Sarasota For Free | Florida Fun Free Things To Do | Free Activities

Thursday, February 16

FREE Things to Do in Sarasota & Her Islands

Rosie and Gitka | Discovery Center 11am-1:30pm Thursday, February 16

Visit Rosie & Gitka, program dogs. 11am-1:30pm Thursdays. FREE Admission. Southeastern Guide Dogs Discovery Center, 1618 Main Street, Sarasota, FL 34236 USA. Info: 941.953.2892

Wilson House Tour | Urfer Family Park 2-4pm Thursday, February 16

Take a self-guided tour through the first floor of the Wilson House to learn about the historic Dr. C.B. Wilson House and other historical aspects of Sarasota County. 2-4pm Thursdays. FREE Admission. Urfer Family Park, 4000 Honore Avenue, Sarasota, Florida 34233 USA. Info: 941.861.5000

Bluegrass Jam | Bee Ridge Park 7-10pm Thursday, February 16

Bluegrass Jam fills the night with hand clappin' and foot stompin' Bluegrass music performed by local artists. Bring your lawn chair, blanket or even an instrument. 7-10pm Thursdays. Picnic shelter, Bee Ridge Park, 4430 S Lockwood Ridge Road, Sarasota, Florida 34233. Info: 941.861.5000

Friday, February 17

FREE Things to Do in Sarasota & Her Islands

Art Walk | Towles Court 6-10pm Friday, February 17

Art Walk allows a stroll through a historic Sarasota artist colony where you can meet the artists and see their artwork. 6-10pm Third Fridays. FREE Admission. Towles Court Arts District, 1938 Adams Lane, Sarasota Florida 34236 USA. Info: 941.374.1988

New at Chautauqua | Bookstore1Sarasota 6pm Friday, February 17

Sherra Babcock, Director of Education at Chautauqua Institution, shares what's new at New York state's famed Chautauqua Institution and what Chautauquans will be reading in 2012. 6pm Friday, February 17. FREE Admission. Bookstore1Sarasota, 1359 Main Street, Sarasota, Florida 34236 USA. Info: 941.365-7900

Art Talk | Art Uptown 7-8:30pm Friday, February 17

In Art Talk: Whimsical & Wacky Watercolors,nationally recognized watercolorist Jacqueline Clark discusses and demonstrates her work.. 7-8:30pm Friday, February 17. FREE Admission.Art Uptown Gallery, 1367 Main Street, Sarasota, Florida 34236 USA. Info: 941.955.5409

See Jill's Progress | Discovery Center 10am-1:30pm Friday, February 17

Drop in to see Jill, a puppy in training. 10am-1:30pm Fridays. FREE Admission. Southeastern Guide Dogs Discovery Center, 1618 Main Street, Sarasota, FL 34236 USA. Info: 941.953.2892

Saturday, February 18

FREE Things to Do in Sarasota & Her Islands

Book Fair | Bookstore1Sarasota 9am-9pm Saturday, February 18

A festive book fair. 9am-9pm Saturday, February 18. FREE Admission. Bookstore1Sarasota, 1359 Main Street, Sarasota, Florida 34236 USA. Info: 941.365-7900

Follow the Paws | Discovery Center 10-11am Saturday, February 18

Follow the Paws art project needs help in decorating sidewalks with wonderful puppy paw print artwork! Pick up chalk and a stencil then begin your art adventure out on our sidewalks. 10-11am Saturday, February 18. FREE Admission. Southeastern Guide Dogs Discovery Center, 1618 Main Street, Sarasota, FL 34236 USA. Info: 941.953.2892

Puppy Hugging | Discovery Center 11am-1:30pm Saturday, February 18

Puppy Hugging gives love from adorable 8 week old puppies! 11am-1:30pm Saturday, February 18. FREE Admission. Southeastern Guide Dogs Discovery Center, 1618 Main Street, Sarasota, FL 34236 USA. Info: 941.953.2892

Sunday, February 19

FREE Things to Do in Sarasota & Her Islands

Historian Graham Anthony | Bookstore1Sarasota 2pm Sunday, February 19

Maritime Historian Graham Anthony presents "Titanic: Triumph Turns to Tragedy." Anthony, who lives in Cambridge, England, graduated as an engineer and served with the Royal Engineers in Berlin. He worked in the UK and India before helping to found the Engineering Council in London. As a maritime historian he lectures on cruise ships, at universities and to various learned societies. 2pm Sunday, February 19. FREE Admission. Bookstore1Sarasota, 1359 Main Street, Sarasota, Florida 34236 USA. Info: 941.365-7900

