With New Year’s Eve, December and 2025 all nearly now behind us, it’s time to look toward 2026 and January, which will be full of things to do in the Sarasota area, including some of our largest annual events.
Sarasota Seafood & Music Festival — the first of several such festivals held by the same organizer throughout the year in Florida, including a few more in our area later in the month — will make its return this weekend. Manatee County Fair, one of the first big Florida fairs of the year, will return midway through January as well. Then there’ll be plenty of the concerts, comedy shows, stage productions, art exhibitions and other events our area hosts year-round.
Here are more than 100 events taking place in Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte counties in January, listed in roughly chronological order. Event details are subject to change.
Shamrock Shiver
The annual event sponsored by Clancy’s Irish Sports Pub & Grill in Bradenton has brave souls face icy water to support three local charities. Noon-5 p.m. Jan. 1; Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive, Bradenton Beach; healthyteens.org/events/shamrockshiver2026
Music on Main
The free monthly concert series and block party on Lakewood Ranch’s Main Street features Kettle of Fish in January, along with food vendors, beer trucks and kids’ games and activities, benefiting Manatee County Habitat for Humanity. 6-9 p.m. Jan. 2; 8100 Lakewood Main St., Lakewood Ranch; free; 941-907-9243; lakewoodranch.com
Tim Cappello
Famous for his appearance playing saxophone shirtless while performing a cover of The Call’s “I Still Believe” during the opening of the 1987 vampire film “The Lost Boys,” Tim Cappello will return to Bradenton’s Oscura for a night that’ll also include an “’80s throwback DJ set and other fun surprises.” 7 p.m. Jan. 2; Oscura, 816 Manatee Ave. E., Bradenton; $20 advance, $25 day of; oscura.live
John Salaway & the Regulators Live Recording
Sarasota County-raised, now Nashville-based musician John Salaway and his band take part in a live recording at Venice’s Troll Music, where Salaway bought his first electric guitar in the late ’90s. 7:30-9:30 p.m. Jan. 2; Troll Music, 628 E. Venice Ave., Venice; $25 advance, $30 day of; 941-484-8765; trollmusic.com
Sarasota Seafood & Music Festival
The free, three-day festival will feature seafood, plus other meat and vegetarian dishes, sides, beverages, desserts, live music and an arts and crafts marketplace. 4:30-10 p.m. Jan. 2, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Jan. 3, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Jan. 4; Sarasota Fairgrounds, 3000 Ringling Blvd., Sarasota; free admission; 941-487-8061; paragonfestivals.com
Cirque Italia Water Circus
The Bradenton-based Cirque Italia, which also produces Paranormal Cirque, brings this water-based circus held under a white and blue big top tent to Palmetto. 7:30 p.m. Jan. 2, 1:30, 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. Jan. 3, 1:30 and 4:30 p.m. Jan. 4, 7:30 p.m. Jan. 5; Riviera Dunes Marina, 102 Riviera Dunes Way, Palmetto; $15-$65, $10 parking paid at venue; 941-704-8572; cirqueitalia.com
Doox of Yale
Formed in 1952 and formerly known as The Duke’s Men of Yale, the Yale University a capella group changed its name and became all-gender in 2017. 7 p.m. Jan. 3; Temple Sinai Sarasota, 4631 S. Lockwood Ridge Road, Sarasota; $45 general admission, $36 Sinai members, $18 students, free Yale alumni; templesinai-sarasota.org
Sarasota Fine Art Festival
The festival features creations including works in painting, sculpture, jewelry, photography, glass, ceramics, fiber and wearable art, mixed-media, woodworking and more. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Jan. 3-4; J.D. Hamel Park, 199 Bayfront Drive, Sarasota; free admission; 941-487-8061; paragonfestivals.com
‘Snow White’
Two quick-changing actors bring a whole fairy tale world to life in this retelling of the classic story. Part of Florida Studio Theatre’s Children’s Theatre lineup. Jan. 3-Feb. 1; Keating Theatre at Florida Studio Theatre, 1241 N. Palm Ave., Sarasota; $12, $6.25 with Children’s Theatre subscription; 941-366-9000; floridastudiotheatre.org
‘Life’s a Beach’
FST Improv brings back this audience favorite blending sketches, musical numbers and classic improv games that pokes fun at the place we call home while still paying tribute to “this beautiful spot in paradise we hold dear.” Jan. 3-March 28; Bowne’s Lab at Florida Studio Theatre, 1265 First St., Sarasota; $15-$18; 941-366-9000; floridastudiotheatre.org
‘Copland: An American Journey’
“The Dean of American composers” Aaron Copland’s work, including “Appalachian Spring,” ”Rodeo” and “Music for the Theatre,” is showcased in this Sarasota Orchestra Discoveries concert featuring conductor David Alan Miller and bass-baritone William Socolof. 4 p.m. Jan. 4; Sarasota Opera House, 61 N. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota; $25 and up (sold out as of press time); 941-953-3434; sarasotaorchestra.org
