It’s been a rough few weeks for Manatee County, but as businesses, organizations, and our community as a whole work together to rebuild, supporting local is more important than ever. Please – choose to buy local whenever you can, and make it a point to head out to at least a few of these fun events.
1. Festival of the Skeletons
Friday, November 1st from 6 PM to 9:30 PM and Saturday, November 2nd from 11 AM to 4 PM
The Village of the Arts, Bradenton, FL 34205
This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Festival of the Skeletons, the largest event of the year for the The Village of the Arts! The DÃa de los Muertos celebration will be held on November 1st and 2nd. Watch the village come alive with vibrant colors, energy, and excitement, ensuring a memorable experience for all.
The festival will feature a wonderful array of shrines and altars, including a Community Shrine honoring family, friends, pets, and loved ones. Everyone is invited to join this heartfelt tribute. Visitors can enjoy live music while exploring unique items from pop-up vendors and savoring delicious food from various restaurants. Dressing up in DÃa de los Muertos costumes adds to the festive spirit. With free admission and activities for all ages, the Festival of the Skeletons is a lively celebration of life and remembrance that the whole community can enjoy.
2. Suncoast Food & Wine Fest
Saturday, November 2nd from 1 PM to 4 PM
Premier Sports Campus: 5895 Post Blvd Lakewood Ranch, FL 34211
Get ready for the 22nd Annual Suncoast Food & Wine Fest, where good food, good wine, and a great cause come together! Whether it rains or shines, this event guarantees an afternoon of tastings from top local restaurants, along with a variety of fine wines and beverages in a beautiful outdoor setting. Attendees will have a fantastic time sampling delicious offerings while supporting local charities.
By purchasing a ticket, guests help provide financial support to various charitable organizations in Sarasota and Manatee counties, as well as other important Rotary projects. The Rotary Club of Lakewood Ranch has already donated around $2.5 million to charity from festival proceeds. Get your tickets now and don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy amazing food and drink while making a difference in the community.
3. The Voyage Back To The Roo
Saturday, November 2nd from 7 PM to 11 PM
Woody’s River Roo: 5717 18th St E Ellenton, FL 34222
Enjoy an unforgettable show with The Lost Boys – a local 5-piece band with unmatched energy, performing your favorite iconic rock tunes that will live on forever.
Woody’s River Roo is a waterfront location with plenty of “Old Florida” charm. Come early to enjoy a delicious meal outdoors overlooking the Manatee River.
4. Seafood Boil Saturdays
Every Saturday of the Month from 12 PM to 4 PM
Anna Maria Oyster Bar UTC: 5405 University Parkway, Bradenton, FL
Join Anna Maria Oyster Bar every Saturday for an exciting Seafood Boil! This unique dining experience offers a tableside seafood feast, where diners can enjoy a piping hot boil loaded with fresh seafood, all made to order.
Guests can relax in a fun and laid-back atmosphere while enjoying the delicious flavors of the sea. With our signature Five Star Fun, every visit promises great food and memorable moments. Don’t miss out on this delicious way to spend your Saturday — come join the seafood celebration at Anna Maria Oyster Bar UTC!
5. Manatee Chamber Fall Expo
Thursday, November 7th from 4 PM to 7:30 PM
LECOM Park: 1611 9th St. W.Bradenton, FL 34205
The Manatee Chamber Fall Expo is a must-attend event for anyone looking to network and connect with local businesses. Open to the public and offering free parking, this event showcases a variety of businesses while providing complimentary light bites from Chamber member restaurants. Attendees can enjoy entertainment, door prizes, and the chance to win an exciting grand prize that’s sure to impress.
One of the highlights of the expo is the grand prize—a Mayor’s Suite for a 2025 Bradenton Marauders game for up to 25 guests, complete with a food package and non-alcoholic drinks, valued at $1,250! With sponsorships, exhibit spaces, and tickets available, it’s the best event to connect and have fun. Get your tickets now! Concession stands will also offer food and cash bars during the event.
6. Tanner’s Turkeys Fundraiser
Thursday, November 7th from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Fin & Tonic: 6747 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34231
Join Michele Tanner and Tanner’s Turkeys for a heartwarming fundraiser aimed at feeding 500-600 local families in need this Thanksgiving. The evening will feature a silent auction, 50/50 drawing, and delicious heavy hors d’oeuvres. With a cash bar on hand, it promises to be an enjoyable event with a meaningful impact on the community.
Every ticket purchased helps provide a Thanksgiving meal for a family in need. By attending this event, guests are not only contributing to a worthy cause but also ensuring that local families have a meal to enjoy during the holiday season. Support Tanner’s Turkeys by getting your tickets and help bring joy to those in need this Thanksgiving.
7. On Golden Pond at MPAC
November 7th through 17th
Manatee Performing Arts Center: 502 3rd Ave W, Bradenton, FL 34205
Join the Manatee Performing Arts Center for their performance of On Golden Pond. This is the love story of Ethel and Norman Thayer, who are returning to their summer home on Golden Pond for the forty-eighth year. They are visited by their divorced, middle-aged daughter and her dentist fiancé, who then go off to Europe, leaving his teenage son behind for the summer.
