A Full Week Ahead: Government Meetings, Riverfront Festivals and Center Stage Performances Across Manatee County
A busy week is ahead for Manatee County residents, with civic engagement opportunities, waterfront festivals, family workshops and a strong lineup of live performances at the Manatee Performing Arts Center anchoring the local arts scene.
County Government and Community Engagement
Families across Manatee County can log in on Wednesday, February 18, from 10 to 11 a.m. for a free virtual Overview of I.D.E.A. webinar. The presentation will provide families with an introduction to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, including disability categories, parental rights and school responsibilities. The session is presented by Lisa Math, BSC, CRPS-F, Director of the Family Star Program, and is a collaboration between FND and the Health Planning Council’s Early Steps program.
North of the River Manatee County, Community Conversations will be held Sunday, February 22 and Monday, February 23 at multiple locations including Ft. Hamer Park Pavilion, Blackstone Park, Popi’s Place Restaurant in Ellenton, Virgil Mills Elementary and Fifth Third Bank at Market Walk in North River Ranches. Residents are invited to share feedback on the area’s strengths, challenges and future priorities. Participants can enjoy complimentary food and drinks and receive a $25 gift card for attending.
City of Bradenton
The City of Bradenton continues its Face It, Fix It infrastructure initiative with a Community Open House on Tuesday, February 17, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at Bradenton City Hall Auditorium. Residents can review current and upcoming investments in streets, water, sidewalks and wastewater infrastructure and speak directly with city staff about projects impacting their neighborhoods.
The Bradenton Area River Regatta returns February 20 and 21 along the Bradenton Riverwalk. Opening activities begin Friday, with boat races and family-friendly entertainment continuing throughout Saturday. The weekend features high-speed powerboat racing, live entertainment and free activities for all ages.
Also on Saturday, February 21, The Florida Man Games will take place at the Freedom Factory in Bradenton, offering a uniquely Florida-inspired competition event that promises high-energy entertainment.
City of Palmetto
Regatta festivities extend across the Manatee River to Palmetto Riverside Park. In addition, on Saturday, February 21, the Marriott Resort & Spa Palmetto will host an evening celebration beginning at 5 p.m. with a DJ and food trucks, followed by a Beach Boys tribute performance and powerboat driver awards from 6 to 8:30 p.m., complementing the Regatta weekend excitement.
Manatee Performing Arts Center Performances
The Manatee Performing Arts Center continues its 2025–2026 season with multiple performances during the week.
On Friday, February 20, audiences can experience The Women of Rock – A Las Vegas Tribute Show. The high-energy production celebrates legendary female rock artists including Stevie Nicks, Joan Jett, Pat Benatar, Chrissie Hynde of The Pretenders and Heart, bringing classic hits and vibrant stage performances to downtown Bradenton.
In addition to the tribute concert, the Center’s ongoing theatrical productions and concert programming continue throughout the week, offering residents opportunities to enjoy live drama, musical performances and touring acts as part of its full seasonal lineup. Theatergoers are encouraged to check showtimes and ticket availability directly through the Manatee Performing Arts Center website.
Fundraisers and Special Events
Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast will host Party for Potential: Dueling Pianos on Friday, February 20 at Michael’s On East in Sarasota. The evening includes a cocktail reception, dinner, live music, auction and dancing to benefit youth mentoring programs serving the region.
Mystery enthusiasts can attend the Murder Mystery Dinner Show on Saturday, February 21 at 2 p.m. in Parrish, featuring an interactive theatrical dining experience set aboard the Ringling Express.
Outdoor readers can also participate in the Manatee County Library System’s Wandering Book Club, which continues meeting at local parks throughout February, blending wellness, nature and literature.
From public meetings and educational advocacy to high-speed boat races and spotlight performances on stage, Manatee County’s calendar from February 16 through February 23 reflects a dynamic mix of civic participation, arts and community celebration. Residents are encouraged to confirm event details and registration information through the respective host organizations.