Mike Block Trio
The trio includes cellist Block, who has performed with Yo-Yo Ma and Silk Road Ensemble; mandolinist Joe K. Walsh, known for his work with the Gibson Brothers; and bassist Zachariah Hickman, who’s toured with singer-songwriters Josh Ritter and Ray LaMontagne. 5:30 p.m. Jan. 6; Plantation Golf & Country Club, 500 Rockley Blvd., Venice; $85 (includes dinner); 941-306-1202; artistseriesconcerts.org
‘Under the Big Top’
This Sarasota Orchestra Great Escapes concert honors the area’s circus heritage with musical feats by the imaginations of Copland, Sondheim, Rimsky-Korsakov and others. 5:30 p.m. Jan. 7, 7:30 p.m. Jan. 8, 5:30 p.m. Jan. 9, 7:30 p.m. Jan. 10, and 4 p.m. Jan. 11; Holley Hall, 709 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; $48 and up; 941-953-3434; sarasotaorchestra.org
‘Paradise Blue’
Dominique Morisseau’s drama, set in 1949 in Detroit’s Black Bottom neighborhood, follows trumpet player Blue as he contemplates selling his once-vibrant jazz club Paradise. Jan. 7-Feb. 8; The Donelly Theatre at Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, 1012 N. Orange Ave., Sarasota; $54, $24 students ages 25 and under/active military, $44 previews; 941-366-1505; westcoastblacktheatre.org
‘Primary Trust’
Asolo Rep puts on Eboni Booth’s recent Pulitzer Prize-winning drama, following a bookstore employee who, after losing his job, is forced to confront a world he’s long avoided. Jan. 7-Feb. 11; Mertz Theatre at Asolo Repertory Theatre, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; ticket prices vary; 941-351-8000; asolorep.org
Yates McKendree
The singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist won a Best Traditional Blues Album Grammy for his work on Delbert McClinton’s 2019 full-length “Tall, Dark, & Handsome,” and was nominated for the Best Emerging Artist Album Blues Music Award for his 2022 debut “Buchanan Lane.” 6:30 p.m. Jan. 8; Englewoods on Dearborn, 362 W. Dearborn St., Englewood; $10; 941-475-7501; englewoodsondearborn.com
Bobby Collins
The comedian was also the host of “Stand-Up Spotlight” after Rosie O’Donnell. 7:30 p.m. Jan. 8, 8 p.m. Jan. 9. and 6 and 9:30 p.m. Jan. 10; Visani Comedy Theater, 2400 Kings Highway, Port Charlotte; $27; 941-629-9191; visani.net
‘Terms of Endearment’
Based on Larry McMurtry’s 1975 novel, adapted into a 1983 film that won five Oscars including Best Picture, “Terms of Endearment” follows the fiercely independent Aurora and her equally spirited daughter, Emma. Jan. 8-25; Bradenton Kiwanis Theater at Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 Third Ave. W., Bradenton; $31.50; 941-748-5875; manateeperformingartscenter.com
Cinema at The Bay
The free outdoor movie series will feature “The Breakfast Club” on Jan. 8, “Fargo” (for its 30th anniversary) on Jan. 15, “Ray” on Jan. 22, “Miracle” (ahead of the Winter Olympics) on Jan. 29, and “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” on Jan. 30. 7 p.m. Jan. 8, 15, 22, 29 and 30; The Oval at The Bay, 1055 Boulevard of the Arts, Sarasota; free; 941-203-5316; thebaysarasota.org
PMP Celebration Concert and Dinner
Perlman Music Program/Suncoast (PMP) Winter Residency culminates with a celebration concert and gala dinner. Maestro Itzhak Perlman conducts the PMP Orchestra in concert, while Chorus Master Patrick Romano leads the PMP Chorus in song. Following the concert is the dinner, featuring Itzhak and Toby Perlman and PMP students, fellows and faculty. 5 p.m. Jan. 9; Sarasota Opera House, 61 N. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota; $20.60-$61.80 (concert), 7 p.m. Jan. 9; Michael’s on East, 1212 S. East Ave., Sarasota; $250 (dinner), $300 concert and dinner package; 941-955-4942; perlmanmusicprogramsuncoast.org
Renée Fleming
The renowned singer’s accolades include five Grammys, 2023 Kennedy Center Honors, and being the first classical artist to sing the national anthem at the Super Bowl. 7 p.m. Jan. 9; Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; $96-$141; 941-263-6799; vanwezel.org
Fresh Fridays New Year on the Block
The monthly street party series in downtown Sarasota will return in January with a New Year on the Block edition, featuring live music by Mylon & The Pop-Ups, local vendors, games, refreshments and light bites. 7-10 p.m. Jan. 9; Main Street, Sarasota; free admission; downtownsarasotadid.com/fresh-fridays
Suncoast Reggae & Food Festival
This new event will feature a free, three-day lineup of live music, Caribbean-inspired cuisine and more fun. 4-9 p.m. Jan. 9 and 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Jan. 10-11; Sarasota Fairgrounds, 3000 Ringling Blvd., Sarasota; free admission; 941-487-8061; paragonfestivals.com
