Last Updated September 15, 2026
If you ask any local, they’ll tell you that fall is one of the best times of year in Southwest Florida. I can guarantee, it’s the fall festivals and events in Venice that truly put this season on the map.
Sure, we don’t get the big leaf-changing display or chilly sweater weather, but as the summer heat and humidity finally ease up, locals come back out in full force. September through November is the start of festival season here. It’s when we can spend more time outside, enjoying live music, waterfront sunsets, and all the arts, food, festivals, and events in Venice and the surrounding areas that make life here so enjoyable.
For locals, this season feels like we’re reclaiming our outdoor spaces after summer. The streets come alive, with something happening every weekend, and it’s a great time to enjoy the area before the busy winter visitors arrive. And for anyone visiting during this time, it’s the perfect opportunity to get an authentic taste of the region, the local culture, and the welcoming community vibe that makes Southwest Florida so special.
We’ve rounded up all the best seasonal concerts, markets, family-friendly activities, festivals, and events happening in Venice, Wellen Park, and nearby spots like Sarasota, Punta Gorda, Fort Myers, Bradenton, St. Petersburg, and Tampa. Whether you’re new to the area, a longtime local, or planning a fall break, these events will get you out exploring and experiencing that Southwest Florida community vibe.
** PLANNING AHEAD FOR THE SEASONS? CHECK OUT OUR GUIDE FOR THE BEST WINTER EVENTS IN VENICE AND BEYOND.
Venice, Florida Fall Festivals and Events
Venice is packed with things to do all year long, but fall marks the start of festival season, bringing a whole new energy to the area’s already lively calendar.
Recurring & Regular Events in Venice, FL
From longtime favorites like the Venice Farmers Market and Friday Night Concerts in the Park to seasonal festivities like Haunted History tours and the Downtown Halloween Strut, something is happening nearly every weekend.
Major Fall Events in Venice, FL
In addition to the regular calendar lineup, here are the signature fall events in Venice (the ones locals and visitors look forward to every year).
Sun Fiesta October 16–18, 2026
The iconic Sun Fiesta is Venice’s biggest fall tradition and one of the most beloved community festivals in Southwest Florida. Downtown Venice comes alive with arts and crafts, live entertainment, food and drink vendors, a parade and the famously fun bed races along Venice Avenue.
Sun Fiesta has been part of Venice life since 1973, with the Women’s Sertoma Club of Venice organizing the event since 1994. Admission is free, and proceeds from the festival support local charitable causes and community projects.
It’s a brilliant mix of small-town charm and proper festival atmosphere, but parking fills quickly in downtown Venice. Arrive early, carpool if you can, or be prepared to park a little farther out and walk into Centennial Park.
Haunted 5K, 10K, Half & Full Marathon October 3, 2026
Get your running shoes – and costumes – ready for a spooky start to October. The Haunted Run in Venice includes 5K, 10K and half-marathon distances, making it suitable for everything from a fun seasonal run to a more serious endurance challenge. Runners can expect Halloween-themed race gear, medals and plenty of costumes along the route.
Downtown Venice Halloween Strut October 31, 2026
Downtown Venice gets into the Halloween spirit with the annual Halloween Strut, taking place from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. It’s a fun, family-friendly way for children to show off their costumes and enjoy Halloween in the heart of the city.
The event coincides with the Downtown Venice Art Festival this year, and blocks 100–300 of West Venice Avenue will be closed to vehicles. Give yourself a little extra time to park and walk into the event.
38th Annual Downtown Venice Art Festival October 31 – November 1, 2026
Every fall, the streets of downtown Venice turn into an open-air art gallery. Hosted by Howard Alan Events and Venice MainStreet, this juried festival showcases artists from across the country. You can find everything from fine art and photography to ceramics, jewelry, and home décor.
It’s free to attend and is a great place to start your holiday shopping early or pick up something unique for your home.
** WANT MORE SEASONAL FUN? DON’T MISS OUR GUIDE TO SPRING EVENTS IN VENICE.
Wellen Park Fall Events
There is nearly always something happening in Downtown Wellen, from live music and markets to family activities and one-off community events. However, the regular schedule changes throughout the year, so it’s worth checking the official Wellen Park events calendar before making plans.
