The fall season is just around the corner, and there are a ton of fun things to do in Bradenton! Check out our Top 20 round-up for the month of September.
1. North River First Friday
Friday, September 1st at 8 PM
10th Street Live: 1330 US Hwy 301, Palmetto, FL 34221
Come out for the all-new party in Palmetto happening the First Friday of every month. There will be food, vendors, and live music for all to enjoy.
Doors open at 8 pm and this month’s event will feature country rock band The 301 Travelers, DJ Rick O, and more.
Entry is free for guests 21+ and is $10 for those aged 18-20.
Want to be a vendor? Give Jesse a call at 941-807-1866.
2. Marauders Fan Appreciation Night
Saturday, September 2nd at 5 PM
LECOM Park: 1611 9th St W Bradenton, FL 34205
Get ready for the biggest game night of the season! During this Fan Appreciation night, you’ll have a chance to experience the largest and last fireworks show of the season and “9 Innings of Winnings”
Reserve your spot today! Gates open at 5 pm.
3. Family Fun Day
Saturday, September 2nd from 9 AM to 10 AM
Palma Sola Botanical Park: 9800 17th Ave NW, Bradenton, FL
Start your day with a colorful morning hike and craft session at Palma Sola Botanical Park.
You and your child will enjoy strolling through the park’s enchanting landscapes and luscious gardens as they look around for trinkets and treasures they can use to create their own flower mosaic. The program will be partially outdoors so dress accordingly and bring your own water. Food and drinks will be able to purchase after the program. This event is recommended for ages 5 – 9, but everyone is welcome.
Registration is required. Please RSVP here or contact Tea Tree Cafe at cafeteatreebradenton@gmail.com. All proceeds from this event will directly benefit the park. Mark your calendar and prepare for an awesome family fun day!
4. Gentle Yoga with the Manatees
Every Sunday of the Month at 11 AM
The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature: 201 10th St W. Bradenton, FL 34205
Escape the hustle and bustle of your busy schedule with this incredibly relaxing experience. Unwind and connect with nature in a truly unique way at The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature‘s “Gentle Yoga with the Manatees.”
This is an enchanting experience that blends the serene practice of yoga with the majestic presence of Florida’s gentle giants. Whether you’re a yoga enthusiast or just searching for relaxation, this experience is worth the try. Reserve your spot today!
5. Live Jazz Sundays at The Linger Lodge
Every Sunday from 12 pm to 3 pm
The Linger Lodge: 7205 85th St Ct E, Bradenton, FL 34202
Head out to The Linger Lodge Restaurant every Sunday afternoon to enjoy live music, delicious food, and a beautiful view! Live Jazz Sundays with Tom Sellitti begins at 12 pm and continues until 3 pm.
While you’re there, don’t miss your chance to try one of their signature Bloody Marys. The contents change each week, but it’s an exciting chance to enjoy a memorable meal in a glass.
6. Giving Back Fundraiser
Thursday, September 7th at 6 PM
The Swordfish Grill and Tiki: 4628 119th St. W. Cortez, FL
Spread your compassion and support through “Giving Back,” a powerful event that will contribute to the Blessing Bags Project and Foundation of Dreams at The Swordfish Grill and Tiki.
Enjoy performances by Tim Chandler, The Stockton Brothers, and The Billy Rice Band. Bring some cash, as there will be auctions and raffles, all supporting these great causes. For tickets, call 941-798-2035.
7. Shadow in the Night at Premier Escape Adventures
7369 52nd Pl E, Bradenton, FL 34203
The newest escape room at Premier Escape Adventures is live, and it promises to be a memorable experience! During this immersive adventure, you’ll join a research and reporting team on a quest to uncover the mystery behind what’s been lurking in the forest. They believe the shadows are from the Skunk Ape, aka The Florida BigFoot.
Gather up your team and see if you have the skills and brain power it takes to solve puzzles, find clues, and discover the secret. You only have 60 minutes – can you make it?? Book your spot now and find out!
8. Summer Wellness Saturdays
Saturdays, September 9, 16, 23, and 30 from 10 AM to 11:15 AM
Beach House Waterfront Restaurant: 200 Gulf Drive North, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217
Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and rejuvenation.