Sarasota Bradenton Spring Home Show
The home show will feature exhibitors with visual interactive experiences and special, show-only deep discounts. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Jan. 9-10 and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Jan. 11; Robarts Arena, 3000 Ringling Blvd., Sarasota; free with online registration, $10 at the door; homeshowflorida.com
Ten-Minute Play Festival
Theatre Odyssey celebrates its 21st annual 10-minute play festival with a collection of eight new plays by Florida writers, plus a bonus production. 7:30 p.m. Jan. 9, 2 and 7:30 p.m. Jan. 10, and 2 p.m. Jan. 11; Jane B. Cook Theatre, FSU Center for the Performing Arts, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; $30, $15 students; 941-748-5875; theatreodyssey.org/tickets
Windjammers
The group of retired circus musicians (“windjammers” refers to circus musicians who “jammed their wind” through their instruments, usually twice a day for big top performances) performs. 10:30 a.m. Jan. 9; The Ringling, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota; museum or bayfront gardens admission required, free members/children;ringling.org; 1:30 p.m. Jan. 11; Sailor Circus Arena, 2075 Bahia Vista St., Sarasota; free; 941-355-9805; circusarts.org
‘Notes from the Dashboard’
When two Alcoholics Anonymous members meet because of their love of classic American cars, little do they know the road ahead for them, in this world premiere play written by Tree Fort Productions founder and artistic director Katherine Michelle Tanner. Jan. 9-25; Tree Fort Productions Studio Theatre, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; $40; 941-544-2276; treefortproductions.com
‘Honky Tonk Laundry’
The country-flavored musical follows laundromat owner Lana Mae and new hire Katie as they turn the Wishy Washy Washateria into a honky-tonk. Jan. 9-Feb. 1; Pinkerton Theatre at Venice Theatre, 140 Tampa Ave. W., Venice; $40, $28 college/educator, $18 youth; 941-488-1115; venicetheatre.org
‘Job’
Jane is on leave from her Big Tech job after a viral workplace incident and is hellbent on returning but first must get authorization from her assigned therapist Loyd, who suspects her work might be doing more harm than good, in this Max Wolf Friedlich play making its regional premiere. Jan. 9-Feb. 15; Urbanite Theatre, 1487 Second St., Sarasota; $44, $30 under age 40, $5 students; 941-321-1397; urbanitetheatre.com
Mr. Swindle’s Traveling Peculiarium
The 90-minute show featuring vintage amusement, live acrobats and comedy also features a Dr. Elixir’s Drink-Ory Garden that opens an hour prior to showtime. Jan. 9-18; Pioneer Plaza, 325 W. Dearborn St., Englewood; Jan. 22-Feb. 1; Sarasota Fairgrounds, 3000 Ringling Blvd., Sarasota; ticket prices vary; 941-445-7309; mrswindles.com
Mutts Gone Nuts Unleashed
Come see a dozen talented four-legged performers in this comedic dog spectacular. 1 p.m. Jan. 10; Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; $26-$56; 941-263-6799; vanwezel.org
David Wilcox
The singer-songwriter and guitarist was formerly signed to A&M Records and had his track “Chet Baker’s Unsung Swan Song” recorded by k.d. lang under the name “My Old Addiction” for her 1997 album “Drag.” 7 p.m. doors, 8 p.m. show Jan. 10; Fogartyville Community Media and Arts Center, 525 Kumquat Court, Sarasota; $35, $30 members, $17 students ages 13 and up; 941-894-6469; fogartyville.org
Sarasota Orchid Society Show and Sale
The two-day event will feature more than 20 vendors with thousands of blooming orchid plants, displays, orchid education classes, accessories, growing supplies for sale, raffles and experts onsite to answer questions. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Jan. 10 and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Jan. 11; Sarasota Municipal Auditorium, 801 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; $5; sarasotaorchidsociety.org
Venice Antiques Show
Allman Promotions, the same organization that puts on Sarasota Antiques Show, will also present this show in Venice. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Jan. 10 and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Jan. 11; Venice Community Center, 326 S. Nokomis Ave., Venice; $8; allmanpromotions.com
Tango After Dark
The theatrical tango experience from Argentina celebrates the legendary composer Astor Piazzolla and his groundbreaking “Nuevo Tango.” 7 p.m. Jan. 11; Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; $36-$81; 941-263-6799; vanwezel.org
‘All You Need is Love’
The Pops Orchestra collaborates with The Liverpool Legends, a Grammy-nominated Beatles tribute band handpicked by the late Louise Harrison, George Harrison’s sister and former Sarasota resident. 3 p.m. Jan. 11 and 7:30 p.m. Jan. 12; Riverview Performing Arts Center, 1 Ram Way, Sarasota; $35-$65; 941-926-7677; thepopsorchestra.org
