Whether you’re looking to shop local, experience cultural festivals, enjoy live music, or find a new furry friend, there’s something happening every week to help you make the most of this sunny season.
Here are 7 events you won’t want to miss this May:
🛍️ Spring EXPO
📅 May 1, 2025
📍 Bradenton Area Convention Center, Palmetto
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Connect with local businesses and explore exciting products and services from across the community at this annual Chamber of Commerce event.
🌺 21st Annual Hibiscus Festival
📅 May 2–4, 2025
📍 Gilchrist Park, Punta Gorda
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A beloved celebration of tropical flowers, music, food, and family fun set along Charlotte Harbor’s scenic waterfront.
🎨 5th Annual Downtown Sarasota Spring Craft Fair
📅 May 3–4, 2025
📍 Five Points Park, Sarasota
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Shop handcrafted works from talented artists and makers in a charming downtown setting.
🦎 ReptiDay Port Charlotte
📅 May 3, 2025
📍 Charlotte County Fairgrounds, Port Charlotte
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Explore exotic reptiles up close with hands-on exhibits, educational talks, and opportunities to meet your next cold-blooded pet.
🐉 7th Annual Sarasota International Dragon Boat Festival
📅 May 10, 2025
📍 Nathan Benderson Park, Sarasota
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Watch teams race across the water in colorful dragon boats and enjoy a full day of cultural performances and family-friendly festivities.
🎶 Manatee Music Series at GT Bray Park
📅 May 15, 2025
📍 GT Bray Park Amphitheater, Bradenton
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Bring your chairs and blankets for a free outdoor concert featuring local artists and food trucks.
🐾 Adopt-A-Palooza
📅 May 31, 2025
📍 Bradenton Area Convention Center, Palmetto
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Meet over 100 adoptable pets and browse vendors at Manatee County’s largest one-day pet adoption event.
From waterfront festivals to pet-friendly fun, May is the perfect time to get out and explore all our local communities have to offer. Be sure to mark your calendars—and bring your friends!
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