There are a number of Holiday Markets featuring local artisans, festive parades and exciting shows to enjoy. Here's a list of the best in and around Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, Bradenton and Venice.
Holiday Markets { Your chance to shop local! }
Nov 21-22; Dec 5-6 Holiday Markets at University Town Center Come shop local this holiday! We'll be in the parking lot of The Mall at University Town Center on November 21st-22nd and December 5th-6th, from 11am to 7pm (Matching mall hours). Find 80+ local crafters and businesses with unique gifts for your friends and family.
DEC 5 Kris Krinkle Market 2020 Join us for our yearly tradition. The Kris Kringle Market was inspired by the 700-year old tradition of the open-air Christmas markets throughout Europe. The event will feature one-of-a-kind shopping, art, wreaths and handcrafted gifts for the holiday. All locally made and one of a kind Christmas finds. Plus food trucks and Santa!
Dec 5 Support local businesses at the Art, Craft and Small Business Festival. There will be food trucks with food to purchase! Hosted by Bayshore Community Church 9am-2pm
Dec 12 A Christmas Market Anchored Youth invites you to shop at a Christmas Market. Small business owners from the Bradenton/Sarasota area will have products for you to purchase just in time for Christmas! Join us for crafts, gifts, Christmas photos, and food! 9AM
Shows
Nov 27-29 12 Dolls of Christmas "THE 12 DOLLS of CHRISTMAS" OVATION THEATRE INC. IS PRESENTING 4 ONLINE SHOWTIMES FOR THE ORIGINAL HIT MUSICAL, "The 12 Dolls of Christmas:! Get your tickets for Ovation Theatre's first on line Event!
Dec 4 Outdoor Family Movie Night: "The Star." Bring your kids and family, friends, and chairs/blankets for this animated Christmas film experience! "The Star" will be featured outdoors at the Ascension Lutheran Church field (on McIntosh Road in Sarasota) for an evening of family-friendly fun.
Dec 4 The Very Merry Christmas Tour The Very Merry Christmas Tour featuring Newsong and Crowder at First Sarasota Downtown Baptist Church.
Dec 6 2020 Kids Christmas Musical Get yourself in the Christmas spirit by enjoying Colonial Kid's 2020 Christmas Musical! Preview: A trip to grandma's, a threatening snowstorm, and a mysterious hotel all contribute to the message of hope--- what Christmas is all about. FREE, FAMILY-FRIENDLY CHRISTMAS DRAMA AND MUSIC.
Dec 19-20 Circus on the Ranch presents: 1st Annual Christmas Show Come watch our students and professionals perform under the stars and around sparkling lights. December 19 and 20 at 3PM and 7PM.
Festivals and Special Holiday Events
Dec 3- Jan 3 Ellenton Holiday Village Enjoy festive family fun during the holidays with rides and games for all ages, favorite fair food, community stage entertainment and special Santa sightings. Parking and admission are free.
Dec 12-13 Showfolks Holiday Circus Festival A unique outdoor walkthrough Circus Experience. Attendees are welcomed to walk through the festival grounds and enjoy a full range of circus performances, exhibits, food and family friendly activities. Additionally, the kids can meet Santa Clause and see a real living Nativity!
Parades
Nov 21 Santa's Grand Arrival and Parade Join The Mall at UTC for its 4th annual Santa's Grand Arrival Celebration! Kick off the holiday season with a magical parade where Santa will arrive in Sarasota, light the UTC Districts and end with a spectacular fireworks show!
Dec 5 Poinsettia Parade There's snow place like North Port! On Saturday, December 5, 2020 the City of North Port will host it's annual Poinsettia Parade, presented by Quality TV, at 5:00 p.m. Gather your friends or family and join us via a virtual livestream on the North Port Parks & Recreation Facebook page as we kick off the holiday season with a whole lot of holly jolly fun!
Dec 12 1st Annual Killin It Christmas Boat Parade Watch a lighted boat parade near Old Salty Dog/New Pass.
Return to the main Holiday Events Guide, simply click the image below
