As the new year kicks off, Sarasota and the surrounding areas are brimming with exciting events that cater to all kinds of interests. Whether you’re a nature lover, an art enthusiast, or someone who simply loves a good festival, January 2025 promises to be packed with fun, adventure, and celebration. Here’s a roundup of the best events happening in Sarasota and nearby areas this month!
January 1, 2025: First Day Hike and Scavenger Hunt at Oscar Scherer State Park
Start your year with an outdoor adventure! The First Day Hike and Scavenger Hunt at Oscar Scherer State Park offers a chance to get outside and explore six scenic trails while hunting for hidden signs. Capture a photo of each sign, bring it to the Nature Center, and claim your prize. This event is free, so gather your friends and family for a fun-filled day!
Time: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Location: Oscar Scherer State Park, 1843 S Tamiami Trl., Osprey, FL
January 1, 2025: Lights in Bloom at Selby Gardens
There’s no better way to ring in the new year than by seeing over two million twinkling lights! Selby Gardens’ Lights in Bloom celebration will transport you to a tropical wonderland, with life-sized garden-themed holiday lights, entertainment, and activities for the whole family. Don’t forget to snap a photo for memories!
Time: 6:30 p.m. – 9 p.m. (early entry at 5:30 p.m.)
Location: 1534 Mound Street, Sarasota, FL
January 1 – 5, 2025: Illuminate at Circus Sarasota
Prepare for a magical experience at Illuminate, a stunning new production by the Circus Arts Conservatory. Under the climate-controlled big top at UTC, you’ll enjoy a heartwarming show filled with circus acts, aerial performances, and the holiday spirit, featuring performances by Nik Wallenda and other fan favorites.
Time: Various dates and showtimes
Location: Circus Sarasota Big Top, 195 UTC Dr., Sarasota, FL
January 1 – 5, 2025: Ice Skating at UTC
If you’re dreaming of a winter wonderland, head to UTC for a real outdoor ice skating rink. Lace up your skates and glide across the rink while enjoying a festive atmosphere with food, music, and more. Remember to book your tickets in advance as they sell out quickly!
Time: Mon – Fri | 4 p.m. – 10 p.m., Sat – Sun | 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Location: University Town Center, 210 N Cattlemen Rd., Sarasota, FL
January 4, 2025: Sidewalk Astronomy at Celery Fields
For those who enjoy stargazing, the Sidewalk Astronomy event at Celery Fields offers a fantastic opportunity to look through telescopes and discover the night sky. The local Deep Sky Observers will set up their telescopes from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. (weather permitting) for public viewing.
Time: 6 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Location: 6893 Palmer Blvd., Sarasota, FL
January 4 – 5, 2025: Sarasota Orchid Society’s Annual Orchid Expo
If you’re a fan of beautiful plants, don’t miss the Sarasota Orchid Society’s annual Orchid Delirium expo. With over 20 vendors showcasing a stunning variety of orchids, it’s a must-visit for plant lovers. Attend educational orchid culture classes, meet orchid experts, and shop for everything from blooming orchids to accessories.
Time: Sat: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sun: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Location: Sarasota Municipal Auditorium, 801 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL
January 10 – 11, 2025: The Venice Symphony – “Sports Orchestrated!”
Celebrate the triumphs and heartbreaks of sports with The Venice Symphony’s Sports Orchestrated! concert. From football fight songs to inspirational themes from Rocky and Rudy, this performance will take you on an emotional musical journey.
Time: Friday: 7:30 p.m., Saturday: 3:30 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.
Location: Venice Performing Arts Center, 1 Indian Ave., Venice, FL
January 11, 2025: Sarasota Half Marathon
Run (or walk) your way into the new year at the Sarasota Half Marathon! This event also includes a 10k and 5k race, plus awards for various age groups, finisher medals, food, and music to celebrate your achievements.
Time: 7 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Location: 4081 Lakewood Ranch Blvd., Sarasota, FL
January 11, 2025: Repticon Sarasota
For reptile enthusiasts, Repticon Sarasota offers a unique opportunity to see live reptiles from around the world. The expo features reptile shows, events, and sales of reptiles and supplies directly from experts.
