Spring Training, Festivals & Family Fun Across Southwest Florida
March is one of the best months to live in — or visit — Sarasota and North Port, Florida. The weather is picture-perfect, the seasonal energy is high, and the event calendar is packed with everything from Major League Baseball to fine art festivals.
If you’re looking for fun things to do in Sarasota this March, here are five standout events happening across the area.
⚾ Atlanta Braves Spring Training
March 1–24, 2026 | CoolToday Park – North Port
Spring in Southwest Florida means one thing: Atlanta Braves Spring Training is back at CoolToday Park.
From March 1 through March 24, fans can catch Grapefruit League home games right here in North Port. Expect matchups against teams like the Tampa Bay Rays, Toronto Blue Jays, Baltimore Orioles, and more — all in an intimate, up-close stadium setting.
Spring Training brings big-league excitement to Sarasota County every year. Whether you’re a lifelong Braves fan, a baseball-loving family, or just looking for a fun afternoon under the Florida sunshine, this is a March must-do.
Pro tip: Arrive early to enjoy the stadium atmosphere and nearby dining options around Wellen Park.
🎷 Sarasota Jazz Festival
March 9–14, 2026 | Various Venues Including Sarasota Municipal Auditorium
The Sarasota Jazz Festival returns for a week-long celebration of world-class music.
From March 9–14, jazz legends and rising stars take the stage at venues throughout Sarasota, including performances at the Sarasota Municipal Auditorium. The festival blends live concerts, educational events, and intimate performances, making it one of the region’s most anticipated cultural gatherings.
If you love live music and the arts, this event highlights why Sarasota is known for its vibrant cultural scene.
🎡 Sarasota County Fair
March 13–22, 2026 | Sarasota County Fairgrounds
Nothing says classic family fun like the Sarasota County Fair.
For ten lively days, the fairgrounds come alive with rides, games, livestock exhibits, live entertainment, and all your favorite fair food (yes — funnel cakes included).
This annual tradition is a staple for families across Sarasota and surrounding communities. Whether you’re going for the carnival rides, agricultural exhibits, or simply a nostalgic evening under the lights, the Sarasota County Fair delivers that small-town Florida charm.
🎭 Downtown Sarasota Fine Art & Craft Fair
March 14, 2026 | Main Street at Orange Avenue
On March 14, downtown Sarasota transforms into an open-air gallery during the Downtown Sarasota Fine Art & Craft Fair.
Stroll along Main Street at Orange Avenue and explore handcrafted jewelry, paintings, sculptures, mixed media art, and unique artisan pieces created by talented local and regional artists.
It’s the perfect excuse to spend the day downtown — browse the art, grab lunch at a local restaurant, and soak in the creative energy that makes Sarasota such a special place to live.
🍷 Sarasota Wine Festival
March 21, 2026 | Selby Five Points Park
Wine lovers, this one’s for you.
The Sarasota Wine Festival returns to Selby Five Points Park on March 21 for an afternoon of global wine tastings, live music, food trucks, and lifestyle vendors.
It’s equal parts social outing and culinary experience — a relaxed, festive atmosphere where you can sip, sample, and enjoy downtown Sarasota’s energy. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply looking for a fun Saturday event, this festival is a standout.
March in Sarasota: The Perfect Time to Be Here
From Braves Spring Training in North Port to art festivals, live jazz, wine tastings, and the beloved Sarasota County Fair, March showcases everything that makes living in Sarasota and Manatee County so special.
Sunshine. Culture. Community. Energy.
If you’ve been thinking about relocating to Southwest Florida, visiting during March gives you a true taste of the lifestyle so many families fall in love with.
And if you’re already local — mark your calendar. It’s going to be a busy (and beautiful) month.