75-plus fun things to do in May in Sarasota, Bradenton, Venice, Punta Gorda
We're nearly at the end of April, which also means the conclusion of snowbird and tourist season here in Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte counties. And while that means that there will be less events taking place locally in May than the past few months, there'll still be plenty to do.
Next month's events calendar will feature Cinco de Mayo festivities, with multiple Mexican restaurants throwing block parties, and Memorial Day commemorations that include parades. Sarasota's premier performing arts venue will kick off its free outdoor summer concert series, held on its bayfront lawn. And even though many local arts organizations have either concluded or are about to conclude their 2023-24 seasons, there'll still be plenty of concerts, comedy shows, stage productions and art exhibitions going on.
Here are more than 75 events set to take place in May in Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte counties, listed in chronological order. Event details are subject to change.
100-plus fun things to do in April in Sarasota, Bradenton, Venice, Punta Gorda
Biggest concerts, comedians coming to Tampa Bay, Sarasota in April, May, June
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George Thorogood and the Destroyers
The blues rock musician and his band are known for songs such as "Bad to the Bone," "I Drink Alone" and their rendition of Bo Diddley's "Who Do You Love?" 7:30 p.m. May 1; Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; $57-$85; 941-263-6799; vanwezel.org
‘The Immigrant’
Sarasota Jewish Theatre closes its fourth season with Mark Harelik’s play set in Texas in the early 20th century, where a young Russian-Jewish immigrant has arrived, hoping to make a life for himself. He starts by selling bananas door to door, and eventually builds a business and a family. Michael Raver plays a character based on Harelik’s own grandfather. Gus Kaikkonen directs. May 1-12; Sarasota Players, Crossings at Siesta Key, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, Suite 1130; $18-$36. 941-365-2494; sarasotajewishtheatre.org
‘Sound and Silence’
In this Hermitage Sunsets @ Selby Gardens program, noted mime and physical theater professional Bill Bowers and singer Kavita Shah join together to explore how we express ideas and feelings with and without words, movement and music. 6:30 p.m. May 2; Marie Selby Botanical Gardens Historic Spanish Point Campus, 401 N. Tamiami Trail, Osprey; $5 registration; hermitageartistretreat.org
Be Fabulous Music & Arts Pride Fest
The three-day festival includes opening night art exhibition "Empowered," a performance by the queer art collective Swamp Yell, and a closing concert also featuring keynote speakers and vendors. 5-9 p.m. May 2 art exhibition; SEE Space, 615 S. Orange Ave., Sarasota; 7-9:30 p.m. May 3 Swamp Yell performance; The Players Studio, 1400 Boulevard of the Arts #200, Sarasota; $15, $10 students with ID; 3-10 p.m. May 4 concert; Fogartyville Community Media and Arts Center, 525 Kumquat Court, Sarasota; free, but donations appreciated; fabaf.org
Pinky’s Players
Venice Theatre’s Community Engagement Program returns with a showcase highlighting performances by adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities who get to shine as they share their talents on stage. Becky Holahan directs the production with a cast including a theater class at The Haven. May 2-5; Venice Theatre Raymond Center, 140 Tampa Ave. W., Venice; $22; 941-488-1115; venicetheatre.org
‘Voices — Rising Choreographers’
Sarasota Contemporary Dance once again ends its season with this annual program highlighting new works by choreographers chosen from last summer’s intensive by Artistic Director Leymis Bola?os Wilmott. 7 p.m. May 2-4, 3 p.m. May 5; Cook Theatre, FSU Center for the Performing Arts, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; $20-$55. Virtual performances May 3-5; $25; 941-260-8485; sarasotacontemporarydance.org
‘The Woman in Black’
The Island Players on Anna Maria closes its 75th season with a ghost story told by a man who is haunted by his own experiences at an old English estate where he encountered an ancient rage that won’t die. Kelly Wynn Woodland directs Tom Horton as the storyteller, along with Mark Woodland and Tahlia Chinault. May 2-12; Island Players, 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria; $28-$30; 941-778-5755; theislandplayers.org
‘The Fifth Domain’
Florida Studio Theatre’s 40th Richard and Betty Burdick New Play Festival ends with Victor Lesniewski’s play about a man who loses his job at the National Security Agency and finds another position, without thinking of the potential for repercussions of a cyberwar in this new post. 3 p.m. May 3; Keating Theatre, 1241 N. Palm Ave., Sarasota; $10; 941-366-9000; floridastudiotheatre.org
Music on Main