Water Ski Show | Ski-A-Rees Stadium 2pm Sunday, February 19

Water Ski Shows on Sarasota Bay. 2pm Sundays through May 20. FREE Admission. Sarasota Ski-A-Rees Stadium, Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, Florida 34236 USA. Info: 941.388.1666

Monday, February 20

FREE Things to Do in Sarasota & Her Islands

Yoga on the Beach | Siesta Key Beach 9-10:30am Monday, February 20

Yoga on the Beach. Bring drinking water and a mat or a towel. 9-10:30am Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays & Saturdays. FREE Admission (donations accepted). Siesta Key Beach, 948 Beach Road, Sarasota, Florida 34242 USA. Info: 941.320.6693

Suncoast Gleaning Project | Jessica's Organic Farm 9-11am Monday, February 20

Help the Suncoast Gleaning Project harvest left-over produce from local farms for those most in need. 9-11am Most Mondays. FREE Admission. Jessica's Organic Farm, 4180 47th Street,
Sarasota, Florida 34235 USA. Info: 941.408.3374

Experimental Gardens | Sarasota Succulent Society 9am-12n Monday, February 20

See rare and exotic succulents from around the world in a rolling hills garden with a Sarasota history dating back to 1950. 9am-12 noon Mondays, weather permitting. FREE Admission. Sarasota Succulent Society, 1310 38th Street, Sarasota, Florida USA. Info: 941.924.2703

The John and Mable Ringling Museum | Art Museum 10am-5pm Monday, February 20

The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art opens its galleries to the public at no charge on Mondays. Includes special exhibitions: Josef Albers: Color; The Amazing American Circus Poster: The Strobridge Lithographing Company; ZIMOUN: Sculpting Sound; From the Vaults: John Ringling's Asian and Cypriot Art; and 20th Century Abstract Art from the Ringling Collection. Does NOT include Ca d'Zan or the Circus Museums. 10am-5pm Mondays. FREE Admission. The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota, Florida USA. Info: 941.359.5700

Poetry Open Mic | Bookstore1Sarasota 6pm Monday, February 20

Bring your own poetry to read aloud or come to be part of the audience and
enjoy listening to local poets read their work at Poetry open Mic. 6pm Monday, February 20. FREE Admission. Bookstore1Sarasota, 1359 Main Street, Sarasota, Florida 34236 USA. Info: 941.365-7900

Tuesday, February 21

FREE Things to Do in Sarasota & Her Islands

Wilson House Tour | Urfer Family Park 11am-1pm Tuesday, February 21

Take a self-guided tour through the first floor of the Wilson House to learn about the historic Dr. C.B. Wilson House and other historical aspects of Sarasota County. 11am-1pm Tuesdays. FREE Admission. Urfer Family Park, 4000 Honore Avenue, Sarasota, Florida 34233 USA. Info: 941.861.5000

Wednesday, February 22

FREE Things to Do in Sarasota & Her Islands

Phillippi Farmhouse Market | Phillippi Estate Park 9am-2pm Wednesday, February 22

The Phillippi Farmhouse Market, Sarasota's mid-week farmers market, boasts more than 50 vendors who offer produce and plants from local growers and producers as well as prepared foods, specialty and sustainable items and Florida agriculturally-related products. FREE weekly course sponsored by the University of Florida - Sarasota County Extension will explore Composting Part 2. LIVE Entertainment. 9am-2pm Wednesdays (rain or shine), November-April. FREE Admission & FREE Parking. Phillippi Estate Park, 5500 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, Florida 34231 USA. Info: 941.861.5000

Visit Miss Fay | Discovery Center 10:30am-1:30pm Wednesday, February 22

Visit Miss Fay, a retired breeder and mom to 41 of incredible puppies. 10:30am-1:30pm Wednesdays. FREE Admission. Southeastern Guide Dogs Discovery Center, 1618 Main Street, Sarasota, FL 34236 USA. Info: 941.953.2892

