If you’re looking for things to do in Bradenton this month, you’re in luck! Fall is right around the corner and there are a ton of cool local events coming up. From fundraisers and food to shopping and self-defense, there’s literally something for everyone. Check it out!
1. Bird Rock 4th Annual Birthday Bash
Sunday, September 1st from 2 p.m. until 5 p.m.
Bird Rock Taco Shack: 1004 10th Ave W, Bradenton, Florida 34205
Join Bird Rock Taco Shack, located in the Village of the Arts, for their 4th Annual Birthday Bash! The event will feature live music by the Brown Bag Brass band, family-friendly fun, and, of course, delicious food and drinks.
Bird Rock was named one of the Best Mexican Restaurants in Bradenton, for good reason. Now is a great time to come by and check out some of their unique and delicious menu items while helping them celebrate in style!
2. Music Bingo at Play
Tuesday, September 3rd from 7 p.m. until 9 p.m.
Play Arcade and Bar: 436 12th St W, Bradenton, FL 34205
Play Arcade and Bar, located on Old Main St. in downtown Bradenton is hosting a new Music Bingo game every Tuesday night at 7 p.m. The games are FREE to play and you’ll have the chance to win fun prizes like free drinks and Play gift cards.
3. Women’s Self Defense Class (Adults)
Wednesday: September 4th, 11th, 18th, and 25th from 7 p.m. until 8:15 p.m.
Thrive Yoga & Fitness: 8819 Cortez Rd W, Bradenton, Florida 34210
Thrive’s four-week Women’s Self Defense Class is taught by Erin Colleen Geraghty and Matt (Judo) Murphy. Erin is a black belt in Shotokan Karate and teacher of women’s self-defense in Japan. Matt is a double black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Judo with over 20 years of experience. Both are certified yoga instructors.
This unique blended martial arts course will combine practical self-defense and mindfulness practice. During the course, participants will gain confidence, flexibility, discipline, strength, and focus. The entire series is only $60! Spaces are limited, so you’ll want to reserve your spot soon.
4. Sip, Shop, and Rock
Thursday, September 5th from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m.
Scavengers Marketplace: 2100 US 301 North, Palmetto, Florida 34221
As if shopping at Scavengers Marketplace isn’t enough fun on its own, they’re making it even better during their Sip, Shop, and Rock event. Browse their exciting inventory while enjoying a cold beer or glass of wine, nibbling on light snacks, and listening to 80s rock on vinyl. There will be a ton of sales throughout the store and vinyl records will be on sale, buy 3, get 1 free.
5. Manatee Chamber’s Bradenton Office Ribbon Cutting
Friday, September 6th from 2 p.m. until 5 p.m. | Ribbon Cutting at 4 p.m.
Manatee Chamber of Commerce Bradenton Office: 222 10th St. W., Bradenton, Florida 34205
The Manatee Chamber of Commerce is celebrating the grand opening of their new downtown Bradenton office. All Chamber members are invited to stop by, take a tour, and make connections! The ribbon-cutting will take place at 4 p.m.
There’s no charge to attend this event, but for planning purposes, RSVPs are requested. You can register here.
6. High Vibe Studio & Trading Company Ribbon Cutting Ceremony & Celebration
Friday, September 6th 6:00 p.m. until 7:30 p.m.
High Vibe Studio & Trading Co.: 417 12th St W #120, Bradenton, Florida 34205
High Vibe Studio & Trading Company is proud to be a part of the Downtown Bradenton scene. As official members of the Manatee Chamber of Commerce, they’re celebrating their opening with an official Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and Celebration. Check out the studio, enter to win a raffle basket, and learn more about all the cool classes they offer.
Want to learn more about High Vibe Studio before you go? Check out this article!
7. LaPensee Bowling Tournament
Saturday, September 7th 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Bowlaroo: 4208 Cortez Rd W, Bradenton, Florida 34210
The LaPensee Bowling Tournament, sponsored by The Center of Anna Maria Island, is a great opportunity to enjoy a night of fun, friends, food, and bowling. The cost is just $30 per person and includes 3 games, shoe rental, and pizza or wings. Kids lanes are also available.
You can get your tickets by calling 941-778-19 or emailing info@centerami.org.
8. Introduction to One Tribe Workshop
Saturday, September 7th at 10:00 a.m.
