“Disney’s Newsies Jr Show”
7 p.m. Friday, July 17, and 10 a.m. Saturday, 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 dance numbers and 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
FPL’s Touch-a-Truck Hurricane Expo
9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, July 18. LECOM Park, 1611 9th St. W., Bradenton. Visitors can get an up-close look at emergency response vehicles, explore hurricane preparedness resources, experience a hurricane simulator, and enjoy giveaways throughout the day. Free food and Kona Ice will be available while supplies last, making it an enjoyable outing for all ages. A sensory-friendly hour will also be offered from 9-10 a.m.
2026 World Cup Final Watch Party
2-6 p.m. Sunday, July 19. Sarasota Paradise Stadium, 5895 Post Blvd., Lakewood Ranch. Bring your friends and family, enjoy food and drinks, and soak up the electric atmosphere as the world’s top teams battle for the championship. Admission is free, all are welcome, and everyone is encouraged to wear their favorite team’s colors for an unforgettable afternoon of soccer. https://tinyurl.com/2r4dd5w2
THURSDAY
Casual Cornhole
10-11 a.m. July 16. 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.
Sunshine Stitchers Knit & Crochet
1-3 p.m. July 16. Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Join to knit or crochet for family, friends, and charity — along with a fun afternoon of sharing patterns, yarns and conversation. Beginners are welcome. Ages 12 and older. https://tinyurl.com/yzwjeru5
Mosaic Coaster Workshop
6-8 p.m. July 16. Arts A Blaze, 8111 Lakewood Main St., Unit 107, Lakewood Ranch. Learn how to create your own mosaic drink coaster. Grab your favorite people and drinks. Class begins at 6 p.m. Best suited for older teens and adults. $21.40. https://tinyurl.com/kse7uyma
Thursday Live Music Nights
6-9 p.m. July 16. 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
SWAT Networking
8-9:15 a.m. July 17. 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
Sip N’ Chat Book Club
10 a.m.-noon. July 17. South Manatee Branch Library, 6081 26th St. W., Bradenton. Join Lin for this monthly book club at South Manatee Library. Each month will be a discussion of a new book.
The Bradenton Social
6-9 p.m. July 17. Kava Social Club, 540 13th St. W., Bradenton. Enjoy a silent art auction featuring local artists, raffle prizes donated by area businesses, live music and entertainment, guest speakers, a billiards tournament, photo booth, campaign journey slideshow, and a commemorative message board. Free food will also be available during the event. https://discoverbradenton.com/events-bradenton
SATURDAY
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.
A Taste of the Ranch
8 a.m.-11 p.m. July 18-Aug. 1. Waterside Place, 7500 Island Cove Terrace, Sarasota. Dig into exclusive prix-fixe menus by participating restaurants. Sip on wine pairings, specialty cocktails, and savor one-of-a-kind dishes made just for the week. Brunch/lunch (two-course) $25 and dinner (three-course) $35 or $45. https://tinyurl.com/3nxe8sn5
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
Third Saturday Market: Christmas in July
11 a.m.-4 p.m. July 18. Village of The Arts, 1227 12th St. W., Bradenton. Browse unique gifts, discover handmade artwork, enjoy local food, and explore one of Bradenton’s most colorful neighborhoods. Visitors can stroll through the Village, meet local artists, shop for one-of-a-kind finds, and take part in a festive day inspired by the holiday season.
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
Third 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. 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
SUNDAY
Yoga in the Park
8-9 a.m. July 19. 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 19. 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.
Flamingo Bay Brewing’s 1st Anniversary Party
Noon-6 p.m. July 19. Flamingo Bay Brewing Co., 1910 14th St. W., Bradenton. The celebration will feature special anniversary brews, live music, food trucks, giveaways, and plenty of fun throughout the day. It’s a chance to gather with fellow craft beer fans, enjoy local entertainment, and see what Flamingo Bay has planned for this milestone event.
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
Purr & Pour
5-8 p.m. July 19. Art House Boutique, 1806 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton. Browse vintage finds and handmade treasures while spending time with fellow animal lovers at The Art House. A portion of all sales will benefit ARC Spay & Neuter Specialists and help support the animals they serve. Bring your furry companion along, sip, shop, and help make a difference while supporting local vendors and a local nonprofit.
MONDAY
Turtle Tracks & Shorebird Facts
10-11 a.m. July 20-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.
TUESDAY
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
WEDNESDAY
Wednesday Chamber Nights
4:30-9 p.m. July 22. 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.
Books on Tap Book Club
6-7 p.m. July 22. Good Liquid Brewing Co., 8980 U.S. 301 N., Unit 138, Parrish. Enjoy an informal and relaxed book club setup, with no required reading. Come ready to talk about your recent reads, discuss recommendations, or just enjoy some bookish company. Anyone age 21 and up is welcome to attend. Seats are limited, registration required. https://tinyurl.com/y5wm32tm
Sunset Volleyball
6-8 p.m. July 22. 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.
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
LOOKING AHEAD
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
Keys & Courses: A High-Energy Dueling Piano Dinner Party
7 p.m. July 24. GROVE, 10670 Boardwalk Loop, Lakewood Ranch. Designed as more than a traditional dinner show, Keys & Courses combines chef-curated dining with all-request dueling piano entertainment, crowd-favorite songs, sing-along moments and dance floor energy. Enjoy a three-course dinner and one welcome cocktail. $100. Ages 21 up. https://tinyurl.com/3uyv5sce
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
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.
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
Ukulele Jam Session
2:30-4 p.m. Aug. 3. 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
Sunshine Stitchers Knit & Crochet
1-3 p.m. July 16. Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Join to knit or crochet for family, friends and charity — along with a fun afternoon of sharing patterns, yarns and conversation. Beginners are welcome. Ages 12 & up. https://tinyurl.com/yzwjeru5
Music on Main
6-9 p.m. Aug. 7. Main Street, Lakewood Ranch. Join a free concert series and block party for the public. The street is lined with food vendors, beer trucks, and sponsor booths, as well as inflatables and activities for kids. Proceeds from the event will benefit a local nonprofit organization. www.LWRmainstreet.com
Ignite
11 a.m.-9 p.m. Aug. 8. The Christian Retreat Conference Center, 1200 Glory Way Blvd., Bradenton. Ignite is a workshop designed to equip and empower believers with hands-on training and demonstration to live as true disciples of Christ, not just hear the Word, but walk it out. This is a full day with worship starting promptly at 11 a.m. Light snacks will be offered. Baptisms will be held after service at 9 p.m. Free. Registration required; seats limited. https://tinyurl.com/3n89vdkj
Memory Café
10-11:30 a.m. Aug. 11. 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
Heroes breakfast
8-10 a.m. Aug. 14. 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.
Movie in the Park
7-9 p.m. Aug. 14. Waterside Park, 7301 Island Cove Terrace, Sarasota. Grace Community Church will be providing one free Not Your Momma’s Mac from Rollin With Hart to the first 130 attendees. This month’s movie is “The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie.” 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/e3bnc9sh