Manatee County Bursts Into Summer With Creative, Family-Friendly Events May 26–June 1
Manatee County welcomes the summer season with a vibrant lineup of events from May 26 through June 1, 2025. There's something for everyone, from creative art workshops and family-friendly festivals to live concerts, markets, and community galas.
Saturday, May 31: A Day Packed With Celebration
Residents can kick off their weekend with creativity at the “Let’s Make Waves with Resin” workshop hosted by Amber’s Making Waves at Canvas & Clay Art Studio in Palmetto. Beginning at 11 a.m., participants will learn how to craft ocean waves with resin at 839 8th Avenue West.
At the same time, families are invited to the 2nd Annual Summer Kick-Off Party at UMR Sports Complex (131 Upper Manatee River Rd NE, Bradenton), from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Enjoy unlimited inflatable play, music, fairy hair, henna tattoos, shade, and food trucks. Wristbands are $12 in advance or $15 at the door.
That evening, the Early Learning Coalition of Manatee County will host its Stand for Children Gala from 6–10 p.m. at IMG Academy & Golf Club. The gala honors Mary Glass, President of the Manatee Education Foundation, with the 2025 Paul Sharff Children's Champion Award.
Adopt-A-Palooza: Pet Adoption Event
Also on Saturday, Manatee County Animal Welfare and Friends of Manatee County Animal Welfare will host Adopt-A-Palooza, the county's largest one-day dog adoption event. A donation waives adoption fees, plus a $20 tag fee for Manatee County residents.
Final Weekend of the Bradenton Downtown Market
Don't miss the final weekend of the Bradenton Downtown Market on Old Main Street! The market wraps up its season on Saturday, May 31 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Vendors will offer fresh produce, handmade crafts, local art, live music, and more. It’s a great chance to shop local and enjoy the charm of downtown before the market closes for the summer.
Ongoing Art Exhibitions
The Island Gallery and Studios in Holmes Beach continues its May exhibition with featured artists Carol Farkas and Jody Goldman. Art lovers can explore paintings, ceramics, jewelry, sculpture, and more throughout the month.
Community and Business Events
Manatee County offers a variety of recurring wellness and professional gatherings:
Lakewood Ranch Toastmasters – Monday, May 26
Free Weekly Tai Chi Classes for Seniors – Tuesday, May 27
Bradenton Toastmasters – Tuesday, May 27
Chamber Night – Wednesday, May 28
Sunset & Sand Showcase at Whiskey Joe’s – Wednesday, May 28
Stelliferous: Astronomy in a Galaxy Far, Far Away – Wednesday, May 28
Karaoke in Downtown Bradenton – Wednesday, May 28
Live Music and Arts at Oscura
Downtown Bradenton’s creative hub Oscura will host several live events:
Art Club Volume 3 – Wednesday, May 28, 6–9 p.m.
With artists Tori Silva, Brandon Thrift, and Kristen Berry.The Six String Social Club – Thursday, May 29, 7–11 p.m.
Featuring Kristopher James and more.Not Enough Space Concert – Friday, May 30, 7 p.m.
Including Lilith’s Demise, Lost Trees, and Think Twice.Spiritual Chaos Concert – Saturday, May 31, 7 p.m.
Featuring Noctus, What We Seek, and Chasing Airplanes.
With art, music, markets, and family fun, Manatee County closes out May with a weekend packed with unforgettable experiences. Whether you're supporting local artists, honoring educators, or shopping under the sun, there's no better time to be part of the community.