You’ll often find live music around Downtown Wellen, along with the Fresh Harvest Farmers Market, night markets, performances at Solis Hall and activities for families, and of course the array of delicious restaurants to sample while you’re in the area. These smaller events make it easy to enjoy the neighborhood even when one of the big seasonal festivals isn’t taking place, and of course there are many amazing restaurants to grab a bite
In addition to the regular lineup, Wellen Park hosts several larger fall events that are well worth adding to your calendar. Here are some of our top picks for 2026.
Regular Weekly & Monthly Fun at Wellen Park
- DJ Nights at The Yard — Come from Monday til Wednesday evenings for laid-back music vibes.
- Serenade in the Shade — Thursday through Saturday offers up ambient acoustic sessions under the Heritage Tree.
- Friday Night Live Concerts — Outdoor music with food trucks and a lively community feel. Classic way to kick off the weekend.
- Sunday Groove at the Farmers Market — Chill Sunday tunes while you shop for fresh goodies.
- Monthly Dueling Pianos (3rd Thursday) — A crowd-pleaser at Solis Hall, which is always a fun, interactive night.
These regular happenings make it easy to enjoy Wellen Park on any given week. But this neighborhood keeps on giving. In addition to the regular lineup of events, Wellen Park will also host some epic seasonal entertainment. Our top picks are listed below.
Bigger Seasonal/Fall Wellen Park Events
Oktoberfest at Wellen Park, October 3, 2026
Break out the lederhosen and get ready for an afternoon of Bavarian-inspired fun at Downtown Wellen. The third annual Wellen Park Oktoberfest runs from noon until 6 p.m. and is free to attend.
Expect traditional polka music, bratwurst and other German-inspired food, plenty of beer and classic Oktoberfest competitions, including the always-entertaining stein-hoisting contest. It’s lively, family-friendly and quickly becoming one of Wellen Park’s signature fall events.
Wellen Park Spooktacular Halloween, October 30, 2026
Wellen Park’s Spooktacular brings an evening of family-friendly Halloween fun to Downtown Wellen from 4 to 7 p.m. Kids can dress up and enjoy trick-or-treating around the downtown businesses, with music, entertainment and seasonal activities adding to the atmosphere.
Costumes are strongly encouraged… and not only for the children. Wellen Park’s Halloween celebrations have previously included fun for four-legged family members too (and we gotta say that our pooch Hana had a blast!), so keep an eye on the current event page for the final activity schedule.
Wellen Park Wine Festival November 13–14, 2026
If you love wine, food and good company, the Wellen Park Wine Festival is one of the season’s standout events. It begins on Friday evening with an exclusive five-course dinner and first tasting at Solis Hall, pairing a specially created menu with wines selected for each course.
Saturday brings the main festival program to Downtown Wellen. Beginners can start with Wine Class 101 at Solis Hall before the Grand Tasting opens at noon for VIP guests and 1 p.m. for general admission.
The Grand Tasting features wines from around 40 participating vintners, food from Wellen Park restaurants and live entertainment. General admission includes a souvenir tasting glass, event tote and four food-tasting tickets, while VIP tickets add early entry, premium seating and access to the air-conditioned Solis Hall lounge.
This is a ticketed, 21-and-over event and has sold out in previous years, so booking ahead is highly recommended.
6th Annual Grilled Cheese Festival, November 21, 2026
Cheese lovers, assemble! The Grilled Cheese Festival returns to CoolToday Park from 11 a.m. for a full day of gloriously melty food, craft beer, live music and family fun.
Local food trucks serve their own takes on the grilled cheese sandwich, ranging from simple classics to fully loaded gourmet creations. There’s also a beer garden, souvenir mugs, live entertainment and games and activities for children.
The festival is free and family-friendly, although you’ll want to bring money for food and drinks. Our advice: come hungry and pace yourself.
