Friday Fest, the beloved free outdoor concert series at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall makes its highly anticipated return in 2024 with a thrilling lineup of bands set to rock the stage from May to October!
Kicking off the festivities on May 24 is the Hot Tonic Orchestra, known for their dynamic fusion of swing, Latin jazz, and popular tunes, promising an unforgettable live experience led by bandleader Victoria Woods and musical director Josh Hindmarsh.The excitement continues June 21 with the return of crowd favorite Kettle of Fish, renowned for their electrifying blend of blues, soul, funk, and rock 'n roll energy, setting the stage for an evening of musical magic.
After a summer hiatus, Friday Fest resumes Sept. 20 with Kluv & the United Funk Foundation, a powerhouse ensemble formed during the pandemic, boasting a repertoire of dance, soul, and R&B hits led by seasoned vocalist Kim and a team of top-tier Florida musicians. Wrapping up the season on Oct. 4 is Big Night Out, a versatile variety dance band delivering infectious Latin, R&B, and island rhythms fueled by the commanding vocals of Joni Adno and an energetic horn section.
Audiences are invited to bring blankets or lawn chairs, soak in the music and sunset, and indulge in delectable offerings from local vendors while enjoying this not-to-be-missed community event.
City administrative offices will be closed Monday, May 27, in observance of Memorial Day. Garbage, recycling and yard waste collection schedules will not be affected by the holiday.
The Bay Runner will operate regular hours, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., with a modified route to accommodate the parade.
While administrative offices will be closed, many City facilities will remain open with adjusted hours. Click here for more information.
Reminder: The City will host the annual Memorial Day parade in conjunction with the Sarasota Patriotic Observance Committee. The parade begins at 10 a.m. at the intersection of Main Street and Osprey Avenue and will conclude at 11 a.m. at Chaplain J.D. Hamel Park with a ceremony honoring our nation’s fallen soldiers.
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As summer draws near, the parking lots at Lido Beach and Ted Sperling Park at South Lido Beach are filling up before noon on most weekends. You may have noticed SPD's social media posts frequently alerting beachgoers to the full lots and suggesting the use of the free Bay Runner trolley.
We've received inquiries about why the lots are deemed full even though some beach visitors will leave. The reason for closing the parking lot is to prevent traffic congestion on the main road. It's crucial for emergency vehicles to have unimpeded access in case of a call. Gridlock on Benjamin Franklin Drive could obstruct the path of ambulances, fire trucks or police vehicles, hindering their ability to respond promptly. Additionally, it could impact residents' ability to access their homes. When a car departs the parking lot, our officers facilitate another vehicle taking its place. To avoid potential parking frustrations, beachgoers are encouraged to consider alternative options, including riding the free Bay Runner trolley.
When you secure parking space, please remember to lock your cars! The best defense against vehicle theft is to remove any valuables, lock your car and take your keys with you. Vehicle theft often occurs within seconds due to unlocked doors, presenting an easy opportunity for thieves. Whether at home or on the go, SPD reminds you: lock it or lose it!
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It’s that time of year! Now is the time to prepare for Atlantic Hurricane Season, which extends from June through November.
We encourage new residents to become familiar with preparedness protocols and longtime residents to avoid complacency. It’s easier and less stressful to be prepared for a storm prior to the National Hurricane Center issuing hurricane watches -- and tens of thousands of people begin scrambling for limited supplies.
FEMA and the State of Florida recommend you understand your risk and following these tips:
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Make a plan: Talk with your family and decide how you will get in contact with each other during an emergency, where you will go and what you will do.
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Build a kit: Have enough supplies for the entire family for at least 7 days. Supplies should include nonperishable food, water, prescriptions, batteries and more. A disaster supply kit checklist is available here.
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Review insurance policies: Ensure you have adequate coverage for your home and personal property and know that some companies may temporarily suspend new coverage or policy changes 24-48 hours prior to a storm making landfall.
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Receive weather alerts: Each household should have multiple ways to receive weather alerts. Battery-operated or hand-crank weather radios are recommended in the event there is a power outage.
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Know your evacuation zone: Understand your home’s ability to withstand strong winds and heavy rain; whether you're located in a flood-prone area; and know your evacuation zone. You can enter your Sarasota street address and find your evacuation zone here.
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Fuel up: Keep your vehicle’s gas tank at least half-full during hurricane season to avoid long lines at gas stations and fuel shortages. If you’re halfway full, you’re halfway there! Evacuations usually don’t have to be hundreds of miles. Those with EVs should keep the battery at 50-80% capacity depending on the vehicle type and manual recommendations.
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Plastic bags are no longer being accepted for curbside yard waste pickup.
The City Commission approved the policy change after being notified the City’s yard waste contractor will no longer process yard waste contained in plastic bags.
Yard waste now must be placed in paper bags, reusable containers, or tied in bundles with compostable twine and weighing under 50 pounds.
Please note: There is a transitional grace period until July 1 to allow time to make arrangements to comply with the new policy. After July 1, plastic bags containing yard waste and placed curbside for collection will be deemed improperly prepared and will not be collected or will require special pickup with an additional fee.
Yard waste collection questions and requests for a special pickup should be directed to the Solid Waste Division of the Public Works Department: 941-263-6170.
The recently adopted 2030 Public Art Plan includes goals for community education and collaboration, with accompanying strategies to achieve those goals, such as hosting community forums to connect with local and regional artists.
To this end, the Public Art Program is launching its first informational opportunity: The Public Art Summer Learning Series. Join us for four in-person sessions throughout the summer.
The series kicks off Wednesday, May 29 at 6 p.m. at the City Hall Annex with an introduction to Public Art Administration. Guest speakers include regional artist and curator John Hayes, City of Bradenton Public Art Administrator Jean G. Farmer, Bishop Museum of Science and Nature Director of Grants and Special Projects Lauren Aristizabal, and City of Sarasota Public Art Committee Member Josh Botzenhart.
The panel will be moderated by City of Sarasota Public Art Manager Mary Davis Wallace.
Interested in attending? Please RSVP to PublicArt@sarasotafl.gov
Mark your calendar for future Public Art Summer Learning Series dates:
- Wednesday, June 26
- Wednesday, July 24
- Wednesday, Aug. 28
Each session starts at 6 p.m. in the City Hall Annex.
We're excited to announce the launch of our new, invigorating water aerobics classes at Lido Beach Pool!
Starting May 24, join us every Friday morning from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. for a fun and energizing workout by the beautiful shores of Lido Beach. Our water aerobics classes are suitable for all skill levels, whether you're a beginner or a fitness enthusiast.
At only $3 per class or $55 for a 20-class pass, it's an affordable and accessible opportunity to stay fit, have fun, and enjoy the stunning surroundings of Lido Beach.
Session passes can be purchased in advance at www.LetsPlaySarasota.com, or drop-in pass can be purchased on-site (credit card only).
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Congratulations to Doug Jeffcoat, our city’s Public Works Director, on receiving the Florida APWA Professional Manager of the Year Award!
This award is given by the American Public Works Association to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional administration skills, inspiring excellence, leadership and an unwavering dedication to the public good.
Doug has served as Public Works Director for 13 years with 28 total years of service with the City. His leadership, knowledge and significant contributions to Sarasota’s Public Works Department make him an inspiration to his team and our community.
What an outstanding recognition. Kudos, Doug!
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 In addition to this position, many other employment opportunities are available with the City of Sarasota. Check out a complete list and apply online here.
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