Manatee County Gears Up for a Busy Week of Community Events, January 19–26
Manatee County residents and visitors will find no shortage of activities and entertainment during the week of January 19 through January 26, 2026, with family-friendly attractions, cultural performances, educational showcases, and community gatherings taking place across Bradenton, Palmetto, and the rest of the county.
The Manatee County Fair runs January 15–25, transforming the fairgrounds into a hub of rides, games, livestock exhibits, live entertainment, and classic fair food. A highlight of the week is Kids Free Day on Monday, January 19, from noon to 3 p.m., when children receive free admission courtesy of sponsor Woodruff & Sons. The fair celebrates America’s 250th anniversary this year and remains one of the county’s signature winter events.
Civic and educational engagement takes center stage on Saturday, January 24, when the School District of Manatee County hosts its largest annual event, the Discover Excellence: STEM & School Choice Showcase, at the Bradenton Area Convention Center in Palmetto. Running from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. for STEM activities and 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. for school choice information, the showcase brings together every district elementary, K–8, middle, and high school. Families can meet teachers and staff, explore academic programs, enjoy hands-on STEM exhibits, and take in performances by school bands and cheerleaders. The free event also includes giveaways, prize wheels, and community partner booths.
That same day, Lt. Perry’s Place, a new community resource dedicated to supporting the physical and mental health of first responders, celebrates its grand opening and open house from noon to 6 p.m. at 2428 Manatee Avenue East in Bradenton. The event features food trucks, raffles, a 50/50 drawing, games, a bounce house, and a free kid zone. Free swag bags will be available for the first 100 attendees.
Arts and culture enthusiasts can enjoy performances presented by the Florida Cultural Group during the week. At the Manatee Performing Arts Center in downtown Bradenton, the beloved drama Terms of Endearment continues its run, while the classic musical Once Upon a Mattress offers lighthearted entertainment for audiences of all ages. Both productions are part of the region’s robust winter theater season.
Community-focused outdoor activities are also on the calendar. While the next Palma Sola Botanical Park Garden Workday is scheduled for January 20, volunteers are encouraged to stay engaged with upcoming dates throughout the spring, as the park continues to welcome residents of all skill levels to help maintain its gardens and trails.
Wrapping up the week, Sunday, January 25, marks the final day of the Manatee County Fair, offering one last opportunity to enjoy rides, exhibits, and live entertainment before the fairgrounds return to normal operations.
From countywide celebrations and educational showcases to live theater and civic engagement, January 19–26 offers something for nearly every interest, highlighting the diversity and vitality of life in Manatee County.
