Residents have a full calendar of activities to choose from Sept. 8 through Sept. 14, with the week featuring community meetings, health programs, September 11 remembrance ceremonies, live theater, comedy, environmental service projects and family-friendly entertainment.
Several events on Friday will mark the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, while Saturday brings one of the busiest event days of the week.
Tuesday, Sept. 8
The week begins with several entertainment options around Anna Maria Island, including live music at local venues. Additional activities continue throughout the week as businesses and community organizations transition into their fall schedules. Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce
Wednesday, Sept. 9
Manatee County Commissioner Bob McCann will host a September Town Hall from 6 to 7 p.m. at Lakewood Ranch Library, 16410 Rangeland Parkway. The gathering allows residents to hear from and speak with the commissioner about county issues.
YMCA of Southwest Florida at the Bradenton location will also hold Senior Health Day from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Wednesday. The free community event focuses on healthy aging and includes health and wellness resources, YMCA programs, community partners, giveaways and other activities.
Thursday, Sept. 10
Live theater is among the options heading into the weekend. Arsenic and Old Lace continues its Sept. 3-20 run. The dark comedy follows a drama critic who discovers that his seemingly sweet aunts have a deadly secret involving their hospitality to unsuspecting guests.
Friday, Sept. 11
Several Manatee County events will commemorate the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks.
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County will hold a 25th Anniversary Remembrance community event from 8 to 8:45 a.m. at Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa, 600 U.S. 41 in Palmetto. The observance will remember those who died and honor the heroes of September 11.
Later in the morning, the Manatee County Fire Chiefs’ Association will hold its annual Tribute to Heroes ceremony at 9:30 a.m. at Rossi Park near the First Responder Memorial in downtown Bradenton. The public ceremony will include an honor guard, flag ceremony, 21-gun salute and dove release.
Residents can also commemorate the anniversary by donating blood. SunCoast Blood Centers and Gecko’s Grill & Pub will hold the Honor. Remember. Give. Blood Drive from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at participating locations, including the Gecko’s at 7228 55th Ave. E. in Bradenton. Donors will receive a $50 Gecko’s gift card.
Saturday, Sept. 12
Saturday offers events ranging from environmental volunteerism to entertainment.
Keep Manatee Beautiful will participate in the 2026 International Coastal Cleanup from 9:30 a.m. to noon at multiple locations across Manatee County. Volunteers will help remove litter from beaches, waterways and other areas before debris can reach local waters. Cleanup supplies will be provided, and participants are encouraged to wear closed-toe shoes and sun protection and bring a reusable water bottle.
Historic Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach will host the Endless Summer Afterglow Party from 2 to 8 p.m. The free, family-friendly event will celebrate the closing days of summer with live entertainment, local vendors, children’s activities and a tropical atmosphere.
The annual Greg LaPensee Bowling Tournament benefiting The Center of Anna Maria Island will take place at Bowlero Bradenton, 4208 Cortez Road W. Check-in begins at 5:30 p.m., followed by bowling from 6 to 8 p.m. and awards and raffle drawings afterward. Lanes accommodate teams of up to six bowlers, with sponsorship opportunities also available.
Parrish Comedy Night begins at 6:30 p.m. at Beef’s Comedy Cave, 8913 U.S. 301 N. in Parrish. The 18-and-older show features comedians Bobby Goldsmith, Stephen Netta and Tommy Bell. Tickets are $20.
Sunday, Sept. 13
Weekend performances of Arsenic and Old Lace continue Sunday as part of the production’s Sept. 3-20 schedule.
Sports fans will also find Sunday football viewing events at establishments around the county and Anna Maria Island as the NFL season gets underway.
Monday, Sept. 14
The week winds down on Monday with recurring entertainment around Anna Maria Island, including karaoke at several venues.
With solemn September 11 observances, opportunities to volunteer, live entertainment, theater and family activities, the Sept. 8-14 calendar offers Manatee County residents several ways to gather, serve the community and enjoy the approaching fall season.