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, widely-hailed and locally-based blues powerhouse Doug Deming and the Jewel Tones will take 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.
Thomas the Train Engine adventure
This weekend, families can step right into an adventure from “Thomas & Friends” at the Florida Railroad Museum. The happy locomotive of storybook and TV fame will make several trips through east Manatee County. The experience includes games and prizes, and tickets are going fast. Capacity is limited onboard and guests are asked to bring a mask.
Details: Trains leave hourly from 9 a.m.- 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. All ages: $23. Children under 2: Free.
Info: 941-776-0906. frrm.org.
Suncoast Boat Show
Hundreds of top-of-the-line power boats, fishing vessels and motor yachts will be on display this weekend at the 39th annual Suncoast Boat Show. But there’s more than boats to see; the event also includes hundreds of exhibits, vendors, food, drink and music.
A free fishing clinic for kids will be offered on Saturday and Sunday and includes a free rod and reel.
Temperature checks and mask use are required for all guests. Tickets must be purchased in advance online.
Details: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday and Saturday. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. Marina Jack, #2 Marina Plaza, Sarasota. Ages 16 and up: $16. Ages 0-15: Free.
Info: suncoastboatshow.com.
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, family favorites and new movies with showings every day of the week. This weekend, the outdoor theater will screen the new mega-monster showdown, “Godzilla vs. Kong,” as well as brand-new action film “Mortal Kombat” based off of the video game of the same name.
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.
▪ Godzilla vs. Kong (PG-13): 8:15 p.m. Fri.-Sun.
▪ Mortal Kombat (R): 10:10 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.