Fall is officially here in Bradenton, and it’s the perfect time to get out and start enjoying all the wonderful events the area has to offer. From community events to fundraisers and festivals, there are plenty of options to choose from. Check out our round-up of the top 20 Cool Things to Do in Bradenton this month!
1. Stuff the Bus
Sunday, October 1st from 9 AM to 3 PM
All Manatee County Publix Locations
Help Meals on Wheels PLUS stock up on much-needed food just in time for the kickoff of the holiday season!
It’s easy to participate – just head to any Manatee County Publix location, purchase food to donate, and drop it off at the school bus out front. 100% of the proceeds and food collected will stay in Manatee County.
This program is not just about stuffing a bus with items, it’s about stuffing hearts with hope and kindness.
2. Discover Bradenton Networking Event
Thursday, October 5th from 5 PM to 7 PM
Fiorelli Winery: County Road 675 Bradenton, FL 34211
All local business owners and representatives are invited to join Discover Bradenton for our monthly networking event. This month, we’re heading to Fiorelli Winery & Vineyard.
Bring lots of business cards and prepare to make awesome connections with your fellow business owners. There will be lite bites, door prizes, and a cash bar. This event is FREE for Discover Bradenton members and $10 for future members. RSVP is required and space is limited. Get your tickets here!
3. SCF Fall Festival of Music
Thursday, October 5th at 7:30 PM
SCF Neel Performing Arts Center: 5840 26th St W, Bradenton, FL 34207
The annual Fall Festival of Music is a harmonious celebration of vibrant musical talent and cultural diversity that welcomes all music enthusiasts from Symphonic Band, Concert Choir, Chamber Choir, Guitar Ensemble, Jazz Big Band, Jazz Combo, and more to their music ensembles.
Join in on the kickoff to the 2023-2024 season with an evening of inspired music making with a sense of community and appreciation for the arts. Tickets are available now, get your tickets here.
4. Nautical Flea Market
Saturday, October 7th from 8 AM to 12 PM
Florida Maritime Museum: 4415 119th St W, Cortez, FL
If you’re a fan of boats and all things sea-water related, then this is the event for YOU! Hosted by the Florida Maritime Museum and the Cortez Cultural Center, the Cortez Nautical Flea Market is every maritime enthusiast’s paradise.
Whether you’re looking for maritime treasures, fishing gear, marine equipment, or other maritime flotsam and jetsam, you’re sure to find some treasures here. The event will also feature a Nautical Arts & Crafts sale at the Cortez Cultural Center. This is a family-friendly event, so bring your kids and come check it out! Free parking is available at the F.I.S.H. Preserve.
5. Cattle Baron’s Ball
Saturday, October 7th from 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM
Manatee County Fairgrounds: 1402 14th Ave W Palmetto, FL 34221
Celebrate 13 years of service from F.E.L.T. (Feeding Empty Little Tummies) at the 2nd annual Cattle Baron’s Ball at the Manatee County Fairgrounds.
This ball brings together the community for an evening of live entertainment with One Night Rodeo, sumptuous dining, dancing, and a vibrant auction. This may sell out, so get your tickets to the Cattle Baron’s Ball now!
6. Jewelry to the Rescue
Saturday, October 7th from 1 PM to 4 PM
Motorworks Brewing: 1014 9th Street W, Bradenton, FL
Ready to do some shopping while supporting a great cause? Check out Jewelry to the Rescue at Motorworks Brewing for some early holiday shopping or just come by for fun, food, and beer.
They’ll have all kinds of jewelry – from fine gemstones to fun costume pieces – for sale at super-discounted prices. This event supports the Friends of Manatee County Animal Welfare (FOMCAS), and all proceeds will go towards heartworm treatment, specialized medical care, and enrichment items for the shelter animals. There is a $5 entry fee or you can bring a piece of jewelry to donate and enter for FREE.
7. The Bradenton Public Market Returns!
Saturday, October 7th from 9 AM to 2 PM
: 400 12th St. W. Bradenton, FL 34205
The Bradenton Public Market is back for an all-new season of fresh-grown produce, local art, live music, and more.
Organized by Realize Bradenton, this public market hosts over 80 local vendors. You’ll find a selection of locally-grown fruits, vegetables, plants, organic products, fresh seafood, and prepared foods, as well as artisans showcasing their craft.
Head on over Old Main St. in downtown Bradenton and catch the market every Saturday, from October through May. Don’t miss out on this fun local tradition!
