
The holiday season will be here before you know it. Since this season is only once a year, we highly recommend taking a brief break from looking at Sarasota homes for sale and checking out some local community events. This area has so much to offer, from holiday markets to parades. Here are some of the top festive events our real estate agents recommend.
- Venice Holiday Parade: Downtown Venice, FL 34285
Held on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, the Venice Holiday Parade is an annual tradition. The route begins at Park Boulevard and West Venice Avenue before winding through the downtown area. You can expect to see festive floats, marching bands, dancers, costumed characters, and more.
This year's parade is scheduled for November 25th and begins at 6:30 pm. Make sure you arrive early to find a spot to sit.
- Holiday Art Mart: 1255 North Palm Ave., Sarasota, FL 34236
Get a head start on your holiday shopping at the Holiday Art Mart. Held at the Art Ovation Hotel, this market features jewelry, glass art, ceramics, and other crafts. The items are made by local artisans, so your money stays in the community.
There will also be festive drinks and snacks for sale at the Holiday Art Mart. It's scheduled for December 17th between 10 am and 4 pm, and approximately 30 artists are expected to attend.
- Palm Aire Country Club Holiday Luncheon: 5601 Country Club Way, Sarasota, FL 34236
On Wednesday, December 13th, the Palm Aire Country Club is hosting a Holiday Luncheon. Tickets are $38 per person, and attendees get their choice of three entrees. Choices include Pan-Roasted Salmon, Chicken Blanquette, and Vegetable Napoleon.
This luncheon will also include dessert and non-alcoholic beverages. A cash bar will be open. This is a great opportunity to see the country club decorated for the holidays.
- Holiday Tour of Lights: 3941 Cattlemen Rd., Sarasota, FL 34236
Sarasota really lights up around the holidays, and the Holiday Tour of Lights gives you the perfect opportunity to see those lights without having to drive around town. The tour starts at Region's Bank on Cattlemen Road. A trolley will pick you up and take you on a ride past the area's best light displays.
The Holiday Tour of Lights is scheduled for December 9th this year. Trollies will pick up guests between 6:30 and 8:40 pm. Tickets are $20 per person, and the tour takes place rain or shine.
- Sarasota Christmas Tree Lighting: 1 Central Ave., Sarasota, FL 34236
On November 30th between 6 and 8 pm, join hundreds of other Sarasota residents to see the downtown Christmas tree being lit. This event takes place in Selby Five Points Park. In addition to the tree lighting, there will be holiday music, photos with Santa, and festive refreshments.
There is no cost to attend the Sarasota Christmas Tree Lighting. The event is hosted by the Sarasota Downtown Merchants, and all ages are welcome.
- Achievement Center Holiday Market: 1050 S. Tuttle Ave., Sarasota, FL 34237
Scheduled for December 3rd, the Achievement Center Holiday Market is a great place to find gifts and holiday decor. You can expect to see wreaths, wall hangings, ornaments, and more. There will also be food trucks on-site serving lunch and snacks.
This event will last from 9 am - 2 pm. Proceeds go to benefit the Achievement Center, which has served Sarasota since 1979.
Whichever events you choose to attend, we wish you the happiest of holidays. Remember to contact us if you're looking for Sarasota or Bradenton homes for sale. Our agents can guide you.