February 2026 Community Events in Sarasota, Manatee & Charlotte Counties
Festivals, Food & Family Fun on Florida’s Gulf Coast
February is one of the best months of the year to get out and enjoy Southwest Florida. With cooler weather, seasonal visitors in town, and a full calendar of events, Sarasota, Manatee, and Charlotte counties come alive with Valentine’s celebrations, live music, fairs, and local traditions. Here are five standout events, listed in chronological order, to add to your February plans.
🎡 Charlotte County Fair
📅 February 1–8, 2026
📍 Charlotte County Fairgrounds | Port Charlotte
Kick off the month with a classic Florida fair experience. The Charlotte County Fair features carnival rides, games, live entertainment, agricultural exhibits, fair food favorites, and family-friendly fun throughout the week. It’s a longtime local tradition and a great outing for all ages.
🌸 Venice Area Orchid Society Show & Sale
📅 February 7–8, 2026
📍 Venice Community Center | Venice
This popular annual event showcases thousands of stunning orchids, expert grower displays, educational talks, and plant vendors. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just enjoy beautiful blooms, the Orchid Show is a relaxing and visually impressive weekend event.
🍫🍷 Wine & Chocolate Walk – Downtown Venice
📅 February 12, 2026
📍 Historic Downtown Venice
Just in time for Valentine’s Day, Downtown Venice hosts a beloved Wine & Chocolate Walk. Local shops and restaurants pair sweet treats with wine tastings as guests stroll the charming downtown district. It’s festive, romantic, and perfect for couples or friends celebrating together.
❤️ Valentine’s Day Stroll & Pop-Up Market – Downtown Sarasota
📅 February 14, 2026
📍 Downtown Sarasota
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a relaxed evening in downtown Sarasota featuring local vendors, artisan pop-ups, live music, and sweet treats. Many restaurants offer special Valentine’s menus, making this a great opportunity to enjoy dinner, dessert, and a stroll through the city’s vibrant downtown scene.
🎸 Thunder By the Bay Music & Motors Festival
📅 February 13–15, 2026
📍 Sarasota Fairgrounds | Sarasota
This high-energy weekend combines live music, custom cars and motorcycles, food vendors, and family activities—all while supporting local charities. Thunder By the Bay is one of Sarasota’s most anticipated February events and offers something for everyone, from classic rock fans to motor enthusiasts.
✨ February on the Gulf Coast
From Valentine’s celebrations and flower shows to county fairs and music festivals, February delivers some of the best community events of the year across Sarasota, Manatee, and Charlotte counties. Whether you’re planning date nights, family outings, or weekend adventures, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy Southwest Florida this month.