8. Village Art Walk Workshop
Saturday, October 7th from 9:30 am to 11:30 am
Saw Blossom: 1506 13th St W, Bradenton, FL 34205
Head over to Saw Blossom in Bradenton’s Village of the Arts for a unique workshop with featured local furniture and canvas artist Denise “Neen” O’Hare.Â
ou don’t have to be an artist to join. This is a light painting experience where you get to paint your own colorful Seahorse masterpiece and create various seashell and Seahorse applique using molding clay on your 12 x 24 board.
All materials are included. When you’re done, don’t forget to explore the Village of the Arts’ Art Walk, do some shopping, and stay for lunch. Workshop spots are limited, so get your tickets now!
9. Oktoberfest for Selah Freedom
Sunday, October 8th from 10 AM to 3 PM
Pineapple Kitchen: 4914 Lena Road, Unit 104, Bradenton, FL
Mark your calendars and head on over to Pineapple Kitchen to eat, drink, shop, and party at their Oktoberfest celebration for a cause!
This year try out free tastings of Soft Bavarian Pretzel Bites & Gourmet Dips, German Beer Samplings, Pretzel Charcuterie Tray Demos, Feelin’ Grazey Party Tray Samplings, and more. While you’re there, you can do some early holiday shopping for holiday décor and more – and give back 15%.
All proceeds from this event will go to Selah Freedom – an anti-human trafficking non-profit organization based in Florida and the Midwest. There is no cost to attend, so come on out and show your support.
10. Oktoberfest at Edelweiss
Wednesday to Sunday, October 11th to 15
Edelweiss: 611 Manatee Ave E, Bradenton, FL
Get ready to raise your beer mugs, drink schunkel, and yodel because the best Oktoberfest in town is back and better than ever!
Join Edelweiss German Restaurant as they celebrate their 11th annual Oktoberfest. This is a week-long celebration of non-stop fun, fantastic food, and frothy brews. There will be a huge open-air Beer Tent, tons of live German entertainment, delicious Oktoberfest food, a chicken dance competition, kid-friendly activities, games, and more. This is an awesome celebration that you don’t want to miss! Check out Edelweiss’s Facebook Page for more info.
11. Fall Fete Holiday Market
Saturday and Sunday, October 14th and 15th from 10 AM to 4 PM
Manatee County Fairgrounds: 402 14th Ave W, Palmetto, FL 34221
Embrace the enchantment of the fall season at the Fall Fete Holiday Market at the Manatee County Fairgrounds.
Check out all of Florida’s finest merchants, artists, and collectors in this one-stop shop for all things autumn and holiday-inspired. You’ll find some unique, hand-crafted, re-purposed, and re-imagined treasures. While shopping enjoy live music and food trucks. The kids will also enjoy some fun activities like a pumpkin patch, face painting, petting zoo, kids crafts, and a visit from Santa.
Whether you’re seeking the perfect gift or simply savoring the essence of fall, the Fall Fete Holiday Market is a must visit. Get your tickets here and don’t miss out on the celebration of this enchanting time of year.
12. Hunsader Farms 32nd Annual Pumpkin Festival
October 14-15, 21-22, and 28-29 from 9 AM to 5 PM
Hunsader Farms: 5500 County Road 675 E, Bradenton, FL 34211
Get ready for Hunsader Farms’ 32nd Annual Pumpkin Festival, the biggest fall spectacular of the year!
Every day there will be various fun activities and games including a Craft Show, Pioneer Trades Village, Kid’s Pumpkin Games, Big Train Ride, Homemade Ice Cream, and more.
Everyone is welcome to attend this family-friendly event, including dogs (on a leash). The entrance charge is $15. Parking is $5 and admission is free for children under 10 years old.
Learn more at www.hunsaderfarms.com.
13. Murder Mystery at BWC
Saturday, October 14th from 6 PM to 10 PM
Bradenton Woman’s Club: 1705 Manatee Avenue West Bradenton, FL 34205
Join the Bradenton Woman’s Club for a glamorous evening of suspense and mystery!
Midnight at the Masquerade is a masquerade murder mystery dinner where guests will take part in an interactive mystery party. Start the evening with a complimentary glass of bubbly while mingling with friends over charcuterie before sitting for a plated meal. After the mystery party, finish off the night with a live auction and a 50/50 raffle. A cash bar is also available. Spaces are limited for this event, so get your tickets now!
