Last Updated May 19, 2025
As the days stretch longer and the sun shines brighter, Florida rolls into its sun-soaked season of water, fun, and outdoor play. While our “chilly” months (hello, 50s and 60s!) bring their own kind of magic, there’s something special about spring and early summer here—when the temps climb back into the 80s and sunny skies are practically guaranteed. It’s the perfect time to get outside, enjoy the vibrant community spirit, and dive into some of the best local events of the year.
If you caught our Winter 2025 Events Roundup, you already know we love celebrating the seasons in style. Now, we’re back with a fresh list of can’t-miss Spring events in Sarasota, Venice, Wellen Park®, and Southwest Florida —mark your calendars and get ready for food, music, festivals, and more!
Venice, Florida Events
Regular and Recurring Events in Venice, Florida
Venice is bursting with things to do all year long—but spring brings a fresh energy to the area’s already vibrant calendar. From daily heritage tours to weekly favorites like yoga on the beach, and monthly outdoor movie screenings, there’s no shortage of ways to spend your days. Here’s just a few of our favorite regular spring events:
Venice Farmer’s Market is held in the heart of downtown Venice, every Saturday. Here, you can discover fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local crafts. It’s a perfect way to support local vendors and enjoy the community atmosphere.
Every other Friday night, the Centennial Park Gazebo comes alive with free concerts featuring local bands and artists. Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy an evening of music under the stars.
On the second Thursday of each month at 10:00 AM, the City of Venice organizes a group bicycle ride. Cyclists of all skill levels are welcome to join this leisurely ride, which promotes community engagement and healthy living. The route and meeting point details are typically announced closer to the event date, which you can find here.
Step back in time and uncover the fascinating history of Venice! Whether you’re hopping on a guided golf cart ride, walking through historic downtown with a local expert, or diving into spooky tales on a haunted history tour, there are plenty of ways to discover the stories behind this charming Gulf Coast town. It’s fun for visitors and locals alike, and perfect for springtime meanders in the sunshine . Tour availability varies, as do the prices, so check the tour provider (linked above) for full details.
Major Events in Venice, Florida Spring 2025
Beyond the regular daily and weekly happenings, spring in Venice brings a variety of standout events—some annual favorites, others special one-time celebrations. Here are a few of our top picks from the spring events in Venice, Florida.
Pirate 1M, 5K, 10K, 15K, & Half Marathon (April 5th, 2025)
Runners of all skill levels are invited to join the race at Shamrock Park in Venice, FL. This event offers a series of races, from a fun 1-mile run to the challenging half marathon, making it perfect for all abilities or even a fun family challenge!
Runners must sign up in advance at RunSignUp and the races start at 8am. The scenic route through the park provides a beautiful backdrop, and costumes are encouraged to add a festive pirate flair to the event. Winners of the best costume prize are announced at the start of the race, and all finishers will receive a themed medal!
Venice Sharks Tooth Festival (April 12–13, 2025)
Celebrate Venice’s reputation as the “Shark’s Tooth Capital of the World” at Centennial Park for a weekend of fossil and beach-inspired fun. You’ll find vendors, live music, and delicious food.
Although this event technically falls under Spring, it’s so much fun that we gave you a heads-up in our Winter 2025 events roundup to make sure you had plenty of time to mark it in your calendar! It’s one of the best events in Venice all year.
Venice’s beaches are famous for their abundance of fossilized shark teeth, attracting enthusiasts from all over the world. The area’s unique geological history has created a rich deposit of these fossils along its shores, some of which we share on our YouTube video here.
This free, family-friendly festival offers a variety of fun activities for all ages. There’s an interactive shark-themed play area for kids (sorry, grown-ups!), which includes face painting, shark tooth hunting, and much more.
While leashed dogs are welcome, it’s best to leave pets at home because the crowds are usually pretty busy. Guests are encouraged to bring their own chairs to comfortably enjoy the live music, though coolers will not be permitted.
