Tuesday, November 25th, 2025
Good morning, Sarasota. Here's your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 25th of November.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Fruitville Library will close on Dec. 18 for major renovations and a portable library will open in its parking lot within days to keep materials accessible. The upgraded facility will reopen in summer with new learning areas—like a Creation Station, renovated children’s and teen spaces, and expanded community meeting rooms. ABC 7
- ➤ The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office is hosting its 9th Annual Holiday Toy Drive to collect new, unwrapped toys and gift cards for children from newborn to 18 in Sarasota, Manatee, and DeSoto counties, with donations accepted from December 1 through December 15. The drive will support partners such as the Florida Statewide Guardian ad Litem Office, Teen Court, and All Star Children’s Foundation—helping bring holiday cheer to those in need. ABC 7
- ➤ The Heart of the Holidays European market returns December 4-7 at Suncoast where local vendors, food, and attractions will be available. Netflix star Madison Marilla will sell her MataZen holiday bracelets and other jewelry made with local seashells—adding her local touch to the event. ABC 7
- ➤ The Kiwanis Lawn Party on City Island will offer food from 32 local restaurants on December 6 at Ken Thompson Park to raise funds for the Children's Guardian Fund that supports foster families in Sarasota and Manatee counties. Organizers said the event will bring back the 50/50 raffle and art sales — key features that boost this community celebration. Observer
- ➤ Eight years ago, a volunteer effort transformed empty space at St. Thomas More Catholic Church into the Twelve Baskets Food Pantry to serve Sarasota families in need—volunteers now help seniors, veterans, and working families every Wednesday from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Gulf Gate location. FOX 13
- ➤ Lakewood Ranch Community Activities hosted Party in the Park at Greenbrook Adventure Park on November 22—families enjoyed live music, face painting and activities as they celebrated the new pavilion that replaced the one lost in a 2023 fire. A new Little Free Library was also unveiled to honor a local sponsor, adding a special touch to the community event. Observer
- ➤ The Charles & Margery Barancik Foundation approved more than $4 million in grants to local nonprofits — awarding $1 million to Harvest House, $700,468 to All Faiths Food Bank and $425,000 to the Women's Resource Center. The Patterson Foundation, Bank of America, the Junior League of Sarasota and B&I Contractors also provided funds to boost hurricane recovery and essential community services. Sarasota Magazine
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ Florida gas prices jumped 20 cents per gallon last week as over 4.25 million residents plan to travel for Thanksgiving. AAA said that if this trend continues, drivers may see a drop in prices before the holiday (offering extra savings compared to last year). ABC 7
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Cardinal Mooney students have given blood for nearly 20 years, donating more than 2,000 whole blood units and nearly 300 double red cell donations through their work with Suncoast Blood Centers. Their effort supplies almost 10% of the region’s blood needs—showing a strong tradition of service and care. Sarasota Magazine
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Mote’s Sea Turtle Conservation and Research Program reported a record 5,735 nests along 35 miles of Sarasota County beaches, including 5,384 from loggerhead turtles and 351 from green turtles. The program also recorded 716 disorientations from artificial beachfront lighting—highlighting the need for better community practices to protect these endangered species. Sarasota Magazine
LIFESTYLE NEWS
- ➤ Many restaurant chains will remain open on Thanksgiving Day and offer special menus—local diners should check their nearest locations for exact hours. FOX 13
REAL ESTATE NEWS
- ➤ Officials on Nov. 19 reviewed an application for a new Kompose Hotel with 60 rooms on a 2.25 acre lot off Airport Circle; the hotel will include a business center, fitness center and a 100-seat restaurant and now requires a resubmittal for further review. A 24-unit condominium project in the Rosemary District received partial approval and will demolish existing housing along Cohen Way to create a public park—officials said further issues are being addressed. Observer
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Ryan Faraday Performance
5-9 p.m. — Marina Jack — Cost info unavailable — Experience a captivating evening of live music with professional guitarist Ryan Faraday and his band.
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Florida Turkey Trot
8 a.m. — Nathan Benderson Park — $23.14-$55.23 — Participate in a fun 5K run/walk with a Thanksgiving theme, complete with medals and mimosas.
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Runaway Gin - Phish Tribute
7-8:30 p.m. — Big Top Live — Ticketed event — Experience the electrifying tribute of Runaway Gin, hailed as the world's most notable Phish tribute project.
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Ezra Ray Hart Concert
7:00-8:30 p.m. — Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall — Last-minute tickets available — Experience the musical talents of Ezra Ray Hart live in Sarasota.
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Frozen Musical Performance
Dec 4-21 — Manatee Performing Arts Center — Check website for pricing — Discover the enchanting story of Frozen live on stage with spectacular effects and beloved songs.
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Cabana Dogs Live Performance
7:30-11:30 p.m. — Freckled Fin Irish Pub — Cover charge may apply — Enjoy high-energy beach rock sounds with a mix of rock, country, and soul.
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Yaya Diamond and the Dream Chasers Concert
7:30 p.m. — FSU Center for the Performing Arts — Check website for ticket prices — Experience the musical journey of Yaya Diamond and her talented Dream Chasers.
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Boston Marathon & Half Marathon Qualifier in Sarasota
6:30 AM – 12:30 PM — Nathan Benderson Park — Registration fee applies — Aiming to qualify for Boston? This could be your chance to set a personal record on a perfect course.
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Inside the Art World
11 AM – 12 PM — Sarasota Art Museum — Free entry — Explore contemporary art trends and insights with expert Elana Rubinfeld in an engaging and informal discussion.
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Ryan Faraday Performance
5-9 p.m. — Marina Jack — Check local listings for cost — Enjoy an evening of live music featuring the talented guitarist and vocalist Ryan Faraday.
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