Poet Karla Linn Merrifield | Bookstore1Sarasota 6pm Wednesday, February 22

A recent "Best of the Net" nominee, five-time Pushcart Prize nominee, and National Park Artist-in-Residence, Karla Linn Merrifield has had poetry appear in dozens of publications as well as in many anthologies. She has six books to her credit, including Godwit: Poems of Canada, which received the 2009 Andrew Eiseman Writers Award for Poetry, and her new chapbook, The Urn, from Finishing Line Press. 6pm Wednesday, February 22.FREE Admission. Bookstore1Sarasota, 1359 Main Street, Sarasota, Florida 34236 USA. Info: 941.365-7900

Thursday, February 23

FREE Things to Do in Sarasota & Her Islands

See Gunnar Grow | Discovery Center 10am-1:30pm Thursday, February 23

Come visit the Southeastern Guide Dogs Discovery Center and see the progress of our new goldador puppy, Gunner. 11am-1:30pm Saturday, February 18. FREE Admission. Southeastern Guide Dogs Discovery Center, 1618 Main Street, Sarasota, FL 34236 USA. Info: 941.953.2892

Rosie & Gitka | Discovery Center 10am-1:30pm Thursday, February 23

Visit Rosie & Gitka, program dogs. 11am-1:30pm Thursdays. FREE Admission. Southeastern Guide Dogs Discovery Center, 1618 Main Street, Sarasota, FL 34236 USA. Info: 941.953.2892

MLK: On Spiritual Conversion | New College 4:30pm Thursday, February 23

Writer and theorist bell hooks talks about "Martin Luther King: On Spiritual Conversion," 4:30pm Thursday, February 23 . FREE Admission. Mildred Sainer Pavilion, New College of Florida, 5313 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota, FL 34243 USA. Info: 941.487.4888

Bluegrass Jam | Bee Ridge Park 7-10pm Thursday, February 23

Bluegrass Jam fills the night with hand clappin' and foot stompin' Bluegrass music performed by local artists. Bring your lawn chair, blanket or even an instrument. 7-10pm Thursdays. Picnic shelter, Bee Ridge Park, 4430 S Lockwood Ridge Road, Sarasota, Florida 34233. Info: 941.861.5000

Friday, February 24

FREE Things to Do in Sarasota & Her Islands

See Jill's Progress | Discovery Center 10am-1:30pm Friday, February 24

Drop in to see Jill, a puppy in training. 10am-1:30pm Fridays. FREE Admission. Southeastern Guide Dogs Discovery Center, 1618 Main Street, Sarasota, FL 34236 USA. Info: 941.953.2892

Saturday, February 25

FREE Things to Do in Sarasota & Her Islands

Follow the Paws | Discovery Center 10-11am Saturday, February 25

Follow the Paws art project needs help in decorating sidewalks with wonderful puppy paw print artwork! Pick up chalk and a stencil then begin your art adventure out on our sidewalks. 10-11am Saturday, February 25. FREE Admission. Southeastern Guide Dogs Discovery Center, 1618 Main Street, Sarasota, FL 34236 USA. Info: 941.953.2892

Puppy Raising | Discovery Center 11am-12n Saturday, February 25

In "All You Wanted to Know about Puppy Raising," Mike Miller, who has successfully raised five pups, gives an introduction to becoming a Southeastern Guide Dog Puppy Raiser. 11am-12n Saturday, February 25. FREE Admission. Southeastern Guide Dogs Discovery Center, 1618 Main Street, Sarasota, FL 34236 USA. Info: 941.953.2892

Puppy Love | Discovery Center 11am-1:30pm Saturday, February 25

Puppy Love gives love from pups of all ages & sizes! 11am-1:30pm Saturday, February 25. FREE Admission. Southeastern Guide Dogs Discovery Center, 1618 Main Street, Sarasota, FL 34236 USA. Info: 941.953.2892

Sunday, February 26

FREE Things to Do in Sarasota & Her Islands

Water Ski Show | Ski-A-Rees Stadium 2pm Sunday, February 26

Water Ski Shows on Sarasota Bay. 2pm Sundays through May 20. FREE Admission. Sarasota Ski-A-Rees Stadium, Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, Florida 34236 USA. Info: 941.388.1666

