🎄 Top Sarasota & Manatee Events This Weekend (Dec 12–13, 2025)

🎉 Your December 12–13 Weekend Guide

The Sarasota–Manatee region comes alive this weekend with music, lights, family-friendly activities, and one of the most anticipated holiday traditions on the Suncoast. Whether you’re looking for festive entertainment, a beautiful light show, or a riverfront parade, here are the top verified events you won’t want to miss.

⭐ FRIDAY • DECEMBER 12, 2025

1. 14th Annual Lakewood Ranch Jingle 5K

📍 Main Street, Lakewood Ranch
🕒 7:00 PM
Kick off your holiday weekend at the beloved Jingle 5K! Main Street transforms into a glowing holiday lane with festive lights, snow machines, costumes, music, and a lively post-race celebration. Perfect for families, fitness lovers, and anyone who enjoys the Lakewood Ranch community vibe.

🔗 Event Info: https://runsignup.com/Race/FL/LakewoodRanch/Jingle5k

2. Magic of Motown Christmas

📍 Sarasota Opera House
🕒 7:00 PM
Enjoy holiday classics performed Motown-style with favorites made famous by legends like The Temptations, Marvin Gaye, and Diana Ross & The Supremes. This show blends nostalgia, soulful vocals, and spirited holiday energy.

🔗 Event Info: https://www.sarasotaopera.org

3. Jazz at Two: Sinatra Tribute

📍 Unitarian Universalist Church of Sarasota
🕒 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
A smooth, classic afternoon concert featuring the John Rinell Trio performing a Sinatra-themed holiday set. Enjoy timeless standards in a cozy, intimate venue — a perfect pre-weekend musical treat.

🔗 Event Info: https://sarasotajazz.org

⭐ SATURDAY • DECEMBER 13, 2025

4. Holiday Lights in Bloom at Selby Gardens

📍 Marie Selby Botanical Gardens – Downtown Sarasota
🕒 5:30 PM – 9:00 PM
Step into a botanical wonderland glowing with millions of lights, illuminated garden pathways, tropical holiday installations, music, photo ops, and seasonal treats. A must-see holiday light experience for families, couples, and visitors.

🔗 Event Info: https://selby.org

8. Manatee River Holiday Boat Parade 

📍 Bradenton & Palmetto Riverfront
🕒 Begins at Sunset
One of the most magical holiday traditions on Florida’s Suncoast! Watch beautifully decorated, illuminated boats cruise along the Manatee River. Best viewing areas include the Bradenton Riverwalk, Twin Dolphin Marina, Pier 22, and the Palmetto waterfront. Expect festive music, food vendors, and an unforgettable riverfront atmosphere.

🔗 Event Info: https://realizebradenton.com/event/holiday-boat-parade

🎄 Make the Most of Your Weekend on the Suncoast

From festive runs and Broadway-caliber music to glowing botanical displays and the spectacular Manatee River Holiday Boat Parade, this weekend brings some of the year’s most cherished holiday moments to Sarasota & Manatee County.

🏡 Thinking About Living Near All This Holiday Fun?

For expert guidance on neighborhoods, schools, lifestyle, and homes in Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, and Manatee County, contact:

📞 Darren Dowling – Beyond Realty
(941) 204-0493

Your trusted real estate partner on Florida’s beautiful Suncoast.