October is one of the most exciting months to be in Sarasota! From live music and seasonal food to family-friendly festivals and Halloween celebrations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here are the highlights you won’t want to miss:
👻 Lights at Spooky Point, Selby Gardens (Oct 3 – Nov 1)
Stroll through Historic Spanish Point’s eerie nighttime display featuring bootanical decorations, spooky-cute surprises, and family fun. Food and beverages available on site.
Link for info
🎃 Pumpkin Patch & Fall Carnival at UTC (Oct 7–26, Carnival Oct 31–Nov 2)
Pick the perfect pumpkin at The Green, with proceeds supporting Nate’s Honor Animal Rescue. Return for Halloween weekend carnival rides, games, fair food, and trunk-or-treating.
Link for Info
🌾 Hunsader Farms Pumpkin Festival (Oct 11–12, 18–19, 25–26)
A fall tradition for 34 years, this Bradenton festival includes a local craft show, live music, pumpkin games, a petting zoo, face painting, a corn maze, and plenty of homemade food.
Link for Info
🎶 Rocktoberfest Sarasota (Oct 17–19)
Downtown Sarasota transforms into a free 3-day festival at J.D. Hamel Park. Expect live bands, seasonal eats, shopping from local vendors, a kids’ zone, and even dog-friendly fun along the Bayfront.
Link for Info
👻 Boo! at The Bay (Oct 18)
This family event includes trick-or-treating, food trucks, and an outdoor movie under the stars at The Bay Park. Costumes encouraged!
Link for Info
🎉 Boofest on Main (Oct 24)
Lakewood Ranch Main Street comes alive with inflatables, face painting, live entertainment, and trick-or-treating throughout decorated streets.
Link for Info
✨ Water Lantern Festival (Oct 25)
At Nathan Benderson Park, release a personalized lantern onto the lake as the sun sets. The evening also features food trucks, live music, and community activities.
Link for Info
🎃 Downtown Halloween Strut (Oct 31)
Celebrate Halloween in downtown Venice with trunk-or-treat, a family-friendly DJ, shopping, and costumes galore.
Link for Info
Whether you’re here for pumpkins, lanterns, or live music, Sarasota shines in October. There’s no better time to explore the city, connect with community events, and soak up the Florida lifestyle.
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