The Lauren Mitchell Band, one of the top purveyors of soul-blues-rock in the area, will headline the inaugural Sarasota Bay Water Festival taking place Saturday at Ken Thompson Park.

The free festival also includes guitarist Ben Hammond, Stumble Creek, Matt Gerhardt & Undertow, and Cort Farris & Fe Band.

The purpose of the festival is to celebrate the importance of Sarasota Bay to the region's environment and economy.

The theme of the inaugural water festival is "enjoy the bay" and highlights include a creative arts tent showcasing some of the area's top wildlife photographers.

Details: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Nov. 17, Ken Thompson Park, 1700 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota. Free admission. Information: sarasotabaywaterfestival.com.

-- Wade Tatangelo