Summer is in full swing, and the sun-kissed beaches of Florida’s Gulf Coast are calling! If you’re looking for exciting events and activities in Englewood, Venice, and Sarasota, look no further. Whether you’re a foodie, a music lover, a comic book enthusiast, or just want to enjoy some outdoor fun, there’s something for everyone this August. Let’s explore the highlights of the upcoming events in these charming Florida towns:
Let’s Get Cooking for Kids
Date: August 2, 2023
Location: Sarasota County Libraries
Calling all budding young chefs! Children aged 5-11, along with their adults, are invited to join Chef Warren Caterston for a hands-on cooking adventure. Get ready to whip up some delicious creations in this fun and educational cooking workshop. Don’t forget to register online through the Sarasota County Libraries website or simply drop by the library and inquire at the desk. The best part? All library programs are free of charge, making it a delightful activity for families.
7th Annual Tiki Fest 2023
Date: August 5, 2023
Location: Fisherman’s Village, Punta Gorda
Take a short road trip to Punta Gorda and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the 7th Annual Tiki Fest. Experience authentic island music and dance presented in various locations around Fisherman’s Village. The event features The Hawaiian Band of Orlando, live music throughout the day, and enchanting Polynesian and Hawaiian dance performances. Enjoy the day by dining at waterfront restaurants, shopping at independently owned boutiques, and basking in the beauty of Charlotte Harbor. Best of all, admission is free, and parking is complimentary, making it a fantastic family-friendly outing.
SarasotaCon – ComiCon
Date: August 12, 2023
Location: Carlisle Inn & Conference Center, Sarasota
Calling all comic book enthusiasts and fans of various genres! SarasotaCon is the place to be on August 12th. This convention is a collectors’ mecca, striving to be Florida’s best and truest comic convention. Expect a wide array of exhibitors catering to diverse interests, including comic books, magazines, toys, video games, movies, wrestling, sci-fi, anime manga, cosplay, and much more. Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to meet and greet comic industry professionals and fandom-related celebrities. Grab your tickets, priced at $20 for general admission, and prepare for an unforgettable day at the Carlisle Inn & Conference Center.
Music in the Gardens
Date: August 20, 2023
Location: Sarasota Garden Club
Discover a tranquil oasis at the Sarasota Garden Club and immerse yourself in the enchanting Music in the Gardens event. Enjoy the delightful melodies of the fabulous violinist Elijah Luzginov while strolling through or sitting in the beautifully maintained gardens. Savor wine refreshments and hors d’oeuvres as you spend quality time with good friends and dance the evening away. Tickets are priced at $30 per person or $25 for members, providing an excellent opportunity to support the local garden club while indulging in an evening of blissful entertainment.
Suncoast Summer Fest Casino Night
Date: August 26, 2023
Location: Sarasota Event Center
Feeling lucky? Cool off from the August heat and try your luck at the Suncoast Summer Fest Casino Night! This event promises an exciting evening filled with popular casino games like Blackjack, Roulette, Poker, Craps, Slots, and Texas Hold’ Em. Compete for the top spot and win fabulous prizes in the 50/50 raffle. The event also offers music, dancing, lite bites, and a cash bar. Please note that this event is strictly for adults aged 21 and above. Tickets are priced at $75 per person or $125 per couple, including $1,000 in free chips and other perks.
Enjoy the Weekly Farmers Market in Venice and Downtown Wellen Park
Venice Farmers Market
Date: Every Saturday 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Location: City Hall, 401 W Venice Ave, Venice, FL 34285
Spend your Saturday mornings at the Venice Farmers Market, a vibrant community gathering offering a diverse selection of fresh fruit, vegetables, plants, seafood, cut flowers, and more. Live music from local entertainers adds to the festive ambiance as you browse through the goods provided by incredible vendors. Rain or shine, the Venice Farmers Market promises a delightful experience for the whole family.
Downtown Wellen Fresh Harvest Farmers Market
Date: Every Sunday 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Location: Downtown Wellen Park
Looking for something to do on Sundays? Visit the Fresh Harvest Farmers Market in Downtown Wellen. Shop for fresh produce, plants, seafood, cut flowers, and more. This weekly market provides an excellent opportunity to support local farmers and artisans while enjoying a pleasant morning outing. Don’t miss out on this charming event that showcases the best of the community’s offerings.
Weekly Trivia Night at LECOM Legends Club
Date: Every Wednesday, Doors open at 5:30 p.m.; Trivia begins at 6:00 p.m.
Location: LECOM Legends Club
Are you a trivia enthusiast? Gather your friends and head to the LECOM Legends Club every Wednesday for an exciting evening of indoor trivia. For just $20 per person, you’ll get to enjoy a food buffet, non-alcoholic drinks, draft specials, and the opportunity to show off your knowledge. Due to limited availability, it’s recommended to make reservations in advance by calling the Superior Pools Tomahawk Tiki Bar & Grill at 941-259-3456.
Cool Today Park’s Wine Wednesday’s
Date: Every Wednesday, starting August 2, 2023, 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Location: Cool Today Park
Wine lovers, rejoice! Cool Today Park presents Wine Wednesday’s, a delightful wine club experience. Join the club for a one-time payment of $100 and enjoy all the 101 North Wine your heart desires every Wednesday from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. throughout August to October. Club members also receive exclusive perks, including a bottle of 101 North wine, an ID card, and a 101 North wine hat. Head over to Cool Today Park and toast to wonderful Wednesdays with fantastic wine selections.
With this fantastic lineup of events and activities, there’s no shortage of fun things to do in Englewood, Venice, and Sarasota this August. Whether you’re in the mood for a culinary adventure, a comic book extravaganza, a garden soirée, or a night of casino thrills, these Florida towns have something to offer for locals and visitors alike. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to make lasting memories and soak in the summer vibes on Florida’s Gulf Coast!