Sarasota’s Ultimate Fall Festival Extravaganza

Ladies and gentlemen, festival enthusiasts, and autumn aficionados, the time has come to embrace the enchantment of fall like never before! Sarasota, Florida, is turning up the heat on its fall festival scene, offering a dazzling array of events to keep you entertained all season long. From pumpkin patches to craft fairs, spooky lights, and shark-tastic beer fests, Sarasota’s fall extravaganza is about to go viral! Buckle up and get ready for the ride of your life through this ultimate guide to Sarasota’s fall festivities.

St. Armand’s Craft Festival and Sidewalk Sale

Date: October 1, 2023
Location: St. Armand’s Circle, Sarasota, FL
Kicking off the fall festival season is the St. Armand’s Craft Festival and Sidewalk Sale on October 1st. With over 175 artisans showcasing their talents, you’re bound to find something nice. It’s a perfect opportunity to start your fall shopping spree while enjoying the charm of St. Armand’s Circle. Best of all, it’s free!

35th Annual Fruitville Grove Pumpkin Fest

Dates: October 1, 2023, October 7 – 8, 2023, October 14 – 15, 2023, October 21 – 22, 2023, October 28 – 29, 2023
Location: 7410 Fruitville Road, Sarasota, FL
If you’re looking for a fantastic family-friendly festival, the Fruitville Grove Pumpkin Fest is your answer. From hayrides to pumpkin painting, face painting, and even a petting zoo, there’s no shortage of activities. Plus, there are Halloween decorations galore for sale, including scarecrows and hay bales. Admission and parking are free, so you can enjoy all the fun without breaking the bank.

Atlanta Braves Farmer’s Market

Date: October 4, 2023 (Wednesdays, October – March)
Location: CoolToday Park, 18800 South, W Villages Pkwy, Venice, FL
Calling all foodies and local produce enthusiasts! Join the Atlanta Braves Farmer’s Market for fresh, locally grown goodies. This market takes place right at CoolToday Park’s parking lot, and it’s a socially-distanced event. So, start your day with the best local produce, artisanal treats, and more.

Phillippi Farmhouse Market

Date: October 4, 2023 (Every Wednesday, October through April)
Location: 5500 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota
For the freshest fruits, vegetables, and locally baked goods, head over to the Phillippi Farmhouse Market. You’ll find a wide variety of products, including herbs, hanging baskets, and shrubs. Plus, enjoy some delicious barbecue and live music while you shop for the best of Sarasota’s local products. And the best part? Admission is free!

Music on Main at Lakewood Ranch

Date: October 6, 2023
Location: Lakewood Ranch, off University Parkway, east of I-75
Get ready to groove with Music on Main in Lakewood Ranch! On the first Friday of each month, enjoy live music, beer, wine, and delicious food. The RJ Howson & Friends will keep the rhythm going, and there are plenty of activities for the kids. Bring your chairs, but leave your coolers at home, and don’t forget your furry friends on a leash.

Fresh Fridays Downtown Sarasota Block Party

Date: October 6, 2023
Location: State Street, Sarasota, FL
Join the Fresh Fridays downtown Sarasota block party for a night of live music, mouthwatering food, and drinks from local restaurants. It’s not just a great way to enjoy Sarasota’s culinary delights but also an opportunity to support local organizations in their hurricane relief efforts.

27th Annual Downtown Sarasota Craft Festival

Dates: October 7 – 8, 2023
Location: 1 Central Avenue, downtown Sarasota, FL
This craft festival in downtown Sarasota is a treasure trove of artisanal delights. Explore a variety of jewelry, pottery, ceramics, photography, clothing, and more. There’s even a Green Market for plant lovers, offering plants, orchids, handmade soaps, gourmet spices, and more. It’s a great place to discover unique gifts and support local artists.

Lights at Spooky Point

Date: October 13 – 31, 2023
Location: Historic Spanish Point, 401 N Tamiami Trail, Osprey, FL
If you’re looking for a unique and slightly eerie experience to celebrate the Halloween season, check out “Lights at Spooky Point.” This event transforms the Historic Spanish Point into a mesmerizing world of lights and spooky surprises.

Sharktoberfest at Mote Marine Aquarium

Date: October 14, 2023
Location: Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL
If you’re a fan of craft beer and marine life, don’t miss Sharktoberfest at Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium. This event offers a craft beer festival in the aquarium after hours, featuring local and regional breweries showcasing their staple selections alongside unique seasonal brews.

Cemetery Tours at Manatee Village Historical Park

Dates: October 14, 2023, October 28, 2023
Location: Manatee Village Historical Park, 1404 Manatee Avenue East (State Road 64), Bradenton, FL
History buffs and those interested in exploring Manatee County’s past will enjoy the “Cemetery Tours” hosted by Manatee Village Historical Park. This free hour-long tour takes you through the 1850 Manatee Burying Grounds and is led by a knowledgeable member of Manatee Village’s staff.

32nd Annual Hunsader Farms Pumpkin Festival

Dates: October 14 – 15, 2023, October 21 – 22, 2023, October 28 – 29, 2023
Location: Hunsader Farms, C.R. 675, halfway between S.R. 64 & S.R. 70, 10 miles east of I-75
The 32nd Annual Hunsader Farms Pumpkin Festival is an expansive, must-visit event. This festival spans multiple weekends and offers something for everyone, including pumpkin games, live music, craft booths, hayrides, and a pioneer trades village. It’s a full day of family fun!

So, there you have it, folks – Sarasota’s fall festival scene is nothing short of spectacular, and it’s waiting for you to dive right in! From the enchanting Lights at Spooky Point to the shark-filled sips at Sharktoberfest and everything in between, Sarasota’s fall festivals promise an unforgettable experience. Get your calendars ready, gather your friends and family, and make this fall a season to remember in the heart of Sarasota. Share this guide far and wide because when it comes to fall fun, Sarasota is where the magic happens! Don’t miss out—let the festivities begin!