at 7 p.m. https://tinyurl.com/246a7urz
SATURDAY
Summer Women’s Clothing Swap
9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. July 11. Star Academy, 308 Seventh St. W., Palmetto. Come bring gently used women’s clothing on individual hangers and bring home other items. Star Academy is excited to host its first swap shop at the studio. Donors can start bringing clothes at 9 a.m. Anyone who would like to just browse is welcome at 11 a.m.
American Sewing Guild
9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. July 11. South Manatee Branch Library, 6081 26th St. W., Bradenton. This community sewing guild is associated with the Sarasota Gulf Coast Chapter of the American Sewing Guild. The “Creative Sassy Sewers,” as they call themselves, make items for anyone in need: babies, children, adults, seniors, and pets. If you sew, come join them as they look for opportunities to give, using their talents, time, and interest. https://tinyurl.com/c6nutxxj
Foiling in Paradise Virtual Event
1-3 p.m. and 4-6 p.m. July 11. Virtual event. Pink and Main is an international papercrafting, stamping and cardmaking business for creative crafters everywhere. Known for its papercraft products from stamps, dies, foils, stencils and card kits to blender brushes, embossing folders and more, Pink and Main’s educational offerings are growing in popularity. $85. https://pinkandmain.com/classes-events
Booked & Buried Literary Club
9-11 p.m. July 11. Kava Social Club, 540 13th St. W, Bradenton. Kat’s Booked & Buried Literary Club is a cozy, creative gathering for readers who love diving deep into compelling stories and unforgettable characters. Join fellow book lovers for lively discussions, fresh perspectives, and a welcoming community that celebrates every page turned. https://tinyurl.com/3b96syey
SUNDAY
Yoga in the Park
8-9 a.m. July 12. Waterside Place, 7301 Island Cove Terrace, Lakewood Ranch. Start your Sunday off with a little mindfulness and movement. Not only will you get to enjoy the fresh air and beautiful surroundings, but you’ll also experience the many benefits yoga has to offer. Occurs weekly.
Farmers’ Market at Lakewood Ranch
10 a.m.-2 p.m. July 12. Waterside Place, 1561 Lakefront Drive, Sarasota. Shop local every Sunday with 100+ local vendors including organic produce, flowers, specialty spices and rubs, honey, fresh bread, baked goods, prepared foods, pet products, jewelry, and more. Spend your Sunday mornings lakeside while enjoying a variety of local musicians, great food, and fun activities for the little ones at The Kids’ Zone.
MONDAY
Turtle Tracks & Shorebird Facts
10-11 a.m. July 13-Sept. 21. Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch is hosting a weekly educational session focused on local wildlife, giving residents and visitors a closer look at sea turtles and shorebirds found along the coast. These free presentations cover nesting habits, conservation efforts, and what to watch for during the season.
Ukulele Jam Session
2:30-4 p.m. July 13. Palmetto Library, 923 Sixth St. W. Bring your ukulele and enthusiasm and join Kathleen Reynolds, leader of the Bradenton Ukulele Movement for a fun jam session. This event is open to beginners (level 1 players). This relaxed and friendly gathering is a great way to make music together, practice favorite tunes, and learn from one another. https://tinyurl.com/4a5fyxrs
Palmetto Trivia Night
6-7:30 p.m. July 13. Palmetto Branch Library, 923 Sixth St. W. Enjoy a night of trivia at the library. Feel free to bring a team or join a team.
