Local Events for October 2021 in Sarasota and Manatee

Hello Fall! Take time this October to get out and enjoy the many local events that this beautiful time of year brings to the area.

October 15 – 17, 2021 : Sarasota Rocktoberfest – Enjoy a weekend full of live musical performances, food vendors, beer vendors, and a marketplace to shop local arts, crafts, and fine services. The festival takes place at JD Hamel Park located at 199 Bayfront Dr Sarasota, FL Friday 4pm-10pm | Saturday 11am-10pm | Sunday 11am-6pm

October 15 – 31, 2021 : 33rd Annual Fruitville Grove Pumpkin Fest – Hayrides, pony rides, face painting, pumpkin painting, petting zoo, mini train rides, and many more. Some activities range in price from $1-$10. Food is available for purchase. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Free parking, admission, petting zoo, playground, live music and shows! Located at 7410 Fruitville Road, Sarasota

October 16, 2021 : 20th Annual Anna Maria Island Bay Fest – a full day of live music, delicious food, drinks, arts and crafts,  and a car show you won’t want to miss. All located at Pine Avenue, City of Anna Maria from 10am – 9pm (car show 10am -3pm), Free admission. Also, check out the Kickoff event the night before, Friday October 15, 2021, at City Pier Park from 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. with the Karen and Jimmy Band at the City Pier Park. Food, Beer & Wine will be available!

October 16 – 31, 2021 : 30th Annual Pumpkin Festival – Fun for the whole family! Enjoy live music, live shows, hayrides, corn mazes, barnyard playground, and much more. All located at Hunsader Farms 5500 Co Rd 675 Bradenton FL 34211, FL. Admission is $12, $5 for parking and children 10 and under are free. *Cash Only*

October 21 – 24, 2021: The Fall Fest Carnival – The Mall at University Town Center host a midway fun for the whole family with rides and games for all ages and favorite fair food. Free parking and admission. Unlimited ride wristbands are available for purchase.  Midway hours are 5-10 pm Thursday, 5-11 pm Friday, noon-11 pm Saturday, and noon-10 pm Sunday.

October 23, 2021: Howl-O-Ween Movie Night Spooktacular – The Orioles invite families to the return to Ed Smith Stadium for a night of spooktacular fun! There will be Halloween themed games for kids around the concourse and field, and the animated version of the Addams Family will be played. Free parking. Concessions will be available for purchase. No coolers or outside food allowed. 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. Ed Smith Stadium, 2700 12th St, Sarasota, FL.

October 30 – 31, 2021: Wild-O-Ween at Big Cat Habitat – Fun for the whole family with Pumpkin Painting, Pumpkin Bowling, Mummy Wrapping, Costume Contests, Pony Rides, Wild Prizes and More! Admission: Adult – $20, Child (3 12yrs) – $10, Toddler (2yrs & Under): Free, Active Military & Veterans (w/ I.D.): Free. 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. Big Cat Habitat, 7101 Palmer Blvd.

October 31, 2021: Selby Gardens Spooktacular – Not too scary festivities including trick or treating, pumpkin decorating, and fun activities for all ages! Don’t forget to bring your camera for pictures of your costumed family! 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Members: Free, Member’s Guests: $10. Regular admission: Adults $20, kids 5 – 17 $10. Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, 900 S. Palm Avenue