Vacationing on Siesta Key is wonderful any time of the year, but it’s even more fun if you book your trip around one of the special events that take place throughout the year.
Here are some upcoming events on Siesta Key and its surrounding areas.
UTC Festival of Trees: Nov. 24, 2024, to Dec. 17, 2024
The Mall at UTC is a popular shopping area that attracts people from near and far. The entire area also goes all out during the Christmas holidays, with decorations lining the streets, parking areas, and shops. They are beautiful at night.
Inside, on the mall’s second floor, is where you can enjoy the Festival of Trees. There are nearly 40, donated and decorated by local charities. Bid on them to win one, or pay $1 or more to vote on your favorite. All proceeds go to that charity. Open during mall hours, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Christmas hours may vary. 140 University Town Center Drive, Sarasota, FL, 34243
Wonderland Circus: Illuminate: Nov. 29, 2024, to Jan. 5, 2025
Sarasota is considered the “Circus Capital of the World”, and Wonderland: Illuminate is one in a very long chain of local circus productions. Featuring Nic Wallenda, a Sarasota resident and member of the storied Flying Wallendas, Wonderland is an amazing event to share with your family. The Big Top, 195 University Town Center Dr. Sarasota. Click here for tickets.
Lights in Bloom: Dec. 6, 2024, to Jan. 1, 2025
Selby Gardens is beautiful any time of year, but it’s spectacular when illuminated by more than 2 million colorful lights throughout the gardens. This is a holiday tradition that many look forward to all year. Early entry: 5:30 to 9 p.m. General entry: 6:30 to 9 p.m. Advance ticket purchases are recommended.
Lakewood Ranch Bluesfest: December 7, 2024
Located about 40 minutes from Siesta Key, Waterside Place in Lakewood Ranch is the site of many events and activities, and the inaugural Lakewood Ranch Bluesfest is getting a lot of buzz. Seven different acts will perform from 10 a.m. until 7:40 p.m.
Waterside Place also hosts a weekly farmer’s market and plenty of community nights with music that are open to anyone. It’s a great place to walk around, get a bite to eat, and enjoy a beautiful evening.
Address: 7301 Island Cove Terrace. Lakewood Ranch, FL 34240
New Year’s Eve Pineapple Drop Block Party in Sarasota: December 31, 2024
Who needs NYC and the disco ball? Sarasota has the giant, glowing pineapple! The Pineapple Drop Block party runs from 1 p.m. on New Year’s Eve until 1:30 a.m. on Jan. 1, 2025. There are carnival rides, food booths, art and craft vendors, and more – including fireworks after the pineapple drop. Pretty much everything you’d expect from a great community event.
Admission is free; unlimited ride wristbands (for riders 36 inches and taller) are $30 while supplies last. Getting them online before the event is the best way to ensure availability. Visit the webpage for more information.
Address: Downtown Sarasota, 1 N. Lemon Street
Sarasota Seafood & Music Festival: January 10 – 12, 2025
Live music all day, every day, and LOTS of awesome food. The seafood dishes are prepared using fresh, local, sustainable ingredients. There are also vegetarian offerings as well, so no one needs to feel left out. Alcohol is available for those over 21, non-alcoholic for the young, or for those who choose not to imbibe.
During lulls in the music, take some time to browse the arts and crafts and other local items available for sale at the many vendor tables.
Location: 3000 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34237
Hours: 4:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. Friday; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday
Want to know what goes on every day in Siesta Key? Here are a lot of fun Things to Do!