Time: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Location: Sahib Shrine Center, 600 N Beneva Rd., Sarasota, FL
January 11 – 12, 2025: Venice Antiques Show
Antique lovers will appreciate the Venice Antiques Show, featuring over 50 exhibitors showcasing everything from art and jewelry to furniture and collectibles. This event is a great opportunity to find something special for your home or collection.
Time: Sat: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sun: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Location: Venice Community Center, 326 S Nokomis Ave., Venice, FL
January 11 – 12, 2025: Sarasota Winter Fine Art Festival
Don’t miss the Sarasota Winter Fine Art Festival, where you can explore the works of 120 top artisans. Enjoy unique creations in painting, jewelry, sculpture, photography, and more, while meeting the artists and learning about their creative process.
Time: Sat & Sun: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Location: JD Hamel Park, Sarasota, FL
January 15, 2025: “Performances at the Point” at Marie Selby Gardens
Marie Selby Gardens’ Performances at the Point features Future Joy, a dynamic performance that blends DJing, singing, and saxophone shredding in a joyous musical adventure. Enjoy the beautiful surroundings of the historic Spanish Point campus before the show.
Time: 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. (doors open at 6 p.m.)
Location: Historic Spanish Point, 401 N Tamiami Trail, Osprey, FL
January 16 – 20, 2025: Sarasota Winter Carnival at UTC
The Sarasota Winter Carnival is returning to the Mall at UTC with rides, games, food, and entertainment for all ages. It’s a perfect way to enjoy some family fun this January!
Time: Thu: 5 p.m. – 10 p.m., Fri: 5 p.m. – 11 p.m., Sat – Sun: 12 p.m. – 11 p.m., Mon: 12 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Location: The Mall at University Town Center, 140 University Town Center Dr., Sarasota, FL
January 18, 2025: Siesta Beach Community Cleanup
Help keep our beaches clean by participating in the Siesta Beach Community Cleanup. The event runs from 8 a.m., and all necessary supplies will be provided. It’s a great way to give back to the environment while spending time at one of Sarasota’s most beautiful beaches.
Time: 8 a.m.
Location: Sea Turtle Pavilion, Siesta Beach, Sarasota, FL
January 18 – 19, 2025: Venice-Nokomis Rotary’s Fine Art & Craft Festival
Browse over 85 talented artists showcasing their work at the Venice-Nokomis Rotary’s 33rd Annual Fine Art & Craft Festival. Enjoy live music, food trucks, and activities for the whole family.
Time: Sat: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m., Sun: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Location: Venice Airport Festival Grounds, 610 Airport Ave E, Venice, FL
January 25, 2025: Scrub Jay 5K & 10K at Oscar Scherer State Park
Lace up your sneakers for the Scrub Jay 5K & 10K, an event supporting Florida Scrub-Jay conservation efforts. The trail course for the 10K race will offer a challenge for all participants.
Time: 8 a.m.
Location: Oscar Scherer State Park, Osprey, FL
January 25, 2025: Fire Fest at T. Mabry Carlton Reserve
Learn about how prescribed burns are used to protect Florida’s natural ecosystems at Fire Fest. Enjoy live demonstrations, nature tours, and fun activities for the whole family.
Time: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Location: T. Mabry Carlton Reserve, 1800 Mabry Carlton Parkway, Venice, FL
January 25 – 26, 2025: Downtown Venice Craft Festival
Enjoy a weekend of handmade crafts at the 17th Annual Downtown Venice Craft Festival. The event features ceramics, jewelry, stained glass, and much more, with plenty of food, music, and fun for all ages.
Time: Sat: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sun: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Location: West Venice Avenue, Downtown Venice, FL
January 31 – February 2, 2025: Englewood Seafood & Music Festival
Enjoy fresh seafood, live music, and shopping at the Englewood Seafood & Music Festival. With R&B, blues, jazz, and rock performances, along with a marketplace of arts and crafts, it’s a great way to spend the weekend.
Time: Fri: 4 p.m. – 10 p.m., Sat: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m., Sun: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Location: Dearborn Street Plaza, Englewood, FL
January 31 – February 9, 2025: Charlotte County Fair
Indulge in fair food, family fun, and live entertainment at the 36th Annual Charlotte County Fair. With a variety of games, rides, and shows, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!
Location: 2333 El Jobean Rd, Port Charlotte, FL
With so much to explore and experience, January in Sarasota and surrounding areas is packed with opportunities for fun and adventure. Mark your calendars and make the most of these amazing events!