Every year, Bradenton residents look forward to the De Soto Historical Society’s annual festivals. This year, they’re changing things up by completely reinventing one of their most popular events.

The “De Soto Seafood Festival,” which has been a staple in the area for more than 30 years, has now been dubbed the “De Soto Food & Music Festival.” The three-day event will take place from February 28th until March 1st and has been moved to Nathan Benderson Park

Live Entertainment

The festival kicks off with a bang, featuring platinum recording artists Maiden Cane and Slaughter on Friday night.

On Saturday, you’ll enjoy a full day of music with performances by The Lost Boys, Rebel Heart, The Headwrecks, Reverend Barry & The Funk, Pirate Flag (a tribute to Kenny Chesney), and John Michael Montgomery. The weekend wraps up on Sunday with music by popular reggae bands Jah Movement and Artikal Sound System and rock-reggae band PASSAFIRE.

Food and Fun

In addition to great music, the festival will also feature amazing food vendors, local artisans selling handmade items, and commercial vendors. There will also be a kid’s zone with bounce houses, inflatable slides, and more!

Getting There

The festival hours are Friday, February 28th from 5 pm until 10 pm, Saturday the 29th from 11 am until 10 pm and Sunday, March 1st from 11 am until 6 pm. The cost to attend is $10 per person, per day. Unfortunately, pets aren’t allowed and you’re not allowed to bring in coolers or outside food or drinks.

Nathan Benderson Park is located at 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle in Sarasota, just south of the UTC Mall. For additional questions regarding the festival, please email info@desotohq.com or call 941-747-1998.

Looking for even more cool things to do in Bradenton? Check out Discover Bradenton’s event calendar.