Manatee County Events Bring Music, Family Fun and Community Connection to Begin May
A wide range of family-friendly events, live entertainment and community gatherings are scheduled across Manatee County from April 27 through May 4, offering residents and visitors opportunities to connect, learn and celebrate the start of the spring season.
One of the largest ongoing initiatives during this period is Suncoast Remake Learning Days, a 15-day festival focused on hands-on learning for children and adults. Running through May 2, the initiative features interactive experiences designed to encourage creativity, curiosity and family engagement. The festival includes a variety of free events hosted throughout the region, emphasizing collaborative learning and community involvement.
Music lovers can continue to enjoy the Music in the Park concert series at the Bradenton Riverwalk Pavilion. The free Friday night performances from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. wrap up their seasonal run on May 1 with a performance by the Eric Von Band, bringing a mix of rock and country to the waterfront venue. The series has drawn steady crowds throughout April, offering a relaxed outdoor setting for live entertainment.
Also on May 1, residents in the northern part of the county can attend the First Fridays concert series at Parrish Community Park, located at 7550 Fort Hamer Road. The free event runs from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and is presented by HCA Florida North River Ranch Emergency. The May performance features the Jesse Daniels Band, continuing a monthly series that has brought live music and community gathering opportunities to the growing Parrish area.
On May 1, arts patrons can attend Organ-ized: Pipes & Pops at the SCF Neel Performing Arts Center. The performance highlights the power and range of the Elizabeth M. Eaton Memorial Pipe Organ, paired with orchestral elements for a unique musical experience designed to showcase the instrument in a modern and engaging format.
Families looking for interactive experiences can attend the Manatee County Safety Fest on Saturday, May 2, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Public Safety Center in Bradenton. The event features hands-on learning stations, opportunities to explore emergency vehicles and meet first responders. The first 200 attendees receive complimentary refreshments, adding to the event’s appeal for families with young children.
Also on May 2, The Center of Anna Maria Island will host a Cajun Crawfish Boil from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. The event combines food, live music and Kentucky Derby-themed activities, including a hat contest and race viewing. The gathering serves as both a social event and a fundraiser, offering a festive atmosphere with traditional Southern cuisine.
Sports fans can catch local action as the Sarasota Paradise faces Forward Madison on May 2 in a home match, adding to the weekend’s lineup of entertainment options for the community.
Throughout this same period, theatergoers can experience the musical Big Fish at the Manatee Performing Arts Center. The production tells the story of Edward Bloom, a man known for his larger-than-life tales, and his son’s journey to understand the truth behind them. Featuring imaginative storytelling elements such as witches, giants and mermaids, the show blends humor and emotion while exploring themes of family, memory and legacy. The production is brought to life by a volunteer cast, highlighting the role of community theater in the local arts scene.
In addition to these events, the Bradenton Marauders will host Margaritaville Night on Saturday, May 2 at LECOM Park. Gates open at 5 p.m., with first pitch scheduled for 6:30 p.m. The themed evening will feature a Hawaiian shirt giveaway for the first 750 fans, adding a festive, beach-inspired atmosphere to the game. The promotion is part of the team’s 2026 season lineup, which continues to draw families and baseball fans to the ballpark with a mix of entertainment and community-focused events.
From educational festivals and live performances to community celebrations and sporting events, the final week of April and start of May offer a diverse lineup of activities across Manatee County, reflecting the area’s continued focus on family engagement, arts and community connection.