Manatee County Calendar Fills with Community Events, Performances and Family Activities April 6–13
Manatee County residents will find a full schedule of events from April 6 through April 13, 2026, with offerings ranging from government-hosted community meetings and job opportunities to theater performances, outdoor activities and family-friendly festivals across Bradenton, Palmetto and the barrier islands.
Kicking off the week, Manatee County Government will host multiple public-facing events on Tuesday, April 7. A Health and Wellness Expo will take place from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Bradenton Area Convention Center in Palmetto, offering free health screenings, fitness and wellness activities, and access to local healthcare providers.
Earlier in the day, entertainment takes center stage as The Elvis Presley Experience arrives with performances at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. at the Manatee Performing Arts Center, bringing a high-energy tribute to the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll with iconic hits spanning his career.
Also on April 7, District 3 Commissioner Tal Siddique will hold a public town hall meeting from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Island Branch Library in Holmes Beach, providing residents an opportunity to engage directly with county leadership and discuss local issues.
Employment opportunities will be highlighted on Wednesday, April 8, as Manatee County hosts a hiring fair at the Palmetto Branch Library from 3 to 5:30 p.m., connecting job seekers with county departments and career pathways.
Arts and culture remain a strong focus throughout the week. Manatee Performing Arts Center begins its production of Agatha Christie’s And Then There Were None, a suspenseful mystery that places ten strangers on an isolated island where tension builds as secrets unfold. The production is part of Florida Cultural Group’s Action Through Acting initiative, which uses live theater to foster dialogue and community engagement. Audiences can also enjoy a range of performances and programs throughout the week as part of the center’s ongoing April lineup.
On Thursday, April 9, the Casey Cares Annual Spring Fashion Show will take place at 6 p.m. at the Lakewood Ranch Country Club. The event highlights courage and confidence while supporting children facing critical illnesses. The evening includes a runway show, silent auction, entertainment and opportunities for community members to support the organization’s mission.
Also on Thursday, April 9, the Academy at Bradenton will host a second anniversary open house from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., inviting the public to tour the campus, meet staff and learn more about programs while celebrating the school’s growth.
On Friday, April 10, the Manatee County Library System’s Wandering Book Club will meet at Parrish Community Park as part of its Sports and Leisure and Wellness series. The program combines reading discussions with outdoor exploration, encouraging participants to connect with nature through conversation.
Also on April 10, the City of Bradenton’s Music in the Park series continues at the Riverwalk Pavilion from 6 to 8 p.m. The free concert will feature live music from The Doodz, offering a family-friendly evening along the downtown waterfront.
Sports fans can look ahead to the start of the Bradenton Marauders season, with the home opening weekend scheduled for April 11. The team’s 2026 promotional schedule includes themed nights and community celebrations throughout the season, beginning with opening festivities that bring fans back to the ballpark.
Outdoor and wellness activities continue into the weekend. The Run Manatee 5K Series returns on Saturday, April 11, at Tom Bennett Park in Bradenton, featuring a 7:30 a.m. race along with a fun run, vendors and community activities. The event is part of a three-race series promoting fitness and community engagement.
Also on April 11, volunteers are encouraged to participate in a beach cleanup on Anna Maria Island from 9 to 11 a.m., helping preserve the area’s natural beauty while fostering environmental stewardship. That same day, the county’s Wandering Book Club will gather at Parrish Community Park, combining reading with outdoor exploration.
Looking ahead to Sunday, April 12, the Parrish Elks Lodge will host the Autism Acceptance Extravaganza from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., featuring vendors, sensory-friendly activities, train rides and community resources in a family-friendly environment focused on inclusion and awareness.
Throughout the week, residents can also explore ongoing opportunities and events hosted by the City of Bradenton and City of Palmetto, including community resources, recreational programs and civic engagement initiatives designed to connect residents with services and each other.
With a mix of public meetings, cultural performances, health initiatives and outdoor events, Manatee County continues to offer a wide range of opportunities for residents and visitors to stay engaged, informed and connected to their community.