Manatee County Calendar Highlights Events, Meetings, and Performances Feb. 9–16
Manatee County residents will have a full slate of civic meetings, cultural festivals, live performances, and family-friendly events to choose from between February 9 and February 16, 2026, with activities taking place across Bradenton, Palmetto, Parrish, and surrounding communities.
County and Community Meetings
The week begins with local civic engagement opportunities, including the Parrish Civic Association monthly meeting on Tuesday, February 10. The meeting will feature Parrish Fire Department leadership discussing fire protection standards, insurance ratings, and future strategic plans, followed by the association’s regular board meeting.
County and municipal business continues throughout the week, with public meetings and workshops hosted by Manatee County Government, the City of Bradenton, and the City of Palmetto, offering residents opportunities to stay informed and participate in local decision-making. This includes the regular county commissioners board meeting on Tuesday morning.
Education, Workforce, and Family Events
Manatee Technical College will host an Open House and Career Fair on Thursday, February 12, from 5 to 7 p.m. at its main Bradenton campus. The event will include campus tours, program demonstrations, employer networking, and information on financial aid and workforce training opportunities.
That same evening, families are invited to a Family Literacy Movie Night at the 13th Avenue Dream Center in Bradenton. The free event includes a screening of the documentary Sentenced, snacks, and a discussion focused on literacy and educational access.
Arts, Music, and Live Entertainment
Live music and stage performances headline the week, beginning February 10–12 with The Soul Sensations, returning for a fourth year with a celebration of the enduring Motown sound. More than 60 years after its rise in Detroit, Motown music continues to resonate across generations, blending golden vocals, tight harmonies, polished musicianship, and signature choreography. This year’s performance features new selections alongside beloved classics, highlighting hits made famous by The Temptations, The Four Tops, The Supremes, Smokey and the Miracles, Gladys Knight, the Jacksons, Martha and the Vandellas, The Marvelettes, and the Commodores.
Valentine’s weekend continues with Let’s Hang On!, a high-energy tribute to Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons, presented by the Manatee Performing Arts Center. Performances bring classic doo-wop and pop hits to life with polished harmonies and a nostalgic celebration of the original Jersey Boys sound, offering audiences multiple opportunities to enjoy live theater and music throughout the week.
Music fans can also enjoy the Battle of the Bands on Friday, February 13, at Lincoln Park in Palmetto. The free evening event features local bands competing for prizes, guest judges, and a chance to perform at Palmetto’s Multicultural Festival.
Festivals and Outdoor Celebrations
On Friday, February 13, Manatee Village Historical Park will host a Cracker Trail Welcome Picnic, celebrating Florida heritage and welcoming riders participating in the Florida Cracker Trail Association’s annual ride.
Saturday, February 14, offers multiple community celebrations, including the City of Palmetto’s Multicultural Festival at Lincoln Park, featuring live music, food, art, and family activities.
That evening, downtown Bradenton hosts the Pittsburgh Pirates Spring Training Block Party on Old Main Street, combining sports, music, and games in a festive atmosphere.
Also, on February 14, the North River Fire District will host an Open House and Family Fun Day at Station 1 and the Manatee County Fairgrounds, highlighting public safety resources, emergency vehicles, and hands-on activities for all ages.
Rounding out the weekend, the Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival returns, celebrating the area’s historic fishing village with seafood, crafts, music, and cultural exhibits, drawing visitors from across the region.
Together, these events reflect a busy and diverse week in Manatee County, offering residents opportunities to engage in civic life, enjoy the arts, celebrate culture, and connect with the community.