Sarasota, with its vibrant arts scene, beautiful beaches, and lively community events, offers a plethora of fun activities to enjoy during St. Patrick’s Day. Here’s a roundup of some festive and entertaining things to do in the area:
1. St. Patrick’s Day Parades
Kick off your celebrations with a local parade. The Sarasota area often hosts parades featuring colorful floats, Irish dancers, and traditional music. It’s a family-friendly event that brings together the community in a festive atmosphere.
2. Irish Music and Dance Performances
Check out performances by Irish dancers and musicians at various venues around the city. Many pubs and cultural centers host live performances, offering a taste of Irish culture with jigs, reels, and folk tunes.
3. Craft Beer and Irish Whiskey Tastings
Sarasota’s craft breweries and bars often feature special beer and whiskey tasting events for St. Patrick’s Day. Venues like JDub’s Brewing Company and Shamrock Pub may offer a selection of Irish stouts, ales, and whiskeys to sample.
4. Outdoor Festivals
Many local organizations and pubs host outdoor festivals complete with food vendors, craft stalls, and live music. These festivals are great for experiencing a range of activities and enjoying the beautiful March weather in Florida.
5. Kayak or Paddleboard in Green
For a unique celebration, rent a kayak or paddleboard and enjoy the waterways of Sarasota. Some rental shops offer special deals or encourage dressing up in green to keep the festive spirit alive on the water.
6. Siesta Key Village Block Party
Siesta Key Village often hosts a block party with live music, food, and drinks. The casual, beachy atmosphere makes for a relaxed and enjoyable celebration, suitable for all ages.
7. Explore The Ringling
While not specifically themed for St. Patrick’s Day, visiting The Ringling museum complex can be a delightful experience. Explore its beautiful grounds, art collections, and the historic Ca’ d’Zan mansion.
8. Sunset Cruise
Book a sunset cruise for a serene and beautiful way to end your St. Patrick’s Day. Some local companies offer special themed cruises, including dinner and drinks, against the backdrop of Sarasota’s stunning sunset.
9. Golfing
Take advantage of Sarasota’s renowned golf courses for a leisurely game. While it’s a more laid-back way to celebrate, wearing green and enjoying the lush landscapes can be a nod to the Irish landscape.
10. Dining Out
Many restaurants in Sarasota offer special St. Patrick’s Day menus featuring Irish dishes like corned beef and cabbage, shepherd’s pie, and soda bread. Enjoy a meal out with friends or family in celebration of the day.
Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in Irish culture with music and dance, enjoy the local culinary scene, or simply soak up the festive atmosphere in a more laid-back setting, Sarasota has something for everyone on St. Patrick’s Day.