If you want a sneak peek inside the stadium, check out our video on Braves Spring Training at CoolToday Park. It’s one of our favorite behind-the-scenes looks at this Wellen Park gem.
This day has become a little tradition for us when we celebrate our love of beer and grilled cheese… and Josh loads up on Braves Spring Training tickets. Single-game tickets are released on this day, so head over to grab your fill of cheese and baseball!
If you want to get a sneak peek inside the stadium then check out our video on Braves Spring Training at CoolToday Park . It’s one of our favorite behind-the-scenes looks at this Wellen Park gem.
Wellen Park Festival of the Arts — November 21–22, 2026
Downtown Wellen becomes an open-air gallery for the Wellen Park Festival of the Arts, taking place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
Artists from Florida and across the country will showcase original paintings, sculpture, jewelry, photography, glass, ceramics, fiber art, metalwork, mixed media and woodworking. Visitors can meet the artists, learn about their techniques and browse one-of-a-kind pieces for the home or personal collection.
Admission is free, and the downtown location makes it easy to combine the festival with lunch, drinks or a stroll around the lake. It takes place on the same weekend as the Grilled Cheese Festival at nearby CoolToday Park, so there’s plenty happening around Wellen Park that weekend.
Nearby Southwest Florida Festivals & Events
If you’re up for a little road trip (and who isn’t?), there’s plenty of fall fun just beyond Venice.
Fall Events in Sarasota
Sarasota Rocktoberfest October 10, 2026
Get ready to raise a glass at Sarasota ROCKtoberfest, returning to J.D. Hamel Park along the Sarasota Bayfront. Unlike the three-day festival held in previous years, the 2026 event takes place on one evening, running from 5 to 11 p.m.
There will be free live music, food and drinks, plus a shopping area filled with local vendors. Admission is free, and you don’t need to purchase separate tickets for food or beverages.
The event is both family-friendly and dog-friendly, making it an easy Saturday evening out with the whole crew. It also supports Destination Downtown Sarasota and the organization’s work promoting local businesses and hosting free community events.
30th Annual Downtown Sarasota Craft Festival October 17–18, 2026
If you love handmade art, local talent, and a relaxed weekend stroll, the Downtown Sarasota Craft Festival is a must-do this fall. Held at 5 Points Park in the heart of downtown, this long-running event fills the streets with creativity, color, and a sense of community charm.
Now celebrating its 29th year, the festival showcases a diverse array of handcrafted treasures, including jewelry, ceramics, photography, paintings, clothing, and home décor. You’ll also find an inviting Green Market, where you can browse artisanal goods, including handmade soaps, gourmet spices, and tropical plants.
Admission is free, and the atmosphere is perfect for a weekend outing, making it easy to explore at your own pace with plenty of cafés, shops, and restaurants nearby.
Water Lantern Festival October 17, 2026
The Water Lantern Festival at Nathan Benderson Park is one of the most magical fall events in Southwest Florida. Each October, this 600-acre lakeside park transforms into a breathtaking scene as hundreds of hand-decorated glowing lanterns drift across the water, each one carrying personal messages of love, hope, and remembrance.
It’s a beautiful, family-friendly evening filled with food trucks, live music, and a sense of calm community connection. Kids under eight get in free with a paid adult ticket (lanterns sold separately), and tickets often sell out early.
After the lanterns have floated away, keep the night going by grabbing dinner or drinks in town, or heading to PopStroke for a round of mini-golf under the lights.
Gulfcoast Pride Festival, October 24, 2026
Gulfcoast Pride returns to Sarasota’s Rosemary District for an afternoon and evening celebrating the region’s LGBTQ+ community, families, friends and allies.
The free community festival runs from 4 to 8 p.m., bringing together local businesses, artists, nonprofits and community organizations alongside food, vendors and live entertainment. The celebration then continues with a Pride Street Party from 8 to 11 p.m.
Organized by Project Pride SRQ, the event is built around visibility, belonging and connection, with a welcoming atmosphere that is open to everyone.
