Community, Compassion, and Celebration: Manatee County Events for the Week of May 19–25, 2025
Manatee County will come alive with meaningful events and vibrant community gatherings throughout the week of May 19–25, 2025. From honoring veterans to supporting local children and small businesses, the week offers a diverse range of opportunities for residents to connect, give back, and enjoy the start of summer.
Honoring Veterans and Preventing Suicide
On Tuesday, May 20, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m., The Fire Watch will host a free, in-person “Watch Stander” suicide prevention training at the Lakewood Ranch Library. This event is designed to help community members identify and assist veterans in crisis. Registration is available at bit.ly/43wjVgY.
Memorial Day Observances and Gold Star Family Honors
The week begins with solemn tributes to those who made the ultimate sacrifice. On Friday, May 23, at 9:30 a.m., Manatee County will unveil a permanent kiosk dedicated to Gold Star Families in the lobby of the County Administration Building at 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton. A portion of Buckeye Road between US 41 and I-75 will also be designated the "Gold Star Families Memorial Highway" in a special dedication ceremony.
On Memorial Day, Monday, May 26, community members are invited to attend a remembrance ceremony at Don Courtney Veterans’ Monument Park at 9:00 a.m. A Patriotic Symphony Salute will follow at 10:00 a.m. at Anna Maria City Pier Park.
Groundbreaking for Affordable Housing
Manatee County Habitat for Humanity will host a groundbreaking ceremony for Kings Cross Place on May 20 at 12:00 p.m. near Crossroad Community Church (3708 53rd Ave E, Bradenton). The new 27-home development will provide affordable housing for local families, marking a milestone in Habitat’s 30-year mission in the region.
Support for Hungry Children
On Wednesday, May 21, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., F.E.L.T. (Feeding Empty Little Tummies) will host a networking fundraiser at Fiorelli Winery, 4250 Co Rd 675, Bradenton. Attendees can enjoy wine and cheese, participate in basket raffles, and connect with the community to support Manatee’s food-insecure students.
Career Exploration for Students
Educational Harbor will host its 1st Annual Career Day on Thursday, May 22, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at 415 49th Street East in Palmetto. This event introduces students to a variety of career paths and invites families to explore education and workforce opportunities.
Saturday Spotlight: Bradenton Public Market
The Bradenton Public Market continues this Saturday, May 24, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. along Old Main Street. Featuring local produce, artisan foods, handmade crafts, and live music by Jon Gorman, the open-air event is family-friendly and dog-friendly. This weekend marks the second-to-last market of the season, which concludes on May 31.
Health, Art, and Library Programs
May 19: Trivia Night – Braden River Library (6–7 p.m.)
May 20: Spanish Conversation – Central Library (11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.)
May 21: Cheers to Winemaking – Lakewood Ranch Branch (3–4 p.m.)
May 22: Toddler Playdough – Island Branch (10–11 a.m., ages 0–8 months)
May 23: Mindfulness Meditation – Rocky Bluff Branch (2–3 p.m.)
May 24: Virtual Reality Drop-In – South Manatee Branch (2–3 p.m., ages 18+)
Also on May 24, MCR Health will host its 3rd Annual Health Fair at The Ringling Museum in Sarasota from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event includes free health screenings, museum tours, music, and more.
Youth and teens can continue to grow their creative skills through S.L.A.M. Academy’s weekly comic art and writing course, held Saturdays at 3:30 p.m. at Bat City Comic Professionals, 915 Manatee Ave E, Bradenton.
Whether you're seeking connection, education, or celebration, Manatee County offers something for everyone this week.