TUESDAY
Memory Café
10-11:30 a.m. July 14. South Manatee Branch Library, 6081 26th St. W., Bradenton. A memory cafe is a comfortable social gathering that welcomes people with memory loss and their loved ones. We gather to help you connect, socialize, and build new support groups in a stigma-free environment. The cafe is free, but registration is required to a maximum of six couples. Register one name per couple. https://tinyurl.com/ffa89vrk
Paint & Sip: Beach Sunset Edition
4 p.m. July 14. GROVE, 10670 Boardwalk Loop, Lakewood Ranch. In this interactive class, you will create your own Beach Sunset canvas painting on a 16″x20″ canvas using guided techniques and step-by-step instruction throughout the evening. Designed for all skill levels, this workshop offers a fun and approachable way to unwind and get creative. $48. Registration required. https://tinyurl.com/2hpe9fcf
WEDNESDAY
SWAT Networking
8-9:15 a.m. July 15. Chicken Salad Chick, 5434 Lockwood Ridge Road, Bradenton. Whether you’re brand new to Successful Women Aligning Together or a long-time member who wants a refresher, this is the perfect opportunity to reconnect with everything your membership includes. Hear how to build real relationships, increase your visibility, get more referrals, take advantage of member perks, and fully leverage the opportunities available to you. www.swatnetworking.org/swatevents
Wednesday Chamber Nights
4:30-9 p.m. July 15. Pesto Bistro and Wine Bar, 8799 Cortez Road W., Bradenton. Members of Anna Maria Island, Longboat Key, and Manatee Chambers of Commerce receive 10% discount for Wine Down Wednesday specials. Features happy hour pricing all evening and wine specials by the bottle. Occurs weekly.
Sunset Volleyball
6-8 p.m. July 15. Waterside Place, 7301 Island Cove Terrace, Sarasota. Sunset Volleyball is a series of pickup volleyball games designed for volleyball players who are ready to jump in, play without instruction, and have a great time. Occurs weekly.
LOOKING AHEAD
“Disney’s Newsies Jr. Show”
7 p.m. July 17, and 10 a.m. July 18. Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 Third Ave. W., Bradenton. A high-energy musical inspired by the true story of the Newsboys Strike of 1899. Bursting with non-stop dance numbers and unforgettable songs, this family favorite follows Jack Kelly and his ragtag band of “Newsies” as they fight for justice against the powerful publishing giants. $22. https://tinyurl.com/yzktwknb
Birds & Breakfast
7-9:30 a.m. July 18. Heritage Harbor Park, 700 River Heritage Park, Bradenton. The walk begins at 7 a.m. and lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours, offering a peaceful start to the day as we explore the park’s natural habitats in search of feathered friends. After the walk, the group will head to Cracker Barrel on State Road 64 for a hearty breakfast and good conversation.
12th Street Summer Market
9 a.m.-noon. July 18. City Centre Shops, 259 12th St. W, Bradenton. Every first and third Saturday of each month. This community market features a rotating collection of local vendors offering everything from handmade jewelry and artwork to specialty foods, honey, spices, baked goods, crochet creations, and more.
Back to School Bash
11 a.m.-3 p.m. July 18. Bradenton Area Convention Center, 1 Haben Blvd., Palmetto. Stock up on all the supplies you need to start the school year right. Parents can pre-register their children for a free backpack (while supplies last) and participate in our interactive scavenger hunt to stock up on school supplies. Backpack registration will open 30 days before the event. https://tinyurl.com/3msdtsvz
Cornhole & Cocktails Festival
2-7 p.m. July 18. Palmetto Fairgrounds, 1303 17th St. W, Palmetto. Cornhole & Cocktails Festival will have a fun indoor cornhole tournament, music, food, drinks and raffles. There will be restaurants with food samples and cocktails along with breweries, wineries and distilleries with samples of their selections. $55. https://tinyurl.com/4a8jtsdb
3rd Annual Hunt for the Cure
6-10 p.m. July 18. The Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave. Join evening of live entertainment, community spirit, and a meaningful cause, all benefiting the Children’s Cancer Research Fund and the Grace Irwin Memorial Fund. $25. https://centerami.org/events
Cars & Couture’s The Vice
6-10 p.m. July 18. Skyway Motorspace, 2107 20th St. E., Palmetto. Step into an unforgettable summer night where exotic cars, fashion, art, and nightlife culture come together for a one-of-a-kind luxury experience. Experience a curated showcase of exotic and luxury vehicles, live fashion presentations, and featured artwork by Echleon Fine Arts. $145. https://tinyurl.com/26nfv5wa