It’s a heartwarming and hilarious show about generations of a family learning to communicate and care. (Rated PG 13). Get your tickets here.
8. Empty Bowls
Friday, November 8th from 11 AM to 1 PM
Lakewood Ranch Main Street: Main Street, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202
Meals on Wheels PLUS of Manatee invites the community to join the fight against hunger at the 24th Annual Empty Bowls Fundraiser. This event supports the vital work of Meals on Wheels PLUS through The Food Bank of Manatee. Guests can enjoy a simple meal of soup, bread, and desserts donated by local restaurants and take home a beautiful, handcrafted bowl as a reminder of the many empty bowls in our community.
All proceeds from Empty Bowls benefit The Food Bank of Manatee, providing much-needed assistance to children, families, and seniors in need. This year, community support is more important than ever to help #FEEDMANATEE. By attending, you can make a difference in the lives of those facing hunger in Manatee County and show your support for a great cause – so get your tickets now.
9. Free Health Expo at Town Square UTC
Saturday, November 9th from 10 AM to 3 PM
Town Square University Parkway: 8450 Lockwood Ridge Road Unit 55 Sarasota, FL 34243
Town Square University Parkway welcomes everyone to the second annual Health Expo, offering a day filled with free health screenings, resources, and educational opportunities. This event will feature a variety of vendors and exhibits, providing insight into senior care services and overall wellness. Guests can enjoy a Top Chef Competition and participate in unique experiences like the Dementia Live Experience.
In addition to fun activities, attendees will have the chance to learn from experts in the field through educational classes designed to improve health and well-being. This Health Expo is a great way to learn more about maintaining your well-being while connecting with professionals in the field. Don’t miss out on this informative and engaging event! Reserve your free spot now.
10. Suncoast’s Largest Food Truck Festival
Saturday, November 9th from 11 AM to 8 PM
The Mall at University Town Center: 140 University Town Center Dr. Sarasota, FL 34243
Get ready for the ultimate food truck experience at Suncoast’s Largest Food Truck Festival! This free event brings together over 50 of Florida’s best food trucks in one place. Whether you’re craving tacos, pizza, burgers, BBQ, seafood, or international dishes, there’s something for everyone. Top it all off with delicious sweet treats like gourmet ice cream and funnel cakes. Bring your appetite and enjoy a full day of great food and good times!
Along with amazing food, the festival will feature live music and fun activities for all ages. It’s the perfect opportunity to discover new dishes, support local vendors, and enjoy a day outdoors. Held in Parking Lot 4 at The Mall at University Town Center, this festival is a can’t-miss event for food lovers and families alike.
11. Waypoint Artisan Market
Saturday, November 9th from 11 am to 3 pm
Waypoint Bar & Grill: 11000 US Hwy 41 N, Palmetto, FL
Waypoint’s November 9th market is going to be about giving back and helping our community during this time of recovery. Along with the amazing lineup of vendors, they will also be having a raffle to help raise money for the Humane Society of Manatee County and Mary & Martha House.
Waypoint Bar & Grill is open during the market serving up delicious eats and drinks! There will also be live music with Matt Beck, a free book exchange, and free kids’ activities. Oh! And it’s pet-friendly.
12. Hand Up to Victory 7th Annual Fall Gala
Sunday, November 10th at 5 PM
Oasis Church: 5215 Lorraine Road, Bradenton, Florida 34212
The 7th Annual Fall Gala for Hand Up to Victory is coming up and it’s shaping up to be a night to remember! Enjoy an inspiring evening full of success stories and exciting silent auction items. This event is a wonderful way to connect with others who share the same mission of giving back and making a difference in the community. You’ll also get a glimpse into the organization’s future goals and the lives changed by generous donations.
With limited seats available, now is the time to reserve your spot. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this special evening where hope and generosity come together to help even more families in need.
13. Friendly City Flea
Sunday, November 10th from 11 AM to 4 PM
Oscura: 816 Manatee Ave E Bradenton, FL 34208
The Friendly City Flea is a vibrant outdoor market held at Oscura in Bradenton’s Old Manatee Historic District. This curated event brings together local artisans, musicians, and creatives, offering a unique shopping experience for the whole family. With free entry for the whole family, it’s the perfect way to spend your Sunday.
While at the flea, guests can also indulge in delicious brunch, coffee, and cocktails from Oscura. Don’t forget to shop the charming Old Manatee neighborhood, featuring businesses like Segunda Vida, Bat City Comic Professionals, and The Vintage Vine Market. It’s a fantastic way to support local talent and enjoy a lively, fun-filled day!
14. Brand New Day – A Sting Tribute at MPAC
Tuesday, November 12th at 2 pm and 7 pm
Manatee Performing Arts Center: 502 3rd Ave W, Bradenton, FL 34205
Brand New Day is a very different type of band. This Sting and The Police tribute band is pulling out all the stops to present a show that you just can’t take your eyes off for fear of missing something!
This show recreates the incredibly diverse catalog of both The Police and Sting – from the reggae-tinged new wave of the late 70s to the jazz & pop stylings of Sting’s eclectic solo catalog. Get your tickets here.