The free monthly concert series and block party on Lakewood Ranch's Main Street features Heart tribute band Brigade in May along with food vendors, beer trucks and kids' games and activities. 6-9 p.m. May 3; 8100 Lakewood Main St., Lakewood Ranch; free; 800-307-2624; lakewoodranch.com/music-on-main
Dick Vitale Gala
ESPN Hall of Famer and Lakewood Ranch resident Dick Vitale's annual gala raising money for cancer research this year will feature New York Yankees Hall of Famer Derek Jeter; four-time NASCAR champion and Hall of Famer Jeff Gordon and University of Tennessee men’s basketball coach Rick Barnes, with the late two-time gold medalist and Women's Basketball Hall of Famer Nikki McCray-Penson and former Buffalo Bills quarterback and Hall of Famer Jim Kelly receiving awards. 6-11 p.m. May 3; The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, 1111 Ritz Carlton Drive, Sarasota; $1000; v.org/event/dick-vitale-gala
Chuchito Valdés Trio
Hailing from a musical family that includes father Chucho Valdés and grandfather Bebo Valdés, Cuban jazz pianist Chuchito Valdés has crafted his own path successfully as a musician. 7 p.m. doors, 8 p.m. show May 3; Fogartyville Community Media and Arts Center, 525 Kumquat Court, Sarasota; $32, $28 members, $16 students ages 13 and up; 941-894-6469; fogartyville.org
Fresh Fridays
The monthly event will return in May with a Vibes on Palm theme, featuring live music by blues rockers the Alan Grant Band, beverages and bites on downtown Sarasota's Palm Avenue. 7-10 p.m. May 3; Palm Avenue adjacent to Art Ovation Hotel, 1255 N. Palm Ave., Sarasota; downtownsarasotadid.com/fresh-fridays
Robert Kelly
The comedian is known for roles such as Louis C.K.'s brother in "Louie," hosting podcasts including "You Know What Dude" and releasing specials such as "Kill Box," filmed in St. Petersburg. 6:30 and 8:50 p.m. May 3-4; McCurdy's Comedy Theatre, 1923 Ringling Blvd., Sarasota; $31; 941-925-3869; mccurdyscomedy.com
‘Decades: Back to the ‘80s’
The Sarasota Orchestra is back with its annual Outdoor Pops at Ed Smith Stadium. The concert is filled with hits by Madonna, Cyndi Lauper, Huey Lewis and the News, Queen, Phil Collins and more. William Waldrop leads the orchestra and guest vocalists Paul Loren, Colin Smith and Brie Cassil. The evening traditionally closes with a fireworks display. 8 p.m. May 3-4; Ed Smith Stadium, 2700 12th St., Sarasota; $20-$60; orioles.com/arts
‘Bank Job’
Venice Theatre closes its 2023-24 season with some laughs in John Kolvenbach’s comedy. It’s about two brothers who pull off a bank heist, but they hit a snag when they make their escape, encountering numerous obstacles. Artistic Director Benny Sato Ambush stages the production, which features Ross Boehringer, Zach Tudor, Jenn Szakolczay, Alan Kitty and Steven Butler. May 3-19; Venice Theatre Pinkerton Theatre, 140 Tampa Ave. W., Venice; $32, $22 teachers and college students, $15 youth; 941-488-1115; venicetheatre.org
'Women Artists: Courage in the Lifelong Pursuit of Art Making'
The Petticoat Painters, one of the oldest continuously exhibiting women’s art groups in the United States, is featured in this new exhibition with a variety of artists. May 3-June 1, with an opening reception 6-8 p.m. May 3; SPAACES Art Gallery, 2051 Princeton St., Sarasota; petticoatpainters.com, spaaces.art
Taco Fest
The third annual festival, taking place the weekend of Cinco de Mayo, will feature tacos and other food, vendors, entertainment and a fun zone with a petting zoo, bull-riding, jump houses, face-painting, free children's books from Manatee Early Learning Coalition and more. Noon-7 p.m. May 4; Manatee County Fairgrounds, 1402 14th Ave. W., Palmetto; $10-$15, $5 seniors age 65 and over, free kids under age 13/veterans; eventbrite.com
Rally of Champions
This inaugural event will feature food trucks that have placed in previous competitions including Brooklyn J's Downtown Eatz, Skew U Food Truck, Untamed Kitchen and Florida Poutine. 5-9 p.m. May 4; Big Top Brewers Collective, 2519 Lakewood Ranch Blvd., Bradenton; 941-708-2966; facebook.com/bigtopbrewerscollective
Bradenton Marauders Star Wars Night
The Bradenton Marauders' game against the Fort Myers Mighty Mussels will also celebrate Star Wars Day on May 4 (as in, May the Force be with you), with post-game fireworks as well. 6:30 p.m. May 4; LECOM Park, 1611 Ninth St. W., Bradenton; $11-$15; 941-747-3031; milb.com/bradenton
Leon Pitts in Concert
Singer and actor Leon Pitts, who has become one of the most popular performers at the Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, steps onto a different stage for a concert of R&B hits. He will be singing a range of music from Al Green favorites to Tony Toni Tone, some of it featured on his upcoming album “Take it Slow.” The concert will be filmed for future video pieces. 7:45 p.m. May 4. Outdoors at the Bazaar on Apricot and Lime, 821 Apricot Ave., Sarasota. Free. hamletseatery.com