Monday, February 27

FREE Things to Do in Sarasota & Her Islands

Yoga on the Beach | Siesta Key Beach 9-10:30am Monday, February 27

Yoga on the Beach. Bring drinking water and a mat or a towel. 9-10:30am Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays & Saturdays. FREE Admission (donations accepted). Siesta Key Beach, 948 Beach Road, Sarasota, Florida 34242 USA. Info: 941.320.6693

Suncoast Gleaning Project | Jessica's Organic Farm 9-11am Monday, February 27

Help the Suncoast Gleaning Project harvest left-over produce from local farms for those most in need. 9-11am Most Mondays. FREE Admission. Jessica's Organic Farm, 4180 47th Street,
Sarasota, Florida 34235 USA. Info: 941.408.3374

Experimental Gardens | Sarasota Succulent Society 9am-12n Monday, February 27

See rare and exotic succulents from around the world in a rolling hills garden with a Sarasota history dating back to 1950. 9am-12 noon Mondays, weather permitting. FREE Admission. Sarasota Succulent Society, 1310 38th Street, Sarasota, Florida USA. Info: 941.924.2703

The John and Mable Ringling Museum | Art Museum 10am-5pm Monday, February 27

The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art opens its galleries to the public at no charge on Mondays. Includes special exhibitions: Josef Albers: Color; The Amazing American Circus Poster: The Strobridge Lithographing Company; ZIMOUN: Sculpting Sound; From the Vaults: John Ringling's Asian and Cypriot Art; and 20th Century Abstract Art from the Ringling Collection. Does NOT include Ca d'Zan or the Circus Museums. 10am-5pm Mondays. FREE Admission. The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota, Florida USA. Info: 941.359.5700

Tuesday, February 28

FREE Things to Do in Sarasota & Her Islands

Author Andi Brown | Bookstore1Sarasota 6pm Tuesday, February 28

For Andi Brown, author of The Whole Pet Diet, holistic pet care and helping animals to be well is a personal mission, rooted in the frustration she felt in 1986, when her cat Spot suffered from a myriad of health problems that couldn't be corrected. The solution she discovered -- a home-cooked stew, made with fresh chicken and vegetables proved to be the answer that countless prescription medications and "scientific" pet foods failed to provide. A frequent speaker on the seminar circuit, she has been seen on many national television programs, such as "Good Morning America", "20/20", CNN, The "Today" Show, Montel, "The Bloomberg Report", "Fox News", and scores of local news broadcasts. Her Holistic Pet Column is a regular feature in New York Dog, Hollywood Dog, and I Love Cats Magazines. 6pm Tuesday, February 28. FREE Admission. Bookstore1Sarasota, 1359 Main Street, Sarasota, Florida 34236 USA. Info: 941.365-7900

Wednesday, February 29

FREE Things to Do in Sarasota & Her Islands

Phillippi Farmhouse Market | Phillippi Estate Park 9am-2pm Wednesday, February 29

The Phillippi Farmhouse Market, Sarasota's mid-week farmers market, boasts more than 50 vendors who offer produce and plants from local growers and producers as well as prepared foods, specialty and sustainable items and Florida agriculturally-related products. FREE weekly course sponsored by the University of Florida - Sarasota County Extension will explore Closing Up Your Home. LIVE Entertainment. 9am-2pm Wednesdays (rain or shine), November-April. FREE Admission & FREE Parking. Phillippi Estate Park, 5500 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, Florida 34231 USA. Info: 941.861.5000

Visit Miss Fay | Discovery Center 10:30am-1:30pm Wednesday, February 29

Visit Miss Fay, a retired breeder and mom to 41 of incredible puppies. 10:30am-1:30pm Wednesdays. FREE Admission. Southeastern Guide Dogs Discovery Center, 1618 Main Street, Sarasota, FL 34236 USA. Info: 941.953.2892

Thursday, March 1

FREE Things to Do in Sarasota & Her Islands

Bluegrass Jam | Bee Ridge Park 7-10pm Thursday, March 1

Bluegrass Jam fills the night with hand clappin' and foot stompin' Bluegrass music performed by local artists. Bring your lawn chair, blanket or even an instrument. 7-10pm Thursdays. Picnic shelter, Bee Ridge Park, 4430 S Lockwood Ridge Road, Sarasota, Florida 34233. Info: 941.861.5000