Eggstravaganza Egg Hunt (April 19, 2025, 10:00 AM–12:00 PM)
Head over to Centennial Park between 10 am and 11.30 am, to celebrate the Easter holidays with a festive Easter egg hunt suitable for children under 12 years old. Plus, from 11.30 am til 12 pm there’s a special Beeping Egg Hunt for blind and visually impaired children up to 16 years.
The event features over 2000 thousand hidden eggs, face painting, and a special appearance by the Easter Bunny. It’s free to participate in the search, and a fun yet chilled way to celebrate the holiday with the community.
5th Annual Spring Fling Skim Jam (May 17–18, 2025)
Zap Skimboards host this ridiculously fun event which brings together professional and amateur skimboarders for a weekend of competition and camaraderie.
Attendees can enjoy a free skim clinic, watch high-energy contests, and meet top athletes during autograph sessions. The beachside event also includes music, food vendors, and raffles.
If you’re hoping to participate, be sure to register in advance as on-the-day entries will not be permitted. Otherwise, grab your towel and enjoy an action-packed day of watersport display at what is fast becoming one of the most fun Springtime events in Venice.
32nd Annual Downtown Venice Craft Festival (June 14–15, 2025)
This beloved annual event transforms the streets of Historic Downtown Venice into an outdoor gallery filled with handcrafted treasures. Discover an array of unique items including jewelry, pottery, woodworking, wearable art, home décor, and more—each created by talented artists and artisans from across the country.
Admission is free, and there’s plenty of shaded sidewalk space for browsing comfortably. Parking is available in nearby lots and public garages.
The event is presented by Howard Alan Events in collaboration with Venice MainStreet, making it the perfect weekend outing for art lovers and curious shoppers alike.
Wellen Park ® Events and Festivals
If you haven’t been to a Wellen Park event this spring, you’re definitely missing out! More than just a place to live, it’s a vibrant community hub where the lifestyle really shines. The downtown area is where it all comes to life—live music, outdoor markets, family-friendly festivals, and more. Here are some of our top picks this season:
Family Fun Day (April 12, 2025)
Downtown Wellen Park comes alive with laughter and play at the annual Family Fun Day on April 12, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM. The event is free to attend, and packed with entertainment for kids and families. Some of the fun you’ll find includes carnival games, a bubbly foam party, colorful face painting, interactive arts and crafts stations, and more.
It’s the perfect way to enjoy quality time outdoors with loved ones while soaking up the vibrant community spirit that defines Wellen Park.
Wellen Park® Fishing Rodeo (May 3, 2025)
Cast a line and reel in the fun at the Wellen Park Fishing Rodeo on May 3, in the heart of Downtown Wellen Park. This community-focused event is perfect for anglers of all ages and experience levels, encouraging families and friends to enjoy a day in nature together.
Whether you’re a seasoned fisherman or just learning to bait a hook, the rodeo promises friendly competition, great prizes, and a lively atmosphere in one of Southwest Florida’s most scenic new communities.
Registration is required and can be completed through Eventbrite. Be sure to bring your fishing gear and sunscreen.
Cars & Caffeine at Wellen Park®
Start your morning in style at the Cars & Caffeine event hosted by the Venice FL AACA Car Club on the first Saturday of every month except July and August, from 7:30 AM to 10:00 AM, at Wellen Park Boulevard in Venice.
This casual and welcoming gathering invites classic car lovers, exotic car enthusiasts, and curious onlookers alike to enjoy a stunning display of automobiles while sipping fresh coffee and chatting with fellow car buffs. The event is free and open to all ages.
Great Wellen Pie Bake-Off (June 28, 2025)
Think your pie has what it takes to wow the judges? Mark your calendar for June 28 and enter the Great Wellen Pie Bake-Off, kicking off at 10:30 AM!
This tasty competition is open to all ages, with separate judging categories for Junior Bakers (under 13), Teen Bakers (13–18), and adults. Pies will be judged based on taste, technical skill, and presentation—so bring your A-game whether you’re baking a classic key lime or a showstopping French silk. Pre-registration is required and will open soon.
While official entries aren’t available for public sampling, you won’t miss out—local vendors and community partners will be offering delicious pie samples throughout the day so everyone can join in on the sweet fun!
