Your Top 8 Things to Do: June 27-July 4
Miss Geico is among the superboats competing in the Suncoast Offshore Grand Prix.
Image: Courtesy Photo
Sarasota Powerboat Grand Prix
July 3-7
The big annual summer boat races are set for July 7 along the Lido Beach shoreline, but start celebrating earlier with a kickoff party July 3, bayfront fireworks July 4, the “Boats on Main” block party July 5, and more, all to benefit Suncoast Charities for Children. Check it out at sarasotapowerboatgrandprix.org.
Image: Everett Dennison
Myakka River Kayak Festival at Snook Haven
July 4
More boats, but much quieter. Live music, kayaking, craft beer and barbecue—what’s more all-American? This is the sixth annual Fourth of July kayak festival at Snook Haven, smack-dab on the wild and scenic Myakka River. Kayak rentals start at 8 a.m.; live music starts at 11. Free admission.
Fireworks on the Lake at Nathan Benderson Park
July 3
Get a jump on Fourth of July festivities when the Black Honkeys and the Greg Billings Band headline Nathan Benderson Park’s Fireworks on the Lake party Wednesday night, July 3. The fun starts at 4 p.m. and admission is free.
Choral Artists of Sarasota presents Sounds of Independence
July 4
Musical fireworks are promised when the choral ensemble presents its annual patriotic concert, so popular that it’s moved to the Sarasota Opera House. Joining in for the first time is the Sarasota Concert Band for lively Sousa marches and traditional songs like “The Battle Hymn of the Republic” and “America the Beautiful.”
Image: Courtesy Selby Gardens
Selby Gardens’ All-American Cookout/ Fireworks on Sarasota Bay
July 4
Selby Gardens provides a front-row seat to the July 4th fireworks at nearby Bayfront Park Thursday evening with its annual All-American Cookout: a family-friendly dance party, kids games and activities, and grilled goodies for purchase from Michael’s On East.
A Pioneer Fourth at Historic Spanish Point
July 4
Party like the pioneers did Thursday afternoon, with a reading of the Declaration of Independence, a sing-along of patriotic tunes and a bring-your-own picnic lunch on the Magnolia Lawn. Historic Spanish Point will spring for the watermelon and lemonade.
Image: Courtesy Sarasota Opera
Classic Movies at the Opera House: An American in Paris
June 28
Next up in the Sarasota Opera’s summer classic film series is the glorious, Academy Award-winning Best Musical An American in Paris, starring Gene Kelly and Leslie Caron, directed by Vincent Minnelli.
Last chance to see Gauguin: Voyage to Paradise at Selby Gardens
Thru June 30
Calling all procrastinators to head to Selby Gardens to see its wonderful exhibit of Polynesian artist Paul Gauguin’s woodcuts, set against the gardens’ lush green backdrop. The show closes Sunday.