One Tribe Fitness: 602 Manatee Ave. E. Bradenton, FL 34201
Are you new to fitness or curious about some of the cool classes offered at One Tribe Fitness? Check out their upcoming Introductory Workshop where you can watch demonstrations of each class. They’ll also help get your bar, bungee, or saddle set up so you can come to your next class ready to go! This free event is sure to be a ton of fun and is a great first step on your fitness journey.
Want to learn more about One Tribe Fitness before you go? Check out this article.
9. Modern Women Wellness Expo
Sunday, September 8th from 2:00 p.m. until 4 p.m.
Manatee Gynecology: 2310 60th Street Court West, Bradenton, Florida 34209
Ladies, this event is for you! The Modern Women Wellness Expo is a free event that includes inspiring workshops, prizes, and more. Check out the aesthetic spa services (opening soon), enjoy nutritious refreshments and snacks, and learn more about the services provided by local community partners. There will also be complimentary massages, eyebrow threading, bra fittings, and more.
In attendance will be a handful of local female medical providers and women-led businesses of all sizes who are excited to support other women. The entire list of women-led partners can be found on the RSVP page, while all of the specific programming and prize details will be published each week leading up to the expo on Manatee Gynecology’s Instagram @ManteeForWomen.
This event is capped at 75 guests, so make sure to RSVP today.
10. Sunset Tai Chi at Robinson Preserve’s The NEST
Tuesday, September 10th 6 p.m. until 7 p.m.
Robinson Preserve: 1704 99th St NW, Bradenton, Florida 34209
The new NEST at the Robinson Preserve Expansion (entrance is on the corner of 9th and 99th)
This Sunset Event will give you a unique opportunity to experience the amazing benefits of Tai Chi and Qigong with Dr. Brian Nell of Cypress Pillar Healing Arts while surrounded by the beauty of nature. The group meets at The NEST at the Robinson Preserve Expansion and the class takes place rain or shine (it will move indoors in the case of rain).
The supporting fee is only $5 (cash only), and the public is welcome. You do need to RSVP ahead of time by emailing aedan.stockdale@mymanatee.org.
11. 13th Annual Manasota 9/11 Remembrance Ride
Wednesday, September 11th from 4 p.m. until 9:30 p.m.
Naughty Monk Brewery: 2507 Lakewood Ranch Blvd., Bradenton, Florida 34211
Are you looking to commemorate 9/11 in a special way? Check out the free 13th Annual Manasota 9/11 Remembrance Ride. The event begins at Naughty Monk Brewery at 4 p.m. and features food trucks, cold beer, and wine. Riders will meet at 5:45 and the ride will begin at 6 p.m. sharp.
The ride ends at Tarpon Bay Grill & Tiki Bar (7150 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL) with a memorial ceremony and live music by Nobody’s Fool. There will be a full menu and full bar as well as grab-n-go specials and drink specials. Participants can also take advantage of discounted $69 room rates at the Ramada Inn.
12. First annual 9/11 Remembrance Ride / Show and Shine
Wednesday, September 11th at 6 p.m.
Brancato’s Brick Oven Pizza: 5227 Manatee Ave W, Bradenton, Florida 34209
Join the Bradenton Jeep Club as they pay tribute to first responders remembrance ride and Show and Shine at Broncato’s Brick Oven Pizza, which is co-owned by a retired NYC firefighter who responded to 9/11. They’re planning to meet at Lowe’s on SR 70 by the interstate and convoy across town to Broncato’s at 6pm. Those who can’t make it to the meet-up spot are welcome to meet at Broncato’s at 6:30.
If you own a Jeep, make sure to decorate it! There will be awards for Best Overall Decorated Jeep, Best Representation of Heroic 9/11 group (ie Fire, Police, Medical responders, Flight 93, etc)., and Most Patriotic Jeep. Broncato’s will be discounting pizza and a 50/50 will be done to benefit a firehouse charity (TBD). While you’re there, don’t forget to ask for owner Paul Halvorson and shake his hand in gratitude!
Note: If you plan to attend, mark yourself as “going” or “interested” on the Facebook event page. Details are subject to change, and you’ll want to get notifications if they do!
13. 5th Annual Sangria Showdown
Friday, September 13th from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m.