‘The Concert: A Tribute to ABBA’
A tribute program to one of the world’s most popular singing groups, the Swedish stars ABBA, the quartet of performers will be singing such hits as “Mamma Mia,” “Money, Money, Money,” “Dancing Queen” and “The Winner Takes It All,” with distinctive costumes and hairstyles. 8 p.m. May 4; Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; $55-$75; 941-263-6799; vanwezel.org
St. Armands Circle Art & Craft Festival
The 22nd annual festival features art in mediums including sculpture, photography, glass, paintings, ceramics, jewelry, mixed media, and more, plus a craft marketplace on the street. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. May 4-5; 1 St. Armands Circle, Sarasota; free admission; 561-746-6615; artfestival.com
Sailor Circus Red Troupe Presents 'Origins'
After a year of training, Sailor Circus Academy students will perform youth circus arts in a full production. 2 and 7 p.m. May 4, 1 and 5 p.m. May 5; Sailor Circus Arena, 2075 Bahia Vista St., Sarasota; $20-$40; 941-355-9805; circusarts.org
Circo de Mayo Street Festival
The downtown Sarasota restaurant Circo will host a street festival with live music, tacos, drinks and games, with VIP tickets including unlimited chips and salsa, three free tacos, one free house margarita, $5 house margaritas after that and $15 house margarita jugs. 4 p.m.-midnight May 4, noon-9 p.m. May 5; Circo: A Taco & Bourbon Joint, 1435 Second St., Sarasota; $35 VIP access; 941-253-0978; circosrq.com
El Melvin Cinco de Mayo Block Party
Fellow downtown Sarasota restaurant El Melvin will also celebrate Cinco de Mayo with a two-day block party featuring live music, outdoor street bars, food trucks, face-painting and other entertainment. 4 p.m.-2 a.m. May 4, 10 a.m.-midnight May 5; El Melvin Cocina Mexicana, 1355 Main St., Sarasota; 941-366-1618; elmelvin.com
‘What Light Does When Nobody’s Looking’
The Arts Advocates monthly member artists exhibit features the work of Michael Cohen, who captures fleeting scenes and light in his work. He says he sees himself as much as a collector as a creator of his images. 2-4 p.m. Saturdays May 4-25; Crossings at Siesta Key, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; 941-356-3088; artsadvocates.org
Cinco de Mayo Party
Recently opened Gulf Gate restaurant Kolucan Mexican Bar and Grill will celebrate Cinco de Mayo with live music and DJ entertainment starting at 5 p.m., children's activities including a moon jump and arts and crafts from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and $5 food and drink deals. 10 a.m.-10 p.m. May 5; Kolucan Mexican Bar and Grill, 6644 Gateway Ave., Sarasota; 941-921-3133; kolucan.com
The Lubben Brothers
The triplets and high-energy acoustic musicians from the farmlands of Iowa perform as part of the Garden Music Series at Selby Gardens' Historic Spanish Point Campus. 12:30 p.m. doors, 1-3 p.m. show May 5; Marie Selby Botanical Gardens Historic Spanish Point Campus, 401 N. Tamiami Trail, Osprey; included with admission ($18, $11 member guests/ages 5-17, free members/ages 4 and under); 941-366-5731; selby.org
Sarasota Ski-A-Rees
The Sarasota group performs the last show of its spring season of weekly water ski shows. 2 p.m. May 5; 1602 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota; free admission; 941-388-1666; skiarees.com
Cinco de Mayo Party
Boo's Ice House & Dog Bar celebrates the holiday with frozen margaritas starting at $6, Mexican pizza and Mexican loaded fries debut, pizza-eating and best-dressed Chihuahua contests, and live music by Julia Brown Band. 2-6 p.m. May 5; Boo's Ice House & Dog Bar, 1314 10th St., Sarasota; 941-960-2669; boosdogbar.com
'Sunshine State of Mind'
The concert features two LGBTQ+ choruses, Diversity: The Voices of Sarasota and One City Chorus of St. Petersburg. 3-5 p.m. May 5; Riverview High School Auditorium, 1 Ram Way, Sarasota; $30; diversitysarasota.org
Miró Quartet
Artist Series Concerts presents this ensemble that has been performing around the world since 1995, winning the Banff International String Quartet Competition and the Naumberg Chamber Music Competition. The group will perform Beethoven’s String Quartet no. 14 Op. 131, and they will be joined by violinist Sandy Yamamoto and pianist Julie Elizalde for Chausson’s Concerto for violin, piano and string quartet. 4 p.m. May 5; First Presbyterian Church, 2050 Oak St., Sarasota; $40; 941-306-1202; artistseriesconcerts.org
Kenny G
The Grammy Award-winning saxophonist who has enjoyed a four-decade career with 20 studio albums returns to Sarasota with a concert that blends smooth jazz, R&B, pop and Latin music. 7 p.m. May 5; Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; $60-$85; 941-263-6799; vanwezel.org
Rocco's Tacos Cinco de Mayo Block Party
