Tribute to Heroes
9:30-10:30 a.m. Friday, Sept. 11. Riverwalk Pavilion, 452 Third Ave. W., Bradenton. Manatee County Fire Chiefs Association will honor the fallen of 9/11 with an Honor Guard presentation, speakers, dove release, flag ceremony and a 21-gun salute.
International Coastal Cleanup 2026
9:30 a.m.-noon. Saturday, Sept. 12. Multiple locations. Join Keep Manatee Beautiful for the International Coastal Cleanup, the world’s largest volunteer effort dedicated to protecting our oceans, rivers, bays, and coastlines. After the cleanups conclude, all volunteers are invited to join us for a community celebration at the Coquina Beach Café, 2650 Gulf Drive S, Bradenton Beach. https://tinyurl.com/4ndprhcm
Friends of MCAW 10th Birthday Party
Noon-4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 13. Dog Bar Sarasota, 1314 10th St., Sarasota. The celebration includes a raffle and silent auction, adoptable dogs, vendors including Sea Monkey Apparel, a free dog wash courtesy of Healing Hands Grooming, and a free cupcake courtesy of Hood Cakes. No event ticket or RSVP is required.
THURSDAY
Casual Cornhole
10-11 a.m. Sept. 10. Waterside Place, 7500 Island Cove Terrace, Lakewood Ranch. Whether you’re a cornhole pro or a newbie, don’t miss this chance to show off your tossing skills and have a blast with friends. Grab a partner or go solo, we’ve got enough beanbags and boards to keep everyone entertained. Occurs weekly.
Thursday Live Music Nights
6-9 p.m. Sept. 10. Remy’s on Main, 8138 Lakewood Main St., Lakewood Ranch. A full-time local musician since 2008, Joe Thayer brings a dynamic piano performance featuring favorites from across the decades and genres. Enjoy classics from the American Songbook alongside hits from Billy Joel, Elton John, Van Morrison, and more.
“Arsenic and Old Lace”
7:30 p.m. Sept. 10-13, 16-20. Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 Third Ave. W., Bradenton. The classic comedy that has been entertaining audiences for generations. Matinee performances at 2 p.m. on select dates. $32.50. https://tinyurl.com/56y824ff
FRIDAY
Heroes breakfast
8-10 a.m. Sept. 11. ActivAge Sarasota, 3801 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota. Held each second Friday of the month, ActivAge Sarasota picks an honored Veteran of the Month to be celebrated. Sometimes, there will be a guest speaker. All veterans are welcome to attend and enjoy a free breakfast. Call 941-269-2273 to RSVP.
9/11 Commemoration
8:30-10 a.m. Sept. 11. Greenbrook Adventure Park Pavilion, 13010 Adventure Place, Lakewood Ranch. Join a special morning of remembrance in honor of the lives lost, recognize the courage and sacrifice of our first responders, and reflect on the resilience that united our nation following the events of September 11, 2001. Complimentary coffee and donuts will be provided. https://tinyurl.com/3ffmumns
Honoring the 9/11 Anniversary
6-9:30 p.m. Sept. 11. Post 10141, 5105 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton. The Palma Sola VFW will honor the bravery and sacrifice of those who faced challenges on Sept. 11, 2001, and in the resulting War on Terror. The ceremony will reflect on the resilience of our nation. After the ceremony, Terry Helm will provide music.
Movie in the Park
7 p.m. Sept. 11. Waterside Park, 7301 Island Cove Terrace, Sarasota. Grace Community Church will be providing one free dipped frozen banana from Nana’s Bananas to the first 163 attendees. This month’s movie is “Tangled.” Seating is available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Bring a blanket and/or lawn chairs. Concessions available. Inflatables for the kids will be available at 7 p.m. https://tinyurl.com/4xm2p32w
SATURDAY
Karate Zoo
9:30-10 a.m. Sept. 12-26. Bob Gardner Community Park, 2710 White Eagle Blvd., Lakewood Ranch. This high-energy progression-based program teaches the fundamentals of martial arts in a safe and nurturing environment. With the help of advanced curriculum, children will learn karate skills and values.
Saltwater Fishing Clinic
1-3 p.m. Sept. 12. Emerson Point Preserve, 5801 17th St. W, Palmetto. Tie an improved clinch knot, practice your fish identification skills, and learn the basics of catch and release fishing in Florida. Suitable for all ages. Fishing poles, bait and tackle will be provided for the duration of the program.
