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.

Live blues and brunch

Good food and good tunes are in store on Sunday at Mattison’s Riverwalk Grille on the Bradenton Riverwalk.

The Bradenton Blues Brunch will feature a live performance from a local blues act and a chef-crafted menu of brunch delights.

This month’s talent is blues vocalist Lauren Mitchell, a Bradenton native who has played stages across the U.S., appeared at the Havana Jazz Festival and earned a spot on the blues charts.

The event is a partnership between the restaurant, Realize Bradenton and the Bradenton Blues Fest.

Seating is outdoors and socially-distanced, and staff will be masked.

Details: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday. Mattison’s Riverwalk Grille, Downtown Bradenton, 101 Riverfront Blvd. # 120, Bradenton. Reservations recommended.

Info: 941-896-9660. mattisons.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. This weekend, the outdoor theater is heading for the North Pole with two Christmas comedies: 1994’s “The Santa Clause” and 2003’s “Elf.”

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 Santa Clause: 7:30 p.m. Fri.-Sun.

▪ Elf: 9 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.

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.

Get outdoors

COVID-19 cases may be spiking, but there’s plenty of space to social distance in the great outdoors. And with cooler weather predicted to hang around for a few days, it’s looking to be a great weekend to get some fresh air and enjoy a Florida fall adventure.

Kayaking, fishing, hiking and bicycling are all on the table.

Still need some ideas? We recommend Robinson Preserve, Palma Sola Botanical Gardens, De Soto National Memorial or Myakka River State Park.