The restaurant will celebrate Cinco de Mayo at locations including its recently opened University Town Center establishment with a block party featuring live music, street eats, and VIP bottle service. May 5; Rocco's Tacos & Tequila Bar, 243 N. Cattlemen Road, Sarasota; no entrance fee; 941-477-8226; roccostacos.com/sarasota
Impact Theatre showcase
Impact Theatre presents a showcase of stories gathered by Sarasota area high school students from conversations with African-American elders and Holocaust survivors. It will feature music by singer-songwriter Peri Smilow and members of the Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe. 7-8:30 p.m. May 6. Sold out. Westcoast Black Theatre, 1012 N. Orange Ave., Sarasota. jfedsrq.org/jfsm-events/jfsm-calendar
Ringling by the Bay
The bayfront live music series will feature Big Night Out on May 6 and Big Z Band on May 20, with one chair per person available along with food and beverage for purchase (no outside food, drink, coolers, chairs or pets are permitted.) 6 p.m. May 6 and 20; The Ringling, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota; $25, $20 members; 941-359-5700; ringling.org
‘Reimagining Famous Works of Art’
Nanette Crist presents a talk about artists who have created alternative versions of iconic paintings depicting American history, such as Emanuel Leutze’s “Washington Crossing the Delaware.” 4 p.m. May 7; Arts Advocates, Crossings at Siesta Key, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, Suite 119; $5, free members; 941-356-3088; artsadvocates.org
Maggie Baugh
The country singer who hails from Boca Raton and released her debut album "Dear Me" last year headlines Big Top after opening for Charles Esten at the same venue earlier this year. 7-10 p.m. May 8; Big Top Brewing Company, 975 Cattlemen Road, Sarasota; $10; 941-371-2939; bigtopbrewing.com
Kyshona
The musician's track "Nighttime Animal" was named one of American Songwriter's Top 24 Songs of 2022 alongside such stars as Kendrick Lamar, Taylor Swift and Beyoncé. 6 p.m. doors, 7 p.m. show May 9; Fogartyville Community Media and Arts Center, 525 Kumquat Court, Sarasota; $24, $20 members, $12 students ages 13 and up; 941-894-6469; fogartyville.org
‘Parisian Refraction’
ensembleNEWSRQ takes part in a micro-festival as part of the Ringling Museum’s Art of Performance series. Co-founders Samantha Bennett and George Nickson lead a series of four different performances built from works and composers that speak to Paris or have been commissioned by groups in Paris. There are works by Pierre Boulez, Hanse Otte, Gy?rgy Kurtag, Unsuk Chin and others. May 9-11; Historic Asolo Theatre, The Ringling, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota; $30-$40; 941-360-7399; ringling.org
‘Bring It On’
With music by Lin-Manuel Miranda and Tom Kitt, this musical is loosely based on the 2000 film about competition for spots on a high school cheerleading squad and the lengths some people will go to fit in. May 9-19; Rise Above Performing Arts, Crossings at Siesta Key, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail, Suite 1105, Sarasota; $25-$33; 941-702-4747; riseabovearts.com
‘Waves: Movements that Move Us’
Teaching artist and violinist/violist Rebecca Crenshaw joins with playwright Bess Wohl for this Hermitage Artist Retreat program that explores how artists can change our perceptions of the nature around us. Crenshaw has worked with the bands Arcade Fire and Mumford & Sons, while Wohl is known for such plays as “Grand Horizons” and “Camp Siegfried.” 6:30 p.m. May 10; Hermitage Artist Retreat Beach, 6660 Manasota Key Road, Englewood; $5 registration; hermitageartistretreat.org
“One Night of Queen’
Gary Mullen, the 2000 winner of ITV’s “Stars in Their Eyes” talent competition, brings this international tribute to the rock group Queen to Sarasota. He formed The Works to pay tribute to Freddie Mercury and the band, and has since toured numerous continents. 8 p.m. May 10; Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami. Sarasota; sold out; 941-263-6799; vanwezel.org
Classic Movies at the Opera House
The screening series of classic movies at Sarasota Opera House returns with "The Godfather Part II" on May 10 and "Rear Window" on May 24. 7:30 p.m. May 10 and 24; Sarasota Opera House, 61 N. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota; $12; 941-328-1300; sarasotaopera.org
Dog Mama's Day Celebration
The Mother's Day celebration will feature a flower crown making workshop hosted by Posies Flower Truck ($45; must register in advance), live music by Sabrina McClenithan and vendors. 1-5 p.m. May 11; Boo's Ice House & Dog Bar, 1314 10th St., Sarasota; 941-960-2669; boosdogbar.com
Manasota Haitian Flag Day Festival
The third annual festival celebrating the holiday Haitian Flag Day will feature live music from Haitian musicians, entertainment, children's playground area, food and drinks, crafts and merchants. 4-11 p.m. May 11; Manatee County Fairgrounds, 1303 17th St. W., Palmetto; $45-$50, $20 high school students, free middle school students and children; 941-278-6456; hcom1804.org