Repticon Sarasota, October 31, 2026
Calling all reptile fans: Repticon Sarasota slithers back into town for a one-day show at the Sahib Shrine Center. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and brings together reptiles, amphibians, exotic pets, specialist equipment and knowledgeable exhibitors from across Florida.
It’s part trade show and part educational outing, with plenty to see even if you’re not planning to take home a new scaly friend. Visitors can learn about different species and browse enclosures, feeders, supplies and reptile-themed merchandise.
Online tickets cost $12 for adults and $6 for children aged 5–12, with children four and under admitted free.
Lights at Spooky Point October 1 – 31, 2026
Selby Gardens’ Historic Spanish Point campus transforms into “Spooky Point” throughout October, with an eerily illuminated trail winding through the gardens.
Along the way, you’ll encounter creative displays and “boo-tanically” themed decorations that are equal parts campy, creepy and cute. It’s a walk-through Halloween experience designed to be fun for all ages rather than a full-on fright night.
There are two timed entry sessions each evening, at 6:30 and 7:45 p.m., and the event ends at 9 p.m. Tickets are required, and parking at Historic Spanish Point is limited, so carpooling is encouraged.
Pro tip: arrive early to explore the gardens in daylight, then stay around after dark to watch the whole place come alive. It’s a little eerie, a little magical, and a whole lot of fun.
Siesta Key Crystal Classic November 13–16, 2026
Fun on the beach isn’t just for summer! Every November, Siesta Beach turns into an outdoor art gallery as sand sculptors from all over the world compete in the Annual Siesta Key Crystal Classic Sand Sculpting Festival. Over four incredible days, 24 artists transform piles of that famous white Siesta Key sand into jaw-dropping masterpieces. Some of the displays are so impressive that they really make you forget they’re made from sand at all.
The festival isn’t just for watching, though. Spectators can join workshops, take sand-sculpting lessons, enjoy live music under the tent, and browse through 75 vendors at the Vendor Village, where they can find a variety of food, drinks, and souvenirs. On Saturday night, stick around for Sculptures After Dark, when the illuminated sculptures glow under colorful lights. It’s pure beachside magic.
If you’re feeling creative yourself, sign up for the Amateur Competition or cheer on contestants during the high-energy Quick Sand Contest. And don’t miss the Awards Ceremony on Sunday at 3 PM, when the top artists are crowned. It’s family-friendly, full of talent, and just the right blend of beach fun and artistic awe.
Sarasota Medieval Fair Weekends, November 7 – December 6, 2026
Step into a world where history and pageantry collide at the Sarasota Medieval Fair, held under the sprawling oaks of the Woods of Mallaranny in Myakka City.
The 21st-anniversary fair runs across five weekends, beginning November 7 and continuing through December 6. Each weekend has a different theme and lineup, so there is something new to see if you decide to visit more than once.
Across the 50-acre fairground, you’ll find full-contact jousting, human combat chess, live music, rides, games and performances spread across 14 stages. More than 140 artisan shops fill the medieval marketplace, while the Children’s Realm offers extra activities for younger visitors.
Newer ticketed add-ons include mead tastings, the Bard’s Brunch, the Feast of the Crown and the Masquerade of Mordred Pendragon. Day tickets and multi-day passes are available, making it easy to choose one themed weekend or return for several.
Whether you’re a history buff, a fantasy fan, or just someone who loves a good themed festival, the Sarasota Medieval Fair is one of fall’s most unforgettable adventures and a highlight of fall events in Sarasota.
Blues at the Park — December 5, 2026
The event formerly known as the Lakewood Ranch Blues Festival has a new name and a new home for 2026. Blues at the Park takes place at G.T. Bray Park in Bradenton, replacing the previous festival held at Bray Park in Bradenton.
The one-day music festival brings live blues to the park on Saturday, December 5. The artist lineup, ticket information and final event schedule are available through the official Blues at the Park website.
Events in Punta Gorda this Fall
Englewood Beach Waterfest October 8 – 11, 2026
Get ready for high-speed thrills as Englewood Beach Waterfest returns for four days of events culminating in the APBA Offshore National Championship Finals.
