It’s been a rough start to the month in Manatee County, and our hearts go out to everyone who continues to be impacted by Hurricane Helene. While we considered skipping this month’s article, we also recognize that now, more than ever, it’s important to support our local businesses and organizations.
In light of several events potentially being canceled over the coming weeks, we’re bringing you a shortened list of activities for the month. Take a look at our run-down of the 15 Cool Things to Do in the month of October.
NOTE: Some of these events may still be subject to cancellation. We will do our best to keep this page updated as we learn about any changes.
1. Music in the Park – Fall Concerts
Every Friday of the Month from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM
Bradenton Riverwalk Pavilion: 452 3rd Ave W, Bradenton, FL 34205
Mark your calendars for the Fall Music in the Park Concerts by Realize Bradenton every Friday evening from October 4 to October 25, at the Bradenton Riverwalk Pavilion. This family-friendly event invites you to bring a chair or blanket and even your furry friends with leashes for a relaxing night of music.
Each week features a different band, starting with Latin funk from Mama Fuma, an ABBA tribute, country tunes from the Eric Von Band, and reggae beats by Jah Movement. Local food vendors will be serving up grilled cheese, kettle corn, and more, so come out and enjoy the music, food, and fun in the park!
2. The Downtown Bradenton Public Market Returns
The Downtown Bradenton Public Market returns in October for the 2024-2025 season! Each Saturday from 9 am to 2 pm, you’ll find fresh produce, local art, music, and free family activities on Old Main Street.
To prepare for your visit, check out this list of Market Vendors and the Market Schedule for each week’s live music and special “Magic Market” events. On Saturday, October 26th, bring the kids out for Halloween at the Market, with Trick or Treating with the market vendors – while the candy lasts.
3. Cattle Baron’s Ball
Saturday, October 5th from 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM
Manatee County Fair: 1402 14th Ave W, Palmetto, FL 34221
Join the 3rd Annual Cattle Baron’s Ball supporting Feeding Empty Little Tummies at the Manatee County Fairgrounds for an evening of country fun and entertainment!
This event will feature live country music from One Night Rodeo, dinner, dancing, raffles, and auctions. The night kicks off with a cocktail hour and line dancing instruction from 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM, followed by dinner and more dancing from 6:30 PM to 10:30 PM.
Enjoy a fun and unforgettable night while helping raise funds to feed children in need. Get your tickets here.
4. Stuff the Bus
Sunday, October 6th from 9 AM to 3 PM
All Manatee County Publix Locations
The Food Bank of Manatee, part of Meals on Wheels PLUS of Manatee, is holding its yearly Stuff The Bus event to help families who don’t have enough food. As prices and living costs go up, more people in the community are struggling with hunger.
Since 1985, the Food Bank has been helping those in need, and now they’re asking for help to gather donations. All donations made during Stuff The Bus will stay in Manatee County to support local families.
The event will happen on Sunday, October 6th, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at every Publix store in Manatee County, so plan to stop by and pick up a few extra items to donate. The need is great right now!
5. Fall Paint and Sip – UPDATED & RESCHEDULED
Now – October 14th – “Manatee Strong” –
Monday, October 14th from 6 PM to 8 PM
Mean Deans Local Kitchen: 6059 26th St W Bradenton, FL 34207
In times of change, it’s important for all of us to step up and support our neighbors and community. That’s why we’ve adjusted our schedule and painting theme to focus on “Florida Strong.”
Join us for a special night where 50% of the proceeds will go directly to the Manatee Community Foundation. Together, we can help make our community come back stronger and bolder than ever.
Let’s paint with a purpose and show our support for the place we call home. 
Please note, this event is not BYOB—so let us take care of the drinks while you focus on having a great time! Get your tickets here!
6. Edelweiss Oktoberfest
October 9th to 13 at different starting times
The Edelweiss Restaurant Bradenton: 611 Manatee Ave E Bradenton, FL 34208
Get ready for the best Oktoberfest celebration in Bradenton at The Edelweiss Restaurant! From October 9th to 13th, experience German culture with free admission – dress in your favorite German attire and come ready to enjoy a large beer tent, live entertainment, and authentic Oktoberfest food and drinks. Watch the German Schuhplattler dancers perform, and participate in fun contests such as the Best Dressed, Stein Holding, Lumberjack, and Chicken Dance.
