Last Updated July 17, 2025
Temps are up, flip-flops are on, and Florida has officially slid into its steamy, sun-drenched summer season. Yes, it’s hot—but that’s half the fun! Summer here means salty breezes, popsicles melting faster than you can eat them, and that glorious mix of sunscreen and sea air. Whether you’re soaking up the rays at the beach or escaping into an air-conditioned theatre, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy Southwest Florida in the summer months.
We’re all about finding the best ways to live that Florida life – so we’ve curated our top picks for summer events in Florida’s southwest areas. This is your go-to guide for Summer events in Venice Florida, as well as Wellen Park, Sarasota, and beyond—think fireworks, live music, tropical night markets, foodie fests, and more. Grab your shades, your calendar, and maybe a handheld fan—let’s dive in!
Summer Events in Venice, Florida
Regular and Recurring Events in Venice, Florida
Throughout the summer, Venice continues to host its popular weekly happenings—perfect for both locals and visitors. The farmers markets offer the freshest produce and local artisan goods, while Yoga on the Beach brings early-morning zen by the Gulf. Monthly outdoor movie screenings and the fabulous Friday Night Concert Series fills downtown parks with live music as the sun sets, and history buffs will want to join the weekly Downtown History Tours, including the tantalizing Historic Culinary Tours.
Speaking of tours, new to the rotation this year are the fabulous Shark’s Teeth & More Family Adventure Tour where you’ll explore the shores of South Brohard and Caspersen Beach on this guided fossil—shark’s tooth—hunting expedition. Held every Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, 9 am–12:30 pm, the outing includes gear and tips to find prehistoric treasures, plus a short drive downtown to enhance the fossil-hunting experience. A fun, educational morning for families, tide-pool explorers, and adventurers.
There’s no shortage of ways to spend your days. You can find the full run-down of these regular events, and more, featured in our spring and winter events roundups.
Major Summer Events in Venice, Florida
Beyond the regular weekly happenings, summer in Venice brings a lineup of unique and exciting events—some are seasonal favorites that locals look forward to every year, while others are special one-off experiences you won’t want to miss. Here are a few standout summer events happening around Venice, Florida.
Venice 4th of July Fireworks (July 4)
Celebrate Independence Day with a stunning 20-minute fireworks show over the Gulf, launched from North Brohard Beach. Best viewing is from Venice Beach, Brohard Park, Maxine Barritt Park, and the Fishing Pier. Arrive early for free parking at public lots nearby as space fills fast. Note that there is no seating allowed on the pier. The show is free, family-friendly, and accessible.
Christmas in July (July 11 & 12)
Ready for a dose of holiday cheer in the middle of summer? Downtown Venice turns up the festive charm with its annual Christmas in July celebration—a sun-drenched, family-friendly event packed with activities, giveaways, and surprises. This two-day event transforms the historic downtown area into a merry wonderland of tropical holiday spirit. Think Santa in shades, elves on the loose, and sleigh bells paired with flip-flops!
Wander the streets while enjoying retail sales, festive drinks, live entertainment, and themed activities. Don’t miss the Elf Scavenger Hunt (download the sheet ahead of time!) where the kids can track down mischievous elves at participating stores and earn a free cookie from Venice Wine & Coffee Company.
Highlights include ornament-making workshops at Venice Theatre, Lunch with Santa (Friday at Bodrum and Saturday at Daiquiri Deck), and photo ops at the fire station and farmers market. Plus, enjoy specials and giveaways at over 30 participating downtown shops and eateries.
And yes—there’s even Kona Ice, raffle baskets, and a Family Fun Day at the Venice Art Center. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a little mid-year magic!
16th Annual Labor Day Weekend Venice Craft Festival (August 30 & 31)
Soak up summer with one of Venice’s most beloved traditions—the Labor Day Weekend Venice Craft Festival! Now in its 16th year, this two-day outdoor event brings local charm and creative energy to the heart of downtown. Stroll along historic Miami Avenue and explore rows of artisan tents filled with handmade jewelry, pottery, paintings, décor, wearable art, soaps, candles, and more—all crafted by independent artists from across the region.
