Spring is in the air and Bradenton is buzzing with a ton of exciting activities! From flower festivals and flea markets to the De Soto Grand Parade, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Take a look at our round-up of the top 20 Cool Things to Do in Bradenton this month.
1. Sips, Savories & Sweets at Pineapple Kitchen
Saturday, April 6th & 24th from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM
Pineapple Kitchen: 4914 Lena Road, Unit 104 Bradenton, FL 34211
Start this month’s activities with a delightful culinary experience at the Sips, Savories & Sweets Culinary Demo and Tasting Party at Pineapple Kitchen!
Watch a live culinary demonstration, taste delicious recipes, and sip on refreshing specialty drinks. After the event, participants will receive recipe cards to create the dishes at home, plus a $5 coupon to use at their market.
This is a fantastic time to get together and have some fun. Get your tickets here!
2. Ballad of Old Manatee
Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from April 4th to 20th from 3 PM to 6 PM
Manatee Village Historical Park: 1404 Manatee Ave E Bradenton, FL 34208
Experience the magic of musical history at the Manatee Village Historical Park this spring! Catch The Ballad of Old Manatee, an immersive historical drama combined with wonderful folk music.
Learn about the captivating origins of the Manatee Village in a theatrical experience. You’ll love this afternoon of music and enchantment. Get your tickets now and be a part of this charming performance.
3. Music in the Park
Fridays, April 5th, 12th, 19th and 26th at 6 PM
Rossi Park: 452 3rd Ave W, Bradenton, FL 34205
Gather your family and friends, grab a chair, and head to Rossi Park to enjoy Music in the Park – a Realize Bradenton event, happening every Friday evening this April.
April 5: Glass Onion Beatles Band (Beatles Tribute)
April 12: SweetFleet (Fleetwood Mac Tribute)
April 19: Monkey Finger (Rock)
April 26: Kristopher James (Singer/Songwriter)
Don’t miss out on these FREE fantastic performances held on the Bradenton Riverwalk.
4. Marauders Opening Weekend
Friday, April 5th and Saturday, April 6th at 6:30 PM
LECOM Park: 1611 9th St W, Bradenton, FL 34205
It’s time for the Bradenton Marauders to kick off their season! Head over to LECOM Park on Friday, April 5th for opening night, with a T-shirt giveaway for the first 750 fans.
On Saturday, don’t forget to stick around for the post-game fireworks. There are still a few tickets left, so don’t wait! Grab your tickets now. Also, now is a great time to learn more about all the other exciting Bradenton Marauders events and promotions planned for this season!
5. A Night at the Cabaret
Saturday, April 6th from 6 PM to 11 PM
Art Ovation Hotel: 1255 N Palm Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236
Enter the world of glitz and glamour – the Boys & Girls Club of Manatee County invites you to “A Night at the Cabaret: A Roaring 20’s Gala” at the Art Ovation Hotel. This enchanting event brings you to the luxury of the 1920s while supporting the youth of our community.
Mingle with your fellow patrons while listening to the Beat Down Band during the cocktail reception, then enjoy an evening of dinner, dancing, auctions, and an inspiring program. Whether you choose classic 1920s attire or contemporary elegance, your presence will contribute to an evening of giving and community support. Get your tickets here.
6. Coquina Beach Spring Art & Crafts Show
Saturday & Sunday April 6th and 7th from 10 am to 5 pm
Coquina Beach
This two-day art and craft show is FREE and open to the public.
It’s located on the Gulf side of Anna Maria Island, close to Lido Beach, Lido Key, Longboat Key, Sarasota and Bradenton. Come explore locally made arts and crafts and unique gift ideas.
This event also supports support Roser Food Bank, so don’t forget to bring some canned and/or non-perishable food to the event’s donation tent. Roser Food Bank directly benefits the needy on Anna Maria Island.
7. Pasta Making Class
Tuesday, April 9th from 10 AM to 12:30 PM
Florida Maritime Museum: 4415 119th St W Cortez, FL 34215
Grab your tickets for a hands-on Pasta Making Class at Florida Maritime Museum. Dive into the world of Italian cuisine as you master the art of creating three distinct types of pasta from scratch: ravioli, gnocchi, and noodles.
Bring your rolling pin and wear your most comfortable clothes and shoes for this fun and unique experience – all other materials will be provided. Get your tickets now and have fun expanding your culinary skills in the delicious world of homemade pasta.