The event features fun for all ages, including games, face painting for kids, and various vendors. Make sure to stay updated on our Facebook page for exclusive deals. The festival runs from 4 PM to 8 PM on October 9th to 11th, and from 12 PM to 8 PM on October 12th, with a grand finale on October 13th starting at noon. Seating is first-come, first-serve, so come early and enjoy the festivities!
7. Designer Bag Bingo
Thursday, October 10th from 5:30 PM to 6:15 PM
Hyatt Regency Sarasota: 1000 Boulevard of The Arts, Sarasota, FL 34236
Join Sisterhood For Good and DARCI Boutique for a glamorous night at the 5th Annual Designer Bag Bingo, now at the Hyatt Regency Sarasota! Enjoy a champagne celebration and dinner from 5:30 to 6:15 p.m., followed by bingo hosted by ABC7 News Anchor Summer Smith-Pope. With nine luxury handbags from brands like PRADA, Burberry, and Tory Burch up for grabs, this is a bingo night you won’t want to miss!
Get your tickets now – your ticket includes a buffet dinner, two drinks, and three bingo cards. You can also buy extra bingo cards to increase your chances of winning. The night will feature a runway show with fashions by DARCI Boutique, plus a silent and live auction. All proceeds benefit local nonprofits through Sisterhood For Good’s Annual Grants Program, so come out for a fun-filled evening that supports a great cause!
8. Second Sunday Swing Dance
Sunday, October 13th from 6 PM to 8:30 PM
Dance Alliance of Bradenton: 862 62nd St Cir E #103Bradenton, FL 34208
Swing your way into fun at the Second Sunday Swing Dance Party hosted by the Dance Alliance of Bradenton! This fun event is open to all — students, non-students, couples, and singles. Just come ready to have a great time! The evening kicks off with a free mini East Coast Swing class at 6:00 p.m., where Ballroom Master Susan Staton will teach “Just the Basics.”
For just $10, enjoy a lively evening of dancing, with snacks provided and BYOB allowed. Setups, water, and ice will be available for purchase. Grab your friends and dancing shoes and prepare for an unforgettable night of swing dancing.
9. Pink Together Breast Cancer Warriors Celebration
Sunday, October 13th from 11 AM to 3 PM
Motorworks Brewing: 1014 9th St. W, Bradenton, FL 34205
Join Men Wear Pink Ambassador Jonathan Marsh for the Pink Together: Breast Cancer Warriors Celebration at Motorworks Brewing! This free community event is a special tribute to honor breast cancer survivors and thrivers, celebrating their strength, resilience, and courage. the event is open to all local breast cancer warriors, offering a day filled with hope, inspiration, and unity.
The day will feature special activities like raffles, silent auctions, a 50/50 draw, and the exclusive “Pink Drink” created by Motorworks Brewing. Enjoy live music from Jami Gee and the Dr. Dave Band, creating a lively, uplifting atmosphere for all attendees. Proceeds from the event will benefit the American Cancer Society, contributing to vital breast cancer research and awareness efforts. Bring your friends and family for a day of community, music, and support for a cause that touches so many lives.
10. Friendly City Flea
Sunday, October 13th from 10 AM to 3 PM
Oscura: 816 Manatee Ave E Bradenton, FL 34208
Head over to Oscura for a day of fun and trick-or-treating at the Friendly City Flea: Trick or Treat Carnival! This free, family-friendly event brings together local artisans, musicians, and creatives in a lively outdoor market. Enjoy browsing unique, handmade goods while listening to live music, and don’t miss the Trick or Treat Carnival for the kids! Brunch, coffee, and cocktails will be available to keep you refreshed as you explore the market.
In addition to shopping, this event supports local non-profits and showcases the best of the Old Manatee neighborhood. Stop by favorite spots like Segunda Vida, Bat City Comic Professionals, and The Vintage Vine Market for even more treasures. Whether you’re hunting for one-of-a-kind finds or enjoying a fun Sunday outing, the Friendly City Flea has something for everyone!