For more information, contact sara.alvarezcollazo@mymanatee.org or call (941)705-5194. Register at https://tinyurl.com/5ac4p35k
Greg LaPensee Bowling Tournament
6-8 p.m. Sept. 12. Bowlero Bradenton, 4208 Cortez Road. Participants are invited to enjoy an evening of fun, friendly competition, and community spirit. Check-in begins at 5:30 p.m., with bowling, an awards ceremony and raffle drawings. Lane costs start at $350 for a team of six players. https://centerami.org/events
Chef Greg Anniversary Dinner
6:45 p.m. Sept. 12. PIER 22 Ballroom, second floor, 1200 First Ave. W, Bradenton. PIER 22 will honor Executive Chef and Director of Operations Greg Campbell’s 20 years of culinary leadership. Enjoy a five-course meal, guest speakers and a chance to speak with Chef Greg. Seating is limited. $145. For questions, email info@pier22.com or call 941-748-8087. Purchase your ticket at pier22.com
SUNDAY
Yoga in the Park
8-9 a.m. Sept. 13. Waterside Place, 7301 Island Cove Terrace, Lakewood Ranch. Start your Sunday off with a little mindfulness and movement. Not only will you get to enjoy the fresh air and beautiful surroundings, but you’ll also experience the many benefits yoga has to offer. Occurs weekly.
Farmers’ Market at Lakewood Ranch
10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sept. 13. Waterside Place, 1561 Lakefront Drive, Sarasota. Shop local every Sunday with 100-plus local vendors including organic produce, flowers, specialty spices and rubs, honey, fresh bread, baked goods, prepared foods, pet products, jewelry, and more. Spend your Sunday mornings lakeside while enjoying a variety of local musicians, great food, and fun activities for the little ones at The Kids’ Zone.
MONDAY
Women’s Empowerment Yoga
6:30-7:30 a.m. Sept. 14. Embodied Health, 1102 12th St. W, Bradenton. Designed for all experience levels, each session offers a supportive space to reconnect with yourself and begin the week feeling grounded, refreshed, and empowered. First class is free. Advance registration is required, as class sizes are intentionally kept small. Occurs weekly. https://embodied.health/classes
TUESDAY
Weekly Country Night
6-9 p.m. Sept. 15. Flamingo Bay Brewing Co, 1910 14th St. W, Bradenton. Spend your Tuesday evening at Weekly Country Night with Buffalo Gals Line Dancing. The evening begins with easy-to-follow line dance lessons led by Christina Reed, followed by plenty of social dancing as the music keeps playing. Lessons are $5.
WEDNESDAY
Wednesday Chamber Nights
4:30-9 p.m. Sept. 16. Pesto Bistro and Wine Bar, 8799 Cortez Road W., Bradenton. Members of Anna Maria Island, Longboat Key, and Manatee Chambers of Commerce receive 10% discount for Wine Down Wednesday specials. Features happy hour pricing all evening and wine specials by the bottle. Occurs weekly.
Sunset Volleyball
6-8 p.m. Sept. 16. Waterside Place, 7301 Island Cove Terrace, Sarasota. Sunset Volleyball is a series of pickup volleyball games designed for volleyball players who are ready to jump in, play without instruction, and have a great time. Occurs weekly.
Wednesday Movie Night
8-11 p.m. Sept. 16. Adobe Kava, 1302 13th Ave. W, Bradenton. The audience decides what plays. Cast your vote in Adobe Kava’s Instagram Story poll before 8 p.m., and the winning movie will be shown at 8:30 p.m. Bring your friends, grab your favorite drink, and settle in for an evening of movies and community. Every week offers a different film.
LOOKING AHEAD
“Always A Bridesmaid”
Sept. 17-27. The Island Players, 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. At their senior prom, four friends promised to be in each other’s weddings no matter what. They just didn’t know they’d be playing bridesmaids quite so often. More than 30 years later, these Southern friends for life are still determined to honor that vow.www.theislandplayers.org/current-season-78
Adult Drop-In Art
6-7 p.m. Sept. 17. Lakewood Ranch Library, 16410 Rangeland Parkway. Join the library each month for a different craft. Feel free to drop in anytime from 6-7 p.m. and meet some new people while having fun.
2026 Modern Works Festival
7:30 p.m. Sept. 17-20, 24-27. Urbanite Theatre, 1487 Second St., Sarasota. This two-week celebration of new plays, emerging voices, and women in theatre. Audiences are invited into the creative process through staged readings, artist conversations, special events, and opportunities to engage directly with playwrights and theatre makers. https://ci.ovationtix.com/34772
FORE the Environment Golf Tournament
8 a.m. Sept. 18. River Club Golf Course, 6600 River Club Blvd., Lakewood Ranch. The tournament brings together local businesses, community leaders, and golfers to support Keep Manatee Beautiful’s environmental programs and community initiatives throughout Manatee County. $150 single or $500 per foursome. www.manateebeautiful.com/golf
SWAT Networking
8-9:15 a.m. Sept. 18. Chicken Salad Chick, 5434 Lockwood Ridge Road, Bradenton. Whether you’re brand new to Successful Women Aligning Together or a long-time member who wants a refresher, this is the perfect opportunity to reconnect with everything your membership includes. Hear how to build real relationships, increase your visibility, get more referrals, take advantage of member perks, and fully leverage the opportunities available to you. www.swatnetworking.org/swatevents
Laughs & Courses: A Comedy Dinner Party
7-10 p.m. Sept. 18. Grove, 10670 Boardwalk Loop, Lakewood Ranch. Join a lively night of chef-curated dining, drinks, and stand-up comedy featuring three talented performers. Enjoy a three-course dinner while Trish Keating, Nathan Wallace, and headliner Johnny B take the stage for an unforgettable evening. Ages 21 and up. $125. https://tinyurl.com/2p9v3abm
12th Street Summer Market
9 a.m.-noon. Sept. 19. City Centre Shops, 259 12th St. W., Bradenton. Every first and third Saturday of each month. This community market features a rotating collection of local vendors offering everything from handmade jewelry and artwork to specialty foods, honey, spices, baked goods, crochet creations, and more.
