Good morning, Sarasota.

HOPE Family Services hosts the 27th Annual Black & White Fundraising Event, Denim & Diamonds, in Bradenton and it will feature food, dancing and a silent auction to raise awareness about domestic violence and provide crucial support for survivors and their children.

ROCKtoberfest returned to University Town Center with free music from seven bands across seven venues—raising funds for Suncoast Charities for Children.

A shuttle service helped guests travel easily between venues to support local children, teens, and adults with special needs.

The annual Englewood Beach Waterfest returns this weekend after a break due to Hurricane Milton, with more than 30,000 visitors expected plus high-speed powerboat races and unique vendors set to entertain families.

Doug Izzo of Englewood’s Chamber of Commerce said the event meets pent-up demand from last year.

Today, Sarasota County has imposed a burn ban because dry conditions have raised wildfire concerns when the Keetch-Byram Drought Index hit a dangerous level.

County fire officials urge residents to clear debris and remove dead vegetation—measures meant to protect homes until safe conditions return.

The Sarasota Memorial Hospital board approved an $82.5 million rehabilitation pavilion for its Venice campus, which will include both inpatient and outpatient therapy — opening for patient care in early 2028.

It also approved $5.6 million to expand its Sarasota rehab facility by adding seven beds in a new wing set to open in early 2027.

Venice officials are offering free mental health crisis first aid training for teens — the session will teach essential skills to help during emergencies.

The Sarasota Planning Board approved Central Gardens and recommended the Cypress Square III project on October 8, which will add 100 affordable rental units to the city.

The projects include 30 Section 8 units and rents based on 30% of household income — Central Gardens will be managed by NDC Asset Management to avoid issues seen at Janie's Garden.

Tyler Farr Live Concert

7-10 p.m. — Big Top Live — Tickets available — Experience the electric country-rock sounds of Tyler Farr with his chart-topping hits and engaging stage presence.

SHARDS of SKELLY

3-4 p.m. — Sarasota Sahib Shrine Event Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience a magical family Halloween show featuring hilarious fairy tales and a lovable skeleton hero.

Annual Downtown Sarasota Craft Festival

10 AM – 5 PM — Selby Five Points Park — Free entry — Explore diverse crafts and a Green Market in the heart of vibrant Downtown Sarasota.

Art at Noon Gallery Talk with Christopher Wilson

12-1 p.m. — Sarasota Art Museum — Free entry — Engage in a discussion about the Art Deco exhibition with an architecture historian.

The Legend of Sleepy Hollow Play

6-7:45 p.m. — Sarasota Polo Club — $15-$30 — Experience the spooky tale with a costume contest and encounter the Headless Horseman.

Repticon Reptile and Exotic Animal Show

10:00 – 11:30 AM — Sarasota Sahib Shrine — Admission varies — Explore reptiles and exotic animals while connecting with suppliers and enthusiasts.

Dovydas Concert

6-11 p.m. — Big Top Live — Tickets from $45 — Experience an unforgettable performance by Dovydas in Sarasota.

Live Music with Bri Rivera

5-9 p.m. — Marina Jack — Free entry — Enjoy captivating performances from a rising star in the local music scene, inspired by her Puerto Rican roots.

Ryan Faraday Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Marina Jack — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of live music with professional guitarist Ryan Faraday and his eclectic band mix.

Live Music with Scott Curts

5-9 p.m. — Marina Jack — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of eclectic music and captivating performances by accomplished artist Scott Curts.