July in Sarasota, Venice, and North Port is packed with events that promise fun, excitement, and community spirit for all ages. From spectacular fireworks displays to beach runs, here’s your comprehensive guide to making the most of July 2024.
July 3, 2024: Sarasota – NBP Fireworks On The Lake
Kick off your July celebrations at Nathan Benderson Park with the annual NBP Fireworks On The Lake. This beloved tradition offers live music, games, and family fun, culminating in a stunning fireworks display around 9 p.m. Gates open at 5 p.m., with music starting at 5:30 p.m. Festive food and drinks are available for purchase. Carload pricing varies by parking location, ranging from $25 to $55. For a more exclusive experience, consider the new VIP package: $100 for adults and $60 for kids 12 and under. Join the festivities at Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle, Sarasota, FL.
July 3, 2024: Bradenton – Baseball and Fireworks at LECOM Field
Combine America’s favorite pastime with a spectacular fireworks display at LECOM Field in Bradenton. Watch the Bradenton Marauders take on Ft Myers at 6:30 p.m., followed by the largest post-game fireworks show of the season. The first 1,500 fans receive a free T-shirt, making this event perfect for the whole family. Enjoy the game and fireworks at LECOM Field, 1611 9th Street West, Bradenton, FL.
July 4, 2024: Sarasota Bayfront Fireworks
Celebrate Independence Day with the Sarasota Bayfront Fireworks, organized by Suncoast Charities for Children in partnership with Marina Jack. The display lights up the skies around 9 p.m., offering stunning views from multiple vantage points along the bayfront and downtown Sarasota. Gather your friends and family for a memorable night of patriotism and community spirit.
July 9-10, 2024: Kids Summer Beach Runs
Encourage your kids to stay active with the Kids Summer Beach Runs, held every Tuesday and Wednesday throughout the summer. These 1-mile runs take place at Siesta Beach and Brohard Beach, respectively. Registration starts at 5:30 p.m., with the race kicking off at 6:30 p.m. Children receive a participation ribbon for each run, and those who complete four runs earn a custom T-shirt. This free event is ideal for kids ages 1-17 and offers a fantastic opportunity for family bonding and exercise. More information is available at 941-861-5000.
July 12-13, 2024: Christmas in July in Downtown Venice
Experience the holiday spirit in the middle of summer at Downtown Venice’s Christmas in July event. Enjoy festive activities, including visits with Santa Claus, Christmas-themed window displays, and free trolley rides. Don’t miss out on the chance to win gift baskets and take advantage of great sales and discounts. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days.
July 14, 2024: Summer Movie Nights at CoolToday Park
CoolToday Park brings back its popular Summer Movie Nights, featuring “Arthur the King” on July 14. The movie starts at 5 p.m. and is shown on the scoreboard. Tickets are free for kids 3 and under, $3 for ages 4-9, and $7 for everyone else. Parking is free, and seating is available in the bowl. For more information, visit www.cooltodaypark.com or contact 941-413-5000.
July 20-21, 2024: Mystic Faire in Sarasota
Dive into the metaphysical world at the 13th Annual Mystic Faire, the largest psychic fair in southwest Florida. With over 75 exhibitors and 25 psychics, the event offers free lectures, psychic readings, healing sessions, and various vendors. Admission is $7 for one day or $10 for both days, with free entry for kids 12 and under. The faire takes place at the Sarasota Municipal Auditorium, 801 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL, from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday.
July 20 – September 15, 2024: Florida Highwaymen Exhibition at Selby Gardens
Explore the vibrant works of the Florida Highwaymen, a group of Black landscape artists from the 1950s, at Selby Gardens. This summer exhibition runs from July 20 to September 15 and features iconic paintings that capture Florida’s natural beauty. Admission is free for members, $11 for member guests, $26 for adults, and $11 for ages 5-17. Children 4 and under enter free. Visit the Downtown Sarasota Campus at Selby Gardens, 1534 Mound Street, Sarasota, FL.
July 26, 2024: Free Music Friday Night Concert in Venice
Enjoy a relaxing evening with live music by Jane Bond at Centennial Park in Venice. This free concert runs from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Bring your own chairs and blankets, but leave the alcohol at home. Centennial Park, Downtown Venice, FL, welcomes everyone to this community event.
July 30, 2024: First Sarasota Freedom Celebration
Wrap up the month with the First Sarasota Freedom Celebration, featuring patriotic music from the First Sarasota Choir & Orchestra and a special appearance by former Kentucky Governor Ernie Fletcher. This free event offers two sessions at 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Join the celebration at First Sarasota, 1661 Main St, Sarasota, FL.
From fireworks and baseball to beach runs and metaphysical fairs, July 2024 in Sarasota and Bradenton is filled with events that offer something for everyone. Mark your calendars and make the most of this vibrant summer season!