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.
Fortunately, there are some local entertainment options that add in ample social distancing and other risk-reducing measures for those who feel comfortable venturing out.
Here are some ideas for keeping the doldrums at bay around Bradenton and Sarasota this weekend.
Don’t forget to bring a mask. And remember, health officials are urging folks (even vaccinated ones) to continue taking steps to stop the spread.
Rare fruit tree sale
The Manatee Rare Fruit Council’s annual spectacle of unusual fruiting trees returns in a new outdoor format this year for COVID-19 safety.
On Sunday, more than 20 vendors will set up at Premier Sports Campus in Lakewood Ranch with displays of fruit trees, herbs, vines and more. The fruit plant varieties offered for sale span almost the entire alphabet. They include: apple, blueberry, fig, guava, loquat, mulberry, pomegranate, rollina, soursop and wax jambu.
Masks and social distancing are required. Cash as well as a cart or wheelbarrow are recommended for prospective tree buyers.
Details: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday. Premier Sports Campus, 5895 Post Blvd., Lakewood Ranch. Admission is free.
Info: mrfc.org.
Yappy Hour at Motorworks
Motorworks Brewing’s monthly canine extravaganza is back.
Dog owners are invited to sip craft beer and grab a bite from a food truck, shop from local pet supply vendors and let their leashed pets enjoy the beer garden.
Social distancing and other safety measures will be in place.
Sunday’s event will benefit Underdog Rescue of Florida, a Bradenton-based dog rescue and adoption organization. The event includes a silent auction and raffle items.
Brunch is available from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday, and there will also be live music to enjoy in the beer garden from 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Details: Yappy Hour happens from 1-4 p.m. Sunday. Motorworks Brewing, 1014 Ninth St. W., Bradenton. No cover.
Info: motorworksbrewing.com.
Free movie night
A free outdoor screening of classic kids movie “Matilda” will happen Saturday in the Manatee Performing Arts Center parking lot.
The event, sponsored by the Early Learning Coalition of Manatee County and sponsored by Bradenton Kiwanis, will also include a book giveaway, free popcorn and summer reading tips for families. Spots are first-come, first-served.
The event space will be divided into viewing sections that may seat up to six people. Masks are required only if you leave your viewing section. Chairs, blankets, coolers and snacks are welcome. An audio broadcast of the movie will also be available over FM radio for those who want to stay in their vehicles.
Details: 7:30 p.m. Saturday. Manatee Performing Arts Center parking lot, 401 Seventh St. W., Bradenton. Free.
Info: manateeperformingartscenter.com.
Farmers’ Markets
The Beach Market at Coquina Beach offers fresh produce, arts and crafts, jewelry and apparel, health and beauty items, music. 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. 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, and there are showings every day of the week. This weekend, the outdoor theater will spotlight Alfred Hitchcock with screenings of “The Birds” and “Psycho.”
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.
▪ The Birds (PG-13): 8:20 p.m. Fri.-Sun.
▪ Psycho (R): 10:20 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, the Sarasota Film Society has reopened its Lakewood Ranch and Sarasota theaters with new safety measures in place, including a mask requirement. 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 Friday-Sunday at Lakewood Ranch Cinemas, 10715 Rodeo Drive #8, Sarasota or Burns Court Cinemas, 506 Burns Lane, Sarasota. Online streaming available any time.
Info: filmsociety.org. 941-955-3456.