The powerboat racing brings multiple classes of offshore boats to the Gulf, creating one of the area’s loudest and most exciting fall weekends. Away from the racing, Waterfest traditionally combines beachside entertainment with food, family activities and educational programming focused on marine life and coastal conservation.
The detailed race and festival schedule had not yet been released at the time of writing, so check the official Waterfest website before planning your visit. Importantly, the 2026 races are being promoted as the APBA National Championship Finals rather than the World Championship listed in previous years.
International Culture Fest, October 10, 2026
Take a trip around the world without ever leaving Punta Gorda at the 7th Annual International Culture Fest. This family-friendly celebration, taking place from 12 PM to 6 PM, invites guests to experience the beauty and diversity of cultures from around the globe, all in one vibrant waterfront setting.
You’ll find international cuisine, cultural crafts, and live performances representing traditions from around the world. Kids (and adults!) can join in educational activities and creative workshops while browsing local artisan booths and sampling flavors from around the world.
Presented by the Cultural Heritage Center of Southwest Florida, this event celebrates the region’s rich cultural mix, fostering connection, curiosity, and community joy.
Florida International Air Show — November 7 – 8, 2026
Get ready to look up—the Florida International Air Show returns to Punta Gorda Airport for a full weekend of roaring engines, precision flying and aviation excitement.
The volunteer-run event celebrates aviation past, present and future, combining military and civilian aerial performances with static aircraft and vehicle displays on the ground. Visitors can also explore aviation and space exhibits, meet people from across the industry and enjoy family-friendly activities throughout the weekend.
One of the headline attractions for 2026 is the F-35A Lightning II Demo Team, with additional pilots and performers announced through the official event website and app. The app is also the best place to find the final flying schedule, maps and event updates closer to the weekend.
Several ticket options are available, including general admission and upgraded packages with reserved viewing areas and additional amenities. Check the official Florida International Air Show website when booking, as schedules and performers may change.
Holiday Lighting of the Village November 15, 2025
Fishermen’s Village kicks off the holiday season with its annual Holiday Lighting of the Village, transforming the waterfront destination with festive lights and seasonal atmosphere.
The lighting celebration takes place on November 14, with the Holiday Festival of Lights continuing from November 15 through December 31. It’s a lovely time to wander along the waterfront, browse the shops and enjoy a little Florida-style holiday magic.
The full entertainment schedule and theme had not yet been announced at the time of writing, so check the Fishermen’s Village events calendar before visiting.
Fall Festivals & Events in Fort Myers
Edison & Ford Fall Festival October 31, 2026
Edison & Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers hosts this lovely Fall Festival on Saturday, October 31, from 9 AM to 4 PM. The festival is free to attend (although some activities carry a small additional fee), offering a relaxed mix of crafts, music, food, and seasonal fun. For a little extra adventure, you can climb the historic Banyan Tree or pick out a pumpkin.
Note that admission to the museum buildings, laboratory, and riverside areas of the property requires a separate ticket.
If you’re making a weekend of your travels, this event offers a nice blend of heritage, art, laid-back vibes, and local flavor, especially if you’re looking for something a little more low-key than the big festivals.
BIG ARTS Film Festival November 19–21, 2026
If you’re looking for a cinematic experience that feels both intimate and inspiring, make your way to Sanibel Island for the BIG ARTS Film Festival, a two-day celebration of film combining artistry, conversation, and community in a way only BIG ARTS can deliver.
The 2026 festival welcomes award-winning husband-and-wife filmmakers Justin Schein and Eden Wurmfeld. Their work explores social issues through deeply personal stories, and both filmmakers will be present throughout the festival for talks and post-film Q&As.
The program includes No Impact Man – The Documentary, My So-Called Enemy, Left on Purpose, Crip Camp and Classroom 4. A festival package includes all five screenings, the opening reception, Q&As, a catered dinner, a filmmaker talk and the closing gathering. Individual film tickets can also be booked through the BIG ARTS box office.
