Bayfest returns to Anna Maria Island

You probably don't need an excuse to spend a weekend day outdoors on Anna Maria Island this time of year. But in case you do, Bayfest is returning to the island this weekend.

Bayfest is the longest-running festival on Anna Maria Island, and it's one of the most popular. The 15th annual edition of the celebration of music, food, arts and crafts gets going Saturday morning and runs well into the night. (Bayfest is just one day this year, instead of two.) Pine Avenue will be closed to traffic all day.

Among the highlights this year are a car show with more than 100 classic cars, the AMI Privateers ship and a kids zone with games, bounce houses and other activities.

Emcee Mike Sales will be on stage starting at 10 a.m. The live music comes from Can't Turn Left (11 a.m.-noon), Billy Rice Band (1-2:30 p.m.), Whiskey Blind (3-5 p.m.), Koko Ray (5:30 - 7:30 p.m.) and Shotgun Justice (The Karen & Jimmy Band) (8-10 p.m.).

Details: 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Oct. 17, Pine Avenue, Anna Maria. Times: 5-10 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday. Admission: Free, Information: 941-778-1541, annamariaislandchamber.org.

-- Marty Clear

This story was originally published October 14, 2015 at 5:23 PM with the headline "Bayfest returns to Anna Maria Island ."