Sunday, March 12

FREE Things to Do in Sarasota & Her Islands

Half Marathon & relay | Bayfront Sarasota 7-11am Sunday, March 12

The First Watch Sarasota Half Marathon & Relay is one of the premiere running events in West Florida. With most of the course running either right next to the water or a couple of blocks from the bay runners will always feel the breeze. 7-11am Sunday, March 12. Centennial Park to St Armands Circle, Sarasota, Florida 34236 USA. FREE Admission for Spectators. Info: 727. 825.1521

Ongoing Free Things to Do

Open to the Public at No Charge in Sarasota & Her Islands

New College Art Show | State Street Penthouse May 6 - May 21

The 2011 New College of Florida Senior Thesis Art Exhibition ranges from still life painting to auditory and kinetic sculpture. Themes reflect students' broad academic pursuits and include the history and implications of sugar consumption, the study of dolphins at Mote Marine Laboratory, alternatives to conventional portraiture and the study of music. 12n-3pm Thursdays-Saturdays, May 6 - May 21. 1517 State Street, Suite 300, penthouse, Sarasota, Florida 34236 USA. Info: 941.487.4888

Weekdays & Saturdays Recurring

FREE Things to Do in Sarasota & Her Islands

Yoga on the Beach | Siesta Key Beach 8-9:30am Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays & Saturdays

Yoga on the Beach. Bring drinking water and a mat or a towel. 8-9:30am Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays & Saturdays. FREE Admission (donations accepted). Siesta Key Beach, 948 Beach Road, Sarasota, Florida 34242 USA. Info: 941.320.6693

Daily Recurring

FREE Things to Do in Sarasota & Her Islands

The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art | Grounds & Gardens 9:30am-6pm Daily

The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art opens its grounds and gardens daily to the public at no charge, except during special events such as the Ringling International Arts Festival (RIAF). Stroll the grounds and enjoy the Rose Garden, Mable's Secret Garden, the Dwarf Garden, Millennium Tree Trail and other delights of the bayfront estate. FREE tram rides! Does not include the art museum (free on Mondays only), Cà d'Zan or the Circus Museum. 9:30am-6pm Daily. The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota, Florida USA. Info: 941.359.5700

Bayfront Island Park | Downtown Sarasota 6am-11pm Daily

Set aside time for a leisurely stroll in 32-acre Sarasota Bayfront Island Park before afternoon showers. During the lull before the Festival Parade of Boats on Thursday evening, and after Sarasota Season of Sculpture, attentive residents and visitors enjoy sculpture from the City's permanent collection and views of Sarasota Bay. 6am-11pm Daily. Bayfront Park, 2 Marina Plaza, Sarasota, Florida 34236 USA. Info: 941.365.2200

Self-guided Sarasota County History Stroll | Civic Center & Theater Arts District Daily

Sarasota's Civic Center and Theater Arts District includes a cluster of historic buildings. Former Sarasota County Historian Ann A, Shank put together an hour-long self-guided history stroll spotlighting older buildings that continue to play important roles in our community life. Don't miss the art deco Chidsey Building (pictured), Sarasota's first public library, which now houses a visitors information center and history center museum. Click here for the self-guided tour, courtesy of Sarasota History Alive! 10am-5pm Mondays-Saturdays. Sarasota County History Center Museum, 701 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, Florida USA. Info: 941.861.5000

Butterfly, Hibiscus & Bromeliad Gardens | Sarasota Garden Club Daily

The Sarasota Garden Club located on more than an acre of beautifully maintained grounds with native and tropical plants welcomes visitors to its park-like grounds during daylight hours. Sarasota Garden Club, 1131 Boulevard of the Arts, Sarasota, Florida USA. Info: 941.955.0875

Tour Seabird Rehabilitation Center | Save Our Seabirds 10am-5pm Daily

Guided informational tours of bird rescue and rehabilitation facility. Donations accepted. 10am-5pm Daily; guided tours 2pm Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays by request. Save Our Seabirds Sanctuary, 1708 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, Florida 34236 USA Info: 941.388.3010

Unconditional Surrender Statue | Bayfront Sarasota Daily

The nurse and the sailor continue to star in souvenir photos. Daily. Sarasota Bayfront, Florida USA. Info: 941.365.2200

