Year-round attractions make Sarasota a special place to live; yet summer provides unique opportunities to make memories. Sarasota and Lakewood Ranch offer unparalleled celebrations and activities amidst a backdrop of warm, sunlit days. The exceptional blend of natural beauty and cultural vibrancy provides a harmonious mix of relaxation and exploration.
If you are looking to relocate to a great city, to spend the summer season near the beach, or simply visit for a long weekend, a robust array of events that cater to various interests will make every summer moment unforgettable. Prioritize the Sarasota area and strongly consider the luxury real estate offering incomparable variety – whether a home, condominium, or vacation rental meets your needs. Check out this immersive guide to the festivals and events to make the most of summer and Fourth of July:
Soak up the Sun on World-Class beaches
Step onto the legendary, powdery quartz sand of Siesta Key Beach – ranked American’s No. one beach for its dazzling white shoreline and crystal-clear Gulf waters. A beloved summer tradition. The annual free kids’ summer beach run is returning to Siesta Beach and North Brohard Park from June through July. This event is free. Registration begins at 5:30 pm.
Every Tuesdays, June 3 through July 29 – Siesta Beach 948 Beach Road, Siesta Key
Every Wednesdays, June 4 through July 30 – North Brohard Park, 1400 S. Harbor Drive, Venice
Dive into Events and Festivals
June 13 – August 9, 2025 - Summer Circus Spectacular
A family-friendly extravaganza that celebrates Sarasota’s circus heritage with dazzling acts and interactive fun. Various ticket price points.
At the Ringling | ringling.org
July 3rd – Fireworks on the Lake at Nathan Benderson Park
Kick off your 4th of July celebrations early with the Fireworks on the Lake event at Nathan Benderson Park. This family-friendly festival features live music, a Kids Zone presented by MOTE Marine, food trucks, and plenty of activities for all ages. The fireworks show begins around 9:00 pm and can be enjoyed from various vantage points around the park. Free parking.
Nathan Benderson Park - 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle, Sarasota
July 3rd – Patriotic concert by Sarasota Concert Band
Get into the spirits early with a special patriotic concert by the Sarasota Concert Band, a 40-piece professional symphonic band celebrating its 71st anniversary. This free concert at Waterside Place sets the tone for Independence Day with a mix of classic American favorites and stirring patriotic music. It begins at 6:00 pm.
Waterside Place – 1560 Lakefront Drive, Sarasota | watersideplace.com
July 4th – Siesta Key – Annual community Fireworks display
The 34th annual Siesta Key Community Fireworks are a beloved tradition that lights up the night sky with a breathtaking display launched right over the iconic Siesta Beach. Arrive early, bring a beach chair and enjoy the festive atmosphere as locals and visitors gather to celebrate. The fireworks begin promptly at dusk and last about 90 minutes, creating a magical backdrop against the Gulf waters. This event is free to attend.
948 Beach Road, Siesta Key
July 4th – Snook Haven
For a more laid-back, “Old Florida” vibe, take a half-hour drive from downtown Sarasota to the Venice area for the annual Kayak festival and Fourth of July celebration in a bit of a different setting. Rent kayaks and canoes in the morning at 11:30 am through 5:00pm (or bring your own) and spend the day cruising down the river. Enjoy nature, music, and community spirit along the scenic Myakka River. Free to attend.
Snook Haven - 5000 E Venice Ave., Venice
July 4th – Sarasota Bayfront Park
For a classic waterfront Independence Day experience, head to Sarasota Bayfront Park or Island where the annual Bayfront Fireworks light up the sky over Sarasota Bay. Choreographed to patriotic music, the 30-minute show creates an immersive celebration for spectators to enjoy from the park’s lawn, nearby downtown rooftops, or even aboard a boat in the bay. Food trucks and nearby restaurants offer plenty of dining options. Enjoy a festive dinner or pack a picnic. Parking fills quickly - plan to arrive by 7:30 pm to secure a good spot. This event is free to attend
Bayfront Park and Island Park
July 4th – Marie Selby Botanical Gardens.
Celebrate at the All-American cookout at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens – a lush botanical garden that serves to both educate and entertain visitors. The gardens offer a variety of rare plant species to view prior to the event. Enjoy barbecued meat alongside family and friends, both old and new. Finish off the evening with a great view of the fireworks over Sarasota Bay at dusk. This event starts around 5:30 pm. Various general admission ticket options and packages.
Selby Garden – 900 S. Palm Ave., Sarasota | selby.org
July 4th – Longboat Key - The annual Freedom Fest
Enjoy the true community spirit at Longboat Key’s annual Fest, from the parade and games to the butterfly release and Hot Dignity Dog contest, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Free and open to the public.
Bicentennial Park, 501 Bay Isles Road | business.longboatkeychamber.com
Lakewood Ranch’s festive day events
July 4th – Waterside Place in Lakewood Ranch
Light up the holiday with Star-Spangled at Waterside Place, a lively community event featuring live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities. Enjoy a fantastic holiday with neighbors and friends in a vibrant outdoor setting. Bring your chairs and enjoy the festive atmosphere as the evening unfolds with patriotic tunes and fun for all ages – 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm.
Waterside Place – 1560 Lakefront Drive, Sarasota | watersideplace.com
Julu 4th – Music on Main in Lakewood Ranch
Join the festive street party at Music on Main where food trucks, beer trucks, sponsor booths, and rides create a lively backdrop for a patriotic celebration. Enjoy delicious food and live, family-friendly entertainment in a vibrant community atmosphere– 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm.
8100 Lakewood Main Street, Bradenton | lwrmainstreet.com
July 11th – Family Movie Night at Waterside Park
Watch “Paw Patrol:” the mighty movie under the stars. This free event starts at sunset.
Waterside Place – 1560 Lakefront Drive, Sarasota | watersideplace.com
Tips for enjoying 4th of July:
Arrive early
Bring essentials (water, chairs, sunscreen, blanket, etc.)
Plan parking & transportation
Check weather & updates
From stunning beachside fireworks on Siesta Key to lively concerts and family festivals at Lakewood Ranch. This summer and Fourth of July promise unforgettable moments of joy and togetherness. Whether you are planning to spend just a weekend or the foreseeable future in Sarasota or Lakewood Ranch, I can help you find the right real estate option for you. I know the city and its amenities quite well and can help you pinpoint the neighborhoods that would suit your needs the best.
Give me a call today at 941.266.0529 to learn more about our area’s real estate market, ask any questions about relocating here, or get more information on other unique summer events in the Cultural Capital of Florida.
