Good morning, Sarasota.

Bradenton and Palmetto will host coordinated July 4 events with live music, local food, and fireworks on each bank of the Manatee River—starting at 5 p.m. Additional Suncoast celebrations include events in Sarasota, Siesta Key and North Port—featuring parades, family activities and road closures with free parking.

Local communities are preparing for a series of Fourth of July celebrations in Sarasota, Longboat Key and Lakewood Ranch that will feature fireworks, parades, music, food festivals and cleanup events.

Organizers have planned events for July 3, July 4 and July 5—each offering family-friendly activities and special viewing options.

A major crash on U.S. 41 closed the road on June 25th at 9:52 a.m.—emergency crews responded quickly to clear the scene and help drivers avoid further delays.

A multi-vehicle crash closed the north lanes of US-41 at 57th Ave West in Bradenton+ emergency crews worked to clear the scene, and local authorities advised drivers to use 26th Street West or 9th Street East+.

This week, local venues in Sarasota and nearby areas host a range of arts events from today through early July—featuring a circus show, beach concert, comedy performance, cabaret tribute, and art exhibits.

Each event offers family-friendly activities with varied ticket prices.

The City of Sarasota is asking building owners for high-visibility walls so artists can add murals that honor local history—such as the tribute to pioneers in the Colson mural at Sarasota School of Arts and Science.

The mural will be dedicated on July 3 at 10 a.m.—and the city plans to find an artist for a new large-scale mural on 10th and Osprey.

Although the official Savor Sarasota season ended, many local restaurants are extending their prix fixe menus for a little longer.

Some restaurants (like Dolce Italia until June 28 and Hyde Park Prime until June 30) will offer these deals until further into summer.

Sarasota High quarterback Hudson West, a rising sophomore, has received four Division-I offers from UNC, Virginia Tech, Kentucky and Cincinnati after attending football camps this summer—he now prepares to showcase his skills on the field.

Community Development Orientation

Come find out about Neighborhood Expert jobs to assist in the development of The Newtown Family Center. Hiring starts in September.

Piano Friends Performance

1:30-3:30 p.m. — Art Ovation Hotel, Autograph Collection — Paid venue parking — Experience sequential performances by talented local pianists in a celebration of music.

Sarasota Fireworks and Candle Painting Party

7-9 p.m. — Painting with a Twist — $40-$47 per person — Create a scented candle and enjoy a fun painting night with friends.

Reptiday Sarasota

10 AM – 4 PM — Sarasota Sahib Shrine Event Center — Visit for an exciting showcase of reptiles, supplies, and exotic pets.

Sarasota Mystic Faire

9 a.m. - 6 p.m. — Sarasota Municipal Auditorium — $5 for one day or $8 for the weekend — Experience Florida's largest psychic fair with holistic and metaphysical vendors.

Christmas in July Night Market

6:30-9:30 p.m. — The Green at UTC — Free entry — Celebrate summer with holiday cheer, local vendors, and live music as Santa makes a special appearance.

DOG BAR SRQ - Grand Opening Celebration

12-3 p.m. — Dog Bar Sarasota — $7 entry per dog — Celebrate the return of Sarasota’s favorite dog-friendly hangout with cold drinks and a fresh menu.

Psychic Sundays Tour

1-3 p.m. — Discover Sarasota Tours — Ticket prices vary — Immerse in the mystical with tarot readings and a sound bath experience under the guidance of Deni Dreazen.

PMP Certification Classroom Training in Sarasota

9 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Regus - Sarasota Courthouse — Early bird pricing available — Gain comprehensive project management training with a money-back guarantee.

Bri Rivera Performance

6-10 p.m. — Marina Jack — Check artist's website for details — Enjoy the vibrant sounds of Bri Rivera, a standout musician from Sarasota with Puerto Rican roots.