8. Sip & Savor Wine Dinner Under the Stars
Tuesday, April 9th from 6 PM to 9 PM
The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature: 201 10th St W Bradenton, FL 34205
Don’t miss out on this extraordinary event at The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature! Prepare to be enchanted as the sun sets and the whole Southern Courtyard is covered in the soft glow of the stars above.
Indulge in delicious appetizers and a 3-course dinner prepared by Harry’s Continental Kitchen, expertly paired with exquisite wines. Tickets for this exclusive event are priced at $165 per person, offering incredible value for an evening of fine dining, exceptional wines, and captivating surroundings.
Reserve your spot today for this delightful evening of fine food and wine in a stunning setting.
9. Bags for Backpacks Cornhole Tournament
Tuesday, April 9th at 6:30 PM
Big Top Brewers Collective: 2507 Lakewood Ranch Blvd, Bradenton, FL 34211
Head over to Big Top Brewers Collective for an exciting night of friendly competition at the Bags for Backpacks Cornhole Tournament. For $35 per person ($50 at the door) you can enjoy entry and a refreshing drink while contributing to Feeding Empty Little Tummies (F.E.L.T.).
This tournament will bring lots of fun as there will be prizes, a raffle, a 50/50 draw, and delicious food from local food trucks. By participating you’re not just enjoying – you’re also making a difference. Secure your tickets, practice your throws, and join an evening of cornhole, camaraderie, and community impact.
10. Hunsader Farms 1st Annual Flower Festival
Saturday and Sunday, April 13th & April 14th and April 20th & April 21st from 9 AM to 5PM
Hunsader Farms: 5500 C.R. 675, Bradenton, FL
Check out the launch of the very first Flower Festival at Hunsader Farms! Wander around multiple fields of vibrant flowers, where you can cut your own to take home and display. The festivities will also include hayrides, train rides, pony rides, live bands, food vendors, craft vendors, fresh produce, gem mining, and more!
You’ll also enjoy a craft show, live music, and a petting zoo.
Admission is $15 per person, kids 10 years old and under are free. Parking will also be free.
11. Waypoint Artisan Market
Saturday, April 13th from 11 AM to 3 PM
Waypoint Bar & Grill: 11000 US Hwy 41 N Palmetto, FL 34221
Get ready for a fantastic day of shopping at the Waypoint Artisan Market! With over 30 local artisans and small businesses showcasing their goods, you’ll find plenty of cool trinkets and treasures.
While strolling around enjoy live music by Luke Andrews and check out the Mimosa Special at Waypoint Bar and Grill. This event is family and fur-baby friendly with free kids’ activities and a book exchange.
Mark your calendars because this market runs on the 2nd Saturday of each month from October to May.
12. Friendly City Flea
Sunday, April 14th from 10 AM to 3 PM
Oscura: 816 Manatee Ave E Bradenton, FL 34208
Join this curated gathering of makers, musicians, and creatives at the Friendly City Flea at Oscura in the Old Manatee Historic District. This month’s flea will be a Beach Party theme – so dress in your best beach attire for a chance to win prizes.
As the last outdoor market of the season, this event will feature over 60 artisans and vendors, live music, delicious food & drinks, and plenty of outdoor fun. While you’re in the area, take some time to explore Segunda Vida, Bat City Comic Professionals, and The Vintage Vine Market to find even more treasures.
13. Veteran’s Awareness & Appreciation Event
Sunday, April 14th from 12 PM to 4 PM
Peggy’s Coral: 4511 Old US Hwy 41, Palmetto, FL 34221
Support our veterans at the Veteran’s Awareness and Appreciation Event at Peggy’s Coral! Enjoy live music and delicious food from Jaxx and Taming Hogz. There will also be raffle baskets, silent auctions, and a lottery board for your chance to win prizes.
All proceeds from the event will go directly to the Wounded Warrior’s Abilities Ranch, so your support will go to a good cause. You can also donate household goods for our veterans.
14. Chamber Spring Expo
Thursday, April 18th from 4 PM to 7 PM
Bradenton Area Convention Center: One Haben Blvd. Palmetto, FL 34221
The Manatee Chamber’s Spring EXPO is all about connecting, shopping, and growing our local community. This event draws hundreds of attendees and features 80+ Chamber member booths promoting local products and services.
