Holiday Markets, Concerts, Festivals, and Community Celebrations Fill Manatee County December 1–8
Manatee County is entering one of the most vibrant weeks of the holiday season, with events ranging from festive markets and concerts to immersive shows, city celebrations, theatrical productions, and charity giveaways. Between December 1 and December 8, residents will find activities for families, music lovers, shoppers, and supporters of local nonprofits.
Bradenton Holiday Lights Festival Opens December 5
The Bradenton Holiday Lights Festival returns to the Freedom Factory from December 5–27, transforming the venue at 21050 FL-64 into a sprawling Christmas light experience. Visitors can walk through themed displays, enjoy seasonal décor, and celebrate the holidays with an illuminated outdoor attraction.
European Holiday Market Continues December 4–7
The 2nd European Holiday Market at the Bradenton Area Convention Center runs December 4–7, featuring a full European-style holiday village with artisan shopping, culinary treats, interactive displays, and a visit from Saint Nicholas. Tickets are available online or through the Manatee Performing Arts Center box office.
Frozen: The Musical at Manatee Performing Arts Center
From December 4–14, the Manatee Performing Arts Center presents Frozen: The Musical, a live theatrical experience staged by its youth and volunteer performers. Audiences can enjoy beloved music, special effects, and the story of Anna and Elsa brought to life on stage.
Holmes Beach 75th Anniversary Celebration – December 5
The City of Holmes Beach will celebrate its 75th anniversary on December 5 from 5–9 p.m. at City Field. Festivities include live music by Jah Movement and Trevor Bystrom, food, drinks, and family-friendly activities.
Parrish Community Park Movie Night – December 5
Residents can enjoy a free community movie night on December 5, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Parrish Community Park, 7550 Fort Hamer Road. Families are encouraged to bring blankets and chairs.
Murder Under the Mistletoe Dinner Theatre – December 5
Parrish Playworks, the Parrish Area Business Alliance, and the Parrish Civic Association present Murder Under the Mistletoe, an interactive murder-mystery banquet on December 5 from 6:30–9:30 p.m. at The Worthington, 4815 17th St. E., Ellenton.
Tickets include dinner, dessert, and a show, with both individual and table packages available. Sponsorship opportunities range from dessert sponsorships to a main event sponsorship with extensive recognition.
Poppin’ Jazz Christmas – December 5
The Pops Orchestra Jazz Combo, under the direction of Robyn Bell, will perform Poppin’ Jazz Christmas on December 5 at 7 p.m. in the Grand Ballroom of the Bradenton Area Convention Center. The concert features holiday jazz classics performed by the orchestra’s renowned jazz ensemble.
Winter Wonderland on Old Main Street – December 6
Downtown Bradenton hosts its annual Winter Wonderland on December 6 at 5 p.m. on Old Main Street. Families can enjoy holiday lights, live entertainment, festive displays, and photo opportunities.
Parrish Christmas Gift Market – December 6
The Parrish Community Choral Boosters Christmas Gift Market will take place December 6 from 9 a.m.–2 p.m. at the Parrish Community High School parking lot, 7505 Fort Hamer Road. The event includes local vendors, handmade gifts, and food trucks
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MCR Health Holiday Toy Giveaway – December 6
MCR Health will host its annual Holiday Toy Giveaway on December 6 from 11 a.m.–1 p.m. at 170 N. Lime Ave., Sarasota. Children must be present to receive a toy while supplies last. Families can enjoy games, children’s activities, and a meet-and-greet with Santa. Donations of new toys are being accepted at MCR Health locations.
Lakewood Ranch Bluesfest – December 6
Lakewood Ranch Bluesfest, presented by Bank of America, returns to Waterside Place on December 6 from 10 a.m.–8 p.m. The festival benefits Meals on Wheels PLUS and features performances by Albert Castiglia, Chambers DesLauriers, Toronzo Cannon, Johnny Rawls, Eden Brent, and the Shaelyn Band. Pre-sale and day-of tickets are available.
International Mosaic Winter Fundraiser – December 6
Bubbles, Beats & Bites, the International Mosaic Annual Winter Fundraiser, takes place December 6 from 5:30–9 p.m.at the Bradenton Area Convention Center. The gala includes international performances and a feature by Grammy-nominated bass Mikhail Svetlov. Proceeds support Project Light Language School.
Countywide Sandbag Collection Continues Through December 15
Manatee County Public Works continues its post-storm sandbag collection program through December 15. Residents may return intact sandbags to the original distribution sites, including Rye Preserve, Rubonia Community Center, Myakka Community Park, Palma Sola Park, Parrish Park, Blackstone Park, and the Stormwater Facility.
City of Palmetto & Oscura Events
Both the City of Palmetto and Oscura in Bradenton continue hosting seasonal markets, live music, and holiday events throughout the week. Updated schedules are available on their respective websites and community calendars.
With holiday lights, concerts, themed dinners, markets, and family events spread across both weekends and weekdays, Manatee County residents have a full range of opportunities to celebrate the season.