Manatee County Gears Up for a Packed Week of Events: Veterans Day Tributes, Farm Tours, Fall Expo, Concerts, and Community Fun
From honoring veterans to celebrating local businesses and culture, Manatee County is brimming with community spirit from November 10 to 17, 2025. A full slate of events across Bradenton, Palmetto, and Parrish will offer residents opportunities to connect, give back, and enjoy local entertainment.
Veterans Day Tributes – November 11
Manatee County will proudly celebrate Veterans Day with a variety of events and recognitions. The 1st Annual Parrish Veterans Day Parade and Ceremony will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Parrish Community Park, featuring local veterans, bands, and civic groups.
At American Legion Kirby Stewart Post #24 in Bradenton, OneBlood’s Big Red Bus will be collecting donations from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., with donors receiving a $20 eGift card, a power bank, and a pizza voucher.
Restaurants across the county are also showing their gratitude. Participating locations, such as The Shuckin’ Shack, will offer 50% off meals to veterans and active-duty service members, with proceeds supporting Wreaths Across America.
The Florida Cultural Group presents a musical double-feature at the Manatee Performing Arts Center, with Hotel Alabama: Tributes to the Eagles and Alabama performing at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Government and Civic Events
On Wednesday, November 12, Commissioner Kruse will host a Town Hall Meeting at the Lakewood Ranch Library (16410 Rangeland Parkway) beginning at 6 p.m., offering residents an open forum for community discussion.
The Manatee Chamber of Commerce Fall Expo 2025 follows on Thursday, November 13, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at LECOM Park in Bradenton. The event will feature 100+ local exhibitors, networking opportunities, entertainment, and a grand prize drawing for a Bradenton Marauders suite package.
Community and Cultural Highlights
Friday, November 14, brings two major happenings:
The Manatee County Farm City Week Agricultural Tour (8 a.m.–4 p.m.) celebrates the partnership between local farmers and urban residents.
The 9th Annual Sangarita Showdown (7 p.m.–10 p.m.) inside the Veterans Hall at the Manatee County Fairgrounds, where restaurants compete for the best sangria, margarita, and appetizer.
At Mixon Fruit Farms in Bradenton, families can enjoy Movies in the Park from 6 to 8 p.m., part of a monthly outdoor film series.
Saturday, November 15: A Full Day of Festivities
The Clerk’s Community Shred Day, hosted by the Manatee Clerk of Court & Comptroller, runs 9 a.m.–11 a.m. at Manatee Technical College, offering free document shredding and hard-drive destruction.
Kirkwood Church’s 30th Annual Christmas Market welcomes visitors 9 a.m.–1 p.m. on Cortez Road West, featuring holiday gifts, local nonprofits, and matched donations for participating charities.
Harborpalooza 2025 begins at 3 p.m. at Oasis Church with music, vendors, and a headline performance by Joseph O’Brien.
Over in Palmetto, UNIDOS Now’s “Nuetros Quince” Gala begins at 5 p.m. at the Marriott, celebrating 15 years of impact in education and family empowerment, with music by Sonora Dinamita Florida.
The Jund Collective’s Pop Up in the Park runs 10 a.m.–2 p.m. at Parrish Community Park, featuring local makers, food, and artisan vendors.
Community Support and Volunteerism
The Salvation Army of Manatee County continues its call for volunteers for Kettle Bell Ringers (November 14–December 24) and Angel Tree helpers (November 20–December 19). Volunteer opportunities include gift sorting and setting up the toy shop to support families in need during the holidays.
Looking Ahead
The week concludes on Monday, November 17, when Avenue 941 presents Comedy Night at St. Stephen’s Episcopal School in Bradenton from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., featuring comedian Tim Boyd, desserts, and community fellowship.
From civic engagement to seasonal giving, live music, and local business showcases, Manatee County’s event calendar reflects a community united by celebration, service, and connection.