Sarasota Winter Seafood & Music Festival
January 2–4, 2026, at the Sarasota Fairgrounds
The Sarasota Winter Seafood & Music Festival™ is a three-day celebration of fresh coastal cuisine, live music, and local arts that kicks off the new year in Sarasota. Produced by Paragon Festivals, this event combines food, entertainment, and community in one waterfront-flavored winter festival experience.
Event Details & Schedule
Dates: January 2–4, 2026
Location: Sarasota Fairgrounds — Ringling Boulevard, Sarasota, FL 🇺🇸
Hours:
• Friday: 4:30 PM – 10:00 PM
• Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Sunday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Admission: Free (general entry)
Food & Dining
Take your pick of fresh seafood cooked onsite, from classic Gulf favorites to creative dishes. The festival also features:
- Grilled and fried seafood specialties
- Meats and vegetarian options
- Sides, beverages, and tasty desserts
Everything is prepared fresh by regional vendors right on the festival grounds.
🎶 Live Music Lineup
Live performances from Florida and regional artists will keep the energy lively throughout the weekend. Genres include:
- R&B
- Jazz
- Rock
- Soul
- Country
…and more, with performances scheduled each day.
Marketplace & Shopping
In between food and music, explore a vibrant marketplace featuring:
- Original artwork and mixed-media pieces
- Glasswork and handcrafted goods
- Gourmet food items and specialty products
Wandering through gives visitors a chance to discover unique finds from local and regional artisans.

Why It’s Worth Visiting
The Sarasota Winter Seafood & Music Festival is more than a food event — it’s a community gathering that:
- Highlights Sarasota’s culinary roots and coastal culture
- Brings together music lovers and foodies in a relaxed outdoor setting
- Boosts local business visibility and supports creative vendors
With free entry, varied entertainment, and food for all tastes, it’s an ideal way to start the year in Sarasota.




