August is here, and it’s packed with events you won’t want to miss in Venice, Sarasota, North Port, and the surrounding areas. From laser light shows to gem exhibits and back-to-school bashes, there’s something for everyone. Check out these fantastic events happening in August 2024!
Florida’s Back to School Sales Tax Holiday
Don’t forget, Florida’s Back to School 2024 Sales Tax Holiday runs from Monday, July 29 through Sunday, August 11. Take advantage of tax-free shopping on school supplies, clothing, and more. This is a great opportunity to get everything you need for the upcoming school year while saving some money.
August 1 – 3, 2024: Laser Light Nights at The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature
Experience the return of Laser Light Nights at The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature! Put on your best 80s outfit and get ready to rock out to your favorite artists in the Planetarium. The shows take place every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night from May 23 through August 31, with performances at 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. Enjoy various food and drink options available for purchase onsite. Please be aware that the event features bright, flashing lasers and loud volumes. Tickets are $15.
Location: The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St W, Bradenton, FL
August 2 – 4, 2024: Summer Sarasota Gem Show
Don’t miss the Summer Sarasota Gem Show at the Sarasota Municipal Auditorium! With something for everyone, this show is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., featuring free parking and $5 admission valid for all three days.
Location: Sarasota Municipal Auditorium, 801 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL
August 3, 2024: The Mall at UTC’s Annual Back to School Bash
Kick off the new school year at The Mall at UTC’s Annual Back to School Bash! Families can enjoy live entertainment, kids’ activities, face painting, and an interactive scavenger hunt with thousands of school supplies up for grabs. Pre-register on Eventbrite.com for the free backpack giveaway.
Time: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Location: The Mall at University Town Center, 140 University Town Center Drive, Sarasota, FL
August 3, 2024: 8th Annual Tiki Fest 2024
Take a short road trip to Fisherman’s Village for the 8th Annual Tiki Fest. Enjoy live island music, dance performances, waterfront dining, and boutique shopping. The event is free and runs from noon to 6 p.m.
Location: Fisherman’s Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda, FL
August 9, 2024: Free Music Friday Night Concert
Enjoy a free concert by Steve Haines at Centennial Park in downtown Venice. Bring your own chairs or picnic blankets and follow current CDC guidelines. The concert is from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Location: Centennial Park, downtown Venice, FL
August 10, 2024: SarasotaCon – ComicCon
Don’t miss SarasotaCon, a premier comic convention featuring a wide range of exhibitors and industry professionals. The event includes comic books, toys, video games, cosplay, and more. General admission is $20.
Time: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Location: Carlisle Inn & Conference Center, 3727 Bahia Vista Street, Sarasota, FL
August 16 – 17, 2024: Special Olympics Florida Stand-Up Paddle Competition
Watch 150 Special Olympics athletes compete in stand-up paddle races at Nathan Benderson Park. Events run from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday.
Location: Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle, Sarasota, FL
August 17, 2024: Back to School Youth Activity Fair
Join the Back to School Youth Activity Fair at Venice Community Center. Enjoy games, demonstrations, inflatables, music, food, and more from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. No registration is required.
Location: Venice Community Center, 326 S. Nokomis Ave., Venice, FL
August 24, 2024: Music Compound’s Annual Back to School Bash
Head to Music Compound’s new Sarasota location for their annual Back to School Bash. Enjoy sample lessons, live performances, a food truck, and family activities. The event is free and runs from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Location: Music Compound, 775 Bell Rd., Sarasota, FL
August 24, 2024: Heartland/Southwest Florida Bluegrass Association Event
Enjoy camping and jamming on Friday and Saturday, with a stage show from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday. Membership for families is $25 per year.
Location: Craig’s RV Park, 7895 NE Cubitis Ave, Arcadia, FL
August 29 – September 30, 2024: Marie Selby Botanical Gardens’ 44th Annual Juried Photographic Exhibition
Visit Selby Gardens for the 44th Annual Juried Photographic Exhibition. The exhibition will feature photographs taken at or of either Selby Gardens campus. The call for submissions runs from August 5 through 12, 2024.
Location: Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Sarasota, FL
August 31 – September 1, 2024: 15th Annual Labor Day Weekend Downtown Venice Craft Festival
Explore the 15th Annual Labor Day Weekend Downtown Venice Craft Festival featuring art and craft vendors, ceramics, jewelry, stained glass, metal works, and more. The festival runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. with free parking.
Location: Miami Avenue West, Venice, FL
August is brimming with exciting events for all ages and interests. Mark your calendars and get ready to enjoy everything the Venice, Sarasota, North Port, and surrounding areas have to offer this month!