Fairy Festival
9 a.m.-noon. Sept. 19. The NEST at Robinson Preserve, 840 99th St. NW, Bradenton. Spend time outdoors with your family discovering the natural curiosities of plants, wildlife and fairies. Build a fairy home, take a small hike, enjoy activities, crafts and a story time. Families are encouraged to dress in their best fairy attire. No reservations are required. Program appropriate for families with children ages 2-10. Register for a free ticket at https://tinyurl.com/28cn6v3a
Plants & Prosecco: A Social Planting Party
10 a.m.-noon. Sept. 19. Grove, 10670 Boardwalk Loop, Lakewood Ranch. Gather your friends for a relaxed morning of Plants & Prosecco. Join a guided, hands-on workshop where you’ll create your own beautiful succulent wreath. This easygoing class is perfect for beginners and plant lovers alike. $50. Registration closes Sept. 14. https://tinyurl.com/yt6uar4a
Third Saturday Market
11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sept. 19. Village of The Arts, 1227 12th St. W., Bradenton. Browse unique gifts, discover handmade artwork, enjoy local food, and explore one of Bradenton’s most colorful neighborhoods. Visitors can stroll through the Village, meet local artists, shop for one-of-a-kind finds, and take part in a festive day inspired by the holiday season.
De Soto Main Street Putt-Putt 2026
1:30-6 p.m. Sept. 19. Cork’s Cigar Bar, 424 Old Main St., Bradenton. Teams of four will make their way through 10 participating downtown establishments, each featuring its own custom miniature golf hole. Players will travel with their putters, golf balls, and official scorecards as they compete for the lowest team score. A $250 gift card will be awarded to the best dressed team. The day will include additional prizes, raffles, and a 50/50 raffle fundraiser. Check-in takes place in front of Cork’s Cigar Bar before the 3 p.m. shotgun start.
I Celebrate ME! Concert — Talent & Fashion
6 p.m. Sept. 19. Stone Hall, 502 Third Ave W. Bradenton. Come for a night of story, song, and spirit. See your community come together for God. Join Dr. Green and Grace in the Kingdom for a night of fashion, talent, and recognition of the exceptional people they call family in Christ. Tickets start at $35. https://tinyurl.com/56y824ff
Starry Night Astronomy
8-10 p.m. Sept. 19. Robinson Preserve Expansion, 10299 Ninth Ave. NW, Bradenton. Dozens of local astronomers will be set up in the Robinson Preserve Expansion with telescopes at the ready. Be sure to bring a sense of wonder and exploration as we view the skies through high-powered telescopes. Learn how to identify heavenly bodies, and how you can stargaze at home too. https://tinyurl.com/4y99f8s7
Books on Tap Book Club
6-7 p.m. Sept. 23. Good Liquid Brewing Co., 8980 U.S. 301 N., Unit 138, Parrish. Enjoy an informal and relaxed book club setup, with no required reading. Come ready to talk about your recent reads, discuss recommendations, or just enjoy some bookish company. Anyone age 21 and up is welcome to attend. Seats are limited, registration required. https://tinyurl.com/2yffahzp
Art Club
6-9 p.m. Sept. 23. Oscura, 816 Manatee Ave. E., Bradenton. This monthly gathering brings together artists, musicians, makers, and creative professionals to share ideas, build connections, and explore new opportunities within the local arts scene. The evening includes pre-event networking with a happy hour menu, followed by introductions, a featured artist talk, and an art hour studio session.
Salt Tolerant Plants for Coastal Landscapes
11 a.m.-noon. Sept. 24. Palma Sola Botanical Park, 9800 17th Ave. NW, Bradenton. Living near the coast brings unique gardening challenges, and this workshop will help you choose plants that can handle salty air and coastal conditions. Learn practical tips for creating a healthy, attractive garden using salt-tolerant varieties that are well suited for Florida’s coastal environment. $7. https://tinyurl.com/49wx6dh5
Readin’ at the Ranch Book Club
1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Sept. 24. Lakewood Ranch Library, 16410 Rangeland Parkway. Join a lively discussion, hear new perspectives, and experience the chance to connect with fellow book lovers in the community. Whether you’re a longtime reader or just looking to get back into reading, everyone is welcome. This club offers two meeting times. This month’s book is “We Are Not Like Them” by Christine Pride.