Sarasota County's Fire Fest returns for its eighth year at T. Mabry Carlton, Jr. Memorial Reserve in Venice from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 29. The festival is run by Sarasota County's Parks, Recreation and Natural resources staff, who will educate the public about the importance of fire to the area's ecosystem. The event is free and will include live demonstrations of prescribed burns, local exhibitors, games for children, hayrides and refreshments.