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 businesses and public buildings in Manatee County per a COVID-19 emergency resolution.
Fresh local art
ArtCenter Manatee recently unveiled two new art exhibits that are open to the public.
“In the Making” is a juried exhibit featuring media and subject matter of all forms, including paintings, jewelry and mixed media pieces.
Another exhibit, “Instructors Showcase,” highlights the work of the talented art teachers who guide the students of ArtCenter Manatee.
Details: “In the Making” on display through Oct. 9. 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.
Yappy Hour at Motorworks
Motorworks Brewing’s monthly canine extravaganza is back.
Dog owners are invited to sip craft beer, shop from local pet supply vendors and let their leashed pets enjoy the beer garden.
Social distancing and other safety measures will be in place.
Sunday’s event will benefit Low Rider Dachshund Rescue of Florida. The fundraiser will include silent auctions and raffle baskets.
In addition to plenty of craft beer options, $4 Bloody Mary’s and mimosas will be available from 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Live music starts at 3 p.m.
Details: 1-4 p.m. Sunday. Motorworks Brewing, 1014 Ninth St. W., Bradenton. No cover.
Info: motorworksbrewing.com.
Discount weekends at Mote Marine
Mote Aquarium is offering discount admission to Florida residents on weekends throughout September. Tickets must be purchased in advance online using the discount code “HALF.”
Safety measures in place at the aquarium include timed and limited entry for guests, socially distanced displays and hand-sanitizing stations. Visitors over the age of 5 are required to wear face coverings.
Mote’s resident creatures include aquatic reptiles, otters, sharks, colorful fish, manatees, sea turtles and more.
Details: Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota. Regular admission is $18 for ages 3-12; $24 for ages 13 and up. Half-off for Florida residents on weekends through September.
Info: mote.org.
Drive-in movie
Ruskin Family Drive-In plays classic flicks and family favorites every day of the week. This weekend, the outdoor theater is showing Jackie Robinson-inspired baseball drama “42” starring the late Chadwick Boseman. That will be followed by 1980 comedy classic “Caddyshack” (Rated R).
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.
▪ 42: 8 p.m. Fri.-Sun.
▪ Caddyshack: 10 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.
Art in the gardens
“In Dialogue with Nature: Glass in the Gardens” is currently on display at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens in Sarasota.
The third annual show features nature-inspired glass works interwoven with plants and flowers throughout the gardens. The pieces will also be for sale.
Masks are required at Selby, and capacity of indoor areas is limited to allow for social distancing.
Details: 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Aug. 8 through Sept. 20. Selby Botanical Gardens, 1534 Mound St., Sarasota. Adults: $15. Youth 4-17: $15. Children under 4: Free.
Info: selby.org.