Good morning, Sarasota.

Siesta Key's 35th annual fireworks show will take place this Fourth of July as licensed professionals launch thousands of pounds of fireworks despite a burn ban.

Officials urge residents to leave fireworks handling to the experts.

America will turn 250 and Bay Area counties plan free July 4 celebrations with fireworks, live music, parades and family activities.

In Sarasota, residents will watch a fireworks display at Bayfront Park at 9 p.m. on July 4 and enjoy live shows at Nathan Benderson Park on July 3.

The Greater Sarasota Chamber announced its 2026 Small Business Awards winners including Stage Door Studios, and several local businesses also named new hires.

St. Regis Longboat Key Resort appointed Troman Felizmenio as executive pastry chef today & HCA Florida Sarasota Doctors Hospital named a new CFO.

Florida Studio Theatre is staging the new comedy Dog Mom — a heartfelt play about a woman finding hope when a stray Golden Labrador shows up.

The production runs through July 26 at Keating Theatre.

Local restaurants are recognized by Wine Spectator for outstanding wine lists.

Sixteen establishments in Sarasota-Manatee received awards, with Michael’s on East, Marcello’s Ristorante Italiano, The Capital Grille + CW Prime earning the higher Best of Award of Excellence; the awards issue will hit newsstands July 21.

A free tribute concert and unveiling ceremony will honor longtime Sarasota resident Dickey Betts on Wednesday, July 1 as a new memorial highway is unveiled in his name.

The event will mark the legacy of the late Allman Brothers Band guitarist with performances celebrating his life.

DownBeat Magazine named the Jazz Club of Sarasota to its 2026 Great Jazz Venues Guide for its long history and programming.

It will expand the Sarasota Jazz Festival from five to seven days and reintroduce Jazz in the Park at Phillippi Estate Park plus launch a new monthly concert series.

Insurance expert Mark Friedlander of the Insurance Information Institute urged local boaters to check their coverage before leaving the dock for the Fourth of July weekend.

With more than 2 million boats in use, he warned that proper insurance can help lessen costly storm damage.

Trauma nurse Casey Howell from Sarasota Memorial Hospital advises residents to take precautions during Florida's hot summer.

She recommends protective clothing (such as hats and sunglasses) and staying hydrated (with water or electrolyte drinks) during outdoor activities.

A dangerous heat dome is affecting 41 Florida counties with advisories warning that feels-like temperatures may hit 112, and residents are urged to stay cool and drink water as the heat persists into the Fourth of July weekend.

Sarasota High basketball coach BJ Ivey was named the Herald-Tribune Boys Coach of the Year after leading the Sailors to district and regional titles and a close state title game.

A fan poll remains open until Friday, July 3 at 10 a.m. to confirm the choice.

Ryan Faraday Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Check the site for cost — Enjoy a night of captivating music from a talented guitarist and vocalist.

Scott Curts Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Check for ticket info — Enjoy a night of eclectic music with accomplished singer-songwriter Scott Curts and his loyal companion, Apollo.

Mystical Visions: Live Music Experience

6-10 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Free entry — Enjoy a night of pop/rock hits from the 60’s to today with the female fronted band Mystical Visions.

Bri Rivera Live Performance

6-10 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — No cover charge — Enjoy an evening of captivating music from Puerto Rican talent Bri Rivera.

Bri Rivera Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Check out a talented vocalist from Puerto Rico making waves in Sarasota's music scene.

Ryan Faraday Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Free entry — Experience the soulful sounds of Ryan Faraday, a versatile musician from Sarasota.

Sarasota Speed Dating for Singles in Their 50s and 60s

6-8 p.m. — PopStroke — Ticket required — Connect with up to 12 potential matches in a fun and relaxed environment.

Live Blues Night with Trey Wanvig & Detroit Mike Duo

6-10 p.m. — Pop's Sunset Grille — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of soulful blues from local talent Trey Wanvig and Detroit Mike.

Sarasota Cars & Coffee

8-10 a.m. — The Mall at University Town Center — Show car parking $10, motorcycle $5, spectator free — Experience a vibrant gathering of exotic and classic cars while supporting local charities and enjoying complimentary coffee.

Bri Rivera Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Free entry — Experience the vibrant sounds of Puerto Rican folk music with local favorite Bri Rivera.