Live theater, musical performances, educational opportunities, and community activities highlight the calendar across Manatee County from October 27 through November 2, 2026.
The Manatee Performing Arts Center will feature several productions, while local organizations and educational institutions offer activities for residents of all ages.
Tuesday, October 27
Almighty Queen – A Tribute to Queen
2 p.m. and 7 p.m. | Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 Third Avenue West, Bradenton
Almighty Queen will bring the music of the legendary British rock band to Stone Hall with performances highlighting Queen’s combination of rock, opera, and theatrical showmanship.
The tribute concert will feature familiar hits celebrating the band’s musical legacy. Tickets are available through the Manatee Performing Arts Center.
State College of Florida Open House
4–6 p.m. | SCF Bradenton Campus, 5840 26th Street West
Prospective students and families can explore academic programs, workforce certificates, financial aid options, and student services during an open house at State College of Florida.
Visitors will have opportunities to meet faculty, tour campus facilities, and learn about educational pathways. No advance registration is required.
Wednesday, October 28
Free Pet Vaccination and Microchipping Clinic
10 a.m.–2 p.m. | Animal Welfare Resource Center, 401 17th Avenue West, Bradenton
Manatee County Animal Welfare will provide free vaccinations and microchipping for pets belonging to county residents.
Appointments are required, and households may bring up to three pets. Cats must be secured in carriers, and dogs must remain on leashes.
Appointments can be scheduled through the Manatee County website.
Manatee County Schools Early Release
Students attending School District of Manatee County schools will be dismissed early for professional learning activities.
High schools will release students at 1 p.m., elementary and K–8 schools at 1:50 p.m., and middle schools at 2:40 p.m.
Japanese Supernatural Presentation
2:30–3:30 p.m. | Manatee County Central Library
The library will explore Japanese supernatural traditions, folklore, and cultural themes during an educational presentation. Advance registration is required.
Friday, October 30
Hocus Pocus Pops II
The Pops Orchestra will present Hocus Pocus Pops II, a Halloween-themed musical performance featuring The Sarasota Ballet’s Dance – The Next Generation.
The program combines orchestral music and dance in a seasonal celebration.
State College of Florida Foundation Scholarship Luncheon
11 a.m.–1 p.m. | Michael’s On East, Sarasota
The State College of Florida Foundation will host its annual scholarship luncheon, featuring the theme Make Your Move.
The fundraising event supports student scholarships and educational opportunities at State College of Florida. Suncoast Credit Union and Edmund Campbell Jr. are among the event sponsors.
October 28–November 1: Manatee Performing Arts Center
Carrie: The Musical
Bradenton Kiwanis Theater | 502 Third Avenue West, Bradenton
Based on Stephen King’s novel, Carrie: The Musical follows a bullied teenager whose supernatural abilities lead to devastating consequences.
The production explores themes of isolation, family relationships, and acceptance.
A special Halloween performance on October 31 will include seasonal festivities, themed refreshments, and an invitation for audience members to attend in costume.
The production contains mature content.
Dear Evan Hansen
Stone Hall | 502 Third Avenue West, Bradenton
The Tony Award-winning musical follows a socially isolated teenager whose attempt to connect with others leads to an increasingly complicated situation involving grief, honesty, and identity.
Evening performances are scheduled October 28–30 at 7:30 p.m., with weekend matinees also planned. The production concludes November 1.
The musical contains mature themes.
Tickets and additional information for both productions are available through the Manatee Performing Arts Center at 941-748-5875.
Saturday, October 31
Boo Bash at Fiorelli Winery
Noon–3 p.m. | Fiorelli Winery, 4250 County Road 675, Bradenton
Fiorelli Winery will host a free, family- and pet-friendly Halloween Boo Bash featuring pumpkin decorating, trunk-or-treating, and costume contests.
The festivities begin at noon with pumpkin carving and decorating until 1 p.m. Participants are asked to bring their own supplies. Trunk-or-treat activities will follow from 1–2:30 p.m., with awards presented at 2:30 p.m. for adult and children’s costumes, best pumpkin, and best-decorated vehicle trunk.
Admission and parking are free. Wine and cider sangria will also be available for adults.
Community members interested in participating as trunk-or-treat vendors must register in advance by emailing info@fiorelliwinery.com or calling 941-238-6566.
Monster Truck Nitro Tour
1 p.m. | Mosaic Arena, Manatee County Fairgrounds, 1402 14th Avenue West, Palmetto
The Monster Truck Nitro Tour will bring high-powered monster trucks to the Manatee County Fairgrounds for an afternoon of racing, wheelie competitions, and freestyle performances.
Tickets are required.
Sunday, November 1
Monster Truck Nitro Tour
5 p.m. | Mosaic Arena, Manatee County Fairgrounds, Palmetto
The Monster Truck Nitro Tour returns for a second performance featuring monster truck racing, freestyle competitions, and motorized entertainment.
Final Performances of Carrie and Dear Evan Hansen
Manatee Performing Arts Center, Bradenton
Both theatrical productions conclude their scheduled runs, offering audiences a final opportunity to attend.
Residents planning to attend performances or community activities are encouraged to confirm event times, ticket availability, and registration requirements with organizers.