Manatee Performing Arts Center: 502 Third Avenue W, Bradenton, Florida 34205
If you love Sangria, you definitely won’t want to miss out on the 5th Annual Sangria Showdown! During this contest, held at the Manatee Performing Arts Center, you’ll get to be a judge as popular area restaurants compete for the title of Best Sangria. Taste them all and vote for your favorite! The event also features delicious restaurant hors d’oeuvres and entertainment.
Participating restaurants include Bonefish Grill * Bravo Cucina Italiana * Carrabba’s Italian Grill * Goodfella’s Cafe and Winery * Longhorn Steakhouse * Mattison’s * Pier 22 * Restaurants Edelweiss * The Clam House * and Tamaimi Tap. Tickets are only $35 and include food from 10 restaurants and 14 different kinds of sangria. You can buy your tickets here. All proceeds from the event benefit Parenting Matters.
14. Saturday Morning Baking Class
Saturday, September 14th from 10 a.m. until 1:30 p.m.
Cremesh European Restaurant: 7232 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton, Florida 34209
Join Chef Pavel as he teaches the class how to make delicious muffins, a French Tarte Tatin (fancy apple tart) and chocolate eclairs. The cost for this 3 1/2 hour class is only $39 and includes lunch and a glass of wine.
Cremesh Europan Restaurant was voted one of Bradenton’s Favorite Restaurants, so you definitely won’t want to miss out on this awesome experience!
15. Braden River Bluegrass Festival
Saturday, Sept 14th from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m.
Linger Lodge Restaurant & RV Campground: 7205 85th Street Ct E, Bradenton, Florida 34202
Do you like Bluegrass music? Do you want to spend a day relaxing along the Braden River, shopping with local vendors, and enjoying delicious bites from The Linger Lodge? If you’re nodding your head, then you’ll want to make your way over to the Braden River Bluegrass Festival.
This family-friendly event will feature live music from popular bands including Hwy 41 South, Penny Creek, Blast of Grass, and the youth band Duck Wallow Lane. The cost is just $15 per person and kids under 10 are free. (Please leave your dogs and coolers at home).
16. Yappy Hour Benefiting Florida Rottweiler Rescue Ranch
Sunday, September 15th from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m.
Motorworks Brewing: 1014 9th Street West, Bradenton, Florida 34205
Grab your furry friend and head down to Motorworks Brewing for their monthly Yappy Hour event held in the beer garden. This month, proceeds will benefit Florida Rottweiler Rescue Ranch. There will be a ton of raffle baskets, silent auctions, food trucks, local vendors, and drink specials.
All dogs are welcome as long as they’re well behaved, leashed, and up-to-date on all their shots.
17. 16th Annual Endless Summer Nights
Thursday, September 19th 6 p.m. until 10 p.m. and Friday, September 20th at 10:30 a.m.
IMG Academy Golf Club: 4350 El Conquistador Pkwy, Bradenton, FL 34210
The two-day Endless Summer Nights event benefitting the Foundation for Dreams begins on Thursday the 19th with a dinner party and auction. Here you’ll enjoy delicious food, great company, and a chance to win raffles, participate in auctions, or discover a new favorite from the wine wall. Tickets to this event are $100 per person.
On Friday, the 20th, the event will continue with a golf tournament. Registration begins at 10:30 a.m. with a shotgun start at noon. The course will include locations for ice-cold beers, John Dalys, margaritas, and food stations. Cost is $125 for an individual golfer or $500 for a foursome. Learn more and purchase tickets by checking out their site.
18. Keep Manatee Beautiful International Coastal Cleanup
Saturday, September 21st from 9 a.m. until 12 p.m.
Multiple Locations
Do you care about Keeping Manatee Beautiful and “Fighting for Trash-Free Seas?” Join other like-minded people for the annual International Coastal Cleanup. Meet at Coquina Beach Main Entrance, Kingfish Boatramp, US 64 near AMI, or FISH Preserve (located Cortez Road behind Maritime Museum) at 9 a.m. on Saturday the 21st.
They’ll provide trash bags and drinks. You’ll want to bring your own gloves and make sure you wear sunscreen and closed-toe shoes. Let them know you’re coming by registering ahead of time.
19. Rocktoberfest
Saturday, September 21st at 2 p.m.
Darwin Brewing Company and Tap Room: 803 17th Ave W, Bradenton, Florida 34205
Oktoberfest is upon us, and Darwin Brewery is celebrating with a rockin’ twist! Rocktoberfest will feature tons of food, music, fun, and, of course, great beer! They’ll be releasing small-batch German beers with flight specials and selling $25 steins with your first Märzen fill free.
