Things to Do in Manatee County: Top Events Happening July 14–20, 2026
Looking for something to do around Manatee County this week? From nature classes and family festivals to fishing tournaments, theater performances and community markets, there are plenty of opportunities to get out and enjoy the community between July 14 and July 20.
Summer Fun Nature Classes Continue at Palma Sola Botanical Park
Palma Sola Botanical Park’s free Summer Fun Nature Classes continue this week with two educational programs.
On Friday, July 17, local artist Cynthia Maniglia will lead a Botanical Journaling class from 1 to 2 p.m. Participants will learn how to press and journal plants before creating a keepsake journal to take home. The cost is $5 per journal.
The classes are held indoors, making them a great option for escaping the summer heat. Reservations are recommended due to limited class sizes.
Crafty Critters at Mixon Farms
Families with young children can enjoy the new Crafty Critters series at Mixon Farms beginning Thursday, July 16, from 9 to 11 a.m.
Designed for preschool and elementary-aged children, each session includes a nature lesson, themed craft and time to explore the farm. The weekly program continues through Aug. 6 and registration is required.
Suncoast Fishing Challenge Returns
The 5th Annual Jess Jewelers Suncoast Fishing Challenge returns July 17-18 at Bahia Mar West Marina in Bradenton, benefiting Just for Girls of Manatee.
The weekend begins with a captains meeting at 7 p.m. Friday, followed by tournament fishing. On Saturday, festivities include a children’s fishing tournament, silent and live auctions, fish fry, weigh-in and awards ceremony. Cash prizes of up to $4,500 will be awarded to tournament winners.
FPL Touch-a-Truck Hurricane Expo
Florida Power & Light will host its free Touch-a-Truck Hurricane Expo on Saturday, July 18, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at LECOM Park in Bradenton.
The family-friendly event features emergency vehicles, hurricane preparedness demonstrations, free food, games, giveaways and hands-on activities. A sensory-friendly hour from 9 to 10 a.m. will feature no flashing lights or sirens.
Village of the Arts Celebrates Christmas in July
The Village of the Arts will host its monthly Third Saturday Market on Saturday, July 18, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
This month’s theme is Christmas in July, featuring local artists, handcrafted gifts, food vendors, festive entertainment and unique shopping opportunities throughout the village.
Cornhole & Cocktails Festival
The 7th Annual Cornhole & Cocktails Festival takes place Saturday, July 18, from 2 to 7 p.m. at the Veterans Hall at the Palmetto Fairgrounds.
The 21-and-over fundraiser benefits the Manatee Sunrise Kiwanis Foundation and includes cocktail, wine and beer tastings, food samples, cornhole tournament, silent auction, ticket auction and raffle.
AMI’s Got Talent Benefits Children’s Cancer Research
Also on Saturday, July 18, the Center of Anna Maria Island will present AMI’s Got Talent from 6 to 10 p.m.
The event raises money for the Children’s Cancer Research Fund through the Grace Norman Memorial Fund’s Hunt for the Cure campaign. The evening will feature local performers, entertainment and community support for pediatric cancer research.
Disney’s Newsies Jr. Takes the Stage
The Manatee Performing Arts Center’s summer campers will present Disney’s Newsies Jr. with performances on Friday, July 17, at 7 p.m. and Saturday, July 18, at 10 a.m.
The musical showcases young performers alongside musicians from The Pops Orchestra’s summer program in a high-energy production featuring memorable songs and choreography.
Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, educational activities, live entertainment or family-friendly fun, Manatee County offers something for every age this week. Many events are free, while others require tickets or advance registration, so organizers encourage attendees to plan ahead.