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 strongly recommended in public per a Manatee County COVID-19 proclamation.

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 Farmhouse Animal & Nature Sanctuary. The fundraiser will include silent auctions and raffle baskets.

In addition to plenty of craft beer options, $4.50 Bloody Mary’s and mimosas will be available.

This weekend, Motorworks will also debut a Sunday brunch event from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. in the beer garden featuring a special menu, bottomless mimosas and live music.

Details: Yappy Hour from 1-4 p.m. Sunday. Motorworks Brewing, 1014 Ninth St. W., Bradenton. No cover.

Info: motorworksbrewing.com.

Suncoast Renaissance Festival

The Sarasota Fairgrounds will transform into a medieval wonderland this weekend for the Suncoast Renaissance Festival.

The event will feature stage shows, music, jousting, vendors, festive food and more.

Use of face masks is required in enclosed spaces and where social distancing isn’t possible, according to event organizers, and hand sanitizing stations will be available throughout the festival. There will also be “mask break” areas where face coverings can be safely removed.

Details: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays in November. Sarasota Fairgrounds, 3000 Ringling Blvd., Sarasota. $17-$23 (children under 5 free).

Info: suncoastrenaissancefestival.com.

Farmers’ Markets

The Bradenton Farmers’ Market is back on Old Main Street with new COVID-19 safety measures in place. Stock up on fresh fruits and veggies, shop for arts and crafts, listen to local live music and more. Booths will be socially distanced along Old Main as well as Third Avenue West and Fourth Avenue West. Vendors will be masked, and face coverings are highly recommended for customers.

Details: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday. 400 Old Main St., Bradenton. Free.

Info: realizebradenton.com/farmers-market.

The Farmers’ Market at Lakewood Ranch has returned for the season with more than 50 local vendors to peruse. Offerings include produce, prepared foods and breads, crafts, plants and pet treats. Vendors will be socially-distanced and masks are encouraged.

Details: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday. Lakewood Ranch Medical Center, 8330 Lakewood Ranch Blvd., Lakewood Ranch. Free.

Info: mylwr.com/185/Farmers-Market-at-LWR.

Drive-in movie

Ruskin Family Drive-In plays classic flicks and family favorites every day of the week. The outdoor is bringing on the Christmas cheer this month with a slate of holiday movies. This weekend, family comedy “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” will screen. That will be followed by 2014 Marvel adventure “Guardians of the Galaxy.”

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.

▪ National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation: 7:30 p.m. Fri.-Sun.

▪ Guardians of the Galaxy: 9:10 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.