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.
Nik Wallenda’s Daredevil Rally
Stunt artist Nik Wallenda brings his drive-in attraction back to Nathan Benderson Park in Sarasota this weekend.
The show features Wallenda, his high-wire partner and wife Erendira Wallenda and a host of other acts including a human cannonball, freestyle motorbike stunt jumpers, BMX riders and motorcycles in a steel globe.
Details: Feb. 26-28 and March 4-7. Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle, Sarasota. General admission is $20 per person. Children ages 2 and under are free. Family deals and preferred and VIP parking available.
Info: daredevilrally.com.
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 local blues performer/cigar box guitar-strummer Steve Arvey. Originally from Chicago, Arvey’s storied music career includes collaboration with blues greats like Otis “Big Smokey” Smothers, Jimmy Rogers and Bo Diddley as well as international success as a solo artist.
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.
Online outer space adventure
Young space cadets and their parents can enjoy the wonders of The Planetarium at the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature from the safety of home with a free online KidSpace program this Saturday. Designed for elementary students, the monthly event offers fun and educational explorations of the universe.
The museum is also open to visitors Wednesday through Sunday with COVID-19 safety measures in place.
Details: KidSpace happens from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Saturday via Zoom. Free.
Info: Register online at bishopscience.org.
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 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.
Craft fair at Mixon’s
A Winter Craft Fair at Mixon Fruit Farms will feature over 30 vendors including antiques, arts and crafts.
There also fudge, ice cream and other treats to enjoy at Mixon’s Groveside Cafe.
Add a ride on the Orange Blossom Tram through the citrus groves; it’s $5 for kids and $10 for adults.
Details: 10:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday. Mixon Fruit Farms, 2525 27th St. E., Bradenton. Free. mixon.com.
See a movie
Ruskin Family Drive-In: In operation since 1952, this drive-in plays classic flicks and family favorites every day of the week. This weekend, the outdoor theater will air the new feature film treatment of cartoon tricksters Tom and Jerry. Also playing is 2012 family sci-fi comedy “Journey 2: The Mysterious Island.”
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.
▪ Tom & Jerry: 7:30 p.m. Fri.-Sun.
▪ Journey 2: The Mysterious Island.: 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.
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.
Dozens of movies are currently available to rent through the Sarasota Film Society, including documentary, drama, comedy and romance. The rentals also help support the film society through the pandemic.
A “Save Our Cinemas” fundraising event is planned for Feb. 27 at Lakewood Ranch Cinemas. In addition to home rentals, local movie fans can also help support the Sarasota Film Society by purchasing gift cards or making a direct donation.
Info: filmsociety.org/movies/virtual.