Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Sarasota-Manatee this weekend with a lineup of exciting events. Indulge in delicious eats at food truck rallies, explore inspiring art exhibits, and groove to the rhythm of a top reggae band. With the tourist season in full swing, make sure to plan ahead for restaurant reservations. Join us as we highlight five must-visit events in the area this weekend, including the Embracing Our Differences art exhibit, the St. Armands Food Truck Rally & Music Festival, the Smoke on the Boulevard BBQ competition, the Fine Arts and Crafts Festival in Venice, and the Manatee County Fair. Get ready for a weekend filled with delectable food, captivating art, and unforgettable experiences in Sarasota-Manatee.

Embracing Our Differences: Celebrating Art and Diversity

Experience the grand opening of the Embracing Our Differences art exhibit at Bayfront Park in Sarasota. Discover the captivating works of art spread throughout the park, accompanied by inspirational quotes. Join in the festivities with food trucks, family-friendly activities, and a live performance by a top reggae band.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of art and diversity at the Embracing Our Differences exhibit. Located at Bayfront Park in downtown Sarasota, this annual event celebrates its 21st anniversary with a free grand opening celebration on Sunday. Explore the park and be inspired by the 50 billboard-sized works of art, each accompanied by an uplifting quote.

Make sure to mark your calendar for Sunday's grand opening celebration. Enjoy the lively atmosphere with food trucks offering a variety of delicious treats. Engage in interactive, kid-friendly activities provided by local arts and education organizations. And don't miss the highlight of the event - a captivating performance by the region's top reggae band, Jah Movement.

St. Armands Food Truck Rally & Music Festival: A Gastronomic Delight

Indulge in a culinary adventure at the St. Armands Food Truck Rally & Music Festival on City Island. Sample mouthwatering dishes from 15 food trucks, including The Great American Quesadilla Company. Groove to the rhythm of live music and enjoy a tribute to Florida rock legend Tom Petty.

Get ready to satisfy your taste buds at the St. Armands Food Truck Rally & Music Festival. Held on City Island at Ken Thompson Park, this three-day event offers a gastronomic delight like no other. Explore a diverse selection of food trucks, including the popular The Great American Quesadilla Company. Indulge in their mouthwatering quesadillas, such as the 'Love of the Pig' and 'All Thai'D Up'.

While enjoying the delectable food, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere with live music performances. Don't miss the tribute to Florida rock legend Tom Petty by the local supergroup, Free Fallin'. Put on your dancing shoes and groove to the rhythm of their captivating tunes.

Smoke on the Boulevard BBQ Competition: A Battle of Grill Masters

Experience the ultimate barbecue showdown at the Smoke on the Boulevard BBQ competition in Lakewood Ranch. Watch as six food trucks, including Smokin Momma Lora's BBQ, battle it out for the title of Grill Masters. Enter for a chance to win exciting prizes and indulge in mouthwatering barbecue and craft beer.

Calling all barbecue enthusiasts! Head over to Lakewood Ranch for the Smoke on the Boulevard BBQ competition. Witness the intense battle between six food trucks as they showcase their grilling skills. Keep an eye out for Smokin Momma Lora's BBQ, known for their mouthwatering barbecue creations.

While enjoying the competition, make sure to enter for a chance to win one of three exciting gift baskets. Each basket includes a $25 gift card, a six-pack of choice, an event shirt, and a free meal at any food truck. Indulge in the smoky flavors of the barbecue and complement it with a refreshing craft beer.

Fine Arts and Crafts Festival in Venice: A Celebration of Creativity

Immerse yourself in the world of art at the Fine Arts and Crafts Festival in Venice. Explore the works of over 85 talented artists, enjoy live music performances, and indulge in delicious food from food trucks. Discover unique crafts, admire classic cars, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of this annual festival.

Get ready to be inspired at the 32nd annual Fine Arts and Crafts Festival in Venice. Hosted by the Venice/Nokomis Rotary Club, this event showcases the creativity of over 85 talented artists. Explore a wide range of art forms, from paintings to sculptures, and discover unique crafts that will captivate your imagination.

While strolling through the festival grounds, enjoy live music performances that add a melodic backdrop to the vibrant atmosphere. Indulge in delicious food from food trucks, sip on a glass of wine or beer, and admire classic cars on display. Immerse yourself in the celebration of creativity and experience the magic of the Fine Arts and Crafts Festival.

Manatee County Fair: A Tradition of Fun and Excitement

Step back in time and experience the Manatee County Fair, a local tradition dating back to 1916. Enjoy thrilling rides, live entertainment, and a wide variety of deep-fried delights. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere and create lasting memories with family and friends.

Join in the fun at the Manatee County Fair, a beloved tradition that has been entertaining locals for over a century. Experience the excitement of thrilling rides that will get your adrenaline pumping. Enjoy live entertainment that will keep you entertained throughout the day.

Indulge in the fair's famous deep-fried foods, from crispy funnel cakes to savory corn dogs. Take a stroll through the fairgrounds and admire the variety of livestock on display. Create unforgettable memories with your loved ones as you immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Manatee County Fair.