October is a month that many Floridians and tourists look forward to arriving. The air becomes drier, and the overnight temperatures begin to drop, making way for beautiful, sunny days without the extreme humidity. October is also a great month for festivals and events. Here is a listing of the most popular October events for 2021.
October 2nd to October 3rd (10 am to 5 pm each day)
Selby Five Points Park, 1 Central Ave., Sarasota, 34236
The event craft lovers always look forward to attending. Come see a wide variety of jewelry, ceramics, photography, paintings, clothing, and much more. The event also features a large green market with plants, orchids, exotic flora, handmade soaps, gourmet spices, and freshly popped kettle corn. Free admission.
Various dates throughout October: Please click here for dates and times.
7410 Fruitville Road, Sarasota, FL 34240
This event features hay rides, pony rides, pumpkin painting, face painting, mini train rides, a petting zoo, and lots more. Free admission, although many of the attractions are individually priced. There are Halloween crafts for sale as well.
October 15th (5 pm to 8 pm) and 16th (10 am to 9 pm)
City Pier Park, 103 North Bay Blvd., Anna Maria, 34216
Enjoy live music all day and a classic car show, along with arts and crafts vendors, food, and beverages in a family-friendly setting. Please see the Anna Maria Chamber of Commerce website for more details.
October 15th (4 pm to 10 pm), 16th (11 am to 10 pm), and 17th (11 am to 6 pm)
JD Hamel Park, 199 Bayfront Dr., Sarasota 34236 (at Gulfstream and Main)
Get ready for an authentic Oktoberfest experience with live music, German food, and big pints of beer. There will also be a marketplace featuring crafts and fine products. Free admission
5500 County Road 675, Bradenton 34211
Various dates throughout October
This annual tradition has something for all age groups, including craft booths, live music, pioneer trades village, scarecrow displays, charity pumpkin games, hayrides, petting zoo, frog jumping championships, kids train ride, fresh roasted sweet corn, rock climbing wall, face painting and more. Admission is $12 for adults and free for kids 10 and under. $5 for parking.
October 9th and 23rd (10 am, 12 pm, and 2 pm each day)
Manatee Village Historical Park, 1404 Manatee Ave. East (SR 64) Bradenton, 34208
Visit the oldest public cemetery in Manatee County and learn about the history of the cemetery and hear stories about some of the people buried there. Each tour is guided by a staff member and runs for one hour. Tours are free but limited to 15 people. Donations are accepted.
October 31st, 6 pm to 8:30 pm
St. Armand’s Circle on St. Armand’s Key, Sarasota
Celebrate Halloween on St. Armand’s Circle with haunted storefronts, spooky characters, and statues dressed in the Halloween spirit. Kids can safely trick-or-treat around the Circle and many shops and restaurants offer customized promotions.
Take advantage of the perfect weather this October to experience all of the autumn happenings in Sarasota. It’s a great time of the year to enjoy the beach during the mornings and great events during the afternoon and evening time.
