Ring In The Holidays With These Activities in Bradenton and Sarasota

The holiday season has arrived and the Bradenton and Sarasota areas are alive with lights, festivities, and cheerful music. Here are some fun local community activities near our Springs Apartments communities that you should consider attending with your family and friends this December.

1. Snow Fest Sarasota
5895 Post Blvd
Lakewood Ranch

Snow Fest Sarasota is a local event that allows you to play in the snow despite Florida's 80-degree December temperatures. It's held at the Premier Sports Campus on December 16- 18. From pony rides and snowman building to pictures with Santa, the festival offers something for all ages.

2. A Celtic Christmas Celebration
1301 Barcarrota Blvd W
Bradenton

Celtic music just makes the holidays a bit brighter and more cheerful. At this event, hosted by Downtown Bradenton Central Library, you can enjoy live Celtic music—including bagpipes— and some simple refreshments. Admission is free, kids are welcome, and the event lasts from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, December 10.

3. A 1915 Florida Cracker Christmas
1404 Manatee Ave E
Bradenton

Held at Manatee Village Historical Park, this old-fashioned Christmas celebration will take you back to the year 1915 through an array of heritage artisans, Victorian decorations, and vintage silent movies. There will be a historically dressed Father Christmas to spread cheer and take pictures with the children. The event will last from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Monday, December 12.

4. Holly Days and Mangrove Lights
337 N Tamiami Trail
Sarasota

Through Saturday, December 31, Historic Spanish Point will be celebrating the holidays with white lights in the mangrove trees and carefully decorated buildings. The grounds feel even more magical this time of year with festive music and lighted pathways. If you love spending time outdoors, this is a great opportunity to get into the holiday spirit by taking a walk through the beautiful gardens.

5. Atomic Holiday Bazaar
801 Tamiami Trail
Sarasota

Do some last-minute holiday shopping at this annual bazaar at the Municipal Auditorium. There will be a plethora of unique crafts and gifts from indie vendors, along with food trucks where you can indulge your taste buds. Admission is $5 for adults and is free for kids. The event lasts from noon to 5 p.m. on December 10 and 11.

6. Frosty 5K
6700 Clark Rd
Sarasota

Run off all those holiday goodies at this fun 5K race through Twin Lakes Park and the adjacent neighborhoods. All finishers receive a medal, and there's a costume contest with prizes awarded to those with the most creative outfits. The race starts at 8 a.m. on Saturday, December 17, and is open to all ages.

7. Dickens at the Crosley
8374 N Tamiami Trail
Sarasota

See Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol performed on stage at The Powel Crosley Theater. Performances will be held December 19–23. See the theater's website for specific times and ticket prices.

How are you and your family celebrating this holiday season? If you know of any other local events in Bradenton and Sarasota, share them with us in the comments below!