Nearby Events & Festivals in Southwest Florida
Spring is a fantastic time to explore Southwest Florida’s vibrant lineup of festivals and community events. From coastal food fests to art shows and waterfront concerts, there’s always something happening. If you’re looking for spring events in Sarasota, annual events in Tampa, or just fun family things to do in Florida (not Disney), check out our top picks for seasonal happenings just a short drive from Venice!
Events in Boca Raton:
Boca H2O Music Festival – May 3–4, 2025
Dive into two days of sunshine, music, and water fun at the Boca H2O Music Festival in Boca Raton. This high-energy beachside event brings together top DJs and live acts, setting the stage for an unforgettable party atmosphere.
Expect everything from EDM to pop, immersive light shows, and interactive experiences like water slides, foam zones, and floating stages and lounges. The festival caters to both day-partiers and night owls with extended set times and VIP cabana options.
This Boca Grand Sandbar event is free to attend, and parking is available nearby with both self-park and shuttle options, but attendees are encouraged to arrive early or use ride-sharing services for convenience.
Events in Bradenton:
De Soto Grand Parade (April 26, 2025)
The De Soto Grand Parade returns, as one of the top things to do in Bradenton, on April 26, 2025, bringing vibrant energy and rich local tradition to the heart of Manatee Avenue. Hosted by the Hernando de Soto Historical Society, this lively celebration honors the Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto, whose 1539 landing near Shaw’s Point is central to local lore.
The Grand Parade is the crown jewel of a month-long series of events and is considered one of the oldest and largest parades in the Southeast. Spectators line the streets to enjoy dazzling floats, costumed performers, and collect festive beads and trinkets tossed into the crowd.
The event is free and family-friendly, drawing locals and visitors alike for a night of history, fun, and community spirit.
Spring Events in Sarasota:
Sarasota Film Festival 2025 (April 4–13, 2025)
Celebrating its 27th year, the Sarasota Film Festival is a premier event showcasing over 200 films, including features, documentaries, and shorts from both established and emerging filmmakers.
Attendees can enjoy Q&A sessions, panel discussions, and special appearances by industry professionals. The festival also emphasizes educational programs and community outreach, making it a cornerstone of Sarasota‘s cultural calendar.
To avoid paying higher ticket prices, patrons are encouraged to pre-book showings or purchase a SFF membership (with discounts available) through the box office.
La Musica International Chamber Music Festival (April 6–17, 2025)
Enjoy world-class performances at the La Musica International Chamber Music Festival, happening April 6–17, 2025, at the Sarasota Opera House. This annual festival brings together accomplished musicians from around the globe for a series of intimate concerts featuring classical masterworks and modern pieces.
Guests can also attend rehearsals, lectures, and special events designed to deepen appreciation for chamber music. For performance schedules and ticket info, visit the official La Musica website. Parking is available in nearby public garages and street parking is accessible throughout downtown Sarasota.
Suncoast Boat Show (April 25–27, 2025)
The Suncoast Boat Show returns to Marina Jack in Sarasota, offering 65,000 square feet of dockside excitement from luxury motor yachts and sportfishers to kayaks and inflatables.
It’s the perfect day out for all ages, especially with Captain Don’s Kids Fishing Clinics, where kids can learn fishing techniques and go home with a free rod and reel!
In addition to boats, you can explore vendor tents filled with marine accessories, electronics, clothing, jewelry, and nautical art. Children 15 and under get in free, and active military and veterans enjoy complimentary admission with ID. There is no box office onsite so remember to purchase your digital tickets in advance!
The event has been a local favorite for over 40 years, and with a portion of the proceeds supporting Mote Marine Laboratory’s ocean conservation efforts, it’s easy to see why. We agree that it’s definitely up there on the list of things to do in Sarasota this season.
Elizabeth Moore Sarasota Open (April 6–13, 2025)
Part of the ATP Challenger Tour, the Sarasota Open attracts professional tennis players from around the world. Held at the Sarasota Sports Club, the tournament offers fans the chance to see rising stars compete on Har-Tru clay courts.