Ken Burns
One of the best documentarians of all time, Ken Burns has earned accolades including five Emmys (as well as induction into the Television Academy’s Hall of Fame) and two Grammys for his series primarily covering American history such as “The Civil War,” “Baseball,” “Jazz” and “The Vietnam War.” Burns visits for the Ringling College Town Hall speaker series just a few months after the release of his latest PBS series, “The American Revolution.” 10:30 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. Jan. 12; Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; single tickets to go on sale; rclassociation.org
Biscuit Miller
The bassist and singer-songwriter is a two-time Blues Music Award winner for Instrumentalist — Bass. 6 p.m. Jan. 13; Englewoods on Dearborn, 362 W. Dearborn St., Englewood; $10; 941-475-7501; englewoodsondearborn.com
Blue Man Group
The performance art group known for the bald, blue-painted appearance of its members (and being used as a recurring plot point on “Arrested Development”) return to Van Wezel. 7 p.m. Jan. 13-14; Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; $76-$106; 941-263-6799; vanwezel.org
Matt Pond PA
The group visits Fogartyville while celebrating the recent 20th anniversary of their acclaimed 2005 album (72/100 on Metacritic) “Several Arrows Later.” 6 p.m. doors, 7 p.m. show Jan. 14; Fogartyville Community Media and Arts Center, 525 Kumquat Court, Sarasota; $30, $25 members, $15 students ages 13 and up; 941-894-6469; fogartyville.org
Big Al and the Heavyweights
The group is led by “Big Al” Lauro, who used to perform as the Unknown Blues Band with Warren Haynes of Allman Brothers Band and Gov’t Mule fame, and frequently pays tribute to their Louisiana home in their music. 6:30 p.m. Jan. 14; Englewoods on Dearborn, 362 W. Dearborn St., Englewood; $7; 941-475-7501; englewoodsondearborn.com
Patti Smith
The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame-inducted musician, writer and Selby Gardens’ inaugural artist in residence returns for an hourlong performance celebrating the current exhibition “Robert Louis Stevenson: A Child’s Garden of Verses” on view through Aug. 30 at Historic Spanish Point. 7 p.m. Jan. 14; Marie Selby Botanical Gardens Historic Spanish Point Campus, 401 N. Tamiami Trail, Osprey; $150; 941-366-5731; selby.org
Lynne Koplitz
The Sarasota-raised comedian released the 2017 Netflix special “Hormonal Beast” and appeared in the films “The King of Staten Island” and “Top Five” and TV shows “Bupkis” and “Crashing.” 7 p.m. Jan. 14, 15, and 18; McCurdy’s Comedy Theatre, 1923 Ringling Blvd., Sarasota; $28; 941-925-3869; mccurdyscomedy.com
Damon Fowler
The guitarist, singer-songwriter and former Anna Maria Island resident’s releases include 2021’s “Alafia Moon,” which topped the Billboard blues album chart and earned a Blues Music Award nomination for Blues Rock Album. 6:30 p.m. Jan. 15; Englewoods on Dearborn, 362 W. Dearborn St., Englewood; $7; 941-475-7501; englewoodsondearborn.com
Revisiting Creedence
After Creedence Clearwater Revival, founding bassist Stu Cook (who later moved to Sarasota) and drummer Doug Clifford would tour as Creedence Clearwater Revisited with musicians including guitarist Kurt Griffey and singer Dan McGuinness. Cook and Clifford have since retired from touring, but Griffey and McGuinness now tour under this name. 7 p.m. Jan. 15; Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; $46-$81; 941-263-6799; vanwezel.org
Dov Davidoff
The stand-up comedian has also appeared in movies including “Invincible” and shows such as “Shades of Blue” and “Crashing.” 7:30 p.m. Jan. 15 and 6:30 and 9:30 p.m. Jan. 16-17; Visani Comedy Theater, 2400 Kings Highway, Port Charlotte; $25; 941-629-9191; visani.net
‘Jehane’
Accompanied by live music and original composition by Mark Dancingers, choreography by Leymis Bolaños Wilmott and led by Melissa Rummel alongside a cast of women, this performance reflects Joan of Arc’s strength and faith that carried her through trials and tribulations. 7:30 p.m. Jan. 15-17, 2 p.m. Jan. 18; Cook Theatre at FSU Center for the Performing Arts, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; $20-$70.25; 941-260-8485; sarasotacontemporarydance.org
Sarasota Winter Carnival
Dreamland Amusements will bring this carnival with rides and more to The Mall at University Town Center. Jan. 15-19; The Mall at University Town Center, 140 University Town Center Drive, Sarasota (near the east side by Urban Outfitters); free admission, ride tickets and unlimited ride wristbands extra; dreamlandamusements.com
Manatee County Fair
