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.
Art Walk
The creatives of the Village in the Arts in Bradenton will open their businesses this weekend for a display of crafts, goods, healing arts, food, music.
Whether you fancy folk art or fine art, creative cuisine, antiques, tattoos, records, quilting or a psychic reading, Village of the Arts has something to offer visitors.
Details: 6-9:30 p.m. Friday and 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday. Village of the Arts, downtown Bradenton.
Info: villageofthearts.com.
Drive-in movie
Ruskin Family Drive-In plays classic flicks and family favorites every day of the week. Through Sept. 10, the outdoor theater will feature brand new superhero flick “The New Mutants.” The film, which is the latest cinematic iteration of Marvel’s X-Men universe, was delayed in release for months due to COVID-19.
The movie will be followed by 2018 superhero blockbuster “Black Panther.” The action movie, which tells a gripping superhero story interwoven with African culture and heritage, is receiving renewed praise after the death of lead star Chadwick Boseman from colon cancer last weekend.
Bring a portable radio if you don’t want to leave your car turned on during the films. Face masks are required to enter the snack bar or restrooms.
▪ The New Mutants: 8:15 p.m. Fri.-Sun.
▪ Black Panther: 9:45 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.
Explore Florida farming history
The Manatee County Agricultural Museum reopened with limited hours and visits by appointment only at the end of June. Current exhibits include explorations of turpentine production in Manatee County, tomato farming families, aquaculture and a display of artworks inspired by Florida nature.
Details: Open Tuesday through Friday. Manatee County Agricultural Museum, 1015 Sixth St. W., Palmetto. Free. Visit by appointment only.
Info: manateecountyagmuseum.com. 941-721-2034.
Labor Day celebration
Motorworks Brewing in Bradenton will host a Labor Day weekend celebration featuring Jamaican food, rum and the Caribbean sounds of reggae and soca music.
The brewery’s plethora of craft brews will also be available for sipping in the socially distanced beer garden.
Details: 6 p.m.-midnight Sunday. Motorworks Brewing, 1014 9th St. W., Bradenton.
Info: motorworksbrewing.com.
Visit The Ringling
The Ringling in Sarasota is open to visitors with social distancing and mask requirements in place. The museum features fine art and modern art, as well as displays of circus history.
All visitors are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance online.
Details: Open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. The Ringling, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. $5-$25.
Info: ringling.org.