Socially-distanced fun: 5 things to do around Bradenton this weekend
It can be tough to find fun in the days of COVID-19.
Fortunately, there are some local entertainment options that add in ample social distancing and other risk-reducing measures for those that feel comfortable venturing out.
Here are some ideas for keeping the doldrums at bay around Bradenton this weekend.
If you do plan on going out, remember to bring a mask. Face coverings are now required inside all businesses and public buildings in Manatee County per a COVID-19 emergency resolution.
All kinds of art
This is the last weekend to check out “Create,” a dazzling exhibit of work from regional artists currently on display at ArtCenter Manatee. The juried exhibition includes paintings, sculpture, woodwork and mixed media pieces.
“What I came to find in the impressive entries submitted to “Create,” was the very spirit that sustains us when we struggle,” curator Katherine Bzura said in a statement about the exhibit. “Over and over again, the work spoke of universal ideas and shared experience witnessed and reported in a lyrical use of varied media. The themes that emerge after a sustained look: memory, tenderness, frustration, fragility and resilience.”
Details: Through Aug. 6. Gallery hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon., Fri. and Sat.; 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Tue., Wed. and Thurs. ArtCenter Manatee, 209 Ninth St. W., Bradenton. Free.
Info: artcentermanatee.org.
Railroad adventure
The Florida Railroad Museum in Parrish takes visitors on a trip back in time to the days when locomotive transport was king.
After a temporary closure, train rides resumed in June with limited capacity and social distancing in place.
Weekend rail rides through rural Manatee County make for a fun family adventure, and there’s also lots to explore in the history museum.
Up to three kids ride free for each adult ticket purchased, all summer long.
Details: Trains leave at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Under 12: Free. Ages 12 and up: $14.
Info: 941-776-0906. frrm.org.
Jamaican festival at Motorworks
Motorworks Brewing is back open with permanent food offerings and lots of events. This weekend, check out live music in the socially-distanced beer garden on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Staple and seasonal craft brews are also available to-go from the taproom. Recurring events including trivia and beer garden yoga.
Saturday will feature a Jamaican Independence Day celebration with live music from local reggae act Jah Movement as well as vendors, games, food from Rodney’s Jamaican Grill in Palmetto and drink specials.
Details: 7-11 p.m. Saturday Motorworks Brewing, 1014 Ninth St. W., Bradenton.
Info: motorworksbrewing.com.
Drive-in movie
Ruskin Family Drive-In plays classic flicks and family favorites every day of the week. This weekend, the drive-in will double dip on fairy tale parody with “Shrek” and “Puss in Boots.” Concessions are available on site.
▪ Shrek: 8:45 p.m. Fri.-Sun.
▪ Puss in Boots: 10:15 p.m. Fri.-Sun.
Details: 5011 U.S. 41 N., Ruskin. Ages 9 and up: $6. Ages 5-8: $1. Cash only. $5 fee for bringing your own food. Alcohol not permitted.
Info: ruskinfamilydrivein.com.
Celery Fields
Sarasota County’s Celery Fields is a great spot for a breath of fresh air and some bird watching.
The fields are comprised of more than 400 acres of marshlands and other habitat that attract more than 200 species of birds, according to the Sarasota Audubon Society.
See how many of Florida’s birds you can learn to recognize.
Details: Open 6 a.m. to sunset daily. 6893 Palmer Blvd, Sarasota.
Info: sarasotaaudubon.org/the-celery-fields.