Fall Events in Tampa
Oktoberfest Tampa October 9–11, 2026
If you’re in Tampa this fall, don your lederhosen (or comfy jeans) and head downtown for Oktoberfest Tampa, held along the Hillsborough River at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park. This annual celebration is one of the largest and most festive Oktoberfests in the region, marking its 17th annual appearance in 2026.
Across three days, the festival is packed with authentic German cheer, live music, dancing, and Bavarian food & drink. You’ll find beer tents serving everything from Märzen to hefeweizen, along with traditional German eats like pretzels, sausages, and schnitzel. It’s a full-on German village vibe, right in the heart of Tampa.
Fun competitions, such as Mr. & Mrs. Oktoberfest and a Beard & Mustache contest, take place during the festival, and stein-hoisting challenges keep things lively and entertaining. Oktoberfest Tampa is a Tampa fall event worth adding to your calendar.
Tampa Pig Jig October 17, 2026
What started as a friendly backyard barbecue competition has grown into a huge annual waterfront fundraiser combining live music, food, cold drinks and a fiercely contested corporate BBQ competition.
The 2026 Tampa Pig Jig takes place at Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park, with Thomas Rhett headlining a lineup that also includes Midland, Kameron Marlowe, Sister Hazel and Cassidy Daniels.
The festival is about much more than a good day out. Tampa Pig Jig raises money for NephCure, supporting research, treatment and the search for a cure for FSGS and nephrotic syndrome. Since the original backyard fundraiser was held in 2011, the event has donated millions and become NephCure’s largest annual donor nationwide.
Ford Taste of Latino Festival, October 11, 2026
Spice up your fall weekend with a trip to Historic Ybor City for the 7th Annual Ford Taste of Latino Festival at Centennial Park. This free, family-friendly celebration takes place from 12 PM to 6 PM. It brings together the best of Latin music, dance, food, and art for an unforgettable afternoon.
You’ll find live music and cultural performances filling the park, along with booths serving up authentic Latin flavors from across the Americas — think empanadas, tacos, pastelitos, and more. Local artists and vendors line the walkways, adding color and creativity to every corner.
Don’t miss the TOP Latino Chef Contest, where talented chefs compete for culinary bragging rights, or the Florida Latino & Latina Lideres Recognition Ceremony, honoring community leaders who make a difference across the state.
It’s the perfect Sunday outing to celebrate culture, community, and cuisine right in the heart of Tampa Bay this fall.
Hillsborough County Fair – November 5-15, 2026
Nothing says fall in Florida quite like the Hillsborough County Fair. It’s eleven full days of rides, music, food, and good old-fashioned family fun. Held at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds, this annual event brings the community together with a little something for everyone.
Expect all your favorite fair attractions, from thrilling rides and delicious food (hello, funnel cakes and corn dogs!) to live shows and local competitions, along with special themed events throughout the week. Highlights include Rodeo Weekend, goat yoga, and interactive agricultural exhibits that celebrate the county’s farming roots.
From livestock shows and arts displays to nightly entertainment and a midway full of lights and laughter, it’s a fall tradition that captures everything we love about small-town fairs with a Florida twist.
Tampa Tattoo Arts Convention November 20 – 22, 2026
If you love art with an edge (or you’re thinking about adding to your own collection), the Tampa Tattoo Arts Convention is the place to be. Hosted by Villain Arts, this massive three-day event brings together hundreds of tattoo artists from around the country to showcase their unique styles, from fine-line and realism to bold traditional work.
The weekend features live entertainment, including sideshow acts, circus performers, and even a contortionist archer (yep, you read that right). You can browse vendors selling art, jewelry, and alternative fashion, or even enter a tattoo contest to show off your ink and compete for a trophy.
You can opt for a single-day pass or a weekend ticket permitting entry over the full three day event. Children under 12 are admitted free, making it a fun (and surprisingly family-friendly) way to explore one of Tampa’s most creative and unconventional events.
Events in St Petersburg this Fall
Clearwater Jazz Holiday October 15-18, 2026
Clearwater Jazz Holiday returns to Coachman Park for four days of jazz, funk, soul, blues and roots music under the Florida sky.