The annual, eleven-day fair features rides, games, food, live entertainment, pageants, competitions, arts and crafts, livestock shows and more. Jan. 15-25; Manatee County Fairgrounds, 1402 14th Ave. W., Palmetto; $8 advance, $10 day of daily admission, $6 ages 6-12 and military with active status ID, free ages 5 and under, $10 parking, with special pricing days and farm armband specials; 941-722-1639; manateecountyfair.com
Kansas
The rock group is known for such hits as “Dust in the Wind” and “Carry on Wayward Son,” and still features original drummer Phil Ehart and guitarist Rich Williams. 7 p.m. Jan. 16; Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; $58 and up; 941-263-6799; vanwezel.org
Appalachian Road Show
The bluegrass group features multiple Grammy-nominated musicians, including fiddler Jim VanCleve, who was born at Sarasota Memorial Hospital. 7 p.m. doors, 8 p.m. show Jan. 16; Fogartyville Community Media and Arts Center, 525 Kumquat Court, Sarasota; $30, $25 members, $15 students ages 13 and up; 941-894-6469; fogartyville.org
Hades66
The Puerto Rican rapper has nearly 10 million monthly Spotify listeners currently, with multiple songs of his including “Emociones” and “Háblame de Dinero” racking up several millions of streams. 8:30 p.m. Jan. 16; Bombón Restaurant & Lounge, 1118 N. Washington Blvd., Sarasota, $72.38 and up; tickeri.com
Robert Kelly
The comedian is known for roles such as Louis C.K.’s brother in “Louie,” hosting podcasts including “You Know What Dude” and releasing specials such as “Kill Box,” filmed in St. Petersburg. 6:30 and 8:50 p.m. Jan. 16-17; McCurdy’s Comedy Theatre, 1923 Ringling Blvd., Sarasota; $31; 941-925-3869; mccurdyscomedy.com
Punta Gorda Seafood & Music Festival
Like Sarasota Seafood & Music Festival (and put on by the same organizers, Paragon Festivals), this free, three-day festival features food, drink, live music and an arts and crafts marketplace. 4-10 p.m. Jan. 16, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Jan. 17, and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Jan. 18; Laishley Park, 120 Laishley Court, Punta Gorda; free admission; 941-487-8061; paragonfestivals.com
Fine Arts and Crafts Festival
The 34th annual festival will feature more than 100 artists and crafters, beer and wine garden, food trucks, live music and duck pluck tent. 6-9 p.m. Jan. 16, 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Jan. 17, and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Jan. 18; Venice Airport Festival Grounds, 610 Airport Ave. E., Venice; $5 at gate, free kids under age 10; facebook.com/venicenokomisrotary
‘Pictures at an Exhibition’
The Sarasota Orchestra Masterworks program showcases Ravel’s orchestration of Mussorgsky’s “Pictures at an Exhibition”; Bruch’s Violin Concerto No. 1, as performed by 14-year-old Japanese violinist Himari; and Pulitzer Prize winner/Jordan Peele film scorer Michael Abels’ “Amplify,” co-commissioned by Sarasota Orchestra. 7:30 p.m. Jan. 16, Neel Performing Arts Center, 5840 26th St. W., Bradenton and 7:30 p.m. Jan. 17 and 2:30 p.m. Jan. 18, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; $39 and up; 941-953-3434; sarasotaorchestra.org
‘The Rainmaker’
A charming con man promises rain and stirs hearts in a drought-stricken Depression-era town, where the independent Lizzie dares to dream of something more. Jan. 16-Feb. 8; Raymond Center at Venice Theatre, 140 Tampa Ave. W., Venice; $39, $28 college/educator, $18 youth; 941-488-1115; venicetheatre.org
Ken Peplowski Quartet
The clarinetist and saxophonist called “arguably the greatest living jazz clarinetist” by BBC’s Russell Davies performs with his quartet. 7 p.m. Jan. 17; Holley Hall, 709 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; $57.01 and up; 941-260-9951; jazzclubsarasota.org
Embracing Our Differences
The annual exhibition consists of 50 billboard-sized works of art, accompanied by thought-provoking quotations. Jan. 17-April 19 (park open 7 a.m.-11 p.m. daily, free but registration required tours 10 a.m. Saturdays, grand opening celebration 1-4 p.m. Jan. 17); Bayfront Park, 5 Bayfront Drive, Sarasota; free admission; 941-404-5710; embracingourdifferences.org
Sweet Boiz of ‘Kill Tony’
The show will feature multiple comedians who’ve appeared on the popular podcast “Kill Tony,” including Neil Rubenstein, JJ Curry, Serena Thiel and Patrick Christopher. 7 p.m. doors, 8 p.m. show Jan. 18; Oscura, 816 Manatee Ave. E., Bradenton; $20 advance, $25 day of; oscura.live
Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
The orchestra led by music director Vasily Petrenko performs Sibelius’ Symphony No. 2 and is joined by pianist Boris Giltburg in Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 1, which was performed by the composer himself in his first public concert. 7:30 p.m. Jan. 19; Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; $70-$140; 941-966-6161; scasarasota.org
Bob Marley