Dinner with Entrepreneurs Bradenton
7 p.m. July 18. Locations vary. Join a cozy dinner with entrepreneurs to network, share experiences, and make new connections. You will be informed of the restaurant and location after you sign up. Price of dinner and drinks is not included with a ticket. $28. For questions, email ermantourageimpact@gmail.com. Register online at https://tinyurl.com/ycxs8wyw
Bonsai & Brews
1-3 p.m. July 19. Sun Lab Brewing, 803 17th Ave. W, Bradenton. Spend your Sunday afternoon creating something truly unique. Bonsai & Brews at Sun Lab Brewing is more than a workshop, it’s an experience. You’ll learn the art of bonsai from award-winning local artists. No experience necessary. Materials to be provided. https://tinyurl.com/4d8usz3k
Bradenton Marauders vs. Dunedin Blue Jays
5:30 p.m. July 21-26. LECOM Park, 1611 Ninth St. W, Bradenton. Don’t miss an exciting game of baseball as the Bradenton Marauders take on the Daytona Tortugas. Times vary other days. $12-$16. www.milb.com/bradenton
Art Club: June Creative Gathering
6-9 p.m. July 22. Oscura, 816 Manatee Ave. E, Bradenton. This monthly gathering brings together local artists, musicians, and creatives who want a space to share ideas, collaborate, and stay inspired. This is a relaxed, welcoming environment for anyone interested in the arts, whether you’re actively working on something or just looking to get plugged into the local creative scene. www.friendlycity.foundation/art-club
Vegetable Gardening
10 a.m.-noon. July 23. UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension Office, 1303 17th St. W., Palmetto. Discover the keys to a fall harvest: site selection, crop varieties, and pest management. $10 fee includes six vegetable starts to take home. https://tinyurl.com/3kcn7f4t
Poisonous Plants
11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. July 23. Palma Sola Botanical Park, 9800 17th Ave. NW., Bradenton. Discover which plants to watch out for, learn what toxicity really means in the great scheme of things, and learn some cool facts in a relaxed, friendly setting. Perfect for nature lovers and curious minds alike. https://tinyurl.com/2ad5sr7s
Felts Audubon Preserve Conservation Workday
8-11 a.m. July 25. Felts Audubon Preserve, 4600 24th Ave. E, Palmetto. Help keep Felts Audubon Preserve an area that both wildlife and the community can enjoy for future generations. https://manateeaudubon.org/events
SeaMonkey Christmas in July 5K Fun Run/Walk
8:30 a.m. July 25. GT Bray Park, 3001 59th St. Ct. W, Bradenton. Join a festive two-loop course through the shaded paths of GT Bray Park where you’ll beat the heat with plenty of tree coverage, snow at the start/finish, a refreshing icy cool-off zone at the aid station, a pre-race warm up with Coach Ray from Prosper Bradenton, recovery zone with ice baths and cool down yoga. $5 kids run, $25 adults. https://tinyurl.com/4ksm26rp
Piña Colada Fest 2026
10 a.m.-6 p.m. July 25. Palmetto Marriott Resort and Spa, 600 US-41. With a day pass, attendees will enjoy a full lineup of live Caribbean entertainment, including a steel drum band, the beloved Sarasota-based Latin fusion group Combo Fusión, Fleming, and high-energy sets by the event’s host, DJ Platinum. Enjoy rum tastings, piña coladas, and the festive atmosphere of an authentic Caribbean-style pool party along the scenic Manatee River. Guests must be 21 and older to purchase alcoholic beverages. $58.85. https://tinyurl.com/4j8mv4nj
Bradentucky Bombers vs. Sugar Sands Roller Derby
5-7 p.m. July 25. Ellenton Ice and Sports Complex, 5309 29th St. E. The Bradentucky Bombers take on Sugar Sands Roller Derby at home. Get your tickets online for $10. Tickets are $15 at the door. Kids under 5 are free. Plenty of bleacher seating is available, but for close-up action and trackside seating, bring a chair. https://tinyurl.com/2zp3c6zj
Booked & Buried Literary Club
9-11 p.m. Aug. 1. Kava Social Club, 540 13th St. W, Bradenton. Kat’s Booked & Buried Literary Club is a cozy, creative gathering for readers who love diving deep into compelling stories and unforgettable characters. Join fellow book lovers for lively discussions, fresh perspectives, and a welcoming community that celebrates every page turned. https://tinyurl.com/3b96syey
12th Street Summer Market
9 a.m.-noon. Aug. 1. City Centre Shops, 259 12th St. W, Bradenton. Every first and third Saturday of each month.This community market features a rotating collection of local vendors offering everything from handmade jewelry and artwork to specialty foods, honey, spices, baked goods, crochet creations, and more.