Celebrate the Holidays in Manatee & Sarasota Counties

Celebrate the Holidays in Manatee & Sarasota Counties: Top Things to Do

The holiday season is a magical time in Manatee and Sarasota Counties, where festive spirit meets beautiful coastal charm. Whether you’re a local or visiting, there’s no shortage of activities to make your holidays memorable. Here’s a roundup of some of the best ways to celebrate the season in this vibrant part of Florida.

1. St. Armands Circle Holiday Night of Lights – Sarasota
December 5th The 47th Annual Holiday Night of Lights will magically transform St. Armands Circle into your favorite Holiday destination on the Gulf Coast of Florida. Be a part of the celebration, as the Circle comes to life at the official kick-off to the holiday season.
Website: starmandscircleassoc.com

2. Bradenton Holiday Boat Parade – Manatee County
December 13th One of the most picturesque holiday events in the area, the Bradenton Holiday Boat Parade lights up the Manatee River with beautifully decorated boats. Bring your family to watch the parade from the riverwalk or nearby parks, and enjoy the festive atmosphere with food vendors and live entertainment.
Website: holidayboatparade.org

3. Sarasota Holiday Lights & Events
Sarasota offers a variety of holiday light displays and events throughout the season. Check out the annual Lights in Bloom at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. Ranked among the 10 best botanical garden holiday light displays in the country by USA TODAY, the walk-through show will run select nights from December 6 through January 1* at Selby Gardens’ Downtown Sarasota campus. 
Website: selby.org

4. Lakewood Ranch Holiday Festival – Manatee County
Celebrate the season at the Lakewood Ranch Holiday Festival, featuring a tree lighting ceremony, live music, food trucks, and activities for all ages. This family-friendly event is a great way to connect with the community and enjoy the festive spirit.
Website: lakewoodranch.com

5. Holiday Performances and Shows
Both Sarasota and Manatee Counties boast vibrant arts scenes with holiday-themed performances. Check out the Sarasota Opera’s seasonal productions or the Manatee Players’ holiday shows for a dose of culture and cheer. These performances are perfect for a cozy night out during the holidays.
Websites:

• Sarasota Opera: sarasotaopera.org
• Manatee Players: manateeplayers.com

6. Holiday Markets and Craft Fairs
Find the perfect gift at local holiday markets such as the Sarasota Farmers Market’s special holiday editions or the Bradenton Holiday Market. These markets showcase local artisans, handmade crafts, and delicious seasonal treats.
Website: sarasotafarmersmarket
Website: europeanholidaymarket.com

7. Visit the Beaches
Florida’s mild winter weather means you can still enjoy the beautiful beaches during the holidays. Take a peaceful walk along Siesta Key Beach or Lido Beach, and soak in the serene holiday atmosphere by the sea.

Whether you’re looking for festive events, cultural experiences, or simply a beautiful place to enjoy the season, Manatee and Sarasota Counties offer something for everyone. For those considering making this wonderful area your home, feel free to reach out to us, the Furlan Group. With years of real estate experience, we are here to help you find the perfect place to celebrate many more holidays to come.

Contact us at brandi@furlangroup.com or call +1 941-241-2388. Visit my website for more information: https://www.thefurlangroup.com

Happy Holidays!