As December unfolds in Sarasota County, the festive spirit takes center stage with a myriad of events that cater to every age and interest. From food truck rallies to enchanting holiday performances, the calendar is brimming with activities that promise to make this season memorable for residents and visitors alike. Here’s a roundup of some exciting events happening throughout the county
1. Food Truck Extravaganza at North Jetty Park
- Date: December 1, 2023
- Time: 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
- Location: North Jetty Park, 1000 S. Casey Key Road, Nokomis, FL.
Sarasota County Parks, Recreation, and Natural Resources invite you to indulge in a delightful evening at North Jetty Park. With a variety of food trucks, yard games, and live music, it’s a perfect way to kick off the holiday season with family and friends.
2. 35th Annual Venice Christmas Boat Parade
- Date: December 2, 2023
- Time: 6 p.m.
- Location: Intracoastal Waterway
Witness the shimmering spectacle of decorated boats as they glide through the Intracoastal Waterway for the 35th Annual Venice Christmas Boat Parade. Arrive early to secure the best viewing spot and immerse yourself in the magic of this time-honored tradition.
3. Bowls of Hope at Ed Smith Stadium
- Date: December 3, 2023
- Time: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
- Location: Ed Smith Stadium, 2700 12th St, Sarasota, FL.
Join the community in the 17th-anniversary celebration of “Bowls of Hope” at Ed Smith Stadium. Enjoy a modest meal served in beautiful handcrafted bowls donated by local artists, all while supporting a great cause. Tickets are available starting October 1.
4. Light Up Wellen! Tree Lighting and Holiday Celebration
- Date: December 9, 2023
Downtown Wellen Park comes alive with Christmas cheer. From choir performances and a traditional tree lighting ceremony to photo ops with Santa and live music, this celebration promises a magical evening for the whole family.
5. The Nutcracker In Venice & Sarasota
- Dates: December 8 – 9, 2023 (Venice Performing Arts Center) December 17 – 18, 2023 (Sarasota Opera House)
Experience the enchanting tale of Clara and The Nutcracker at the Venice Performing Arts Center and the Sarasota Opera House. Immerse yourself in the holiday magic brought to life by The Sarasota Ballet Studio Company and students.
6. Global Holiday Celebration – The Voices of Winter
- Date: December 10, 2023
- Time: 7 p.m.
- Location: Venice Performing Arts Center, 1 Indian Ave., Venice, FL.
Join The Venice Chorale for an evening of choral masterworks, seasonal favorites, and a heartwarming audience sing-a-long. Special guest instrumentalists will enhance the harmonious celebration of the holiday season.
7. Santa Slam at Payne Park
- Date: December 14, 2023
- Time: Noon – 4 p.m.
- Location: Payne Park Tennis Center, 2010 Adams Ln, Sarasota, FL
Get active this holiday season with the Santa Slam at Payne Park. Enjoy Round Robin Reindeer Games, doubles tennis, and a special appearance by Santa and his elves. Open to all levels of play.
8. National Wreaths Across America Day at Sarasota National Cemetery
- Date: December 16, 2023
- Location: Sarasota National Cemetery, 9810 State Road 72, Sarasota, FL.
Honor and remember our veterans by participating in the wreath-laying ceremony at Sarasota National Cemetery. Wreaths Across America coordinates ceremonies at locations across the country, and you can contribute by sponsoring wreaths or volunteering.
9. Annual Holiday Party by Amaryllis Park Neighborhood Association
- Date: December 19, 2023
- Time: 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
- Location: Robert L Taylor Community Complex, 1845 John Rivers St, Sarasota, FL.
Join the Amaryllis Park Neighborhood Association and the Robert L Taylor Community Complex for a festive holiday party. Enjoy delicious food, good company, a visit from Santa, and a special surprise for the kids. RSVP by December 15th.
10. Lights in Bloom at Selby Gardens
- Dates: December 26, 2023 – January 3, 2024
- Time: 6:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. (Nightly, closed on Christmas Eve & Day, New Year’s Eve)
- Location: 811 South Palm Avenue, Sarasota, FL.
Conclude the month with a dazzling display at Selby Gardens. The 20th annual “Lights in Bloom” transforms the gardens into a tropical wonderland with over two million lights. Enjoy holiday-themed lights, photo opportunities, and entertainment for the entire family.
Make the most of December in Sarasota County by embracing the festive spirit and participating in these community events. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these gatherings promise joy, community, and holiday magic.