No, it’s not the late great reggae singer, but rather the New England stand-up comedian who also appeared in “The Boondock Saints” and its sequel. 7:30 p.m. Jan. 21-22 and 5 and 8:30 p.m. Jan. 23-24; Visani Comedy Theater, 2400 Kings Highway, Port Charlotte; sold out as of press time; wait list available; 941-629-9191; visani.net
‘Some Like It Hot’
The musical based on Billy Wilder’s 1959 classic comedy movie of the same name, following two musicians forced to flee Chicago after witnessing a mob hit, comes to Van Wezel after scoring 13 Tony nominations including Best Musical, winning for Best Actor in a Musical. Jan. 21-25; Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; $56-$146; 941-263-6799; vanwezel.org
‘The Blue-Sky Boys’
Deborah Brevoort’s play, receiving its Southeastern premiere here, takes audiences back to a time when President John F. Kennedy vowed to put a man on the moon and the task landed in the hands of a band of maverick engineers who, with no rulebook, embraced “blue-skying,” drawing inspiration from Buck Rogers, Greek myths, Louis Leakey, and even Snoopy and the Red Baron. Jan. 21-March 8; Gompertz Theatre at Florida Studio Theatre, 1265 First St., Sarasota; ticket prices vary; 941-366-9000; floridastudiotheatre.org
‘The Mirror Crack’d’
A Hollywood film star and her entourage descend upon a quaint English village to film an epic period drama, but when the glamorous opening reception ends in a chilling murder, everyone becomes a suspect, leaving Agatha Christie’s beloved sleuth Miss Marple to untangle a web of ambition, deceit, and hidden identities in this new adaptation by Rachel Wagstaff. Jan. 21-March 14; Mertz Theatre at Asolo Repertory Theatre, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; ticket prices vary; 941-351-8000; asolorep.org
Orny Adams
The stand-up comic has appeared in the 2002 documentary “Comedian” starring Jerry Seinfeld and in MTV’s hit 2010s series “Teen Wolf.” 7 p.m. Jan. 22, 6:30 and 8:50 p.m. Jan. 23-24; McCurdy’s Comedy Theatre, 1923 Ringling Blvd., Sarasota; $43; 941-925-3869; mccurdyscomedy.com
‘Once Upon a Mattress’
The classic fairy tale “The Princess and the Pea” gets flipped upside down in this high-energy musical that’s fun for all ages. Jan. 22-Feb. 8; Stone Hall at Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 Third Ave. W., Bradenton; ticket prices vary; 941-748-5875; manateeperformingartscenter.com
Forks & Corks Food and Wine Festival
The Sarasota-Manatee Originals’ 19th annual food and wine festival features events such as a Grand Tasting in The Ringling’s courtyard, along with wine dinners, tasting seminars and an online auction. Jan. 22-26; various venues; event prices vary; 941-365-2800; eatlikealocal.com/forksandcorks
J.P. Soars and the Red Hots
South Florida blues guitarist/singer-songwriter J.P. Soars and his band the Red Hots were nominated for four Blues Music Awards in 2022, including Band of the Year. 6:30 p.m. Jan. 22; Englewoods on Dearborn, 362 W. Dearborn St., Englewood; $7; 941-475-7501; englewoodsondearborn.com; 8-11 p.m. Jan. 30; Celtic Ray Public House, 145 E. Marion Ave., Punta Gorda; 941-916-9115; celticray.net
The Kennedys
The Kennedys have no relation to the political dynasty of the same name, but are rather named after married members Maura and Pete Kennedy, who both formerly played in Nanci Griffith’s band. 7 p.m. doors, 8 p.m. show Jan. 23; Fogartyville Community Media and Arts Center, 525 Kumquat Court, Sarasota; $27, $22 members, $15 students ages 13 and up; 941-894-6469; fogartyville.org
Kavita Shah Quintet
The quintet explores Shah’s original music and her arrangements of jazz standards and music from around the world, incorporating themes of diaspora and using her background in ethnomusicology, linguistic fluency (she speaks nine languages) and in-depth knowledge of various cultural traditions. 7:30 p.m. Jan. 23-24; Historic Asolo Theater at The Ringling, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota, $40-$50; 941-360-7399; ringling.org
Coquina Beach Seafood & Music Festival
The locally based Paragon Festivals, which holds Sarasota Seafood & Music Festival, will also visit Coquina Beach on Anna Maria Island with a free, three-day lineup of food and live music. 4-10 p.m. Jan. 23, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Jan. 24, and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Jan. 25; Coquina Beach, 1300 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach; free; 941-487-8061; paragonfestivals.com
ReptiDay
The one-day version of reptile and exotic animal expo ReptiCon will feature everything that ReptiCon’s two-day shows offer, all packed into a single day. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Jan. 24; Sahib Shrine Center, 600 N. Beneva Road, Sarasota; $12 adults, $6 ages 5-12, free under age 5; repticon.com/florida/sarasota
The Wailers
