Find out what’s happening in Sarasota!
May 2024

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MARK YOUR CALENDAR

May 5 | Cinco de Mayo

May 12 | Mother’s Day

May 27 | Memorial Day

May 3 - 4

Outdoor Pops | Sarasota Orchestra

"Back to the ‘80s" presents an electrifying tribute to the decade's top hits at Ed Smith Stadium. Enjoy iconic songs from Madonna, Cyndi Lauper, Huey Lewis & the News, and more, with fresh arrangements by GRAMMY-winner Jeff Tyzik. Three vocalists deliver an unforgettable performance accompanied by Sarasota Orchestra.

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May 3 - 5

Annual Hibiscus Festival

The Annual Hibiscus Festival celebrates Punta Gorda's rich history as the City of Hibiscus, honoring hybridizer Harry R. Goulding. Over three days, attendees enjoy sweet and savory food vendors, live music, flowers, arts, crafts, and fun-filled activities, fostering a sense of community and appreciation for the city's unique character.

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May 4

3rd Annual Taco Fest

The 3rd Annual Taco Fest in Manatee, set for May 4, 2024, occurs at the Manatee County Fairgrounds in Palmetto, Florida. Following the success of MAFT 2023, which attracted 4200 guests, extended hours until 7:00pm are planned for this year's event. It promises family-friendly fun, including a free petting zoo, bull riding, jump houses, face painting, and giveaways.

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May 4

Sup & Run 5K | Nathan Benderson Park

The 9th Annual SUP & RUN 5K event, benefiting Operation Second Chance and RUCK9, takes place at Nathan Benderson Park. Participants can choose from three races, including a unique combination of running and paddle boarding. While serious athletes vie for cash prizes, the event also welcomes casual participants with open arms.

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May 4

TerraNova Derby & Dressage Party

TerraNova Equestrian Center invites guests to the TerraNova Derby & Dressage Dinner Party, featuring live international Dressage competition and a Kentucky Derby viewing event. Enjoy Pavilion seating, a delectable catered dinner, full bar, and signature mint julep cocktails for the ultimate equestrian and derby experience.

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May 4 - 5

St. Armands Art & Craft Festival

Attendees can experience the beloved outdoor event at St. Armand's Circle Park, featuring over 175 artisans and craftspeople showcasing their work. Over two days, visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere and discover unique creations at this enjoyable gathering, which is free to the public.

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May 5

Kenny G | Van Wezel

The Van Wezel welcomes back Grammy Award®-winning saxophonist Kenny G. With a recording career spanning three decades and 23 albums, he blends R&B, pop, and Latin music into his smooth signature sound. Kenny G has become a fixture on adult contemporary and smooth jazz radio, delighting audiences worldwide.

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May 8

Performances at the Point

Attend world-class performances by local performing arts organizations at Selby Gardens Historic Spanish Point campus. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Jaquay Pearce, a violinist, began her musical journey at age 7 and specializes in classical crossover, including pop, rock, and R&B genres.

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May 9 - 11

ensembleNewsSRQ: Parisian Refraction

ensembleNEWSRQ presents "A Micro-Festival of Recent Masterworks for Soloists and Ensemble," delving into compositions reflecting Parisian themes or commissioned by Paris-based groups. Under the direction of Samantha Bennet and George Nickson, the ensemble strives to spotlight worldwide musical diversity.

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May 12

Mother’s Day Grand Ballroom Brunch

Families are welcomed to commemorate Mother's Day at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota's Grand Ballroom Brunch, where they can relish in a delightful assortment of spring delicacies within an opulent atmosphere. Pamper mom with a variety of culinary treasures, and cherish moments of togetherness amidst the refined ambiance.

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May 17

“Just Between Friends” Exhibition

The Venice Art Center invites art enthusiasts to its "Just Between Friends" exhibition reception. The Pat Buster Main Gallery will feature submitted pieces from members and non-members, while the Altman-Vogt Solo Gallery will showcase Heather Cowan's artwork. Enjoy complimentary appetizers and drinks. Admission is free.

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May 17

Sarasota Contemporary Dance

The Sarasota Contemporary Dance Ensemble (SCDE) concludes its 5th season with "Evolutions," an evening-length showcase highlighting diverse dance styles, from Contemporary to Afro-Fusion to the Jazzy 80s. Choreographed by Associate Directors Xiao-Xuan Dancigers and Melissa Rummel.

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May 18

4th Annual Celtic Fest

Fishermen’s Village hosts the 4th annual Celtic Fest in partnership with the Cultural Heritage Center of Southwest Florida and the New World Celts (Sarasota Chapter). Guests can enjoy authentic Celtic music by bands like McIntyre Band, Mac Tier Band, West of Galway, and Celtic Conundrum at Sunset Beach Club and Center Court from 12 noon to 9 pm.

