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Can’t Miss Signature Events in the Bradenton Area
From concerts featuring award-winning musicians to delicious food festivals, world-class art shows and thrilling races and games – the Bradenton Area has an event for everyone. When planning your next visit to the Bradenton Area, don’t forget to pack your calendar with these must-experience events.
Bradenton Public Market
When: Saturdays, October-May, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Old Main Street, Bradenton
Located in historic downtown Bradenton on Old Main Street, the Bradenton Public Market is a weekly event that brings together more than 100 local artisans, farmers, and food vendors, making it a thriving hub of activity. Marketgoers can expect a diverse range of hand-crafted goods, farm-fresh produce, and delicious treats, all within a lively and welcoming atmosphere. The market is set under the shade of lofty oak trees and historic buildings, creating a perfect ambiance to explore, connect with vendors, and enjoy live music performances. With a friendly appeal and a wide array of offerings, the Bradenton Public Market truly embodies the “friendly city” spirit of downtown.
Gulf Islands Concert Series
When: December-April
Where: The Center of Anna Maria Island
This yearly concert series attracts award winning music artists year after year. The line-up changes yearly, offering a diverse range of musical styles. Former headliners include Richard Marx, Starship and the Marshall Tucker Band bringing their hits to the venue at the Center of AMI in Holmes Beach.
Coquina Beach Market
When: January – June, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays from 10 AM – 2 PM
Where: Coquina Beach
Nestled along the shores of Bradenton Beach, the Coquina Beach Market is a vibrant outdoor market with unbeatable wate rviews. This beachfront market features a delightful mix of local artisans, food vendors, and unique crafts, all set against the backdrop of swaying palms and ocean breezes. Visitors can shop for handmade treasures, savor fresh bites, and take in the laid-back island vibe. With its stunning coastal location and welcoming atmosphere, the Coquina Beach Market is a must-visit for locals and visitors alike.
Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival
When: February 15-16
Where: Cortez Commercial Fishing Village
Come experience why visitors have loved the fresh-catch seafood from Cortez since the 1880s at the Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival. Florida’s oldest continuously running fishing village is opening its “kitchen” once again, celebrating the village’s rich fishing heritage with live music, arts and crafts, exhibits, activities for children and lots and lots of tasty seafood. All proceeds benefit the FISH (Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage) mission of preserving the environment and character of the waterfront community.
Pittsburgh Pirates Spring Training
When: February-March
Where: LECOM Park
The southern home of the Pirates since 1969, Bradenton is happy to once again “play ball” as the site of the club’s 2025 Spring Training. LECOM Park, also known as “Florida’s Fenway,” is a “must” if you’re visiting the area in February or March, when temps are perfect and hope springs eternal for every team that takes the field.
Bradenton Area River Regatta
When: February 21-22
Where: Manatee River, Downtown Bradenton and Palmetto
Got the need for speed? The world’s fastest inland boats on water return to the Manatee River for the 10th annual Bradenton Area River Regatta. Boats zooming past at speeds of more than 120 mph is the draw but it’s not the only attraction at this free event. “Friday Night Flash” starts off the two-day event with a literal bang –fireworks artists Zambelli Internationale share the night sky with the Sky Elements Drone Light Show. Two main stages also sit on both sides of the river – with musical guests performing both in downtown Bradenton and in Palmetto.
SpringFest
When: March 8-9
Where: City Hall Field in Holmes Beach
Admission and parking are free to enjoy and purchase professional art and crafts from all over the country at the 37th Annual Springfest in Holmes Beach. This family event combines art, education, food, music and entertainment for all. Proceeds benefit the Art League’s Scholarship Fund which provides art classes to children and adults.