Downtown Unplugged | Wireless Sarasota 24/7

Sarasota County Government offers free wireless Internet access -- "Downtown Unplugged." Users with wireless-capable laptop computers to access the Internet at no charge throughout much of downtown, from Washington Boulevard west to Bird Key in Sarasota, Florida USA

Wyland Mural: Florida's Dolphins | Mote Marine Daily

Florida's Dolphins, a 45- x 26-foot mural by Wyland, ranks as Number 51 out of 100 Wyland Foundation Whaling Walls located in communities around the world. Visible daily on exterior of the Ann and Alfred Goldstein Marine Mammal Center. Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, Florida 34236 USA

Self-Guided Tour | Laurel Park Historic District Daily

Walk through Laurel Park Historic Park guiding your tour via a downloadable map showing the way around this venerable neighborhood. "Architectural styles include Frame Vernacular, Masonry Vernacular, Bungalow, Mission Revival, Colonial Revival, and Mediterranean Revival. While primarily residential, the neighborhood includes some businesses and was once the home of Sarasota's County Courthouse and Sarasota's daily newspaper, The Sarasota Herald Tribune." Daily. Info: http://laurelparkhistoricdistrict.com/

Art Galleries

Look & Learn about Art

Allyn Gallup Contemporary Art | Downtown Sarasota

The Allyn Gallup Contemporary Art Gallery features contemporary fine art. 11am-5pm Tuesdays-Saturdays. 1286 N Palm Avenue, Sarasota, Florida 34236 USA Info: 941.366.2093

Art Uptown | Downtown Sarasota

Art Uptown Sarasota, Florida's oldest and only cooperative fine art gallery representing the work of over 30 area artists. 11am-5pm Mondays-Fridays; 10-4pm Saturdays. 1367 Main Street, Sarasota, Florida 34236 USA. Info: 941.955.5409

Dabbert Gallery | Downtown Sarasota

Dabbert Gallery offers original fine art including oils, acrylics, watercolor, mixed media, etchings, drawings, marble, wood, clay and bronze sculptures. 11am-5pm Tuesdays-Saturdays. Dabbert Gallery, 76 South Palm Avenue, Sarasota, Florida 34236 USA. Info: 941.955.1315

Galleria Silecchia | Downtown Sarasota

Galleria Silecchia features oil paintings, mixed-media works and glass, bronze, steel, aluminum and ceramic sculptures. 10am-6pm Weekdays. 20 S Palm Avenue, Sarasota, Florida 34236 USA. Info: 941. 365-7414

Harmony Gallery | Downtown Sarasota

Sarasota Orchestra's Harmony Gallery exhibits works by local artists who are invited to showcase their work in month-long solo exhibitions throughout the Orchestra's season. 8:30am-4:30pm Weekdays. Beatrice Friedman Symphony Center, 709 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, Florida 34236 USA. Info: 941.953.4252

Hodgell Gallery | Downtown Sarasota

Hodgell Gallery focuses on museum-quality contemporary art glass. 10am-5pm Weekdays. Hodgell Gallery, 46 S Palm Avenue, Sarasota, Florida 34236 USA. Info: 941.366.1146

Kathleen Bernhardt Gallery | The Rosemary District

New art gallery in the Rosemary District displays Gallery Group exhibit with works by seven artists on display. 5-8pm Friday, November 5. Kathleen Bernhardt Gallery, 1419-B 5th Street, Sarasota, Florida 34236 USA. Info: 312.751.1300

madeby Gallery | The Rosemary District

Art by Ringling College of Art and Design students and alumni. 10am-5pm Tuesdays-Saturdays & 1pm-5pm Fridays. madeby, 734 Central Avenue, Sarasota, Florida 34236 USA Info: 941.822.0442

State of the Arts Gallery | Downtown Sarasota

State of the Arts Gallery represents local and nationally-recognized artists. State of the Arts Gallery, 1525 State Street, Sarasota, Florida 34236 USA. Info: 941.955.2787

Towles Court Art Colony | Downtown Sarasota

Towles Court Art Colony operates as a free-style arts community so although hours typically 12n-pm4 Tuesdays-Saturdays, please call before visiting specific galleries (click here for links to telephone numbers). Third Friday Art Walks 6-10pm include LIVE music and refreshments. 1938 Adams Lane, Sarasota, Florida 34236 USA. Info: 941.365.4222

