Good morning, Sarasota.

Kirsten Russell, vice president of community impact at the Community Foundation of Sarasota, said that Season of Sharing has boosted local support for charities—she noted that the program increased donations and volunteer efforts in the community.

Tommy Bahama reopened its combined restaurant and retail space in St. Armands Circle this fall after being rebuilt from last year's hurricanes+the grand opening was held on Nov.

5. CEO Doug Wood and general manager Ryan McNulty said the redesigned store offers the same menu favorites plus new upscale features like a retractable roof and custom artwork.

At the Manatee River Artists Guild art show, Waterlefe residents and grade school students worked for 20 years to raise funds for Freedom Elementary and Carlos E.

Haile Middle Schools. This year, Kathy Fiora began a painting that the kids finished, and fourth grader Tucker Miles won the drawing contest—adding a new twist to the long-running event.

Tom and Sherry Koski donated $5 million to the planned Sarasota Orchestra Music Center at 5701 Fruitville Road, raising total gifts to $75 million; the project, estimated to cost between $375 million and $425 million, will break ground in 2027.

Santa Claus led a festive parade on November 8 at University Town Center and dazzled crowds with glittery floats and fireworks—local schools, businesses and non-profits also joined the event with a high-wire walk and a live rock band performance.

Colin Polsky, a professor at FAU and head of the Florida Office of Ocean Economy, will speak on how to pay for a warming planet at the Climate Forecast Conference at USF Sarasota-Manatee on Nov.

13. His 1:20 p.m. session will show how government, local businesses and philanthropists can work together to fund climate change fixes—meant to lower flood risks.

On Nov. 5, officials from the Nathan Benderson Park Conservancy and Sarasota County announced that fundraising for the $65 million boathouse and events center has begun at the park.

The nearly finished schematics target early 2028 for completion — a plan that will add indoor sports and event space as the park prepares to host global rowing competitions.

Bri Rivera Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Marina Jack — Free entry — Experience the vibrant tunes of Bri Rivera, a rising star in the Sarasota music scene.

Ryan Faraday Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Marina Jack — Free entry — Experience the musical talents of Ryan Faraday, a seasoned guitarist and vocalist from Sarasota.

Off the Page: Isaac Eger

6-7:30 p.m. — Selby Library — Free entry — Author Isaac Eger explores Florida's ranching history and the significance of the Great Florida Cattle Drive.

Bri Rivera Live Performance

6-10 p.m. — Marina Jack — Admission details unavailable — Experience the vibrant sounds of Bri Rivera, a talented musician from Puerto Rico, in the heart of Sarasota.

2025 Sarasota Shark Tank SCM Meet

4 AM – 4 AM — Selby Aquatic Center — Entry fees apply — Compete in annual short-course meters meet featuring exciting 25-meter sprints and relay events.

Siesta Key Crystal Classic Sandsculpting Festival & Sunset Drum Circle

2-6 p.m. — Siesta Beach — Free entry — Experience stunning sand sculptures and enjoy live music at this community festival.

33rd Annual Sertoma Golf Classic

9 AM – 2 PM — Laurel Oak Country Club — Supports community needs — Experience a day of golf with exciting contests and a chance to win big prizes.

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall — Ticket prices vary — Celebrate the holiday season with the iconic Mannheim Steamroller performing their revolutionary Christmas music.

Sarasota Campus Open House

3:30-5:30 p.m. — Galen College of Nursing - Sarasota — Free entry — Explore nursing programs and meet faculty at an informative Open House event.

Scott Curts Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Marina Jack — Free entry — Enjoy an enchanting evening of eclectic music with accomplished singer Scott Curts and his loyal companion, Apollo.