Manatee County Celebrates Art, Music, and Community Engagement: Events from May 12–18, 2025
Manatee County will be bustling with creativity, connection, and community spirit from May 12 through May 18, 2025. With a dynamic range of events—from auctions and art exhibitions to live music and hands-on volunteer opportunities—the region invites residents and visitors alike to join in the festivities.
Community Impact and Public Engagement
From May 12 to 15, The Salvation Army of Manatee County is hosting its “Kids to Camp” online auction, giving donors a chance to bid on exclusive items and experiences to help send local youth to summer camp.
On Tuesday, May 13, residents are invited to attend a public input meeting at the Central Library in Bradenton from 6 to 7:30 p.m. The meeting, hosted by Lasting Manatee, seeks feedback on how to allocate over $252 million in federal disaster recovery funds tied to storms Debby, Helene, and Milton.
Business and Leadership Events
The Manatee Chamber of Commerce presents its Headliners Luncheon on Wednesday, May 14, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at GROVE in Lakewood Ranch. Karen Sainsbury, VP of Talent at First Watch, will discuss “Cooking Up Culture,” highlighting how the popular breakfast chain builds opportunities for its team.
Fun and Fellowship
The Junior League of Manatee County will host a Ladies' Night Line Dancing Social on Wednesday, May 14 at 6:30 p.m. The event is open to current and prospective members, promising a lively evening of boots, beats, and networking.
Live Music and Law Enforcement Support
Friday, May 16, brings high-energy entertainment to town. Anna Maria Oyster Bar will present “Oysters Rock Live” from 7–10 p.m., featuring a concert by #NoFilter, which offers a blend of rock, pop, and dance hits. That same evening, the Manatee County Sheriff's Office will host a fundraising night at Sky Zone Trampoline Park from 6 to 8 p.m. to benefit Explorer Post #61.
Saturday, May 17: A Day Packed with Events
Art and Inspiration: The Annual Paint Around at the Herrig Center for the Arts (formerly ArtCenter Manatee) runs from 2 to 4 p.m., where five local artists will take turns creating collaborative works of art. The event includes a bake sale and raffle, with proceeds supporting children’s summer art programs.
Community Building: Habitat for Humanity’s 2025 Women Build Wall Raising Day invites volunteers to join construction shifts at 7:30 a.m. and 9:45 a.m. at 506 11th St W in Palmetto. Participants will receive a special edition T-shirt.
Civic Engagement: The Manatee Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller will host an Open House at the Historical Records Library from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., in conjunction with Bradenton’s birthday celebrations.
Music and Family Fun: Sutton Park in Palmetto will light up at 6:00 p.m. for Saturday Sundown, a free outdoor concert featuring live music, food trucks, and a kid-friendly, pet-welcoming environment.
Youth Arts Launch: S.L.A.M. Academy begins its 12-week comic art and writing program for kids and teens on May 17 at 3:30 p.m. at Bat City Comic Professionals in Bradenton.
With something for everyone—from civic forums and music festivals to art showcases and fundraising socials—Manatee County’s event lineup for the week reflects the vibrancy and generosity of its growing community.