Mayor Wayne Poston will kick off the event at 2 p.m. and you’ll enjoy live music by Dovydas from 4-7 and Ship of Fools 7:30-10:30.
USTABEEZ Mac n Stuff will be serving foods infused with Darwin’s beers and you’ll have the chance to grab some awesome dogs, brats, and steaks from OMG Dogs. Once you’ve had a few beers, you’ll love the silly fun in the Oktoberfest photo booth provided by Envisioned Events Elite (6 to 10 p.m.). This event is free, so don’t miss out!
20. Sweat for Pets
Saturday, September 21st from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m.
FitCrew: 608 19th Ave W, Bradenton, Florida 34205
Join FitCrew for a fun workout while helping the pets at the Humane Society of Manatee find fur-ever homes. The “Sweat for Pets” event will feature adoptable pets for meet-and-greets, food, vendors and a workout at 11 a.m. The cost is $10, and you can get your tickets here. Kids under 12 are free and well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome.
21. Rediscover Mixon’s
Saturday, September 21st from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m.
Mixon Farms: 2525 27th St E, Bradenton, Florida 34208
Whether you’ve been to Mixon’s a bunch of times or you’ve never been before, you’ll want to check out the Rediscover Mixon’s 81st Birthday Celebration. There will be a ton of prizes and a grand prize giveaway! Guests can also enjoy tours, see the live alligators, visit the cafe and enjoy some of Mixon’s famous ice cream!
22. Inaugural Champions for Seafood Dinner
Sunday, September 22nd from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m.
The Beachhouse Restaurant: 200 Gulf Dr. N, Bradenton Beach, Florida 34217
If you’re looking for an unforgettable dining experience, look no further than the Inaugural Champions for Seafood Dinner. This waterfront, five-course, long table feast features delectable delights from Chef Steve Phelps (Indigenous), Chef Rich Demarse (Sandbar Seafood & Spirits), Chef Will Manson (Beach House Water Front Restaurant), Chef Erik Walker (Mar Vista Dockside and Pub), Chef Teddy Louloudes (The Chiles Group), and Chef Gerard Jesse (Seafood Shack).
General admission tickets are $150 and you can purchase yours directly from the event’s Facebook page.
23. Breath Meditation
Thursday, September 26th from 5:30 p.m. until 6:30 p.m.
Women’s Resource Center: 1926 Manatee Ave W, Bradenton, Florida 34205
Are you ready to learn a simple stress reduction, relaxation, meditation technique in just 60 minutes? Join Soul Harmony Therapies at the Women’s Resource Center for a beginner-friendly Breath Meditation class. No experience is necessary! Contact the WRC at 941-256-9721 for more information.
24. 3rd Annual Chef’s Challenge
Saturday, September 28th from 6 p.m. until 10 p.m.
ArtCenter Manatee: 209 9th St W, Bradenton, Florida 34205
If you’re looking for a great way to spend a Saturday night, look no further than ArtCenter Manatee’s 3rd Annual Chef’s Challenge. This awesome event features great food, fine wine and spirits, live art, live music and FUN!
Vote for your favorite appetizers and desserts as local chefs compete for the win. You’ll also enjoy watching painters and pottery artists create works of art that will be auctioned off at the end of the night. Tickets are $100 and proceeds support ArtCenter Manatee’s children’s education programs. You can purchase your tickets here.
25. Plant-Based Un-Cooking Class: Holiday Sides Gone Vegan
Saturday, September 28th 10 a.m. until 11:30 a.m.
Slow Foods Kitchen, Palmetto
If you’re experimenting with veganism, holidays can be a challenge. Learn how to really enjoy holiday meals by taking the “Holiday Sides Gone Vegan” cooking class. Tickets are $20 per person or $35 for two people with the code UNCOOKING15. You can order your tickets HERE.
That’s it, folks! We’ve finished Discover Bradenton’s roundup of 25 Cool Things to do in Bradenton this month. If you liked this post, please share it, and don’t forget to Follow Discover Bradenton on Facebook so you can keep your finger on the pulse of all the cool things happening around town.
Check back later this month for the October edition of “Get of the Couch, Bradenton!” There are a lot of exciting events coming up and you won’t want to miss them!