The venue provides excellent amenities, including a clubhouse and viewing areas. Kids under 12 are admitted to the grand stand for free but still require a ticket. With a weather forecast of sunny but cool, it’s set to be a fantastic weekend event!
Sarasota International Dragon Boat Festival (May 10, 2025)
Get ready for a thrilling day on the water at the Sarasota Dragon Boat Festival at Nathan Benderson Park! This exciting Gulf Coast event welcomes both competitive and community teams to race on a 400-acre world-class lake.
Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or brand new, there’s a place for you—including solo participants via the ‘Experience Dragon Boat’ programs.
Race categories include 200m, 500m, and a 2K pursuit, or if you enter as a community team it’s three laps of 500m.
Between races, attendees can enjoy the Health & Wellness Village, family-friendly festival vibes, and thrilling views of the action. Admission for spectators is free and race entry fees vary by division.
Whether you’re paddling or cheering from the sidelines, the festival offers a day of excitement, food vendors, and family-friendly activities in a picturesque setting. Learn more or register here.
Siesta Con 2025 (May 10, 2025)
Sarasota’s premier comic convention returns with a celebration of pop culture, featuring comic artists, voice actors, and gaming tournaments. Highlights include the original Batmobile display, cosplay contests, and a vendor hall filled with collectibles and artwork. It’s a must-visit for fans of comics, games, and sci-fi.
Kids under 10 go free and general admission is $10. You can upgrade to the VIP experience for $50 which gets you access to exhibitors and artists, cosplay contests, preferred seating, photo opportunities and autographing, and a VIP gift bundle!
28th Annual People for Trees’ Tree Fair (April 26, 2025)
Looking to up-level your garden? This beloved tree fair is the perfect place to start, with hundreds of native trees—like Sweetgum, Live Oak, Red Maple, and Southern Red Cedar—ready to find their new homes.
Throughout the day, enjoy informative tree talks and get expert advice at the “Ask an Arborist” booth. The event also features live music, delicious offerings from local food trucks, and unique finds from community vendors. Families will love the fun kids’ activities, and anyone who takes the Tree Pledge will receive a free tree to take home.
5th Annual Downtown Sarasota Spring Craft Fair (May 3–4, 2025)
This charming art festival takes over Five Points Park in the heart of Sarasota, transforming the downtown area into a vibrant celebration of creativity.
Featuring 100% handmade works by talented U.S. artists, it’s an ideal weekend outing for art lovers and gift hunters alike.
Explore a variety of treasures including jewelry, pottery, ceramics, paintings, clothing, and more. The festival also features a lively Green Market with plants, orchids, spices, and gourmet treats to tempt your senses. With prices ranging from $15 to $3,000, there’s something for every taste and budget.
Add in some sunshine and the scent of fresh kettle corn, and you’ve got the perfect spring day out.
95th Annual Sarasota Tarpon Tournament (May 6 – June 15, 2025)
Step into fishing history with the 95th Annual Suncoast Tarpon Tournament in Sarasota— the world’s oldest tarpon tournament. Running from May 6 to June 15, this iconic event offers weeks of exciting angling, camaraderie, and community support.
For just $150 entry fee, anglers can compete in divisions like junior, ladies, fly, His & Hers, and most releases. Weekly winners and select divisions advance to a two-day Fish-Off to determine the overall champion, whose name is inscribed on the historic trophy.
Tarpon, known for their epic battles and thrilling leaps, are a true test of skill. With proceeds supporting local charities, this tournament blends sport, tradition, and giving back—making it a standout experience on Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Savor Sarasota Restaurant Week (June 1–20, 2025)
Sarasota is well known for its huge selection of welcoming and delicious restaurants and breweries. Celebrate 20 tasty years of Savor Sarasota from June 1–20, 2025! Over 50 restaurants across Sarasota County—from Longboat Key to Englewood—will serve up specially curated multi-course menus.
Enjoy lunch for just $25 and dinner for $45 per person. It’s the perfect time to explore new spots or revisit your favorites. With flavors from around the world, reservations are highly recommended for this foodie favorite!