15. Discover Bradenton Sip & Shop
Wednesday, November 13th from 5 PM to 7 PM
Left Coast Sol: 5338 34th Street West Bradenton, FL 34210
Discover Bradenton is hosting a Sip & Shop Networking Event at Left Coast Sol, where business meets holiday cheer! This event is a unique chance to network while shopping for the holidays. Enjoy complimentary drinks, delicious lite bites, and door prizes, all while connecting with local business professionals in a relaxed setting.
The event is free for Discover Bradenton members and $10 for visitors – get your tickets here. Be sure to bring plenty of business cards and get ready for a fantastic evening.
16. Holly Day Gift and Craft Show
Friday, November 15th from 4 PM to 8 PM and Saturday, November 16th from 9 AM to 3 PM
Bradenton Woman’s Club: 1705 Manatee Ave W Bradenton, FL 34205
The holiday season is just around the corner, and the 2nd Annual Holly Day Craft & Gift Show at the Bradenton Woman’s Club is an amazing way to get into the spirit. With two full days of shopping, this event is perfect for finding unique gifts and festive crafts. Local vendors will showcase a variety of handmade goods, so you can check off your holiday shopping list in style. Best of all, admission is free!
Not only will you find delightful gifts for your loved ones, but you’ll also support local artisans and crafters. Take advantage of this wonderful chance to discover unique treasures and enjoy the cheerful atmosphere as you prepare for the holidays.
17. Benefit Concert with Lynyrd Skynyrd
Friday, November 15th at 7 pm
Bradenton Area Convention Center: 1 Haben Blvd, Palmetto, FL 34221
Get ready to Rock ‘N’ Support Gulf Island hospitality workers with a special, one-night-only benefit concert featuring Rock and Roll Hall of Famers, Lynyrd Skynyrd, with special guest Marcus King at the Bradenton Area Convention Center.
100% of the proceeds from the Rock ‘N’ Support benefit concert will support Gulf Island hospitality workers who have been displaced due to the recent impacts of Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Get your tickets now.
18. The CORNament at Palma Sola Botanical Park
Saturday, November 16th from 12 PM to 4 PM
Palma Sola Botanical Park: 9800 17th Ave. NW Bradenton
Mark your calendars for the ultimate Cornhole Tournament at Palma Sola Botanical Park, presented by MVP! This exciting event is not just about the competition, it’s also a fantastic tailgate party benefiting the beautiful gardens. Savor delicious BBQ from Smokin’ Momma Lora while enjoying live music by Jah Movement, creating a lively atmosphere perfect for gathering with friends and family.
Entry for the tournament is just $75 per person or $150 for a team of two, covering tournament participation, food, and beverages – get your tickets now. Guests can also take part in cornhole lessons, browse items in the silent auction, and enjoy a college football tailgate area. Join the fun and help support Palma Sola Botanical Park while enjoying a fantastic day filled with laughter, music, and friendly competition!
19. East to West Market
Saturday, November 16th from 10 AM to 5 PM and Sunday, November 17th from 11 AM to 4 PM
Bradenton Area Convention Center: 1 Haben Blvd, Palmetto, FL 34221
The East to West Market at the Bradenton Area Convention Center is celebrating its 9th year of supporting and promoting local artists. This juried art market showcases original artwork created by talented artists from the community. Everyone will have the opportunity to view and purchase unique pieces while getting to know the artists behind them. The market brings a vibrant collection of local art to the area, creating a special connection between the artists and the community.
In addition to the artwork for sale and display, the market will feature raffles, art demonstrations, and activities for all to enjoy. Admission is free, making it accessible for everyone to explore and appreciate the creativity on the show. Admission is free. Learn more here.
20. Punk Rock Flea Market
Sunday, November 24th from 12 PM to 6 PM
Oscura: 816 Manatee Ave E Bradenton, FL 34208
Join the fun at the Punk Rock Flea Market at Oscura, where creativity and community collide! This free event welcomes everyone to enjoy a day filled with live music, tasty food, and unique shopping experiences. With a lineup featuring bands like Colorblind Dinosaurs and Except You, you’ll enjoy a lively atmosphere that captures the spirit of punk. Food options abound, with vendors like Brother Burgers and Kielbasa Bus serving delicious meals to satisfy every appetite.
In addition to music and food, the market showcases a fantastic variety of local vendors offering unique art and handmade goods. Browse items from creators like Dark Cycle Clothing, Eerie Vibes, and Not a Broken Record, ensuring a one-of-a-kind shopping experience. The Punk Rock Flea Market is the ideal way to support local artists and enjoy a fun day out with family and friends. Remember, vendor spots are fully booked, so watch out for any scam posts. For further inquiries, reach out to the organizer for details.
There you have it! Our round-up of 20 fun and exciting things to do in Bradenton during the month of November. We encourage you to get off the couch, get out, and #SupportLocal!
Looking for even more things to do? We update our event calendar daily, so head on over and check it out. Be sure to bookmark it and check back often, so you never miss a thing!
