Flashback

Photo: American Legion War Memorial Dedication Ceremony, 1941

Two local sailors who were home on leave hoisted a flag dedicated by Bertha Palmer, and Sarasota’s town band played “The Star Spangled Banner” while the crowd sang along.

05/05/2026 By Megan McDonald

Gifts Galore

Our Last-Minute, Ultra-Local Holiday Gift Guide

From foodies to fashionistas, these locally made gifts are perfect for anyone on your list.

12/23/2025 By Megan McDonald

Merry and Bright

Nine Stunning Local Christmas Trees to Go See This Holiday Season

Need a break from the blue light of your computer or phone screen as we head into the holidays? Try these lights instead.

12/19/2025 By Megan McDonald Photography by Damon Powers

Adios, 2025!

How to Celebrate New Year's Eve in Sarasota

Say hello to 2026 at one of Sarasota's many New Year's Eve celebrations.

12/16/2025 By Lauren Jackson

That's Lit

Stop Your Doom Scrolling and Look at These Photos of Selby Gardens' Holiday Lights

Photographer Damon Powers captures Lights in Bloom, the gardens' annual display of lights.

12/10/2025 By Damon Powers

Sleigh What?

Our Big List of Holiday Events

From south Venice to Lakewood Ranch and everywhere in between, these are the best holiday events to close out 2025.

12/03/2025 By Lauren Jackson

Advantage Point

5 Simple Tips to Style Patriotic Shirts for Everyday Outfits

Effortless ways to turn bold red, white, and blue into timeless everyday looks.

08/28/2025

Historical Holiday

How to Celebrate Juneteenth in Sarasota and Manatee Counties

One June 19, 1865, enslaved people in Texas learned they were free—two years after Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation.

06/16/2025 By Chloe Nelson

🧧 Happy New Year! 🧧

Celebrate the Lunar New Year With a Festival at Waterside Place

Korê's owner Daniel Dokko is spearheading the celebration, which will include a lion dance, tents showcasing Wagyu beef from Japan, and Dokko's version of "Squid Games."

01/15/2025 By Lauren Jackson

Merry and Bright

Every New Year's Eve, Sarasota Drops a Pineapple With 10,000 Lights on It

Our beloved local holiday traditions, by the numbers.

12/30/2024 By Megan McDonald

Community Partnership

Our Big List of Upcoming New Year's Events

Here's what's happening in Sarasota this season.

12/30/2024 By Lauren Jackson

Editors' Picks

Our Editors' Favorite Holiday Movies

It's a Wonderful Life, National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation, Bad Santa... the gang's all here.

12/23/2024 By Sarasota Magazine Staff

Gifts Galore

The Only Sarasota Gift Guide You'll Ever Need

Plus, all these gifts are local—perfect for last-minute shoppers.

12/18/2024 By Megan McDonald

It's Lit

Selby Gardens' Lights in Bloom Is Back

The downtown botanical garden's holiday celebration has entered its 21st year. It runs through Wednesday, Jan. 1.

12/13/2024 By Lauren Jackson

Caviar Wishes, Caviar Dreams

After a Tumultuous Year, a Fancy Buffet Is Exactly What We All Need

The Ritz-Carlton's annual holiday buffet is a relaxing afternoon of food, fun and friends.

11/25/2024 By Lauren Jackson

Gobble Gobble, Y'all

Make Your Thanksgiving Reservations or Pick Up Takeout at These Local Restaurants

Who wants to go to a turkey trot when you can have your own turkey marathon?

11/07/2024 By Lauren Jackson

Chag Sameach!

Celebrate Passover With Meals From These Sarasota Spots

Whether you order in or dine out, these locations have you covered.

04/18/2024 By Lauren Jackson

Auld Lang Syne

Where to Eat on New Year's Eve in Sarasota

Ring in the New Year with a full belly and plenty of cocktails at some of our favorite local restaurants.

12/21/2023 By Lauren Jackson

Pop the Cork

Need a Last-Minute Bottle of Wine for a Holiday Party? Here's How to Pick a Good One

Don't underestimate the power of a bottle of bubbly. (Just make sure it's chilled!)

12/20/2023 By Bob McGinn

Wash Out

Thanks to an Incoming Winter Storm, We're in For a Wet, Windy Weekend

Heavy rains and gusty winds will continue through Sunday, followed by a cold front on Monday and Tuesday.

12/15/2023 By Staff