Socially-distanced fun: 5 things to do around Bradenton this holiday 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.
Don’t forget to bring a mask.
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 and more.
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 most any taste.
This weekend’s event
Details: 6-9:30 p.m. Friday and 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday. Village of the Arts, downtown Bradenton.
Info: villageofthearts.com.
Farmers’ Markets
The Bradenton Farmers’ Market is back on Old Main Street with 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.
The Beach Market at Coquina Beach offers fresh produce, arts and crafts, jewelry, local artists, apparel, pottery, purses, health and beauty items, music and more. The fresh ocean air and sunshine are free.
The market will be held on Sundays and Wednesdays through March.
Details: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday. Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Dr. S., Bradenton Beach. Free.
Info: islandsandbeaches.com/market.
Drive-in movie
Ruskin Family Drive-In plays classic flicks and family favorites every day of the week. This weekend, the outdoor theater will screen brand new Superheroine adventure “Wonder Woman 1984.” A second late night movie screening is to-be-announced.
And yes, the drive-in is open on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.
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.
▪ Wonder Woman 1984: 7:30 p.m. Fri.-Sun.
▪ To-be-announced: 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.
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 lingering, it’s a great time to get some fresh air and make your own winter 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.