The festival is free to attend and runs from 10 AM to 4 PM both days, making it a perfect way to spend a leisurely weekend supporting small makers and soaking in the Venice sunshine. Expect a festive atmosphere with live music, friendly crowds, and plenty of spots to stop for lunch or a cool drink along the way.
Parking is free and plentiful throughout downtown, with nearby public lots and street parking available—just come early for the best spots.
Venice Beach Party (September 27, 2025)
Say goodbye to summer with your toes in the sand at the Venice Beach Party! This family-friendly afternoon bash is a local favorite, bringing live music, food trucks, and laid-back vibes to one of the most beautiful beaches on the Gulf Coast. With bands playing throughout the afternoon, a variety of beach games and kid-friendly activities, and delicious eats from local vendors, this is the perfect way to spend a sunny seaside Saturday.
Make sure to bring beach chairs and blankets so you can kick back comfortably and enjoy the show. Note that coolers and pets are not allowed, and the event will go on rain or shine, so come prepared either way! The event runs from 1 PM til 6 PM and for added convenience, a free trolley will run to and from Centennial Park to help ease parking worries.
Wellen Park Events and Festivals Summer 2025
Summer is the perfect time to soak in everything Wellen Park has to offer—from its stunning natural beauty to the growing lineup of fun, community-focused events. With warm evenings, glowing sunsets, and the lake as a backdrop, it’s easy to see why this area has become such a buzzing social hub.
Sundays come alive with the Downtown Wellen Farmers Market around Grand Lake, featuring fresh produce, artisan foods, flowers, handmade crafts, and family-friendly activities. Music lovers won’t want to miss the monthly Dueling Pianos at Solis Hall, a lively, interactive evening of sing-alongs and laughs held every third Thursday. For those focused on wellness, Wellen Park offers a variety of outdoor group fitness events—from Saturday Yoga on the Lawn to Monday Zumba by the Lake, plus running and cycling groups—all open to all skill levels and ages. And car enthusiasts can enjoy the monthly Cars & Caffeine show, showcasing vintage and unique vehicles from 8 AM til 11 AM each first Saturday (starting back from September 6th).
Beyond these ongoing favorites, two standout events—the lively Night Market and the engaging Solis Hall Summer Series—bring extra excitement and unique experiences throughout the summer.
Solis Hall Summer Concert Series
Wellen Park’s Solis Hall Summer Series offers a variety of weekday events every Monday and Tuesday through July, August, and September. Enjoy hands-on workshops, wellness sessions, and cultural programs designed to engage and connect the community. Whether you’re interested in creative crafts, yoga, or local arts, there’s something for everyone.
A highlight of the series is the Friday Night Jazz Cabaret, featuring intimate live jazz performances —perfect for a relaxing summer evening. Check the Wellen Park events calendar for schedules and ticket information to plan your visit.
Night Market at Wellen Park
On the second Thursday of every month, the Night Market transforms Downtown Wellen into an evening festival filled with artisan booths, food trucks, live music, and glowing string lights over the lake. It’s the perfect way to enjoy Florida’s balmy summer nights while shopping local.
Southwest Florida Events & Festivals in 2025
Summer Events in Sarasota
Summer Circus Spectacular (June 13 – Aug 9)
Step right up to the Summer Circus Spectacular in Sarasota. Presented by The Circus Arts Conservatory and The Ringling, the performance features world-class circus artists from Sarasota and beyond, dazzling audiences with acrobatics, juggling, aerial feats, and more. Held at the intimate Historic Asolo Theater, it’s a chance to see top-tier talent up close in a beautiful setting. With both daytime and evening shows available, it’s easy to fit into any summer schedule. Tickets are affordable at just $20 per adult and $15 for kids under 12, making it a perfect family outing or a unique cultural experience.
Red, White & Food Festival (July 3)
Kick off your 4th of July celebration early at the Red, White & Food Festival on Thursday, July 3. Held in Parking Lot 4 at The Mall at University Town Center, this family-friendly event runs from 4–9 PM and features 40+ food trucks, live entertainment, and a patriotic tailgate party. End the night with a spectacular view of the fireworks over Nathan Benderson Park—bring your lawn chairs and your red, white, and blue spirit!