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May 26

Tribute to Heroes Block Party & Parade

Annually, crowds gather on Lakewood Main Street to honor local veterans and heroes. The festivities kick off with a block party at 5pm, followed by the parade at 6:30pm. Businesses, non-profits, and groups can join the parade or support the event as sponsors. Proceeds aid The Del Webb Lakewood Ranch Association of Veterans and VFW Post 12055.

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May 27

Sarasota Memorial Day Parade

The Memorial Day parade, hosted by the City of Sarasota and Sarasota Patriotic Observance Committee, commences at 10 a.m. from Main Street and Osprey Avenue, proceeding westward to Chaplain J.D. Hamel Park. The event culminates in a ceremony featuring keynote speaker Capt. Richard Petrucci, U.S. Navy retired, honoring those who served.

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May 27

Venice Memorial Day Ceremony

The American Legion NO-VEL Post 159 hosts the Annual Venice Area Memorial Day Ceremony at Patriots Park at 10 a.m. Veterans organizations and the public are welcome. Participating groups include VFW, DAV, and Marine Corps League. Mayor Nick Pachota will present a City proclamation. Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs.

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LIVE

Local Theatre

Lemon Bay Playhouse

Running through May 12, "Sicilians in the Basement” follows a hapless couple's comedic journey as they venture into opening a Swiss restaurant in Brooklyn's Crown Heights. Struggling with the cuisine's reception in the ethnically diverse neighborhood, their fortunes change when two Sicilian immigrants join the mix, adding a flavorful twist to the menu and their lives.

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Manatee Performing Arts Centre

Running through May 12, “Kiss Me Kate”. Former spouses take the spotlight in a musical rendition of The Taming of the Shrew, where the battle of the sexes unfolds both on and offstage. Kiss Me, Kate is a sophisticated, romantic, and uproariously funny production, featuring a dazzling score by Cole Porter and a witty script by Sam and Bella Spewack.

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Florida Studio Theatre

Until May 19, “Troubadour" depicts 1951 Nashville, tracking country music icon Billy Mason's retirement contemplation. Can his reserved son, Joe, uphold his father's legacy? A musical evolution occurs aided by a budding songwriter and a rodeo tailor, reshaping country music. With Kristian Bush's music, witness the birth of a new era.

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Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe

Until May 26, "Marvin Gaye: Prince of Soul" features Sheldon Rhoden, a beloved member of Sarasota's WBTT troupe, reprising the role of Marvin Gaye in the acclaimed show. This original musical follows Gaye's trajectory from Motown in the 1950s to his untimely demise in the mid-1980s, celebrating his pioneering impact on Black music.

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Venice Theatre

May 3-19, "Bank Job”, two siblings successfully execute a bank heist, only to encounter complications during their escape route through an executive washroom. As a young woman, a cop, and a hostage enter the scene, chaos ensues. This comedic romp is packed with high-energy antics and unexpected twists, including a touch of romance.

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Asolo Repertory Theatre

Beginning May 8, "Twelve Angry Men: A New Musical", audiences are invited to unravel the truth amidst confusion. With a compelling jazz-infused score, this adaptation of a classic American drama elevates the narrative. Praised as a "must-see musical" by the Star Tribune, it explores the power of collaboration in shaping a brighter future.

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Van Wezel

Friday, May 24, “Friday Fest”, the beloved annual outdoor summer concert series, returns with an enticing lineup featuring the Hot Tonic Orchestra as headliners, known for their dynamic fusion of swing, Latin jazz, and popular tunes. The event takes place on the scenic Van Wezel lawn. Attendees are invited to bring blankets or lawn chairs, savor the music and sunset vistas, and sample delicious fare from local vendors.

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McCurdy’s Comedy Theatre

May 26, “Drag Queen Bingo”. Experience an evening filled with bingo thrills, dazzling prizes, and captivating performances from host, Tamiami Trails. Delight in the company of glamorous drag queens as they entertain you with their fabulous acts. Get ready for laughter, jubilation, and an unforgettable cabaret experience that promises to be nothing short of glamorous!

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Urbanite Theatre

Beginning May 31, "Oak". As the clock strikes 7pm, a chilling question looms: do you know where your children are? Fear grips the community amidst snatching season and strict curfews by Odella Creek. Cousins Suga, Big Man, and Pickle confront temptation, risking becoming headlines themselves in this gripping narrative. Step into the darkness and experience the terror firsthand.

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