Mark Your Calendars! Local Fairs & Festivals Near Bradenton and Sarasota

Summertime means leisurely days at the beach and plenty of sunshine, as well as a variety of fairs and festivals the season brings to the area. Here are several local events coming to the Bradenton and Sarasota that you don’t want to miss!

1. Bradenton Market at Coquino Beach
2650 Gulf Dr S, Bradenton Beach
941.518.4431

This pop-up beach market is open every Sunday in June and July from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. You'll find a variety of vendors at this market, including farm stand produce and local artists. Take in the scenic views of Coquino Beach while you browse through this beachside market and enjoy the sounds of live entertainment.

2. Red Barn Flea Market
1707 1st St, Bradenton
941.747.6539

Since 1981, the Red Barn Flea Market has been a favorite way for Bradenton residents to pass time and shop for one-of-a-kind items. The flea market offers 80,000 square feet of air-conditioned shopping space, making this a great destination for a hot summer day. With more than 600 flea market booths, fresh produce and live entertainment, a trip to the Red Barn is always packed with excitement.

3. 16th Annual St. Armands Circle Craft Festival
June 10-11 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
411 St. Armands Cr, Sarasota
561.746.6615

St. Armands Key is located just off the coast of Sarasota and offers a welcomed escape from the hustle and bustle of life on the mainland. This festival hosts some of the best crafters in the state with a variety of jewelry, pottery, plants, soaps and more.

4. 16th Annual Summer Music Fest
June 16 at 5 p.m.
The Bayfront Lawn at Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall
777 N Tamiami Tr, Sarasota

If you appreciate live music, you'll love this annual summer music festival that offers great views of the bayfront. Blues aficionados Doug Deming and The Jewel Tones will take the stage this year to entertain the crowd. While the concert is free, bringing in outside food and beverages is prohibited, as food and drinks can be purchased from vendors at the festival.

5. 25th Annual Downtown Venice Craft Festival
June 17-18 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
220 Miami Ave W, Venice

Some of the nation’s best crafters will exhibit along Miami Avenue for the 25th Annual Downtown Venice Craft Festival. As you stroll along the street, you can peruse booths offering stained glass, photography, personalized products and more. You also won't want to miss the Green Market where you can purchase plants and fresh produce.

Make time to explore the eclectic shops around downtown Venice as the community offers a vibrant scene that locals and visitors alike will appreciate.

Which fairs or festivals do you plan to attend this summer? Share with us in the comments below!