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.
Don’t forget to bring a mask.
Manatee Players present “Nunsense”
The Manatee Players have embarked on a production of highly comic musical “Nunsense” at the Manatee Performing Arts Center in Bradenton, and theater fans have several options for how they choose to enjoy it.
A traditional night at the theater can be had with socially-distanced seating inside of the performing arts hall. The show will also be broadcast to a screen in the performing arts hall’s parking lot on select nights for a drive-in theater experience. And a third option allows viewers to live-stream the show in the safety of their own homes on select nights.
“’Nunsense’ begins when the Little Sisters of Hoboken discover that their cook, Sister Julia, Child of God, has accidentally poisoned fifty-two of the sisters, and they are in dire need of funds for the burials,” a show preview reads. “The sisters decide that the best way to raise the money is to put on a variety show, so they take over the school auditorium.”
The show previously scored a “best off-Broadway musical” award and features singing, dancing, interactive bits and more.
Details: Through Jan. 31, with in-theater performances ($30 a ticket), drive-in performances ($20 a vehicle), and live-stream performances ($15 to access) available on select nights. Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 Third Ave. W., Bradenton.
Info: manateeperformingartscenter.com. 941-748-5875.
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 blues act and a chef-crafted menu of brunch delights.
This month’s talent is Chicago blues and roots rocker RJ Howson.
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.-2 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 happens Saturdays in the heart of downtown Bradenton with COVID-19 safety measures in place. Stock up on fresh fruits and veggies, shop for arts and crafts, listen to 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 boasts more than 50 local vendors. 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 on Anna Maria Island 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.
See a movie
Ruskin Family Drive-In Theatre: In operation since 1952, this drive-in plays classic flicks and family favorites every day of the week. This weekend’s screenings are to-be-announced.
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.
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.
Sarasota Film Society: Sarasota Film Society has temporarily shuttered its Lakewood Ranch and Sarasota theaters due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, cinema fans can still enjoy the latest offerings in the world of independent and thought-provoking film from home with the purchase of a virtual movie experience.
More than 30 movies are currently available to rent through the Sarasota Film Society, including documentary, drama, comedy and romance.
Info: filmsociety.org/movies/virtual.
Florida Maritime Museum is back
Florida Maritime Museum documents the age-old relationship between Floridians and the water. This week, the museum reopens with new stories to tell after the completion of a months-long remodeling project. Visitors will find marine life displays, historical photos and documents, an outdoor exhibit exploring hurricane history and a new gift shop. Visits are currently being offered by appointment only.
Details: Self-guided tour reservations available at 9 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez. Free.
Info: floridamaritimemuseum.org. 941-708-6120.
Manatee County Fair
The 105th Manatee County Fair is underway with COVID-19 safety measures in place. They include one-directional walkways, hand sanitizing stations and masks required inside of buildings. This year’s fair includes live music and shows, a circus, arts and crafts exhibits, agricultural displays, a midway full of rides and a smorgasbord of fair food.
Details: 5 p.m.-midnight Friday, noon-midnight Saturday and noon-7 p.m. Sunday. Manatee County Fairgrounds, 1402 14th Ave. W., Palmetto. $6-$10.
Info: manateecountyfair.com.