Summer continues in full swing, bringing fun and exciting activities to the Bradenton area. From 4th of July celebrations to festivals, fundraisers, and more – there truly is something for everyone. Check out our round-up of 20 cool things to do in July, then mark your calendars and start making those plans!
1. 4th of July Parade & Water Fight
Thursday, July 4th from 10 AM to 12 PM
Anna Maria Island, Florida
Ahoy there, mateys! The AMI Privateers invite you to celebrate our country’s birthday with a splash.
THIS PARADE INVOLVES WATER!! For those who want to participate in the water fight, parade spectators can “attack” the parade floats, and floats “attack” the parade spectators using SAFE water toys in a modern day pirate battle!! 
The parade starts at 10 am and runs from Coquina Beach (North Entrance) to City Pier Park on Anna Maria Island.
2. 4th of July Celebration on the Bradenton Riverwalk
Thursday, July 4th from 3 pm to 9:30 pm
Bradenton Riverwalk: 452 3rd Avenue West Bradenton, FL 34205
Celebrate the 4th of July with live music featuring Nashville recording star, Emmit Stevens from 3 pm to 6 pm and 22N – The Ultimate Party Band from 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm performing from the Heintz Law Stage. Hosted on the Bradenton Riverwalk for the first time, with an amazing view of the fireworks display right on the river!! This event is FREE and open to the public. There will also be food and merchant vendors available for your dining and shopping pleasure.
3. 4th of July Fireworks & Independence Day Buffet at Pier 22
Thursday, July 4th at 7 PM
Pier 22 Restaurant – Patio – Ballroom: 1200 1st Ave W. Bradenton, FL 34205
Get ready to light up the night and celebrate the 4th of July at Pier 22! Start your evening with a delicious Independence Day buffet at their waterside terrace, and enjoy eat-all-you-can favorites & soft drinks in a festive atmosphere. The main event will follow – with a stunning red, white, and blue fireworks display over the Manatee River. You’ll have the best view of the pyrotechnic display with a reserved table. Make sure to RSVP in advance to secure your spot at this exclusive event.
4. Red, White and Boom! at The Bishop
Thursday, July 4th from 7 pm to 10 pm
The Bishop Museum: 201 10th St W, Bradenton, FL 34205
Looking for a safe and spectacular way to celebrate the Fourth of July? Look no further than The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature! This is a great way to snag a prime spot for the fireworks display. You’ll also have the opportunity to get out of the heat and enjoy a dazzling 30-minute display of lasers and music in the planetarium (included with VIP tickets and available to purchase for general admission). There will also be food trucks and a selection of beers, wines, and soft drinks available for purchase at the bar. Learn more and get your tickets now!
5. Palmetto 4th Fest
Thursday, July 4th from 5 pm to 10 pm
Palmetto Riverside Park, 801 Riverside Drive, Palmetto, FL 34221
This year, the 13th annual Palmetto 4th Fest will be held at a new venue! Head over to Riverside Park and enjoy live music, food trucks, vendors, and a Beer & Beverage Garden hosted by De Soto Historical Society. This year, have fun with the whole family with a Book Bus, face painting, bubbles galore, and a Kids Zone.
Live music and activities kick off at 5pm followed by the dazzling fireworks show around 9 pm off the Green Bridge Pier. This is a free event. No coolers, tents, or outside alcohol allowed. Bring your chairs and blankets for a comfortable and fun-filled evening.
6. Manatee Players Auditions
Sunday and Monday, July 7th and 8th from 7 PM to 10 PM
Manatee Performing Arts Center: 502 Third Avenue W Bradenton, FL 34205
The Manatee Players are opening auditions for their thrilling fall season, featuring four fantastic shows: The Fantasticks,” “Merrily We Roll Along,” “On Golden Pond,” and “The Wizard of Oz.”
Auditions will take place at the Manatee Performing Arts Center in downtown Bradenton, starting at 7 PM each night. Actors will audition in the order they arrive. They should prepare a song, and be ready for any movement requirements. Callbacks will be announced on the same evening. Video auditions can be sent to Rick Kerby at artisticdirector@manateeperformingartscenter.com by 4 PM on July 5th.
Roles are non-paid and open to ages 13 and older. Interested individuals should be able to commit to the full rehearsal and performance schedules. This is a great opportunity for aspiring performers to shine on stage with the Manatee Players.
7. 5th Annual Cornhole and Cocktails
Saturday, July 13th from 3 PM to 7 PM
Manatee County Fairgrounds: 1402 14th Avenue West, Palmetto, FL 34221
The Manatee Sunrise Kiwanis Club invites everyone to the 5th Annual Cornhole & Cocktails Festival at the Manatee County Fairgrounds! This popular event features an exciting indoor cornhole tournament hosted by MVP Sports and Social Club, along with live music, delicious food, refreshing drinks, and raffle prizes. Guests ages 21 and older can sample a wide variety of food and beverages from local restaurants, breweries, wineries, and distilleries.
