A Local Guide to Holiday Events Near Anna Maria Island Through New Year’s 2026
- beachpleaseami
- 16 minutes ago
- 4 min read
If you are spending the next couple of weeks on or near Anna Maria Island, you still have plenty of ways to get your holiday fix. Think twinkly light shows, waterfront strolls, festive markets, and a couple of easy New Year’s Eve options that do not require a full blown “big city” night. Below are the best holiday events near Anna Maria that are still running between now and just after New Year’s.
Lights in Bloom at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens (Sarasota)
This one is the “wow” light festival in our area, and it is still running through early January. Expect a full garden glow up with more than two million lights.
Dates: December 6, 2025 to January 3, 2026
Entry times: Early Entry 5:30 to 9:00 pm, General Entry 6:30 to 9:00 pm
Where: Selby Gardens, Downtown Sarasota campus (35 minutes from Anna Maria)
Pro tip: Buy tickets in advance if you can. Selby notes advance purchase is strongly encouraged.
Why we love it: it feels special, it photographs beautifully, and it is an easy “holiday event night out” without needing to plan a whole itinerary.
Christmas in the Garden at Longboat Island Chapel (Longboat Key)
This is a peaceful, pretty stroll that feels very “Old Florida holiday.” The gardens are lit nightly, and there are select evenings with live performances.
Dates and hours: Open daily Nov 30 to Dec 31, 5 to 9 pm
Music performances: Performances typically begin at 6 pm on select dates
New Year’s Eve special: Dec 31 entertainment runs 4:30 to 6:30 pm, with complimentary heavy appetizers (donations appreciated)
Where: Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Dr., Longboat Key
Why it works: It is calm, family friendly, and a great “after dinner” plan if you want something festive that is not a packed street party.
Bradenton Holiday Lights Festival at the Freedom Factory (Bradenton)
If you want something fun and different, this drive through style holiday light festival is still going on select nights through late December.
Why it is a good pick: You can do it on a whim, it is very kid friendly, and it is easy to pair with dinner in Lakewood Ranch or downtown Bradenton.
Bradenton Public Market
If you love the vibe of an open air market, this is the one to hit. It is a classic Saturday morning plan with local vendors, produce, food, and music.
When: Saturdays, October through May, 9 am to 2 pm
Where: Old Main Street, downtown Bradenton
Two great “between now and New Year’s” Saturdays to plan around are Dec 20 and Dec 27, both of which fall within the market’s regular season and hours.
Quick idea: Make it a mini day. Market first, then walk the Riverwalk, then grab lunch downtown.
Village of the Arts ArtWalk
If your crew likes artsy neighborhoods, galleries, and a more local feel, this is an easy yes.
ArtWalk weekend dates: Friday, Jan 2, 2026 (6:00 to 9:30 pm) and Saturday, Jan 3, 2026 (11:00 am to 4:00 pm)
Where: Village of the Arts, Bradenton
Cost: Free
Why it is perfect “just after New Year’s”: it gives you something fresh to do once the holiday rush calms down, and it feels very Florida local.
Downtown Sarasota New Year’s Eve Pineapple Drop
This is the biggest “signature” New Year’s event in the immediate region, and the City of Sarasota posts it on their event calendar. The festivities begin with a block party in beautiful Downtown Sarasota. Selby 5 Points Park provides a range of options for food and drink, including amusement games and carnival rides, as well as full bars. You can also enjoy live music from local bands. Our New Year’s tradition culminates with the iconic Pineapple Drop at midnight, followed by a stunning fireworks show over the bayfront.
When: Listed as Tuesday, Dec 30, 2025 (1:00 pm) through Thursday, Jan 1, 2026 (1:00 am)
Where: Main Street, Sarasota
Cost: Free
Planning tip: If you want the party energy, go later. If you want a more family friendly feel, start earlier in the evening and leave before midnight crowds.
Bradenton Alive New Year’s Eve at Rossi Park (Downtown Bradenton)
If Sarasota feels like too much, downtown Bradenton is a solid alternative for a festive night out.
What: New Year’s Eve celebration at Rossi Park with live music, food, drinks, and local vendors
Live Music: Enjoy an incredible performance by the Derek Lersch Band, bringing the energy and excitement all night long with hits you know and love.
Food & Merchant Vendors: Savor delicious bites from your favorite local food trucks and browse unique goods from talented local artisans and merchants.
Local tip: This is an easy Uber ride if you want to avoid parking stress.
Do these holiday events leave you feeling inspired to make it an Anna Maria beach Christmas after all? We still have a limited selection of homes available and are offering 15% off last minute Christmas bookings. A festive island escape might be closer than you think.