Spring is in full swing, and Southwest Florida is abuzz with exciting events! Whether you’re a foodie, art lover, outdoor enthusiast, or planning fun for the whole family, the coming weeks offer something for everyone. Mark your calendars for these upcoming happenings in Naples, Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Lakewood Ranch, Bradenton, Venice, Lido Key, and Longboat Key – all occurring between March 27 and April 10, 2025. Read on for the highlights (and where to find more information) in food & drink festivals, art festivals, outdoor adventures, and family-friendly events.
Savor Southwest Florida: Food & Drink Festivals
International Cuban Sandwich Festival (Tampa) – Sunday, March 30, 2025, 12:00–6:00 PM; Centennial Park, Ybor City (Tampa). Tampa’s signature foodie fiesta returns as top chefs from around the world compete to craft the “Best Cuban Sandwich”
This 14th annual festival celebrates the iconic Cuban sandwich in the city of its birth with a day of live music, cultural pride, and an attempt to build a 370+ foot world-record Cuban sandwich
Admission is free, and family and friends can taste sandwiches from various vendors while enjoying the lively atmosphere.
My Hometown Fest (Sarasota) – Saturday, March 29, 2025, 12:00–5:00 PM; Nathan Benderson Park, Sarasota. This outdoor festival combines delicious local food and craft beer with live music in a family-friendly setting. Sample dishes from dozens of Sarasota’s favorite restaurants and unlimited craft beer & spirits tastings as you wander the park
Live bands will keep the crowd entertained all afternoon, and proceeds benefit two great local causes. It’s a perfect way to spend a Saturday enjoying Sarasota’s hometown flavors and fun. Website: myhometownfest.com
(Naples fans, take note: The Collier County Fair, listed under Family Fun below, is also a great spot to grab classic fair food like funnel cakes and corn dogs!)
Celebrate Arts & Culture: Art Festivals & Creative Events
Mainsail Art Festival (St. Petersburg) – Saturday & Sunday, April 5–6, 2025, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM; Vinoy Park, St. Petersburg. One of the nation’s top-ranked art fairs marks its 50th year on the downtown waterfront. Over 250 juried artists from across the country will exhibit painting, sculpture, photography, jewelry, ceramics and more in beautiful Vinoy Park. Enjoy free admission, live music and entertainment, a kids’ art activity tent, and a tempting “culinary arts” food court on site. This beloved festival draws thousands of art lovers – a must-see for anyone interested in fine arts and local culture. Website: mainsailart.org
Coquina Spring Art & Craft Show – Saturday & Sunday April 5 & 6, 2025, 10-5 daily.
Come visit local artists and shops at one of the most popular outdoor beaches on Anna Maria popular Coquina Beach.
BAM! Fest – Bradenton’s Art & Music Festival (Bradenton)
Saturday, April 5, 2025 | 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM | Bradenton Riverwalk | FREE
Bradenton comes alive with color, sound, and community spirit during BAM! Fest (Bradenton Arts & Music Festival). This vibrant, all-day celebration along the scenic Riverwalk features multiple music stages showcasing a variety of genres, along with pop-up performances, student showcases, and interactive art installations. Attendees can witness the live creation of large-scale visual art, take part in hands-on creative projects, and enjoy an array of delicious bites from local food vendors. With its mix of culture, creativity, and community, BAM! Fest is a can’t-miss spring highlight for art lovers of all ages.
Embrace the Outdoors: Nature & Recreation Activities
Sea Turtle Awareness Day (Clearwater) – Saturday, April 5, 2025, 10:00 AM–2:00 PM; Clearwater Marine Aquarium, Clearwater. Welcome spring – and nesting season – with a fun, educational day dedicated to sea turtle conservation. Clearwater Marine Aquarium’s annual Sea Turtle Awareness Day invites families to celebrate with hands-on activities like painting turtle nest stakes and creating “Protect the Nest” crafts
Meet the aquarium’s sea turtle team and local conservation partners to learn how we can help protect these amazing creatures and their beach habitats
All activities are included with CMA general admission. It’s an interactive way for kids and adults alike to get ready for sea turtle nesting season on our shores.
Music on Main (Lakewood Ranch) – Friday, April 4, 2025, 6:00–9:00 PM; Main Street, Lakewood Ranch. This free outdoor concert and block party happens the first Friday of every month at Lakewood Ranch, and April’s edition is set to be a crowd-pleaser. April’s theme is “Sweet Fleet” featuring a local Fleetwood Mac Tribute.
Join hundreds of locals and visitors dancing in the street, enjoying food and drink from vendors and nearby restaurants, and browsing community booths. The event is family-friendly (dogs on leash are welcome), with kids often dancing along to the music. Bring a lawn chair if you like, but leave coolers at home – beverages are available for purchase to support local charities.
It’s a wonderful night out under the stars in the heart of Lakewood Ranch. More info: lwrmainstreet.com
Family Fun for Everyone
Collier County Fair (Naples) – Now through Sunday, March 30, 2025; Collier County Fairgrounds, Naples. Nothing says family fun like a county fair! The Collier County Fair – now in its 49th year – brings eleven days of rides, games, livestock exhibits and live entertainment to Naples
From petting zoos and agricultural displays to thrilling midway rides and nightly live music, there’s plenty to keep all ages entertained. Of course, don’t miss the classic fair food: cotton candy, funnel cakes, corn dogs, and more. The fair runs nightly and on weekends (with extended hours on weekends)
It’s a celebration of local agriculture and community with something for everyone – kids, teens, and the young-at-heart. Details: March 20–30 at Collier Fairgrounds, 751 39th Ave NE, Naples. See collierfair.com for schedules and tickets.
With so many terrific events on the calendar, Southwest Florida is the place to be this spring. Plan your outings around these festivals and activities to make the most of the beautiful April weather and the region’s rich culture. Whether you’re feasting at a food festival, browsing art by the beach, or adventuring in nature with the family, you’re sure to create lasting memories. Enjoy these next two weeks of fun – and be sure to check each event’s website for any updates or additional details. Happy exploring!
Each event listing includes a website or official source for more information.