Urban Bush Women
The dance troupe Urban Bush Women, which promotes artistic legacies, serves as Artists-in-Residence for May at the Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation. Working with BOLD facilitators, the dancers will collaborate with local female artists and other organizations to build a community through dance. Their project will end with a publish workshop performance. 1 p.m. May 11, The Oval at the Bay Park, 655 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. Free. Registration requested. thebaysarasota.org/calendar
‘Becoming Tchaikovsky’
This Sarasota Orchestra Discoveries series concert ponders the idea of what would have been on Tchaikovsky’s playlist. David Alan Miller leads the concert that features works by Bizet, Grieg, Schumann and Mozart, plus cellist Zlatomir Fung performing Tchaikovsky’s own “Rococo” Variations. 7:30 p.m. May 11; Sarasota Opera House, 61 N. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota; $29-$84; 941-953-3434; sarasotaorchestra.org
Jimmy Failla
The host of "Fox Across America with Jimmy Failla" is also a stand-up comedian who released the one-hour special "State of the Union" on Prime Video. 8 p.m. May 11; Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; $20-$96; 941-263-6799; vanwezel.org
‘Twelve Angry Men’
Reginald Rose’s classic drama about jury deliberations in the case of a teenager accused of killing his father returns to Asolo Repertory Theatre in a whole new way. It has been adapted into a musical with a jazzy score for the 1950s setting. The score is by Michael Holland and the book by David Simpatico. Producing Artistic Director Peter Rothstein stages the show, as he did the world premiere at Theatre Latté Da in Minneapolis in 2022. May 11-June 9; Asolo Repertory Theatre, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; $35-$98; 941-351-8000; asolorep.org
Trio Gaia
The Artist Series Concerts of Sarasota season comes to a close with this group that serves as piano trio in residence at the New England Conservatory. The program is made up of music inspired by folk tunes, including works by Charles Ives and Antonin Dvo?ák. 7:30 p.m. May 14; Studio for Performing Arts at State College of Florida, 5840 26th St. W., Building 11, Bradenton; $40; 941-306-1202; artistseriesconcerts.org
‘Seeing Oneself and Celebrating Identity’
Hermitage Artist Retreat fellow Shayok Misha Chowdhury, a playwright, director and poet discusses and reads from his work, which encompasses different languages, peoples, cultures and identities. 6:30 p.m. May 15; Asolo Repertory Theatre’s Koski Center, 1009 Tallevast Road, Sarasota; $5 registration; hermitageartistretreat.org
Manatee Music Series
The final show in the spring edition of the free, all-ages concert series will feature live music by Paul Fournier, as well as food trucks and family-friendly activities. 6-8 p.m. May 16; GT Bray Amphitheater, 2910 51st St. W., Bradenton; free; mymanatee.org
‘Morning After Grace’
Two people meet at a funeral and enjoy a night together before they have to face the reality of their lives in Carey Crim's comical drama set in a retirement community. She uses comedy to tell a story about grief and how seniors deal with loss of loved ones and friendship. May 16-26; Charlotte Players, 1182 Market Circle, Port Charlotte; $27, $14 students; 941-255-1022; charlotteplayers.org
Alex Cuba
The Cuban-born, Canadian-based musician's accolades include a Best Latin Pop Album Grammy and multiple Latin Grammys and Juno Awards (Canada's equivalent of the Grammys), as well as co-writing multiple songs on Nelly Furtado's 2009 album "Mi Plan." 7 p.m. doors, 8 p.m. show May 17; Fogartyville Community Media and Arts Center, 525 Kumquat Court, Sarasota; $36, $32 members, $18 students ages 13 and up; 941-894-6469; fogartyville.org
Day of Celtic Music
The fourth annual event presented by Fishermen’s Village, the Cultural Heritage Center of Southwest Florida and the New World Celts (Sarasota Chapter) will feature Celtic musicians from all over the country, plus family-friendly activities including face painting, balloon creations and Celtic vendors. Noon-9 p.m. May 18; Fishermen's Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda; fishermensvillage.com
Victor Furtado
The 24-year-old clawhammer banjo player won the Steve Martin Banjo Prize in 2019 at age 19, the youngest recipient of the award. 7 p.m. doors, 8 p.m. show May 18; Fogartyville Community Media and Arts Center, 525 Kumquat Court, Sarasota; $22, $18 members, $11 students ages 13 and up; 941-894-6469; fogartyville.org
Big Al and the Heavyweights
The Louisiana blues band led by "Big Al" Lauro frequently pays tribute to their home state with songs such as "Cajun Roux," "Hey, Hey Mardi Gras" and "Happy Mardi Gras to You." 8-11 p.m. May 18; Celtic Ray Public House, 145 E. Marion Ave., Punta Gorda; 941-916-9115; celticray.net
Ben Prestage