SPRING EVENTS IN FORT MYERS:
36th Annual “Ding” Darling Day (April 26, 2025)
Celebrate Earth Day with a fun, family-friendly carnival that brings the magic of the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge to Lakes Park in Fort Myers. This lively event runs from 10 am til 2 pm and is all about conservation, wildlife, and connecting with nature.
Families can enjoy nature-themed games, hands-on exhibits, and educational booths where kids and adults alike can learn about Florida’s unique wildlife and how to help protect it. With interactive activities designed to inspire all ages, it’s the perfect way to spend a day outdoors celebrating our planet.
Whether you’re a nature lover or just looking for a fun spring outing, this free Earth Day celebration promises plenty of entertainment, discovery, and community spirit under the Florida sun.
Fringe Fort Myers 2025 (May 29 – June 1, 2025)
Theatre lovers, get ready for four unforgettable days of live performance at the Fort Myers Fringe Festival! This un-juried performing arts celebration brings together bold, creative acts from local, national, and international artists, featuring everything from drama and comedy to music, dance, storytelling, and more.
With dozens of performances across multiple venues, the festival embraces the weird, the wonderful, and the unexpected—making it a haven for artists and audiences alike, earning it a spot on our list of events in Fort Myers and things to do in the area this spring.
Every ticket purchased supports the performers directly, ensuring your experience makes a real impact. It’s a vibrant, inclusive space where all are welcome to celebrate the power of live theatre. Come curious, leave inspired!
India Fest at Fort Myers (April 5th, 2025)
Immerse yourself in the vibrant colors, flavors, and rhythms of India at the annual India Fest in Fort Myers. This popular celebration of Indian culture features traditional dance performances, live music, and a wide array of Indian cuisine—from savory street food to rich, flavorful curries.
Visitors can explore cultural exhibits, shop for handmade crafts and clothing, and watch stunning showcases of classical and Bollywood-style dance. The family-friendly event is in it’s 34th year and typically draws around 3000 attendees from across Southwest Florida.
Grow Fort Myers & Orchid Symposium (April 12 – 13, 2025)
Celebrate sustainability and nature at the Grow Fort Myers & Orchid Symposium, at the UF/IFAS Extension in Fort Myers. This two-day event blends eco-conscious gardening education with the beauty of orchids, offering workshops on native plants, composting, pollinators, and water-wise landscaping.
Orchid lovers can attend special talks from experts and shop for unique plants and garden supplies.
There will also be kids’ activities, food vendors, and opportunities to connect with local environmental organizations. Admission is free, but registration may be required for some workshops.
Events and Festivals in St Pete, Florida:
Tampa Bay Blues Festival (April 10 – 13, 2025)
Experience the soulful rhythms of the Tampa Bay Blues Festival at scenic Vinoy Park in downtown St. Petersburg. This waterfront festival features a stellar lineup including Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, JJ Grey & Mofro, and the North Mississippi Allstars.
Guests can enjoy local food vendors, craft beers, full bars, and wine while soaking in the music. Don’t miss the official Kick-Off Party at the Palladium Theater on April 10.
Kids under 12 are free but all entrants must have a scannable ticket either printed or on your phone. Tickets start at $75, with the top VIP tier reaching $800. Parking is limited near Vinoy Park, so plan ahead and check nearby public lots or garages.
St. Pete Tacos & Tequila Festival (May 9–10, 2025)
Get ready for two delicious days at the St. Pete Tacos & Tequila Festival, taking place May 9–10 at Vinoy Park in downtown St. Petersburg. This lively celebration offers more than 100 taco options from over 25 food vendors, along with margaritas, palomas, craft cocktails, and live music throughout the weekend.
Attendees will enjoy lucha libre wrestling, mariachi bands, mural artists, and even a taco-eating contest. It’s a family-friendly event—and dogs are welcome on leashes. Kids under 13 go free and general admission starts at $7 with various VIP options. Prices do go up at the gate so book ahead to get the best deal.
