- April 29, 2024
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A new year means an opportunity to make new memories.
That might mean another visit to an old — or annual — event.
East County has many signature events, many that are offered each year. Whether it's checking out the animals at the Manatee County Fair, honoring veterans at the annual Tribute to Heroes Parade or cheering on runners at the Turkey Trot before feasting, there are events for all ages.
Here is a look at 15 signature East County events that are sure to be unforgettable in 2024.
Jan. 11-21 at the Manatee County Fairgrounds, 1402 14th Ave. W., Palmetto. Visit ManateeCountyFair.com.
Enjoy fair food, games and rides during the Manatee County Fair. FFA and 4-H members will showcase their livestock, local and national acts will perform and community members will share their arts and crafts.
Hwy 41 South, one of Florida's premier bluegrass bands, opens the entertainment schedule with a Jan. 11 concert on the main stage. Want something higher energy on that day? Universal Championship Wrestling will be featured the same day. Don't forget favorites such as pig racing, blacksmith demonstrations, and the corndog eating contest. Jan. 18 features the Petty Hearts, a Tom Petty tribute band.
Feb. 16 to March 10 at Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle, Sarasota. Visit CircusArts.org.
Circus Sarasota returns under a new, custom-designed Big Top. Come and see award-winning international artists perform. One of the best features of the circus is the seating. With the intimate seating, there isn't a bad seat. Tickets are available for $24 and up. The venue is intimate, but the acts are big with world renowned artists performing.
Feb. 16-18 at St. Barbara Greek Orthodox Church, 7671 N. Lockwood Ridge Road, Sarasota. Visit StBarbaraFestival.org.
Taste Greek dishes, pastries and domestic and imported beverages while enjoying live Greek music and dancing during the 40th annual Greek Glendi. Experience the Greek culture in a welcoming environment. Church tours are available during the Glendi.
Feb. 24 at Greenbrook Adventure Park, 13010 Adventure PIace, Bradenton. Visit MyLWR.com.
Bring the family to Greenbrook Adventure Park and pitch a tent to camp with neighbors. The campout includes tent pitching demos, music and food trucks. Plan ahead as this event sold-out in a couple of weeks after the campsites were released. Nature experts give presentations and lead nature walks.
March 9 at Greenbrook Adventure Park, 13010 Adventure PIace, Bradenton. Visit MyLWR.com.
Irish food, dancers, craft beer, Best Legs in a Kilt contest, Lucky Dog Parade and children’s activities are just parts of what the Irish Celtic Festival has to offer. It is a free event that has plenty for the kids to do as well. One of the favorite events is the Dog/Owner Look Alike Contest.
March 23 at Waterside Park, 7301 Island Cove Terrace, Lakewood Ranch. Visit MyLWR.com.
Hunt for thousands of eggs spread across a field and volleyball courts before visiting the Easter Bunny.
While the kids' dash for Easter eggs is the highlight of the event, there are plenty of other activities to keep the kids busy.
April 13 at Lake Uihlein, which is behind Lakewood Ranch Town Hall, 8175 Lakewood Ranch Blvd, Lakewood Ranch. Visit MyLWR.com.
The annual Youth Fishing Tournament for ages 5-12 returns to Lake Uihlein. Equipment and live bait is provided. A youth fishing seminar will be held April 6 at Summerfield Park for those who want to learn the basics of fishing before the tournament.
Members of the Lakewood Ranch Anglers Club make this special each year by teaching the clinic and then assisting the kids and parents during the tournament.
April 18-21 at the Lakewood National Golf Club, 17605 Lakewood National Parkway, Lakewood Ranch. Visit LECOMSuncoastClassic.com.
The Korn Ferry Tour's LECOM Suncoast Classic offers golf fans an opportunity to see future PGA Tour stars. Enjoy Lakewood National Golf Club's views and watch 156 of the world's best golfers compete for a $1 million purse and points that could lead them to a PGA Tour card.
Those who attend could be a superstar in the making. Consider that Scottie Scheffler played on the Korn Ferry Tour before eventually becoming the No. 1 player in the world. Past Major winners such as Mike Weir and Angel Cabrera have played in the LECOM Suncoast Classic. The event also has plenty of spots for volunteers if people in the community want to get even closer to the players. Go to the event's website for more information.
May 26 at Main Street at Lakewood Ranch, 8100 Lakewood Ranch Blvd., Lakewood Ranch. Visit MyLWR.com.
Thousands gather on Main Street at Lakewood Ranch to honor veterans and see dozens of parade entries. Residents are encouraged to decorate their strollers, bikes and golf carts and participate in the parade. A special dinner is held for the veterans each year before the event.
June 6-9 at Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle, Sarasota. Visit NathanBendersonPark.org.
NBP will host the nation’s top youth rowers, as USRowing kicks off its summer schedule with this massive regatta. Student athletes from across the nation gather for the event.
July 3 at Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle, Sarasota. Visit NathanBendersonPark.org.
Nathan Benderson Park will celebrate the country’s independence with its annual Fireworks on the Lake. Thousands of will celebrate with live music, games, a kids zone, food and fireworks.
Oct. 25 at Main Street at Lakewood Ranch, 8100 Lakewood Ranch Blvd., Lakewood Ranch (date and location are subject to change). Visit MyLWR.com.
Dress in your best costume during BooFest. Thousands will walk up and down Main Street at Lakewood Ranch to enjoy music, performances and people giving out treats.
Nov. 2 at Premier Sports Campus, 5895 Post Blvd., Lakewood Ranch. Visit LakewoodRanch-Rotary.com.
The Suncoast Food and Wine Fest will return to Premier Sports Campus. Enjoy hundreds of wines and food samples available for tasting from dozens of restaurants while raising money for the Rotary Club of Lakewood Ranch’s charities.
Nov. 28 at Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle, Sarasota. Visit NathanBendersonPark.org.
Gobble around Nathan Benderson Park during the 5K run/walk on Thanksgiving day. The event includes kids dashes and sweet treats at the finish line.
Dec. 31 at Waterside Park, 7301 Island Cove Terrace, Lakewood Ranch. Visit MyLWR.com.
Ring in the new year with neighbors and friends at Waterside Park. Dance the night away while enjoying food trucks and drinks as well as games for all ages.