Every Saturday at Beach House Waterfront Restaurant, immerse yourself in sessions that will nourish your body and soul. From an active Zumba sesh and Breathwork to a unique Crystal Bowl Bath and an invigorating Yoga class – this is a wellness experience you don’t want to miss.
Elevate your weekends and prioritize your well-being by joining us for a truly enriching Summer Wellness journey. Learn more here.
9. Tribute to Heros Memorial
Monday, September 11th at 9 AM
Rossi Park: 452 3rd Ave W, Bradenton, FL 34205
The Manatee County Fire Chiefs Association will be holding a heartfelt tribute to the fallen first responders of the 9/11 World Trade Center Attack at Rossi Park Pavillon. This solemn event reminds us of the resilience and unity that emerged from the tragedy.
Join them in paying respects and preserving the memory of these courageous heroes. The morning event will begin at 9 a.m. with honor guard presentations, speakers, a 21-gun salute, and a live dove release.
10. Kid-Cuterie Workshop, Fun Fall Theme
Tuesday, September 12th from 5:30 PM to 7 PM
Pineapple Kitchen: 4914 Lena Rd UNIT 104, Bradenton, FL 34211
Pineapple Kitchen brings a delicious twist to your child’s creativity at their Kid-Cuterie Workshops with seasonal themes.
If your kid enjoys being creative with food and likes to help you out in the kitchen, then this is perfect for them!
The Kid-Cuterie workshop is a delightful way to engage young minds by giving them hands-on instruction. This month’s theme is a Fall Fun charcuterie board that they can take home.
Treat your little ones to a unique experience that nurtures both their creativity and taste buds – get your tickets here.
11. Discover Bradenton’s September Networking Event
Thursday, September 14 from 5 PM to 7 PM
Avocado’s Cocina Mexicana & Bar: 6510 Cortez Road West Bradenton, FL 34210
Join us for this month’s Discover Bradenton Networking Event at Avocado’s Mexican Restaurant in Bradenton. This is a fun and casual networking happy hour where you’ll be able to meet and mingle.
There will also be lite bites, a cash bar, door prizes, and more! The event is free for Discover Bradenton members and $10 for visitors – get your tickets here.
12. Sangrita Showdown
Friday, September 15th from 7 PM to 10 PM
Manatee Fairgrounds, Veterans Hall: 1402 14th Ave W Palmetto, FL 34221
Prepare your taste buds for an epic culinary battle in the 7th Annual Sanga-Rita Showdown at the Manatee County Fairgrounds.
Some of the area’s best restaurants will battle it out for the title of Best Sangria, Best Margarita, and Best Appetizer. Sample them all and vote for your favorite! There will also be a silent auction, raffle prizes, a DJ, dancing, and more.
All proceeds of this event will benefit Parenting Matters and their mission to advance the lives of children, together, with their parents. Get your tickets here.
13. Monthly Cruise-In at Steak ‘n Shake
Friday, September 15th from 5:30 PM to 8 PM
Steak ‘n Shake: 106 Cortez Rd W, Bradenton, FL 34203
Cruise on over to Steak N Shake on the 3rd Friday of each month! There’s no fees, no trophies, no drama – just some classic cars and detectable dishes.
This is the place for car enthusiasts of all kinds to come, eat, talk, and have a good time. All vehicles are welcome – even bikes!
14. Half-Way to St. Paddy’s – Freckled Fin
Saturday, September 16th from 10 AM to 12 AM
Freckled Fin Irish Pub: 5337 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, FL
Get ready to wear your finest Irish outfits and raise a toast as we celebrate Halfway to St. Patrick’s Day at the Freckled Fin Irish Pub!
Josh Gilton kicks off the celebration – he will be jamming to your Irish favorites along with your bar singalong classics. Acoustic Thunder comes on next with friendly banter and more Irish tunes mixed with classic Americana. Irish Dancers will also be performing and there will be giveaways and specials all day long.
DJ Gator Ryan will follow the halfway to St Patrick’s Day Celebration with a dance party, so get ready to dance the night way! Come and celebrate the joy of Irish culture together.