The Florida-raised "Deep South Swamp Music" performer is known for his inventive approach to instrumentation, simultaneously playing multiple instruments, including the diddley bow, which earned him a Blues Music Award nomination for Instrumentalist — Other. 2-5 p.m. May 19; Celtic Ray Public House, 145 E. Marion Ave., Punta Gorda; 941-916-9115; celticray.net
‘Behind the Curtain: Exploring the Van Wezel from the Art to the Stage’
Arts Advocates, which owns the artwork displayed on the walls of Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, presents its monthly docent-led tour of work by such Florida artists as Ben Stahl, Thornton Utz, Frank Colson, William Hartman and more. 1:30-3 p.m. May 20; Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; $15; 941-356-3088; vanwezel.org
Tucker Wetmore
The country musician's songs include this year's singles "Wine Into Whiskey" and "Wind Up Missin' You," both of which not only charted on Billboard's Hot Country Songs chart, but also the overall Billboard Hot 100. 7-10 p.m. May 22; Big Top Brewing Company, 975 Cattlemen Road, Sarasota; $12; 941-371-2939; bigtopbrewing.com
Visualizing Culture
Visual artist Diana Al-Hadid joins with Pulitzer Prize-winning composer, performer and installation artist Raven Chacon and artist Candice Hopkins for a Hermitage Artist Retreat program on perspectives on contemporary art. Al-Hadid’s has work on display in the Sarasota Art Museum exhibition “Impact: Contemporary Artists at the Hermitage Artist Retreat.” Chacon, from Fort Defiance, Navajo Nation, has had work exhibited around the world. Hopkins, a citizen of Carcross/Tagish First Nation, also has been featured in international exhibitions. 6:30 p.m. May 23, Hermitage Artist Retreat beach , 6660 Manasota Key Rd., Englewood. Free. Registration required. hermitageartistretreat.org
Tom Rhodes
Initially rising to fame in the '90s for appearing on Comedy Central and in the NBC sitcom "Mr. Rhodes," Tom Rhodes is known today as a traveler, recording his 2019 album "Around the World" in 24 different cities. 7 p.m. May 23, 6:30 and 8:50 p.m. May 24-25, 5:30 p.m. May 26; McCurdy's Comedy Theatre, 1923 Ringling Blvd., Sarasota; $26; 941-925-3869; mccurdyscomedy.com
‘Clowns Like Me’
Scott Ehrenpreis returns with a warm-up for an off-Broadway run of this one-man play about his experiences dealing with a range of mental health and developmental issues. The play is based on his own life and was written by Jason Cannon who is also the director. The show is scheduled to run June 21-Aug. 18 off-Broadway. May 23-26; Cook Theatre in the FSU Center for the Performing Arts, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; $30; lifelineproductionsinc.com/clowns-like-me
Friday Fest
Van Wezel's free outdoor concert series, held on the venue's lawn, returns for the summer with Hot Tonic Orchestra in May. Blankets and lawn chairs are allowed, but outside food and beverages or coolers are not, with food and beverages from local vendors available for purchase at the event. 5 p.m. May 24; Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami. Sarasota; free admission; 941-263-6799; vanwezel.org
'Sonata in Memoriam Lloyd Arriola'
Composer Robert Pound was commissioned in 2015 by pianist Lloyd Arriola to create a piece that would be ambitious, evocative and powerful. But the pianist died suddenly a year later, and Pound used his residency at the Hermitage Artist Retreat to create something that turned into a tribute to Arriola. The Hermitage and Oak Street Stage present a performance of his piece played by Juilliard-trained pianist Charles Hulin IV. 5:30 p.m. May 24; Oak Street Stage, 2050 Oak St., Sarasota; $5 registration; hermitageartistretreat.org
Annual Memorial Hike
SRQ Vets' annual Memorial Day 5K hike starts at J.D. Hamel Park, then over the Ringling Bridge, then back to the park for an afternoon of fun that includes a cookout, music and inflatables. 8 a.m. May 25; J.D. Hamel Park, 199 Bayfront Drive, Sarasota; $35 (includes event T-shirt, food ticket and drink ticket), free child with paid adult (includes meal ticket and soft drink); srqvets.us/hike
Family Art Day
Creative Liberties Artist Studios and Gallery, which 21 artists use as their workspaces, hosts a family arts day, with Shelley Kishpaugh leading families in a circus-themed art project. The event will feature a stilt walker, face painter and other family-friendly activities. 9 a.m.-noon May 25. 927 Lime Ave., Sarasota. Free. creativeliberties.net
Boo's One-Year Birthday Bash
Boo's celebrates a year in business with live music from One Night Rodeo, vendors, special edition birthday tees, "a unique birthday offering" from Tampa Bay Brewing Company, and Patron Girls. 4-9 p.m. May 25; Boo's Ice House & Dog Bar, 1314 10th St., Sarasota; 941-960-2669; boosdogbar.com
Patriotic Pops Concert and Fireworks Display