Players can join as partners or free agents, with registration required upon ticket purchasing via Eventbrite. This FUNdraiser will benefit the Manatee Sunrise Kiwanis Club and their Kiwanis Against Hunger program.
8. Summer Mini Market (Summer Santa)
Saturday, July 13th from 8 AM to 12 PM
Old Main Street Bradenton FL 34205
Enjoy Christmas in July at the Summer Santa Mini Market hosted by Realize Bradenton. Be amazed as real snow falls, creating a festive wonderland experience. Mayor Santa and First Lady Claus will be there in their festive summer attire, ready to take photos with guests. There will also be holiday-themed games where everyone can win prizes, making it a fun-filled day for everyone.
The market will feature activities and booths from several community partners, including Manatee County Libraries, The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, The Humane Society of Manatee County, the Village of the Arts, and the Bradenton Police Department. These organizations will provide interactive and educational experiences, adding fun to the community spirit. This event is FREE and open to the public.
9. Summer & Soul: Summer Night Flea & Music Fest @ Oscura
Saturday, July 13th from 6 PM to 10 PM
Oscura: 816 Manatee Ave E Bradenton, FL 34208
Mark your calendars for Summer & Soul: Summer Night Flea & Music Fest Series, an event brought to you by the Friendly City Flea and Oscura. This family-friendly event brings you an evening of soulful melodies and unique market finds.
Inside Oscura, enjoy a lineup of live music featuring genres like soul, R&B, jazz, and funk, hosted by Lémon Royale with special guest Nasja Moné.
Step outside and explore the vibrant artisan market from Friendly City Flea, enjoy food trucks serving a variety of delicious eats, and engage with nonprofit community partners. It’s the perfect summer night destination!
10. Pride Night at LECOM Park
Saturday, July 13th at 5:30 PM
LECOM Park: 1611 9th St W, Bradenton, FL 34205
Celebrate Pride Night at LECOM Park as the Bradenton Marauders take on the Jupiter Hammerheads with gates opening at 5:30 PM. Be sure to arrive early so you can join the colorful Pride Parade and explore the festivities at Pride in the Plaza. For $15, enjoy a fun game, receive a Bradenton Marauders hat and a Pepsi drink voucher – get your tickets here.
In partnership with ALSO Youth, Project Pride SRQ, Orenda Health & Wellness, The Fabulous Arts Foundation, PFLAG Sarasota, and more, this event offers a night of unity and celebration for everyone.
11. Discover Bradenton Networking Event
Wednesday, July 17th from 5 PM to 7 PM
Linger Lodge Restaurant & Bar: 7205 85th Street Court East Bradenton, FL 34202
Join Discover Bradenton for a fun and casual happy hour at one of Bradenton’s unique dining spots – The Linger Lodge Restaurant! Enjoy delicious lite bites, exciting door prizes, and a cash bar in a casual and friendly setting.
This is one of Bradenton’s most popular networking events. Don’t forget to bring your business cards and make some fantastic connections with other business owners and nonprofit representatives. The event is free for Discover Bradenton members and only $10 for visitors. Get your tickets here.
12. Cooking for Charity
Thursday, July 18th from 5:30 PM to 8 PM
Meals on Wheels PLUS: 811 23rd Avenue East, Bradenton, FL 34208
Take a culinary journey this summer with Chef Kymberli Lample, also known as “The Chefette SRQ” during the Cooking for Charity event at Meals on Wheels PLUS. Born and raised in this community, Chef Kymberli brings her passion for local flavors to every dish she creates using fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Her personalized culinary experiences cater to various dietary preferences ensuring each guest enjoys their dining experience.
Guests will enjoy an interactive cooking show, followed by a gourmet dinner paired with fine wines. Register now to secure your spot and have the opportunity to be selected to participate in the cooking show demonstration with Chef Kymberlie herself. Tickets are available for $50 per person until July 8th, and $60 thereafter, with sales closing on July 15th.
13. Loveland Center Summer Dance
Friday, July 19th from 6 PM to 8 PM
Manatee Performing Arts Center: 502 3rd Ave W Bradenton, FL 34205
Loveland Center in Manatee Country, in partnership with The Manatee Performing Arts Center, presents the Summer Dance. This special event is FREE for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities aged 16 years and older, offering a welcoming and warm environment where everyone can enjoy an evening of music, dancing, socializing, and fun.
Celebrate the summer season in an inclusive and supportive environment filled with lively tunes and great company with the community. RSVPs are required. Learn more and sign up here.
14. Christmas in July with the AMI Privateers
Saturday, July 20th from 6 PM to 10 PM
Drift-In AMI: 120 Bridge St, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217
Get ready to celebrate the summer season with a festive twist! Join the Anna Maria Island Privateers & Drift-In AMI for their annual Christmas in July fundraiser event. Beat the summer heat and join the festivities by eating, drinking, and being merry with Santa and his Privateer Helpers. This event will also feature a Lotto Board, raffle baskets, and a $5 appetizer buffet from local restaurants, making this a fun-filled event for all attendees.