11. Dog Prom to Benefit The Humane Society of Manatee
Saturday, October 19th from 5 PM to 9 PM
Caddy’s Bradenton: 801 Riverside Drive East Bradenton, FL 34208
Get ready to paw-ty at the 2024 Dog Prom at Caddys of Bradenton, hosted by Bayside Pet Resort! This Under the Sea themed event is all about fun, fashion, and raising money for The Humane Society of Manatee County. Guests can enjoy tasty food, refreshing drinks, and a dog buffet fit for royalty. Snap some photos with a professional photographer, dance to jams from the DJ, and catch the exciting dog fashion show—where the most stylish pups will compete for a chance to grace the cover of Suncoast Pet Magazine!
With exciting raffle prizes and all proceeds going directly to help rescue dogs in need, this event is not one to miss. Tickets are $30 per person – get your tickets here. Your four-legged date is more than welcome—as long as they’re up to date on vaccines. Dress to impress and dance the night away with your pup at this paw-some prom while making a difference for the community’s furry friends!
12. Kids’ Craft Days at Chicken Salad Chick
Saturday, October 19th from 9:30 AM to 11 AM
Chicken Salad Chick: 5434 Lockwood Ridge Road Bradenton, FL 34203
Bring the family to Kids’ Craft Days at Chicken Salad Chick in Bradenton for a morning of creativity and fun! kids will have the chance to decorate pumpkins and celebrate the season in style. This event is FREE, and families are encouraged to RSVP to secure their spots. Remember, children must be accompanied by an adult to join the crafting fun!
After the craft session, keep the family fun going by staying for lunch—kids eat free with each adult purchase on Craft Days! Plus, don’t forget that kids eat free every Thursday with an adult meal purchase. Enjoy a delicious meal and quality time with your family at Chicken Salad Chick!
13. Rhea Lana Fall/Winter Family Shopping Extravaganza
Saturday to Wednesday, October 19th to 23rd from 4 PM to 6 PM
Bradenton Area Convention Center: 1 Haben Blvd Palmetto, FL 34221
Rhea Lana’s of Manatee invites you to the Fall/Winter Family Shopping Extravaganza! Pre-sale tickets will be available for those who want early access to this amazing shopping event. Sign up for the text club to get a head start, or choose a free pass for entry. You’ll find everything your kids need at prices that can save you 60-90% off retail. Explore a wide variety of top brands, including Zara and Patagonia, with 55,000 items up for grabs from 450 families.
With various ticket options for pre-sale shopping and free entry days for the general public, there’s something for everyone. You can find clothing, toys, and other essentials for kids of all ages, plus special offers for military families and teachers. After the pre-sale, enjoy shopping without any tickets required. Don’t miss this opportunity to stock up on quality items at incredible prices—Rhea Lana’s is here to help you save while you shop!
14. Discover Bradenton October Networking Event – Orange Blossom Coffee
Wednesday, October 23rd from 5 PM to 7 PM
Orange Blossom Coffee: 1166 3rd Ave. W. Bradenton, FL 34205
Discover Bradenton invites you to join a casual networking happy hour at Orange Blossom Cafe in Downtown Bradenton. This event is a great way to relax and connect with others in the community. Guests can enjoy tasty lite bites, a cash bar, and exciting door prizes while mingling with fellow professionals.a
Bring plenty of business cards to share as you make new connections! The event is free for Discover Bradenton members, while visitors can join for just $10. It’s an excellent opportunity to meet new faces and expand your network in a welcoming environment!
15. Wines Around the World
Thursday, October 24th from 6 PM to 7:30 PM
Pier 22: 1200 1st Ave W. Bradenton, FL 34205
Wines Around the World at Pier 22 lets guests taste wines from top wineries while enjoying light snacks that go well with each wine. Each person will get four different wine samples (3 oz. each) and tasty hors d’oeuvres to make the experience even better. Plus, every ticket comes with a raffle ticket for a surprise giveaway, adding to the fun of the night.
Tickets cost $30 per person, plus tax and tip, and check-in begins at 6:00 PM on the second floor of the ballroom. The event will take place from 6:15 PM to 7:30 PM and has community tables, so guests can chat while tasting. If you’re attending with a group, make sure to buy your tickets together to sit together.
There you have it – our Top 15 Cool Things to Do in Bradenton this October! 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!