The current iteration of the reggae group, which continued playing together after former bandmate Bob Marley’s death in 1981, features Aston Barrett Jr., son of Aston “Family Man” Barrett. 6 p.m. doors, 7 p.m. show Jan. 24; The Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria; $50; 941-778-1908; centerami.org
Lakewood Ranch Fine Art Festival
Paragon Festivals, the same organization behind Sarasota Fine Art Festival, puts on this festival as well, also featuring works in painting, sculpting, jewelry, photography, glass, ceramics, fiber and wearable art, mixed-media, woodworking and more. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Jan. 24-25; 8100 Lakewood Main St., Bradenton; free admission; 941-487-8061; paragonfestivals.com
Sarasota Antiques Show
The show will feature 50 national and regional exhibitors. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Jan. 24 and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Jan. 25; Sarasota Municipal Auditorium, 801 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; $8; allmanpromotions.com
Susan Werner
The acclaimed singer-songwriter has had her songs covered by artists such as Tom Jones, who recorded her track “Did Trouble Me” on his 2010 album “Praise & Blame.” 7 p.m. doors, 8 p.m. show Jan. 24, 6 p.m. doors, 7 p.m. show Jan. 25; Fogartyville Community Media and Arts Center, 525 Kumquat Court, Sarasota; $35, $30 members, $15 students ages 13 and up (Jan. 24 sold out as of press time); 941-894-6469; fogartyville.org
Bradenton Punk Rock Flea Market
The market will feature more than 50 vendors, food trucks and live music by punk bands from throughout Florida. Noon-6 p.m. Jan. 25; Oscura, 816 Manatee Ave. E., Bradenton; free admission; oscura.live
‘Peter and the Wolf’
Sergey Prokofiev’s “symphonic fairy tale for children” is the centerpiece of this 60-minute concert for all ages, presented in both English and Spanish. 1 p.m. English, 4 p.m. Spanish Jan. 25; Holley Hall, 709 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; $5-$7; 941-953-3434; saraotaorchestra.org
Cynthia Sayer
The jazz banjoist’s accolades include induction into the American Banjo Hall of Fame and being a 2023 recipient of the Steve Martin Banjo Prize. 2 p.m. Jan. 25; Glenridge Performing Arts Center, 7333 Scotland Way, Sarasota; $30-$35; 941-552-5325; gpactix.com
Drag Queen Bingo Extravaganza
Tamiami Trails and special guest stars perform at this variety show that also includes three games of bingo called throughout the show. 8 p.m. Jan. 25; McCurdy’s Comedy Theatre, 1923 Ringling Blvd., Sarasota; $26; 941-925-3869; mccurdyscomedy.com
‘Riverdance 30 — The New Generation’
The Grammy-winning fusion of Irish and international dance and music continues on three decades later. 7 p.m. Jan. 27-29; Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; $56-$191; 941-263-6799; vanwezel.org
Cassie and Maggie
The sisters from Nova Scotia, Canada who play a contemporary take on Celtic music earned a Traditional Roots Album of the Year nomination at the Juno Awards (Canada’s equivalent of the Grammys) for 2016’s “The Willow Collection.” 6 p.m. doors, 7 p.m. show Jan. 29; Fogartyville Community Media and Arts Center, 525 Kumquat Court, Sarasota; $27, $22 members, $13 students ages 13 and up; 941-894-6469; fogartyville.org
Chris Anderson Band
The guitarist, singer-songwriter and Sarasota native is a former member of Tampa-formed Southern rockers the Outlaws and released the 1995 solo album “Old Friend,” with the title track co-written by Warren Haynes later recorded by the Allman Brothers Band as the final song on their final studio album, 2003’s “Hittin’ the Note.” 7 p.m. Jan. 30; Englewoods on Dearborn, 362 W. Dearborn St., Englewood; $10; 941-475-7501; englewoodsondearborn.com
Yakov Smirnoff
The comedian, who was born in the Soviet Union and immigrated to the United States, rose to fame with his stand-up comparing and contrasting the two nations. 6:30 and 8:50 p.m. Jan. 30-31; McCurdy’s Comedy Theatre, 1923 Ringling Blvd., Sarasota; $37; 941-925-3869; mccurdyscomedy.com
‘On Broadway: Defying Gravity’
This Sarasota Orchestra Pops program celebrates history’s greatest musicals including ”The Lion King,” “Hamilton,” “Jersey Boys,” ”The Phantom of the Opera” and “Wicked” with Evan Roider, conductor of more than a thousand performances of “Wicked,” on the podium. 7:30 p.m. Jan. 30, 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. Jan. 31, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; $41 and up; 941-953-3434; sarasotaorchestra.org
‘P4 — Notes Unspoken’
The program features the addition of a new ballet by choreographer Gemma Bond, a 90th anniversary celebration performance of Antony Tudor’s ”Lilac Garden,” and Ricardo Graziano’s ”Valsinhas.” Jan. 30-Feb. 2; FSU Center for the Performing Arts, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; $35-$125; 941-359-0099; sarasotaballet.org
