Good morning, Sarasota.

Dakin Dairy Farm’s Harvest Festival in Myakka City drew families on Sunday when a humorous incident during a milking demonstration showed cow Faith relieving herself — a moment that made children laugh while highlighting the farm’s natural practices.

The festival continues Saturdays and Sundays in October with interactive animal encounters, rides, and live music.

On Oct 7, Scout and Molly’s Boutique set up a pop-up shop in the private dining room at Pascone’s Ristorante in Myakka City to benefit Donte’s Den animal sanctuary.

Retired Air Force Master Sgt. Lisa Christy explained how the sanctuary cared for her special needs dogs while she was hospitalized—attendees also saw boutique clothing modeled by local supporters.

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens has been transformed for The Orchid Show 2025: Rebecca Louise Law as British artist Rebecca Law decorated the museum with thousands of hand-strung preserved flowers and leaves — the exhibition runs through December 7.

Visit Sarasota County is using public funds and investments from 500 partners to attract high-value tourists who help local businesses and create jobs.

Its 2030 plan sets clear targets to boost the local economy and support projects like beach renourishment and sports facility upgrades.

Five Sarasota County Schools educators were honored with the Ripple Effect Teacher Award — which includes a $5,000 gift — during a surprise ceremony at their schools; representatives from the Barancik Foundation and district leaders said the honor recognizes teachers whose dedication makes a lasting impact on students and the community.

Tropical Storm Lorenzo formed in the Atlantic on Oct 13 and is set to strengthen slightly before turning north away from Sarasota—its winds are near 50 mph with tropical-storm-force gusts extending up to 160 miles.

The National Hurricane Center is also monitoring a tropical wave in the eastern Atlantic with no expected impact on Florida.

Former Israeli defense minister Yoav Gallant spoke at a remembrance event at The Ora hosted by the Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee where he defended a pending U.S.-led peace deal to free 48 hostages in exchange for 1,700 Palestinian prisoners—his remarks sparked protests outside from about 100 demonstrators.

Today, Sarasota is quietly updating its streets and public spaces under its Sarasota 2.0 plan to add free Wi-Fi, bayfront sensors, and AI-powered traffic lights—tech upgrades designed to boost safety and speed while keeping the city’s charm.

Local engineers and businesses believe these smart systems will help residents enjoy a smoother, more connected daily life.

Resort lifestyle brand Esplanade broke ground Friday, Oct.

10 at Wellen Park for a new Sarasota County community that will include 877 single-family homes and resort—style amenities including a pool, sports courts, a dog park and a bar and grill.

Local high school volleyball teams are competing for district titles this week.

Games are scheduled from October 13th to October 16th with rounds starting at 6 p.m. today — key match-ups involve local schools such as Sarasota Christian and Canterbury.

Readers voted online for the Herald-Tribune Girls Athlete of the Week for Oct.6-11, sponsored by Central Florida Behavioral Health Network—local coaches sent stats from Sarasota and Manatee schools for sports like volleyball, cross country, golf and swimming.

The poll closed at 10 a.m. Friday after collecting votes to choose the top athlete.

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.