August Awaits: Exciting Sarasota Events You Can't Miss
August in Sarasota is buzzing with excitement, and you won’t want to miss a moment of it! Whether you’re in the mood for dazzling light shows, thrilling dance championships, or a laid-back day at the beach, this month has something for everyone. Grab your calendar and get ready to dive into the vibrant happenings that Sarasota has to offer!
August 1 - 3: Laser Light Nights
Enjoy rockin' laser shows at The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night until August 31. Shows at 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. Tickets: $15. Check the link for who’s playing and more laser shows! Viewer discretion is advised due to bright, flashing lasers. The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, Bradenton, FL.
August 1 - 4: Florida State Dance Sport Championships' 52nd Anniversary
Witness world-class dancers compete in this prestigious event. Mornings and afternoons feature Pro/Am dancers, while evenings are reserved for Professional Championships. Enjoy seminars, gourmet dinners, and general dancing. The Ritz Carlton, Sarasota, FL.
August 1 - 17: Summer Circus Spectacular
Experience jaw-dropping circus acts at The Ringling Museum. Shows at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. on Saturdays. Tickets: $20 for adults, $13 for children 12 and under. The Historic Asolo Theater, Sarasota, FL.
August 1 - September 15: Florida Highwaymen Exhibition
Discover the legendary art of the Florida Highwaymen at Selby Gardens. Explore the stunning landscapes painted by these trailblazing Black artists. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tickets: $26 for adults, $11 for ages 5-17, members free. Selby Gardens, Sarasota, FL.
August 2: Music on Main
Join the free monthly street party at Lakewood Ranch. Enjoy live music, food vendors, beer trucks, and activities for kids. 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. Lakewood Ranch, Sarasota, FL.
August 2 - 4: Summer Sarasota Gem Show
Discover gems, jewelry, beads, and more at this dazzling event. $5 admission, good for all three days. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sarasota Municipal Auditorium, Sarasota, FL.
August 3: Annual Back to School Bash
Kick off the new school year with live entertainment, kids' activities, and a scavenger hunt at The Mall at UTC. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. The Mall at University Town Center, Sarasota, FL.
August 3 - 4: Sarasota Medieval Fair Auditions
Audition for the Sarasota Medieval Fair at the Woods of Mallaranny. Open to all ages, with parental presence required for children 15 and under. 9 a.m. Woods of Mallaranny, Myakka City, FL.
August 3: Tiki Fest 2024
Celebrate island style with live music and dance at Fisherman's Village. Free admission and parking. Noon - 6 p.m. Fisherman's Village, Punta Gorda, FL.
August 9 & 23: Free Music Friday Night Concert
Enjoy live music in Centennial Park. Free and open to the public. 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. Centennial Park, Venice, FL.
August 10: SarasotaCon - ComiCon
Dive into a world of comics, toys, video games, and cosplay. General admission: $20. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Carlisle Inn & Conference Center, Sarasota, FL.
August 10: Big Art Blow Out
Find original art at unbeatable prices. All pieces $100 or less. 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. ArtCenter Manatee, Bradenton, FL.
August 10: Celtic Summer Jam
Enjoy live Irish music and performances at the 4th Annual Celtic Summer Jam. Free admission. 12 p.m. - 10 p.m. Freckled Fin Irish Pub, Bradenton Beach, FL.
August 16 - 17: Special Olympics Florida Stand-Up Paddle Competition
Watch athletes compete in stand-up paddle races. Saturday: 10 a.m. - 8 p.m., Sunday: 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. Nathan Benderson Park, Sarasota, FL.
August 17: Back to School Youth Activity Fair
Plan your back-to-school activities with local providers. Free. 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Venice Community Center, Venice, FL.
August 18 - 20: Gem, Jewelry & Bead Show
Explore an array of gems, jewelry, and beads. Adults: $5. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sarasota Municipal Auditorium, Sarasota, FL.
August 23 - 25: Tampa Bay Comic Con
Join the fun with celebrity guests and numerous activities. Friday: 12 p.m. - 10 p.m., Saturday: 10 a.m. - 10 p.m., Sunday: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tickets: various prices. Tampa Convention Center, Tampa, FL.
August 24: Music Compound Back to School Bash
Sample lessons, enjoy live performances, and participate in family activities. Free. 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Music Compound, Sarasota, FL.
August 24: Heartland/Southwest Florida Bluegrass Association Event
Enjoy camping, jamming, and live bluegrass music. Membership for family: $25/year. Craig's RV Park, Arcadia, FL.
August 24: Beertopia 2024
Sample craft beers, seltzers, and liquors paired with local dishes. Live music, auctions, and raffles. $60 donation. 6:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. Manatee County Fairgrounds, Palmetto, FL. (21+ only).
August 29 - September 30: Selby Gardens Annual Juried Photographic Exhibition
Admire the beautiful photographs taken at Selby Gardens. Exhibit runs through September 30. Selby Gardens, Sarasota, FL.
August 30 - September 3: Englewood Pioneer Festival
Celebrate with a cornhole tournament, Little Miss Pioneer Days Pageant, Junior Parade, and more. Various locations in Englewood, FL.
With so much going on this August, Sarasota is set to be buzzing with excitement and fun! We hope you get out there and enjoy these fantastic events. Stay tuned for more updates and follow us for the latest scoop on what’s happening around town. See you out and about!