St. Pete Pride Festival (June 1–29, 2025)
Celebrate love, diversity, and community all month long at the St. Pete Pride Festival, returning this June for its 23rd year. Throughout the city of St. Petersburg, the festival will host events including concerts, parades, art shows, and community gatherings, with major highlights like the Friday Night Concert on June 27, the Pride Parade and Trans March on June 28, and the Sunday Street Fair on June 29.
This iconic event draws thousands and supports the LGBTQ+ community and allies. For updates, schedules, and ticketed event info, visit the St. Pete Pride website.
Events and Festivals in Tampa:
Keel Farms Blueberry Festival (Every Sat & Sun in April 2025)
Nothing says spring better than the sweet taste of perfectly ripe blueberries. Keel Farms savor this time by hosting the annual Blueberry Festival in Plant City, with events running every Saturday and Sunday throughout April from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
This free, family-friendly event features blueberry picking, a blueberry shortcake eating contest, and a host of farm activities including camel rides, bounce houses, and a petting zoo. Local vendors, food trucks, and Keel and Curley’s signature blueberry wines round out the experience.
Admission is free, with parking available on-site for $10 per vehicle. It’s the perfect day out for families, foodies, and fans of Florida-grown produce.
Tampa Bay Wine & Food Festival (April 8 – 12, 2025)
The Tampa Bay Wine and Food Festival is a culinary celebration that brings together top chefs, winemakers, and spirits producers for five delicious days of tastings, dinners, and waterfront events.
From curated wine pairings to signature tasting nights under the stars, this festival showcases the best of Tampa’s culinary scene. Proceeds benefit the Community Initiatives Foundation’s EAT SMART campaign, which supports youth wellness in the area.
You’ll find organised events in Tampa and St. Petersburg, drawing a crowd of food lovers and industry insiders. For full schedules and tickets, visit the official festival website.
Tampa Bay Black Heritage Music Festival (April 27–28, 2025)
Now in its 25th year, the Tampa Bay Black Heritage Music Festival returns to Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park for two days of soulful celebration on April 27 and 28, 2025. From noon to midnight each day, guests can enjoy an incredible mix of live performances by national and local Black artists across genres, along with food trucks, art vendors, and cultural exhibitions. The festival honors African American heritage through music, community, and education. Admission details and performance schedules will be available soon at tampablackheritage.org. Located in the heart of downtown Tampa, the venue is accessible via parking garages and public transportation.
Tampa Caribbean Carnival (April 12, 2025)
The 20th Annual Tampa Caribbean Carnival is a joyful explosion of color, rhythm, and island spirit, held at Perry Harvey Sr. Park. Experience the vibrant parade featuring masqueraders in elaborate costumes dancing through the streets, then enjoy an evening of live Caribbean music with performers like Alison Hinds, Lyrikal, Mical Teja, and more.
The park transforms into a cultural village with authentic Caribbean food vendors, arts, crafts, and family-friendly fun, as this is one of the biggest and most popular annual Tampa events. This celebration of Caribbean heritage is free for kids under 5 to attend, though various tiered admission and VIP options are available for youths and adults. Street and garage parking is available nearby, but carpooling or rideshares are recommended as it does draw quite a crowd.
5th Annual Juneteenth Festival (June 16 – 21, 2025)
Presented by Roc the Block Inc., the 5th Annual Juneteenth Festival brings together the community for a powerful and joyful celebration of freedom and Black culture.
Featuring live music, spoken word, dance performances, and family activities, this free event honors the legacy of Juneteenth and promotes education and unity. Guests can also explore local vendors, cultural food stalls, and historical exhibits.
Various events, seminars, and performances will take place over the five days, ranging in price from free to $300. A full itinerary can be found here.
Which Spring Events in Venice, Florida Will You Make It To?
From arts festivals to outdoor adventures and flavorful food events, spring in Venice and the surrounding Gulf Coast is full of excitement. It’s the perfect time to soak up sunshine, enjoy the warm breeze, and explore everything Southwest Florida has to offer. Whether you’re a visitor or a local, don’t miss your chance to celebrate the season in true Florida style!
We’d love to know which events made it on to your calendar. Share your photos from local Florida events on Facebook and tag us in them @ThatFloridaLife
