Celebrations take to the streets on Cinco de Mayo

Diane Lane had the chance to do something a little different during Sarasota's Cinco de Mayo celebrations on May 5 — stroll down the city streets with a drink in hand.

“It’s great, so great, to see Sarasota so vibrant on a holiday, with three different venues,” she said. 

The holiday saw multiple block parties, including the 2nd Street Carnival at Circo, a Tex Mex restaurant; the monthly Fresh Fridays event; and the Cinco de Mayo Block Party by El Melvin Cocina Mexicana.

Joseph Grano, president of Next-Mark, which hosts Fresh Fridays, said the goal of the event is to bring people downtown, make them aware of the amenities there, and involve them in the community while offering live entertainment not typically seen in Sarasota. 

Talent present at the event included Jonathan Cortez, a former "American Idol" finalist.

“This is an amazing night,” he said. “We have a very elevated experience for people and they're enjoying the music, and they feel like they're part of the downtown community.”

The night was also a chance to better the community. The Circo event benefited the charity Blaze of Hope, which provides funds to families with children suffering from life-threatening medical conditions.

“It’s a great way to spend a Friday,” said the group's president, Shawn Platt. “What an unbelievable place to have a block party and have the support of the vendors and the support of the local charities.”

“Love it — absolutely love it, said Cameron Richardson, who was attending the Circo event with his wife Katie Richardson. “I just think we need a bigger event and to shut down more roads. I like to dance, and she does after a couple of margaritas. And it goes until midnight — I like that, too.”