15th Annual Sarasota Improv Festival (July 18–19)
Get ready to laugh—the Sarasota Improv Festival is back at Florida Studio Theatre, July 18–19! Now in its 15th year, this high-energy weekend brings together 17 top improv troupes and over 80 performers from around the world. Expect two days packed with 29 hilarious shows, interactive workshops, and spontaneous moments you won’t forget.
Single tickets start at just $10 per show, or you can save with a Festival Saver Pass—perfect if you want to catch multiple acts. It’s all happening in Downtown Sarasota, and every performance is completely unscripted—no two shows are the same. A must for comedy lovers or anyone looking for a fun, fresh experience this summer!
Sarasota Opera Food & Wine Festival (September 27)
Get a taste of Sarasota’s vibrant culinary scene at the Sarasota Opera Food & Wine Festival. This fun, community-centered event invites you to sample bites from top local eateries and sip on a curated selection of wines—all while supporting the talented young voices of the Sarasota Youth Opera.
Held at the beautiful Sarasota Opera House in the heart of downtown, the festival runs from 1 PM until 4 PM and offers something for every palate. General admission is $75 in advance or $85 at the door. And if you want a little something extra then VIP tickets ($150) include early access and special seating so you can skip the lines and relax in style.
Whether you’re a foodie, a wine lover, or an arts supporter, this event is a delicious way to give back and enjoy Sarasota’s cultural flair.
Fort Myers Events & Festivals This Summer
Bayside Park Concert Series (July 13 & 20)
Enjoy live tunes against gorgeous beach and sunset backdrops from 4-7 PM at Bayside Park, Fort Myers Beach. Admission is free and attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and leashed pets for a laid-back evening of acoustic and classic-rock performances. There is convenient parking near Matanzas Pass Bridge, with nearby restaurants and bars making it easy to grab dinner before or after. The event is weather-permitting so be sure to check the official event page for updates.
6th Annual Swing Out of Summer Golf Tournament (August 8)
Swing out of summer with a fun-filled tournament featuring a Hole‑in‑One contest where you can win up to $10K, “Beat the Pro” challenge, raffle, and a BBQ buffet. Played in teams of up to six, with packages priced from $150 to $1,200, this event raises funds for local charities. Space is limited and participants must book by August 1 via the official site.
Island Hopper Songwriter Festival (Sept 19–28)
Spanning venues from Captiva to Downtown Fort Myers, Island Hopper features 60+ live performances by top singer-songwriters, including Grammy-nominated acts like Chris Young and LOCASH. Most daytime concerts and beach shows are free, with select ticketed events offering intimate poolside acoustics and brunches. A free shuttle service and a dedicated app make navigating the festival easy, which was ranked a Top 5 U.S. music festival in 2024 .
Punta Gorda Events
Pineapple Fest (July 26, 2025)
Celebrate summer with tropical vibes at Pineapple Fest! Held at the lush Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens in Punta Gorda, this fun-filled event features live steel pan and reggae music, plus cold drinks, local vendors, plant sales, and pineapple-themed contests. Show off your skills in the “Biggest Homegrown Pineapple” and “Best Pineapple Recipe” contests, and sample tasty bites from local food trucks.
General admission includes all festivities and under 5 and members go free. Tickets are available online or at the gate. Bring your own chairs or blankets and dress in your best pineapple gear for a truly tropical day!
Events in St. Petersburg, Florida
Dunedin Food Tour (Every Saturday & Sunday)
Discover the heart and flavor of charming Dunedin on a guided walking food tour, happening every Saturday and Sunday until September 2026. This leisurely tour takes you to 5–6 locally loved eateries and craft breweries, where you’ll sample signature bites like hogfish sliders and chef’s daily creations, along with small-batch beers and more.
Along the way, you’ll hear fascinating stories about Dunedin’s rich Scottish heritage and its scenic location along the Pinellas Trail. Each stop is independently owned, offering a personal touch and unique flavors you won’t find anywhere else. It’s a delicious way to explore one of Florida’s most walkable waterfront towns. Book your spot early—tours fill up fast!