15. MPAC Backstage Tour
Tuesday, September 26th at 11 am
Manatee Performing Arts Center: 502 3rd Ave W, Bradenton, FL 34205
You’re invited to join the Bradenton Kiwanis Club for a private, behind-the-scenes tour of the Manatee Performing Arts Center.
This tour will showcase all aspects of the beautiful facility where you will hear historical and fun facts, visit the costume shop, learn about the technical booth, check out the VIP lounge, and much more.
This event is FREE and open to the public. Bradenton Kiwanis invites you to stay as their guest for their program and a FREE lunch. Advanced sign-up is required and can be done by contacting Dan Yonko at pr@manateeperformingartscenter.com or 941.749.1111 x104.
16. Cooking for Charity
Thursday, September 28th from 5:30 PM to 8 PM
Meals on Wheels PLUS: 811 23rd Avenue East, Bradenton, FL 34208
Join Meals on Wheels PLUS for a fun and heartwarming culinary experience featuring live cooking demonstrations.
Indulge in delicious samples prepared by Celebrity Chef Angela Massaro-Fain and get exclusive access to her cookbook recipes featured in Bacio Di Cucina!
Admission includes wine and dinner-size appetizers PLUS a chance to win fabulous prizes. Grab your tickets now for an unforgettable culinary experience for a good cause! Purchase before 9/6 for a discounted rate. Tickets will not be available at the door.
17. Loire Valley Wine Tasting
Thursday, September 28th, and Friday, September 29th from 6:30 PM to 9 PM
UTC Location: 8527 Cooper Creek Blvd, Bradenton, FL 34201
AMI Location: 9906 Gulf Dr, Anna Maria, FL 34216
Embark on a sensory journey through French cuisine and wine with the Loire Valley Wine Tasting at Mademoiselle Paris.
During the event, you’ll enjoy 1 glass of aperitif & 1 appetizer, a 4-course meal paired with 4 glasses of wine, a wonderfully detailed presentation of the region and vineyard by Jean the owner, wine connoisseur, and live French atmosphere accordion music by Ryan.
This event will be held at both the UTC and Anna Maria Island locations. Get your tickets here.
18. TedX Bradenton
Friday, September 29th from 8 am to 5 pm
SCF Sarasota-Manatee: 5840 26th Street West Bradenton, FL 34207
TEDxBradenton is one of only five TEDx events in the Tampa Bay region this year and the only such event on Florida’s west coast south of the Sunshine Skyway.
During the event, local and regional voices will be addressing issues that are relevant to us, this country, and a global audience.
This year’s theme is “Writing the Future” and speakers will address questions like: How are we called to be authors of change in our world? When in our community have we come together to write our future? There are only 100 tickets available, so don’t wait! Get your tickets now!
19. Putt Putt Pub Crawl
Saturday, September 30th at 6 PM
Cork’s Cigar Bar: 424 Old Main St, Bradenton, FL 34205
The annual Main Street Putt-Putt Pub Crawl, hosted by the Hernando De Soto Historical Society is always a great time!
Create a team of four and move from bar to bar with putters, golf balls, and an official scorecard, then wander (or stumble?) from bar to bar, completing all the holes.
Grand prizes are awarded to the team with the lowest score. There will also be a $250.00 cash prize for the “Best Dressed Team” as well as raffles and a 50/50.
Check-in: 1 PM in front of Cork’s Cigar Bar
Shotgun Start: 2 PM at all locations
Awards: 6 PM at Pour Decisions
20. Creator Meet-Up
Thursday, August 31st from 7 pm to 9 pm
Bat City Comic Professionals: 915 Manatee Ave E, Bradenton, FL 34208
Artists! Writers! Letterers! People who like to get creative! This is the chance to meet other people like you who want to network with other creatives! Talk out your script. Find the artist you need for your work. Or just feel like someone else gets the stress of being an indie creator!
If you have ever put pen to paper, you are a creator so come on out to this fun meetup at Bat City Comic Professionals!
There you have it! Our round-up of Cool Things to Do in Bradenton during the month of September. When you visit these events, please be sure to tell the hosts you heard about them on Discover Bradenton! This helps us continue to #SupportLocal and #KeepBradentonstrong.
Looking for even more fun things to do? Check out Discover Bradenton’s Event Calendar! We update it every few days, so you never know what you’re going to find.