14. Friendly City Flea / Walk & Shop Old Manatee
Sunday, October 15th from 10 AM to 3 PM
Oscura: 816 Manatee Ave E, Bradenton, FL
Don’t miss out on a curated market of makers + musicians + creatives at the Friendly City Flea, located at Oscura in Downtown Bradenton.
With over 70 Artisan Vendors, you’re sure to have fun shopping for unique, hand-crafted items. Come hungry, and experience their Brunch + Coffee + Cocktails. Live music will also be playing throughout the event.
After you’ve visited the flea, don’t forget to explore the Old Manatee neighborhood.
Visit Segunda Vida, Bat City Comic Professionals, Loving Hands Thrift Store, Verona Gourmet, and The Vintage Vine Market. Many locations have their own special events going on this day, and you never know what you’ll find.
15. Marie Garafano Workshop
Tuesday, October 17th from 1 PM to 3 PM
Island Gallery and Studios: 456 Old Main St, Bradenton, FL 34205
Island Gallery and Studios on Old Main St. in downtown Bradenton is now holding classes and workshops. The upcoming Marie Garafano Workshop at will feature Marie demonstrating the stunning Florida clouds – specifically the big puffy cumulus clouds. The focus will be on composition, form, and light.
Bring your preferred supplies and a cloud shot or work from a selection provided by Marie. Whether you’re a seasoned artist looking to refine your craft or a novice eager to start your artistic journey, this workshop will provide expert guidance and a nurturing environment.
To RSVP, please call the Gallery- 941-778-6648 any time Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm.
16. The Rocky Horror Show
Thursday, October 19th to Sunday, November 5th
Bradenton Kiwanis Theater: 502 Third Avenue West, Bradenton FL 34205
If you’re a fan of musicals, you don’t want to miss out on this one! The Rocky Horror Show pays a humorous homage to the science fiction and horror B movies from the 1930s through the early 1960s.
Catch it at the Manatee Performing Arts Center. Tickets sell out fast, so get your tickets to the Rocky Horror Show now!
Note: This show is rated R.
17. De Soto Charity Golf Tournament
Friday, October 20th at 12:30 PM
IMG Academy Golf Club: 4350 El Conquistador Pkwy, Bradenton, FL 34210
Calling all golf enthusiasts and philanthropists! It’s time to tee off for a great cause at the 24th Annual De Soto Charity Golf Tournament.
Grab your friends and join us for a fun-filled day of playing golf and supporting the community. While on the course, you will find food, complimentary beverages, and games! There will also be raffle items, including a 50/50, silent and live auction, and awards. All proceeds from this event will go to charity. Register today and swing into action for charity!
18. Back to Angola Festival
Friday to Sunday, October 20th to October 22nd from 6 PM to 8:30 PM
Mineral Springs Park: Riverwalk East, 1312 2nd Ave. East
Rediscover the magic of Angola at the Back to Angola Festival in Mineral Springs Park! Celebrating the rich heritage and vibrant culture, this event brings awareness of the Angola Maroon community of free Blacks and Seminole Indians who resided at the Manatee River, circa 1812-1821.
Immerse yourself in demonstrations of traditional craftsmanship, a panel discussion, oral history, music, and food. So mark your calendars, gather your loved ones, and join us for a day of fun, connection, and nostalgia. Get your tickets for the Back to Angola Festival now!
19. Anna Maria Island BayFest
Saturday, October 21st 10 am to 9 pm
Pine Avenue, Anna Maria Island
Head out to Anna Maria Island for a full day of family-friendly fun! There will be live music, a food court, arts and crafts vendors, and lots of family fun.
Don’t miss out on the car show, from 10 am to 3 pm. Music includes performances by Memphis Rub, Trevor Bystrom Band, Karen & Jimmy Band, and Dr. Dave Band. Admission is free so don’t miss out!
20. Fall Plants and More Sale
Sunday, October 22nd from 10 AM to 3 PM
Palma Sola Botanical Park: 9800 17th Ave NW, Bradenton, FL 34209
Plant lovers, you definitely won’t want to miss the Fall Plants & More Sale at Palma Sola Botanical Park.
Check out their wonderful array of plants for sale and craft vendors all throughout the park. There will also be art, food, and music for you to enjoy. This fun annual event is FREE, so be sure to head on out and support the local community.
Note that some vendors accept cash only. Do yourself a favor and stop at the ATM on your way.
There you have it! Our round-up of 20 fun and exciting things to do in Bradenton during the month of October. 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!