Tampa Bay Ice Cream Festival (July 20)
Cool down with the ultimate summer treat at the Tampa Bay Ice Cream Festival, held in celebration of National Ice Cream Day! Taking place at the scenic Spa Beach Park on the St. Pete Pier. This fun, family-friendly event brings together more than a dozen local vendors serving up all kinds of frozen goodies—think creamy soft serve, small-batch scoops, refreshing gelato, popsicles, and plenty more cool treats.
Admission is free and open to the public, and all frozen treats are available for purchase. Enjoy waterfront views while sampling your way through the best St Pete and Tampa Bay has to offer, then cast your vote for the “Best Ice Cream Award.”
There’s live entertainment and plenty of shady spots to kick back, making it a great outing for everyone. You’ll find public parking nearby in the Pier lots and downtown garages. Arrive early to beat the heat and the lines—this is one sweet event you won’t want to miss!
Great St. Pete Cupcake Contest (August 23)
Got a sweet tooth? The Great St. Pete Cupcake Contest is back for its 14th year at the Morean Arts Center, and it’s always a fun (and delicious) way to spend a summer afternoon. Pre-register to get your hands on a 12-pack of mini cupcakes made by local bakers—from kids and home bakers to pros and plant-based creators. You’ll get to sample each one and vote for your favorite in the People’s Choice Award.
Thinking of entering as a baker? Go for it! It’s just $15 per flavor, and judging happens before the public arrives. Just be sure to sign up before August 1—this event fills up fast every year.
Tampa Events and Festivals
Bolts Brew Fest (August 1)
Beer meets hockey at the annual Bolts Brew Fest, returning to AMALIE Arena on Friday, August 1, 2025! Hosted by the Tampa Bay Lightning, this craft beer celebration features more than 50 breweries serving up hundreds of beers from local, national, and international brands. Wander through the arena floor and concourse as you sip, play oversized games, snap photos, and soak in the lively atmosphere.
As well as General Admission, and General Admission Plus, VIP tickets are available and include early access, exclusive brews in the Ashley VIP Lounge, bonus food options, and a BOGO ticket for a preseason Lightning game. Tickets tend to go fast, so grab yours early and toast to an unforgettable night inside Tampa Bay’s favorite arena!
Tampa Bay Comic & Pop Culture Convention (August 1 – 3)
If you’re into comics, cosplay, or all things pop culture, Tampa Bay Comic Con is definitely worth checking out. It’s a fun three-day event where you can wander through artist booths, catch celebrity panels, snap pics with your favorite characters, and maybe even pick up something cool from the vendor floor.
Whether you’re there for autographs, photo ops, or just to people-watch some epic cosplay, there’s always something going on. Hours run from noon to 10 PM on Friday, 10 AM to 10 PM Saturday, and 10 AM to 5 PM Sunday—so you’ve got plenty of time to soak it all in.
Choose from General Admission, VIP, Ruby Pass, or Multipass—VIP perks include early entry, collectible swag, and VIP panel seating. Parking is available in nearby garages and on-street, with easy access to I-275 and public transit. Bring your cosplay, imagination, and game face—this is one weekend every fan looks forward to!
710 Dab Day Festival (July 12)
Celebrate good vibes and alternative wellness at the annual 710 Dab Day Festival. It’s a chilled summer evening at the Cuban Club, featuring live music —expect electronica meets bass-heavy grooves. The event runs until 11:30 PM and sprinkles in a curated cultural vendor market, glassblowing demos, and interactive art installations.
Top medical marijuana treatment centers and MMJ doctors will be on-site to educate and answer questions in a welcoming, informative setting. Whether you’re exploring holistic wellness or just here for the atmosphere, this community-driven festival is sure to be insightful. Entrants must be 18+ and vendors 21+. Tickets start at $35, with VIP access at 4 PM for early entry.
2025 Summer Events in Southwest Florida
Summer events in Venice, Florida, bring the perfect mix of fun, flavor, and community spirit. Whether you’re exploring local festivals, enjoying live music, or spending time with family outdoors, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of the season. These events are a great excuse to get out, meet new people, and create lasting memories. Keep an eye on what’s happening, and dive into all the exciting summer happenings Venice, and surrounding areas, have in store for you!
We’d love to know which summer events in Venice, Florida, you’re planning to check out! Share your pics and stories from the fun on Facebook and tag us @ThatFloridaLife — we’re excited to see what you get up to!
