Manatee County Bursts with Summer Fun: Art, Nature, Music & More from July 14–21
From botanical workshops to punk rock shows, Manatee County is alive with family-friendly entertainment, educational experiences, and cultural events this week, July 14 through July 21, 2025.
Art, Nature & Education
At Palma Sola Botanical Park, visitors can enjoy a free Introduction to Bonsai class on Monday, July 14 at 11 a.m. This indoor summer series offers nature-focused classes in a cool, air-conditioned environment.
Meanwhile, the Manatee County Agricultural Museum continues its “Make It Take It” series on Wednesday, July 16 with the theme “By Golly, It’s By-Products!” The creative workshop helps participants explore animal-related by-products through crafts and fun activities.
The Ringling Museum of Art hosts its weekly lineup of family programs, including:
Stroller Tours (July 16 at 10:30 a.m.)
Open Studio (July 17, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.)
Family Night at Art After 5 (July 17, 5 – 7:30 p.m.)
ROAR! Early Literacy Storytime (July 18, 10:15 & 11:30 a.m.)
Saturday FAM Programs (July 19, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.)
Movies for $1
Families looking to beat the heat can visit Regal Cinemas for the Summer Movie Express. On July 15 & 16, enjoy $1 screenings of:
Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse
Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie
Libraries & Learning
The Palmetto Branch Library presents “Pirate Flags” on Saturday, July 19 at 10 a.m., an interactive workshop led by Desoto National Memorial Park. Kids will learn the meanings behind fearsome flags and even make their own.
Live Music & Local Flavor
The Oscura venue in downtown Bradenton delivers a full slate of performances:
Thursday, July 17: The Chaunces Trio (jazz night)
Friday, July 18: RiskAverse, The Remembrance, Ending Apathy, Marrison (pop punk)
Saturday, July 19: Abortion Twins Birthday Bash with multiple punk bands, including Lot Lizards and The Low Cards
Over in Palmetto, Saturday Sundown returns to Sutton Park on July 19 from 6 to 9 p.m. with a live performance by Buffy & The Slayers. This free, pet-friendly community event includes food vendors, a kid zone, and sunset vibes.
Environmental Awareness
On Monday, July 14, head to Holmes Beach City Hall for Turtle Tracks & Shorebird Facts, a free weekly program hosted by Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch from 10–11 a.m.
From DIY crafts to downtown concerts, Manatee County is the place to be this summer. Whether you’re looking to make a memory or make a connection, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.