All funds raised during this special event will benefit Christmas Families and the AMI Privateers’ Pirates for Kids & Community mission. Celebrate Christmas in July all for a great cause! No need to RSVP, just come on down and enjoy the festivities – the more the merrier!
15. Repticon Bradenton
Saturday and Sunday, July 20th and July 21st from 9 AM to 4 PM
Bradenton Area Convention Center: 1 Haben Blvd Palmetto, FL 34221
Step into the wild world of reptiles and exotic animals at Repticon Bradenton! This event is a must-visit for reptile enthusiasts and wildlife adventurers. Explore a diverse array of live animals from all over the globe, learn more about these fascinating creatures, and take advantage of exclusive deals on pets and supplies straight from the experts.
Whether you’re looking to add a new family pet or you just want to look at these incredible creatures, Repticon Bradenton provides family-friendly entertainment for everyone. get your tickets here for this fun summer event.
16. Wine Tasting Dinners at Mademoiselle Paris
Thursday, July 25th from 6:30 PM to 9 PM at the UTC Location: 8527 Cooper Creek Blvd, Bradenton, FL 34201
Friday, July 26th from 6:30 PM to 9 PM at the AMI Location: 9906 Gulf Dr, Anna Maria, FL 34216
Experience an exquisite evening of French elegance at Bordeaux Rive Gauche Wine Tasting hosted at Mademoiselle Paris. Choose from two dinners, happening July 25th at their UTC Location and July 26th at their AMI Location.
Begin your evening with an aperitif and appetizer, followed by a delicious four-course meal paired with four glasses of fine wine. Throughout the evening, Jean – the passionate owner and wine connoisseur – will provide a detailed presentation of the region’s vineyard. Enjoy live French accordion music by Ryan, adding a more vibrant ambiance as you eat. Secure your seat for an evening celebrating fine wine, gourmet cuisine, and culture.
17. Family Fun Night
Friday, July 26th from 6 PM to 9 PM
GT Bray Park: 5502 33rd Avenue Drive West, Bradenton, FL
On July 26th, GT Bray Park will be transformed into a fun playground, buzzing with activities for the entire family. Enjoy inflatables, a foam play area, face painting, and plenty of crafts. One Night Rodeo will provide a free concert, adding to the festive atmosphere. Plus, don’t miss the backpack giveaway (while supplies last) and delicious foods from local food trucks.
In addition to the outdoor activities, the park’s pool, Walton Racquet Center, fitness center, and recreation facility will also be open. Cool down the summer heat with music, food, fun, and community.
18. RASM (Realtor) Leadership Academy Beach Clean-Up
Saturday, July 27th from 7 AM to 9 AM
South Coquina Boat Ramp: 1465 Gulf Dr. S, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217
Be part of something great by joining the RASM 2024 Leadership Academy and Florida Realtors for a Beach Clean-Up. Volunteers will gather at Coquina Beach Boat Ramp, bright and early at 7 AM. Everyone is invited to come together and help maintain the cleanliness of the coastal waterways. Don’t forget to bring your reusable water bottles – ’cause it will be hot!
Everyone who registers for the event will receive a free t-shirt and a Daquiri Deck drink ticket (while supplies last) as a token of appreciation for their hard work and passion for the community. Register now and join a morning of cleaning, connecting, and conserving our beaches.
19. De Soto Bingo Bonanza
Saturday, July 27th at 6 PM
Central Cafe: 906 Manatee Ave E Bradenton, FL 34208
Everyone’s favorite event – the De Soto Bingo Bonanza is back and ready to bring a night of excitement and prizes! This annual event is set to be better than ever with new upgrades that will take fun to the next level.
Make sure to bring plenty of cash, as this is a cash-only event where the stakes are high and the rewards even higher. The games will start at 7 PM, but everyone is encouraged to arrive early. Central Cafe will offer food and drink specials at 6 PM so you can eat while socializing with fellow participants before the games. This even may sell out, so don’t delay! Sign up here.
20. SRQ Women’s Expo
Saturday, July 27th from 6:30 PM to 9 PM and Sunday, July 28th from 12 PM to 5 PM
Ritz Carlton: 1111 Ritz Carlton Dr, Sarasota, FL 34236
Prepare to be inspired at the SRQ Women’s Expo. This event invites women of the community to experience a weekend of learning, networking, and relaxation in one luxurious setting. As the SRQ Women’s Expo enters its second year, it aims to elevate the experience with new features and activities.
The festivities begin with a vibrant Cocktail Reception on July 27th, exclusively for adults 21 and over. The main event on July 28th welcomes women 18 and above to participate in a day filled with enlightening workshops, motivational speakers, and connection opportunities with local businesses.
General admission is priced at $10. For a more personalized experience, the Lunch & Learn ticket is available for $100, featuring in-depth sessions and a gourmet meal. Sign up here to join the SRQ Women’s Expo, where inspiration meets opportunity.
There you have it – our Top 20 Cool Things to Do in Bradenton this July! Mark your calendars and bookmark this page, so you don’t miss a thing. Looking for even more? We update our Event Calendar every day, so check back often!