The Venice Symphony returns to CoolToday Park for a concert of great American music, including a salute to the armed forces. The symphony, led by music director Troy Quinn, will be joined by the Liberty Voices. Fireworks close the program. 5:30 p.m. gates, 7:30 p.m. show May 25; CoolToday Park, 18800 S. West Villages Parkway, Venice; $23-$58; ticketmaster.com
Southeast Strider Invitational
The weeklong series lets toddlers and young kids (ages 18 months to 6 years old) explore the world on two wheels and participate in friendly, competitive riding. May 25-June 1; Sarasota BMX Track, 1590 N. Tuttle Ave., Sarasota; $40 registration (includes strider jersey, number plate, race clinic, three practices, local and championship races); sarasotabmx.com
AquaPalooza
Join MarineMax along with fellow boaters for some fun in the sun, live music and giveaways. The party will be at New Pass Sandbar, in front of MarineMax's marina. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. May 26; MarineMax, 1601 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota; 941-388-4411; marinemax.com
Memorial Day Concert
As they prepare to take part in official observances in Normandy for the 80th anniversary of D-Day, Choral Artists of Sarasota celebrates our fallen heroes with a concert of patriotic music and selections the group will sing in France. The chorus is joined by the Lakewood Ranch Wind Ensemble. 4 p.m. May 26, Sarasota Opera House, 61 N. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota. $5-$60. 941-387-6046; choralartistssarasota.org
Tribute to Heroes Block Party and Parade
The block party and parade brings thousands of attendees to Lakewood Main Street in support of local veterans and heroes. 5 p.m. block party, 6:30 p.m. parade May 26; Lakewood Ranch Main Street, 8100 Lakewood Main St., Lakewood Ranch; free spectators, prices vary for parade participants; lakewoodranch.com
Drag Queen Bingo Extravaganza
Tamiami Trails and special guest stars perform at this variety show that also includes three games of bingo called throughout the show. 8 p.m. May 26; McCurdy's Comedy Theatre, 1923 Ringling Blvd., Sarasota; $26; 941-925-3869; mccurdyscomedy.com
Sarasota Memorial Day Parade
The Memorial Day parade, hosted by the Sarasota Patriotic Observance Committee in conjunction with the City of Sarasota, will start at Main Street and Osprey Avenue, concluding at Main Street and Gulfstream Avenue, where at about 11 a.m. a ceremony featuring speaker Michael Tollerton, a West Point graduate, will take place at J.D. Hamel Park. 10 a.m. May 27; Main Street, Sarasota; 941-812-5406 or [email protected] for those interested in walking/riding in the parade
Myakka River Blues Festival
Snook Haven holds its annual Memorial Day blues music festival one more time at its original location, with performers including Bridget Kelly Band, Backtrack Blues Band and Delta Swamp Rats. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. May 27; Snook Haven, 5000 E. Venice Ave., Venice; $35, $50 with commemorative T-shirt; 941-485-7221; snookhaven.com
Free 50th Anniversary Race
Sarasota BMX celebrates the 50th anniversary of its track opening in 1974 with this race. 7 p.m. practice, 7:15 p.m. racing May 31; Sarasota BMX Track, 1590 N. Tuttle Ave., Sarasota; free; sarasotabmx.com
Tommy Davidson
The stand-up comedian is also known for his roles on the TV shows "In Living Color" and "Between Brothers." 7 and 10 p.m. May 31 and 6 and 9:30 p.m. June 1; Visani Italian Steakhouse and Comedy Theater, 2400 Kings Highway, Port Charlotte; $25-$30; 941-629-9191; visani.net
‘Oak’
Urbanite Theatre presents the world premiere of a new play by Terry Guest, who had a hit at the theater with his play “At the Wake of a Dead Drag Queen.” This new work is set in a small town where residents are warned about the red-eyed monster who is snatching up people looking to enjoy the freedoms he promises. May 31-June 30; Urbanite Theatre, 1487 Second St., Sarasota. $42 adults, $28 under age 40, $5 students; 941-321-1397; urbanitetheatre.com
Continuing
Florida Studio Theatre
Several shows continue into May, including the Florida premiere of “Troubadour,” a musical with a score by Kristian Bush of Sugarland, about a retiring country music star and the son who may carry on his legacy. Through May 19; Gompertz Theatre, 1265 First St., Sarasota; $39-$59. The cabaret show “The Flip Side,” a revue of songs that take a humorous look at life, runs through June 16 in the Court Cabaret, 1265 First St., Sarasota; $37-$46. The FST Improv show “Comedy Roulette” continues Saturdays through May 25 in Bowne’s Lab, 1265 First St., Sarasota; $15-$18. And the winning entries from this year’s Write-a-Play program are featured in “The Power of Peanut Butter and Other Winning Plays,” presented by the FST Children’s Theatre through May 11 in the Keating Theatre, 1241 N. Palm Ave., Sarasota; $10; 941-366-9000; floridastudiotheatre.org
‘Kiss Me Kate’