Wyland Galleries | St Armands Circle

Featuring Wyland's paintings and sculptures, including abstract canvases and small Lucite sea sculptures, it also displays paintings, sculptures and other creations by a select group of leading contemporary artists. The galleries host "Meet the Artist" evenings. Wyland Galleries, 314 John Ringling Boulevard, St. Armands Circle, Sarasota, Florida 34236 USA. Info: 941.388.5331

Art Museums & Exhibit Halls

Art Center Sarasota | Downtown Sarasota

A member-supported, non-profit art association, Art Center Sarasota supports the visual arts by providing quality art education and focusing interest on the considerable quality of art done by local artists. 10am-4pm Tuesdays-Saturdays. Art Center Sarasota, 707 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, Florida 34236 USA. Info: 941.365.2032

The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art | Museum District

The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art opens its galleries to the public at no charge on Mondays. Includes special exhibitions: Splendid Treasures of the Turkomen Tribes from Central Asia through January 24; and Threads of Gold: Renaissance Tapestries from the Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna through January 2; also 20th Century Abstract Art from the Ringling Collection. Free art museum admission 10am-5pm Mondays. Estate Grounds and Gardens open 9:30am-6pm daily to the public at no charge, except during special events such as the Ringling International Arts Festival (RIAF). Stroll the grounds and enjoy the Rose Garden, Mable's Secret Garden, the Dwarf Garden, Millennium Tree Trail and other delights of the bayfront estate. Does NOT include Ca D'Zan or the Circus Museums. The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota, Florida USA. Info: 941.359.5700

Marietta Museum of Art & Whimsy | North Trail

Marietta Museum of Art & Whimsy celebrates the American creative spirit in a collection of paintings, sculpture, collage and ceramics, mostly by living artists. FREE admission 1-4pm Thursdays-Saturdays. 2121 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, Florida 34234 USA. Info: 941.364.3399

Selby Gallery | Ringling College of Art and Design

Selby Gallery presents major exhibitions by nationally and internationally celebrated artists, designers, illustrators and photographers from diverse cultural backgrounds as well as provides community programming in the form of lectures, forums, panel discussions, and performing arts events. FREE admission 10am-4pm Mondays-Saturdays; 10am-7pm Tuesdays. Closed all major holidays. Ringling College of Art and Design, 2700 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, Florida 34234 USA. Info: 941.359.7563

Dance

Sarasota Ballet | FSU/Asolo Center for the Performing Arts

Sarasota Ballet, FSU/Asolo Center for the Performing Arts, 5555 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, Florida 34243 USA. Info: 941.359.0099 ext. 115

Music

Bluegrass Jam | Bee Ridge Park 7-10pm Thursdays

Bluegrass Jam fills the night with hand clappin' and foot stompin' Bluegrass music performed by local artists. Bring your lawn chair, blanket or even an instrument. 7-10pm Thursdays. Picnic shelter, Bee Ridge Park, 4430 S Lockwood Ridge Road, Sarasota, Florida 34233. Info: 941.861.5000

Drum Circle | Nokomis Beach | Hour or so before Sunset Wednesdays & Saturdays

Nokomis Beach Drum Circle features drumming, dancing, playing, spectating, communicating and ... belly dancing. "What can be better than sitting on the beautiful beach, listening to drums and watching the gorgeous belly dancers? Well ... bring a djembe, a drum, a cowbell, a shaker, a flute, a guitar, or anything that makes noise, and enjoy." Starts about an hour before sunset Wednesdays and Saturdays, rain or shine. FREE admission. Nokomis Beach Park, 100 Casey Key Road, Nokomis, Florida 34275 USA. Info: 941.861.5000

Music on Main | Lakewood Ranch 6-9pm First Fridays

Music on Main concerts feature various musical styles. 6-9pm First Fridays. FREE Admission. Main Street Lakewood Ranch, Florida USA. Info: 941.462.2357

Drum Circle | Siesta Key Beach | Hour or so before Sunset until about 10pm Sundays