The 2026 lineup includes Chris Botti, Arturo Sandoval, Sheila E. & The E-Train, Larkin Poe, The Wood Brothers, Big Sam’s Funky Nation and plenty more across several stages. Each day has its own musical flavor, stretching from smooth and traditional jazz to funk, Americana and blues.
VIP, reserved and general-admission tickets are available, with lawn chairs and blankets permitted in designated general-admission areas. Gates open at 4 p.m. on Thursday and Friday and 3:30 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
St. Pete Pier Pumpkin Patch & Fall Festival October 9–25, 2026
Fall comes to life along the St. Pete waterfront when the Pier’s Family Park transforms into a seasonal pumpkin patch. From October 9–25, visitors can browse pumpkins, enjoy the fall décor and capture a few seasonal family photos with a distinctly Florida waterfront backdrop.
The larger St. Pete Pier Fall Festival takes place October 10–11. This free community event adds live music, local vendors, food and drinks, a kids’ zone, face painting and family activities.
The festival also includes an Epic Drone Show featuring 1,000 synchronized drones above Tampa Bay. Pumpkin-patch hours vary, so check the current schedule before making the trip.
Tarpon Springs Seafood Festival November 7–8, 2026
Get your appetite ready as the Tarpon Springs Seafood Festival returns to the historic Sponge Docks for two days of fresh food, coastal atmosphere and family fun.
Seafood vendors serve everything from Gulf shrimp and grilled fish to a wide variety of local dishes, with plenty of non-seafood choices available too. The weekend also brings continuous live music, selected artisans, nautical crafts, cooking-related vendors and a seafood chef competition.
Admission is free, making this an easy addition to a day exploring the Sponge Docks. Daily hours had not yet been confirmed at the time of writing, so check the official event website before visiting.
SAVOR St. Pete Food + Wine Festival November 7 – 8, 2026
SAVOR St. Pete (aka Savor The Burg) returns to Vinoy Park for two days of mouthwatering delight by the waterfront. This festival is all about enjoying the craft behind food and drink. Think local chefs, national culinary talent, craft beers, wines, spirits, and all the flavors in between. You’ll find a curated Grand Tasting Village full of food & beverage booths, cooking demonstrations, mixology segments, and interactive opportunities for food lovers. This is one of the top food + wine events on Florida’s Gulf Coast and a perfect excuse for a food-loving weekend trip to St. Pete.
SHINE St. Pete Mural Festival November 7 – 16, 2026
St. Petersburg puts on its artistic best each fall with the SHINE Mural Festival, a ten-day celebration that brings local, national and international artists to walls across the city.
Visitors can watch new public artworks take shape, explore St. Pete’s existing mural collection and join festival events celebrating the city’s creative community. The murals remain long after the festival ends, so SHINE continues to change the look and character of neighborhoods across St. Petersburg year after year.
The 2026 artist and mural program is still being finalized, so check the official event listing for locations and announcements.
Tips for Enjoying Fall Festivals in Southwest Florida
With so many significant events happening this season, a little planning goes a long way toward making the most of your weekend adventures. Whether you’re heading to a beachside concert, a waterfront wine fest, or a small-town fair, these quick tips will help you enjoy the day like a local:
- Arrive early for the big events — parking fills up fast.
- Bring cash; many food vendors still prefer it.
- Pack a lawn chair or blanket for outdoor concerts and movies.
- Check event sites for updates. Schedules sometimes shift due to weather.
- Explore neighborhoods while you’re there. If you’re considering moving to the area, these events are an excellent way to get a sense of the community.
Which Venice Event Will You Go To This Fall?
Fall in Southwest Florida is all about community spirit, sunshine, and enjoying the outdoors again after the hot summer. From local favorites to big regional festivals in Sarasota and Tampa, there’s something for everyone nearly every weekend.
This time of year is perfect for making the most of festival season or visiting to explore potential new neighborhoods. You’ll find fall in Venice and the surrounding area to be one of the most vibrant and welcoming times of the year.
Want more local guides? Check out our YouTube videos for real estate insights and fun things to do around Venice.