Mary Gauthier
The singer-songwriter, whose 2018 release “Rifles & Rosary Beads” earned a Best Folk Album Grammy nomination, plays two nights of shows at Fogartyville with Jaimee Harris. 6 p.m. doors, 7 p.m. show Jan. 31-Feb. 1; Fogartyville Community Media and Arts Center, 525 Kumquat Court, Sarasota; $35, $30 members, $15 students ages 13 and up; 941-894-6469; fogartyville.org
Continuing
Lights in Bloom
Selby Gardens’ holiday light show features more than two million lights illuminating the gardens and walkways of its downtown Sarasota campus. Through Jan. 3; Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, 1534 Mound St., Sarasota; $34-$44, $29-$39 members, $19-$24 ages 5-17, free ages 4 and under; 941-366-5731; selby.org
Wonderland
Sarasota-born celebrity high-wire performer Nik Wallenda once again presents a holiday-themed circus show, promising “thrilling circus acts, mesmerizing aerial performances, and uplifting holiday storytelling.” Through Jan. 4; 191 University Town Center Drive, Sarasota; ticket prices vary; 941-260-1705; wonderlandcircus.com
‘Lucky Stiff’
Florida Studio Theatre puts on a production of the zany musical comedy about an English shoe salesman who must escort his murdered uncle’s embalmed body to Monte Carlo to secure an inheritance. Through Jan. 11; Gompertz Theatre at Florida Studio Theatre, 1265 First St., Sarasota; ticket prices vary; 941-366-9000; floridastudiotheatre.org
Farmers markets for Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte counties
Sarasota Farmers Market
The year-round market in downtown Sarasota features vendors selling produce, plants, artisan goods, and food and drink, also featuring live music and other entertainment. 7 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays; 1 N. Lemon Ave., Sarasota; sarasotafarmersmarket.org
Venice Farmers Market
The year-round market features farm, food-related, artisan and greenery vendors. 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays; 401 W. Venice Ave., Venice; thevenicefarmersmarket.org
Downtown Bradenton Public Market
The market on downtown Bradenton’s Old Main Street features fresh produce, local art, music, local chef demonstrations and free family activities. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays October-May; Old Main Street, Bradenton; realizebradenton.com/public-market
Newtown Farmers Market
The market offers fresh local produce, including seasonal fruits and vegetables, and other goods. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturdays and noon-6 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays; Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park, 2523 Cocoanut Ave., Sarasota; newtownnation.com
Fresh Harvest Farmers Market
The Downtown Wellen farmers market features nearly 40 different vendor booths offering locally grown and produced food including herbs, spices, cut flowers, teas, canned and preserved fruits and vegetables, syrups, baked goods, pickled foods, fresh seafood, meats, poultry, eggs, milk and prepared food and beverages, as well as a limited selection of craft vendors. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Sundays; Downtown Wellen, 19745 Wellen Park Blvd., Venice; wellenpark.com/events/fresh-harvest-farmers-market
Siesta Key Farmers Market
The market located in Siesta Village features fresh produce, art, clothing and more. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Sundays; 5211 Ocean Blvd., Siesta Key; facebook.com/siestakeyfarmersmarket
Farmers Market at Lakewood Ranch
The year-round market features more than 100 local vendors offering organic produce, flowers, specialty spices/rubs, honey, bread and other baked goods, prepared foods, pet products, jewelry and more. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sundays; 1561 Lakefront Drive, Lakewood Ranch; themarketlwr.com
The Market at NBP
The recently launched market features local artists, crafters and small businesses, as well as food and family-friendly entertainment, at Nathan Benderson Park. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesdays; Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle, Sarasota; nathanbendersonpark.org
Phillippi Farmhouse Market
The mid-week market offers local produce and plants, prepared foods, specialty and sustainable items, and Florida agriculturally-related products. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesdays October-April; Phillippi Estate Park, 5500 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; farmhousemarket.org
Englewood Farmers Market
The market features local and organic fresh produce, baked goods, meats, seafood, dairy, plants, herbs, prepared foods, honey, syrups, sauces, salsa and more. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Thursdays October-May; 335 W. Dearborn St., Englewood; englewoodfarmersmarket.org…