Socially distanced fun: 5 things to do around Bradenton and Sarasota this weekend

It can be tough to find fun in the days of COVID-19.

As vaccination efforts ramp up, a return to old pastimes might just be on the horizon. (Concerts, ball games, parties ... oh my!) But for now, health officials are urging folks (even vaccinated ones) to continue taking steps to stop the spread.

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.

Music in the Park(ing) lot

Realize Bradenton’s annual outdoor concert series is back in a drive-thru format at Manatee Performing Arts Center. The series is a sampler of some of the best bands in the area.

Reserve a space to see the show in person, or watch a livestream from the comfort of home.

This week, the Eric Von Band will bring country rock to the stage.

Details: 6 p.m. on Fridays through April 30. Parking lot of Manatee Performing Arts Center, 401 Seventh St. W., Bradenton. Free.

Info: Reserve tickets for a parking spot at manateeperformingartscenter.com. Tune in to watch live from home at realizebradenton.com or facebook.com/RealizeBradenton.

The Ringling celebrates World Circus Day

The Ringling in Sarasota will celebrate World Circus Day in style on April 17.

For the regular price of admission, guests visiting on Saturday will be able to enjoy mini circus performances by the Circus Arts Conservatory at 1 and 3 p.m. on the museum grounds.

Films of circus performances past will play on loop in the Historic Asolo Theater, and food and drink vendors on the museum grounds will offer special circus-themed treats.

And don’t forget to stop in at The Ringling’s Circus Museum, which is open year-round offering a colorful look into the history of the big top.

Details: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday. The Ringling, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. On Saturday, guests ages 17 and younger will get free admission when accompanied by a ticketed adult. Regular admission: $25 for adults, $23 for seniors 65 and up.

Info: ringling.org/events/world-circus-day.

Vintage car show

The inaugural “Remember When” car show at Water’s Edge of Bradenton this Saturday will feature sleek vintage automobiles and classic music of the ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s. Other reasons to stop by include door prizes, craft vendors and food and drink.

The event is free to attend. Vintage car owners can register to be in the show for $10 in advance or $15 the day of the event.

Details: Water’s Edge of Bradenton, 2015 32nd Ave. W. Bradenton. Free.

Info: 941-757-2300.

Farmers’ Markets

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 Wednesdays and Fridays through November. Masks are encouraged for shoppers.

Details: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday. Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Dr. S., Bradenton Beach. Free.

Info: islandsandbeaches.com/market.

The Bradenton Farmers’ Market happens every Saturday 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 wear masks, 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.

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.

Bring a portable radio if you don’t want to leave your car turned on during the films. You can also bring folding chairs to set up outside of the vehicle (bug repellent is recommended if you go this route). Face masks are required to enter the snack bar or restrooms.

▪ How to Train Your Dragon 3 (PG): 8:15 p.m. Fri.-Sun.

▪ The Mummy Returns (PG-13): 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: After a long pause in screenings due to COVID-19, Sarasota Film Society has reopened its Lakewood Ranch theater with new safety measures in place, including a mask requirement. And Burns Court Cinemas in Sarasota is soon to follow. Check the society’s website for the current lineup of movies.

Cinema fans can also continue to stream SFM’s latest offerings in the world of independent and thought-provoking film from home with the purchase of a virtual movie experience.

Details: See movies in person from 12:30 p.m.-8 p.m. Friday-Sunday at Lakewood Ranch Cinemas, 10715 Rodeo Drive #8, Sarasota. Online streaming available any time.

Info: filmsociety.org. 941-955-3456.