Manatee County Hosts Vibrant Community Events April 1–6, 2025
Manatee County will offer a variety of engaging community events from April 1 through April 6, 2025, catering to residents and visitors of all ages.
Soar in 4 Family Night
On Wednesday, April 2, from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM, the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature will host the monthly Soar in 4 Family Night. This free program promotes literacy by empowering parents to be their child's first teacher.Families with young children can participate in hands-on activities designed to enhance vocabulary and learning skills.
Nature Night at the NEST: April Fools
Date & Time: April 1, 2025, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: The NEST at Robinson Preserve
Description: Test your nature knowledge against their April Fools! They will tell a series of stories about strange and natural things in our world, and it is up to the guests to guess which is real and which is just us trying to fool them. Suitable for adults.
BAM!Fest: Bradenton Art & Music Festival
Saturday, April 5, marks the debut of BAM!Fest, a free event transforming the Bradenton Riverwalk into an immersive art and music experience from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Attendees can enjoy live performances across multiple stages, interactive art installations, and a makers market featuring local artisans. Culinary delights from local food vendors will also be available.
Manatee Performing Arts Center Events
From April 4–5, the Manatee Performing Arts Center presents Women of Resistance, a powerful collaborative performance honoring seven courageous women who played vital roles in the defeat of the Nazis during World War II. This dynamic production, in partnership with Sarasota Contemporary Dance, brings their stories to life through music, dance, storytelling, and visual art. Showtimes are Friday, April 4 at 7:30 PM, and Saturday, April 5 at 2:00 PM and 7:30 PM.
Also on Saturday, families are invited to enjoy the Miss PattyCake Live EGGstravaganza, a free series of 45-minute performances at 12:30 PM, 2:30 PM, and 4:00 PM. This energetic, family-friendly show features singing, laughter, and uplifting messages. Miss PattyCake, a beloved children’s performer, shares early childhood education through a Christian lens, using music and joyful storytelling to teach young audiences about faith and kindness. Source
April Sunset Music Series - Palmetto Marriott “The Yard”
Date & Time: April 4, 2025 | 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Performer: Shantel Norman
Location: 600 US-41, Palmetto, FL
Description: Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa is excited to announce that the April Sunset Music Series is a free event with free parking! Guests are invited to unwind and enjoy the harmonious blend of live music and picturesque sunsets at this scenic venue.
Manatee Music Series 2025 - Parrish Community Park
Date & Time: April 4, 2025, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: Parrish Community Park
Description: Enjoy an evening of live music featuring the Trevor Bystrom Band. The event includes food trucks and family-friendly activities suitable for all ages. Source
Music on Main at Lakewood Ranch
Date & Time: April 4, 2025, 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: Lakewood Ranch Main Street
Description: Experience live music by Sweet Fleet, a Fleetwood Mac tribute band. The event supports the MVP Feel Good Fund and features beer, wine, food vendors, and activities for the whole family. Bring chairs; coolers are not permitted.
Bradenton Public Market
Date & Time: April 5, 2025, 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Location: Old Main Street, Bradenton
Description: Explore over 100 vendors offering fresh produce, arts and crafts, and more. The market also features live music and activities for children, providing a vibrant community atmosphere.
Booked for Lunch with Jenna Bush Hager
Date & Time: April 4, 2025 | Time not listed (likely evening)
Location: GROVE Ballroom, Lakewood Ranch
Details: Hosted by the Manatee Library Foundation, this special fundraising event features Jenna Bush Hager and supports public libraries in Manatee County. Tickets available via manateelibraryfoundation.org.
Cheers to 30 Years: Take Stock in Children Hosts Student Celebration
On Saturday, April 5, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Take Stock in Children of Manatee County will celebrate 30 years of investing in student futures with a lively community event at the Manatee School for the Arts' Renaissance Student Event Center.
Guests will enjoy performances by talented student artists, The Shaman Band, and Dr. Oz, as well as inspiring stories from alumni, scholars, and families. The celebration includes arcade access, face painting, a live DJ, and Bella’s 360° Free Photo Booth. Attendees can savor pizza from North River Pizza, enjoy sweet treats from Kona Ice, and participate in raffles and giveaways.
These events highlight the vibrant cultural scene in Manatee County, offering residents and visitors opportunities to engage with the community through art, music, and educational activities.