Ninth annual artsHOP set for this weekend on Anna Maria Island
If you need an excuse to spend your weekend on Anna Maria Island, this weekend brings you one.
Well, actually two. The weather's supposed to be a little cooler, finally, and it's time for the ninth annual Anna Maria Island artsHOP.
For three days, the island is emphasizing the array of visual and performing arts that complements its natural assets and tropical lifestyle. There's live music, theater and original artwork. On Friday more than 22 galleries and retail businesses will be open from 5 to 8 p.m. for the Holmes Beach and Anna Maria City Art Walk.
Friday also brings the first of two performances of "Radio Ridiculous," a new comedy by Rich Orloff about old-time radio. Friday night's performance is scheduled for 8 p.m. at Island Players. There's another performance at 2 p.m. Sunday. One of Saturday's highlights is Symphony on the Sand, a concert by the 45-piece Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus & Orchestra. That's scheduled for 4:30-7:30 p.m. on the beach at Coquina Key Park.
On Saturday and Sunday, an arts and crafts fair to benefit the Anna Maria Island Butterfly Park is set for the Holmes Beach City Hall Field at 5801 Marina Drive. It starts at 10 a.m. both days, and ends at 5 p.m. Saturday and 4 p.m. Sunday. Vendors will offer all kinds of photography, jewelry, clothing and more, with live music by Patchouli.
Sunday also brings the Artwalk Bradenton Beach from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Bridge Street will be packed with street merchants, musicians and artists.
Details: Nov. 13-15, locations around Anna Maria Island. Hours: Various. Admission: Free. (Some events may charge.) Information: islandartshop.com.
-- Marty Clear
This story was originally published November 11, 2015 at 4:56 PM with the headline "Ninth annual artsHOP set for this weekend on Anna Maria Island ."