Friday, December 26th, 2025
Good morning, Sarasota. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 26th of December.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ The Longboat Key Police Department is hosting 'Cops, Cars and Coffee' on Jan. 17 from 8 to 10 a.m. at Whitney Plaza, 6920 Gulf of Mexico Drive—officers will chat with community members while local vendors serve coffee and breakfast. Observer
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ During the holiday season, retailers including Amazon, Walmart, Target, Best Buy, Kohl’s, Sephora, Ulta, and TJ Maxx now offer extended return windows for gifts purchased from Nov. 1 to Dec. 31, with deadlines reaching as far as Jan. 31 and some items subject to restocking fees. Sarasota Herald-Tribune
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ The top 10 arts events in the Sarasota area are set to take place from Dec. 28 to Jan. 3, featuring a mix of exhibitions, performances and interactive activities for locals to enjoy. Interested participants should check event specifics to plan ahead. Sarasota Herald-Tribune
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ Local business leaders Steven and Natalee Herrig donated $1 million to New College of Florida on Dec. 25, fueling plans to boost enrollment and spur regional economic growth. Their contribution is expected to inspire further community investment in the college’s future. Sarasota Herald-Tribune
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Cane toads, which secrete a milky toxin harmful to pets, are found in yards and near water in the area. Pet owners are urged to remove attractants and secure outdoor spaces + be vigilant during pet walks to prevent accidental exposures. Sarasota Herald-Tribune
LIFESTYLE NEWS
- ➤ The Santa Stumble pub crawl kicks off today in Siesta Key Village at 1 p.m. with live music, holiday cocktails, $3 Bud Light drafts and $4 NÜTRLs from multiple bars; guests in Christmas attire get free entry. Sarasota Herald-Tribune
REAL ESTATE NEWS
- ➤ Homebuilder Taylor Morrison closed on a land deal in Lakewood Ranch to develop the Esplanade at Cammaray, a gated resort-style community with 1,200 homes and condos. Amenities include a pool, culinary center and wellness facilities, and sales are planned to begin in early 2027. Observer
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Justin Layman Concert
12-4 p.m. — Deep Lagoon Seafood & Oyster House — Free entry — Enjoy a relaxing afternoon with live music from Sarasota's own Singer/Songwriter Justin Layman, blending Folk, Rock, and R&B.
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Bri Rivera Live Performance
5-9 p.m. — Marina Jack — Free entry — Experience the vibrant sounds of Bri Rivera, a local sensation from Sarasota with Puerto Rican roots.
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New Year's Eve Celebration at Indigenous
5-11 p.m. — Indigenous Restaurant — $150 — Celebrate the new year surrounded by exquisite food and wine crafted by Chef Steve.
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Justin Layman Live Performance
5-9 p.m. — Swordfish Grill — Tickets available — Experience the unique blend of Folk, Rock, and R&B by Sarasota's own singer-songwriter Justin Layman.
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Blue Man Group: North American Tour
7 PM — Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall — Cost TBD — Dive into a thrilling blend of captivating music and interactive art with the Blue Man Group.
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Bri Rivera Live Performance
5-9 p.m. — Marina Jack — Visit Artist's Website — Experience the vibrant sounds of Bri Rivera, a talented musician with roots in Puerto Rico.
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Justin Layman: Open Mic Night
5:30-9:30 p.m. — 3 Bridges Brewing — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of original music blending Folk, Rock, and R&B by local talent Justin Layman.
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Mystical Visions Concert
6-10 p.m. — Marina Jack — Free entry — Enjoy a night of captivating pop/rock hits from a talented female fronted band.
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Birdwatching Guide at Celery Fields
3:30-5:00 p.m. — Sarasota Audubon Nature Center — Registration required — Discover essential birdwatching skills while enjoying the natural beauty of the Celery Fields.
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Bri Rivera Live Performance
5-9 p.m. — Marina Jack — Free entry — Experience the vibrant sounds of Bri Rivera as she brings her Puerto Rican roots to the local music scene.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
You can't wait for inspiration. You have to go after it with a club.
~ Jack London
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