Siesta Key Drum Circle starts a couple of hours before sunset. Enjoy an entertaining evening with drummers and other musicians, belly dancers, families, beach goers, tourists and more! Bring a blanket or beach chair. Approximately 7-10pm Sundays. South of main pavilion between red & green lifeguard stands, Siesta Public Beach, Sarasota, Florida USA

Colleges & Universities

Some FREE-admission Public Lectures & Programs

University of South Florida (USF) Sarasota-Manatee

Institute for Public Policy and Leadership at USF Sarasota-Manatee often offers FREE admission lectures and programs in Selby Auditorium on the campus. USF Sarasota-Manatee, 8350 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, Florida 34243 USA. Info: 941.359.4602

Animal Encounters & Rescue

Save Our Seabirds | Ken Thompson/City Island

See Birds of Prey, Shorebirds, Seabirds, Cranes, and Tropical birds including Macaws, Cockatoos and other parrots in bird sanctuary. Save Our Seabirds rescues injured birds, provides proper triage, treatment and rehabilitation as needed, and releases the birds back into their own environment. Sometimes an injured bird cannot be released because their injury is permanent and they must remain at the sanctuary. Save Our Seabirds Sanctuary, 1708 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, Florida 34236 USA Info: 941.388.3010

Southeastern Guide Dogs Discovery Center | Downtown Sarasota

Southeastern Guide Dogs Discovery Center serves as a city base for harness training guide dogs, and for trainers working with students in a more urban environment. The center offers workshops, seminars and presentations touching on everything from puppy health and wellness to pet estate planning. The puppy hugging sessions give you a chance to help these furballs develop the level of socialization needed to become comfortable with people and accustomed to stimulation. Many FREE-admission learning experiences. 10am-5pm Tuesdays-Fridays; 10am-2pm Saturdays. 1618 Main Street, Sarasota, Florida 34236 USA. Info: 941.953.2892

Beaches & Parks

Naturalists Lead FREE Nature Walks & Programs

Beaches | Discover Natural Sarasota

Sarasota County beaches are known world-wide for their pristine blue-green water and sugar-white sand. But they're not just beautiful, they're functional. From dog beaches in Venice to beach parks at Siesta Key, Lido Beach and Manasota Key — Sarasota beaches are perfect for birding, kayaking. Discover Natural Sarasota County, Sarasota Visitor Information Center, 701 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, Florida 34236 USA. Info: 941.957.1877

Parks / Preserves | Discover Natural Sarasota

Sarasota County parks deliver some of the most beautiful wildlife and trails in Florida. Bay Island Park offers Siesta Key views and recreational fishing on Sarasota Bay. While Blackburn Point Park is perfect for manatee and bird watching. Discover Natural Sarasota County, Sarasota Visitor Information Center, 701 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, Florida 34236 USA. Info: 941.957.1877

Farmers Markets

Located in Sarasota & Her Islands

Lakewood Ranch Farmers Market | Lakewood Ranch 9am-1pm Saturdays

Lakewood Ranch Farmers Market. 9am-1pm Saturdays November 13-April 9. Main Street Lakewood Ranch, Florida USA. Info: 941.462.2357

Phillippi Farmhouse Market | Phillippi Estate Park 9am-2pm Wednesdays

Phillippi Farmhouse Market with Florida-grown produce, plants, prepared foods and more than 40 vendors! 9am-2pm Wednesdays through April 27, 2011. Phillippi Estate Park, 5500 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, Florida 34231 USA. Info: 941.861.5000

Sarasota Farmers Market | Downtown Sarasota 7am-1pm Saturdays

Sarasota Farmers Market continues its 31-year tradition of serving the community with local produce, plants, prepared foods, and artisans from more than 55 vendors and 5,000 square feet of produce and plants. 7am-1pm Saturdays November through April (7am-12n May-October), rain or shine. Main Street and Lemon Avenue, Sarasota, Florida 34236 USA. Info: 941.225.9256

Siesta Key Farmers Market | Siesta Key Village Plaza 8am-1pm Sundays

Siesta Key Farmers Market offers delicious spring greens, herbs, and a variety of produce. Shoppers can also find a vast assortment of local, organic products and a Taste Of The Village with area restaurants serving farm fresh items from their menus. 8am-1pm Sundays. Siesta Key Village Plaza, 5124 Ocean Blvd, Sarasota, Florida 34242 USA.