Cole Porter’s musical version of Shakespeare’s “The Taming of the Shrew” returns to help you “Brush Up Your Shakespeare.” Through May 12; Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 Third Ave. W., Bradenton; $33-$44; 941-748-5875; manateeperformingartscenter.com
‘Marvin Gaye: Prince of Soul’
Sheldon Rhoden returns as soul singer Marvin Gaye in the fourth staging of Nate Jacobs’ biographical revue. Through May 26; Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, 1012 N. Orange Ave., Sarasota; $50, $20 students age 25 and younger/active military; 941-366-1505; westcoastblacktheatre.org
The Ringling
Several exhibits continue into May including “On the Road,” a showcase of work by photographers Jill Freedman and Randal Levenson, who captured the lives of carnival and circus performers in 1971. Through Aug. 25 in the Searing Galleries. The newly restored “Watermelon Regatta,” an 18th-century work, is on display through May 19. “Michele Oka Doner: The True Story of Eve” continues through June 2 in the Monda Gallery. “Mountains of the Mind: Scholars’ Rocks from China and Beyond” continues through June 23 in the Chao Center for Asian Art. “Embodied,” highlighting the human figure with pieces from the museum’s collection of modern and contemporary art, continues through Sept. 21, 2025. “Shinique Smith: Parade,” focused on European artistic tradition, continues through Jan. 5, 2025; 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota; 941-359-5700; ringling.org
Sarasota Art Museum
“Impact: Contemporary Artists at the Hermitage Artist Retreat” continues through July 7, highlighting work by 10 artists who have been fellows at the artist retreat on Manasota Key. “The Truth of the Night Sky,” a collaboration between multimedia artist Anne Patterson and composer and sound artist Patrick Harlin, who also have ties to the Hermitage, continues through Sept. 29. 1001 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; 941-309-4300; sarasotaartmuseum.org
Farmers markets for Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte counties
Sarasota Farmers Market
The year-round market in downtown Sarasota features vendors selling produce, plants, artisan goods, and food and drink, also featuring live music and other entertainment. 7 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays; 1 N. Lemon Ave., Sarasota; sarasotafarmersmarket.org
Venice Farmers Market
The year-round market features farm, food-related, artisan and greenery vendors. 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays; 401 W. Venice Ave., Venice; thevenicefarmersmarket.org
Downtown Bradenton Public Market
The market on downtown Bradenton's Old Main Street features fresh produce, local art, music and free family activities. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays October-May; Old Main Street, Bradenton; realizebradenton.com/public-market
Newtown Farmers Market
The market offers fresh local produce, including seasonal fruits and vegetables, and other goods. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays and first and third Fridays; Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park, 2523 Cocoanut Ave., Sarasota; newtownnation.com
Siesta Key Farmers Market
The market located in Siesta Village features fresh produce, art, clothing and more. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Sundays; 5211 Ocean Blvd., Siesta Key; facebook.com/siestakeyfarmersmarket
Fresh Harvest Farmers Market
The Downtown Wellen farmers market features nearly 40 different vendor booths offering locally grown and produced food including herbs, spices, cut flowers, teas, canned and preserved fruits and vegetables, syrups, baked goods, pickled foods, fresh seafood, meats, poultry, eggs, milk and prepared food and beverages, as well as a limited selection of craft vendors. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Sundays; Downtown Wellen, 19745 Wellen Park Blvd., Venice; wellenpark.com/events/fresh-harvest-farmers-market
Farmers Market at Lakewood Ranch
The year-round market features more than 100 local vendors offering organic produce, flowers, specialty spices/rubs, honey, bread and other baked goods, prepared foods, pet products, jewelry and more. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sundays; 1561 Lakefront Drive, Lakewood Ranch; themarketlwr.com
Englewood Farmers Market
The market features local and organic fresh produce, baked goods, meats, seafood, dairy, plants, herbs, prepared foods, honey, syrups, sauces, salsa and more. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Thursdays October-May; 335 W. Dearborn St., Englewood; englewoodfarmersmarket.org
Email entertainment reporter Jimmy Geurts at [email protected]. Follow Jay Handelman on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Contact him at [email protected]. Support local journalism by subscribing.
This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Best things to do in May near Sarasota, Bradenton, Venice