Attendees will enjoy complimentary light bites provided by local restaurants and caterers, fun entertainment, and chance to win dozens of door prizes​. There will also be cash bars offering beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages.
This is a fantastic networking opportunity, so bring the whole office!
15. Bradenton City Capture
Saturday, April 20th at 1 PM
Bradenton Old Main Street
Get ready for a thrilling adventure as the Don Hernando de Soto makes a grand entrance into Bradenton! The Conquistadors will embark on a journey from Barcarrota Boulevard to Main Street and meet up with the Mayor. As they reach their destination, the Mayor will present the “Key to the City” as a token of appreciation for the entertainment they’ll bring in the following week.
Whether you’re young or young at heart, you won’t want to miss this exhilarating day on the streets of downtown Bradenton. Come out and join in on the fun as the Conquistadors and the Queen’s Court throw beads to all the onlookers.
This is a FREE, family-friendly event. Youth will receive foam swords to defend the Mayor and the City.
16. Discover Bradenton Networking Event
Wednesday, April 24th from 5 pm to 7 pm
Manatee Palms: 1128 Manatee Ave. E. Bradenton, FL 34208
Join us for a fun and casual networking happy hour at the stunning Manatee Palms Bed & Breakfast, located just east of downtown Bradenton. There will be lite bites, door prizes, complimentary beer and wine, and more!
Be sure to bring lots of business cards and be prepared to make some awesome connections! The event is free for Discover Bradenton members and $10 for visitors. We can’t wait to see you!
17. Clovers Revenge at The Freckled Fin
Thursday, April 25th from 7:30 PM to 10:30 PM
Freckled Fin Irish Pub: 5337 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, Florida, 34217
Watch Clovers Revenge take the stage of The Freckled Fin on Anna Maria Island for a night of lively Celtic tunes and electrifying performances. Join an evening filled with your favorite Irish melodies from this high-energy band.
With great music, delicious food & drinks, and a warm atmosphere, this is a great way to spend an evening on Anna Maria Island.
18. Hernando De Soto Grand Parade
Saturday, April 27th at 7:30 PM
Manatee Avenue: 7431 Manatee Ave W, Bradenton, FL 34209
Prepare to be dazzled by one of the largest and most historic parades, the De Soto Grand Parade! With over 150 entries, this spectacular event draws crowds of over 100, 000 people to the streets of Bradenton.
Watch illuminated floats glide through the city, and check out the new Hernando de Soto, Captain of the Crewe, and their newly crowned Queen and Princess. Beads, coins, and other delightful trinkets are handed out to the crowd, adding to the festive atmosphere. This year, the event starts downtown and features a few other exciting changes. Learn more here.
19. Cheesesteak Festival & Competition
Saturday, April 27th from 3 PM to 9 PM
3 Car Garage Brewing Company: 8405 Heritage Green Way, Bradenton, FL 34211
Attention all cheesesteak enthusiasts! Indulge in a mouthwatering culinary adventure at the Cheesesteak Festival & Competition. Celebrate the delicious cheesesteak with a thrilling competition featuring six of the region’s finest food trucks, each serving their unique twist on this iconic dish.
Prepare to treat your taste buds with creations from Untamed Kitchen, Hot Puff Truck, Brooklyn Js Downtown Eatz, Matt’s Diner, and Sarasota Eatz. Plus, sweet treats from their special guest truck, Spectacular Sweets. Satisfy your cravings and crown the ultimate cheesesteak champion!
20. Punk Rock Flea Market
Sunday, April 28th from 12 PM to 6 PM
Oscura: 816 Manatee Ave E Bradenton, FL 34208
The Bradenton Punk Rock Flea Market is back for its third volume of fun, rock & roll, and dynamic performances at Oscura. This event is a fusion of punk rock, vendors, and delectable food trucks – all in one vibrant setting.
Rock out to the tunes of top punk bands, The Kutoffs, Bargain Bin Heroes, Victims of Circumstances, Friendly Fire, M.A.C.E, and Chasing Airplanes, as they take the stage throughout the day to keep everyone entertained.
Explore a diverse array of market vendors offering everything from handmade crafts to vintage treasures, and taste delicious food with their lineup of mouthwatering food trucks.
There you have it – our Top 20 Cool Things to Do in Bradenton this April! 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 bookmark the page and visit often!
