Looking for fun things to do? Top 5 events in Sarasota, Bradenton area this weekend

Wade Tatangelo, Sarasota Herald-Tribune
Updated ·4 min read

We're about halfway into December and have lots of exciting events taking place in Sarasota and Manatee counties, including everybody's favorite Christmas movie comedy being shown for free among the best restaurants at University Town Center.

Yes, we have several holiday happenings taking place this weekend, including a couple of festivals that should help with your shopping list. However, make sure to watch "Christmas Vacation" at UTC or at home during some point this hectic holiday season. Along with "Bad Santa," it's the only Christmas movie that can elicit laughs every single year, rather than inspiring a post-meal nap like so many holiday movies do.

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1. Free showing of 'Christmas Vacation' movie at University Town Center

Beverly D'Angelo and Chevy Chase portray Ellen and Clark Griswold in "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation."
Beverly D'Angelo and Chevy Chase portray Ellen and Clark Griswold in "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation."

Join the Griswolds for a winning dose of holiday hilarity on Saturday when "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation" is shown as part of University Town Center's popular Movies Under the Stars series. First, though, be sure to dine at one of UTC's 10 best restaurants, and then on-site concessions will be available starting at 6 p.m. The outdoor theater is located in the West District at UTC parking lot, right by Ford’s Garage, which is convenient for those seeking an adult beverage. Limited seating is available and is first-come, first-served. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets, with early arrival suggested. 7 p.m. Saturday; 295 N. Cattlemen Road, Sarasota; free; utcsarasota.com

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2. Lights in Bloom at Selby Gardens in Sarasota

The 20th annual Lights in Bloom at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens in downtown Sarasota is today through Jan. 3 on select nights.
The 20th annual Lights in Bloom at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens in downtown Sarasota is today through Jan. 3 on select nights.

Featuring more than two million lights, the 20th annual Lights in Bloom display illuminates the gardens and walkways of Selby Gardens. You’ll also find holiday photo opportunities, activities, and entertainment, with food and drinks available for purchase from the Michael’s on East grill and a cash bar. 6:30-9 p.m. (5:30 p.m. early entry) today through Jan. 3 on select nights; Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, 1534 Mound St., Sarasota; $30-$40 adults, $25-$35 members, $15-$20 ages 5-17, free ages 4 and younger; 941-366-5731; selby.org

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3. Bradenton Riverwalk Holiday of the Arts Festival

Attendees are invited to give the gift of art this weekend at the free admission Holiday of the Arts Festival held along the Bradenton Riverwalk.
Attendees are invited to give the gift of art this weekend at the free admission Holiday of the Arts Festival held along the Bradenton Riverwalk.

Attendees are invited to give the gift of art this weekend at the free admission Holiday of the Arts Festival held along the Bradenton Riverwalk. There will be original artwork by more than 100 artisans from throughout Florida including paintings, photography, sculpture, metalwork, digital art, jewelry, glass, ceramics, woodworking, mixed-media, fiber art, and metalwork. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday; Bradenton Riverwalk, 452 Third Ave. W., Bradenton; free admission; 941-487-8061; paragonfestivals.com

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4. Breakfast with Santa at Newtown Estates Park and Laurel Park

Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources invites children ages 12 and under and their families to the free Breakfast with Santa event on Saturday morning.
Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources invites children ages 12 and under and their families to the free Breakfast with Santa event on Saturday morning.

Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources invites children ages 12 and under and their families to the free Breakfast with Santa event on Saturday morning. Enjoy breakfast, holiday music, and a visit by Santa at Laurel Park and at Newtown Estates Park. 10 a.m. Saturday; Laurel Park, 509 Collins Road, Nokomis and Newtown Estates Park, 2800 Newtown Blvd., Sarasota; free; call 941-861-5000, 311 to register; scgov.net/parks

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5. Groovehive Festive Faire at Oscura in Bradenton

Oscura in Bradenton will host Groovehive Festive Faire on Sunday.
Oscura in Bradenton will host Groovehive Festive Faire on Sunday.

The Groovehive Vintage Market held at Bradenton live music venue and cafe Oscura will feature lots of local vendors, live bands and activities for the children. There will be 80-plus vendors with thrift and vintage items, handmade art, clothing and goods, treats and food trucks, and an outdoor beer and cocktail tent. Noon-6 p.m. Sunday; Oscura, 816 Manatee Ave. E., Bradenton; free admission; 941-201-4950; oscura.live

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Wade Tatangelo is Ticket Editor for the Sarasota Herald-Tribune, and Florida Regional Dining and Entertainment Editor for the USA TODAY Network. Follow him on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. He can be reached by email at wade.tatangelo@heraldtribune.com. Support local journalism by subscribing.

This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Best fun things to do this weekend in Sarasota, Bradenton, Venice, FL