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Five Fantastic Local Fall Festivals & Events
Siesta Key and Sarasota are vibrant centers of culture and incredible natural beauty year-round, especially in the fall. Autumn is one of the most ideal times to visit Florida due to the seasonal cheer that permeates the area. Between dodging crowds, avoiding the heat, and, most importantly, experiencing seasonal local events, Siesta Key and Sarasota make fall one of the most wonderful times of the year. To prove it, our local experts here at Best Western Siesta Key have compiled a short list of seasonal activities and events to enjoy this autumn.
Sarasota is known for its hot, tropical weather, which leads many people to believe summer is the best time to visit Siesta Key. However, this is not necessarily true. Fall on Florida’s Gulf Coast is also warm and sunny, and instead of watching the leaves turn, you will experience the coastal beauty of Sarasota. Whether you’re enjoying a sunset on a warm autumn evening or searching for animals while kayaking around the key, Florida weather at this time of year is certainly amazing.
Autumn Activities You Cannot Miss
Fruitville Grove Pumpkin Festival
This year, Sarasota will host the 34th annual Fruitville Grove Pumpkin Festival every weekend throughout October. The pumpkin festival includes a “petting zoo, playground, live music, a circus, decorated photo spots, costume contests, pony rides, rock wall, bounce houses, zip line, and of course, pumpkin painting. Visit Sarasota this October to experience our fantastic local festival.
November Sand Sculpting Festival
From November 11th-14th, 24 artists will come together to compete in the Siesta Key Crystal Classic International Sand Sculpting Festival. This is one of the most remarkable autumn events held in Siesta Key, as it includes eight solo sculptures, eight team sculptures, and one massive community project. The sandy creations will be illuminated under colored lights after sunset, and accompanying music, drinks, and sculpting classes will be available throughout the four-day festival and sand sculpting competition.
Sarasota Oktoberfest
Sarasota celebrates Oktoberfest all around the city from October 14th-16th, but you won’t want to miss out on the “Rocktoberfest” festival in central Sarasota or the Downtown Sarasota Oktoberfest. Many local shops and restaurants celebrate Oktoberfest with enthusiasm and festivity, and it is a favorite fall event among locals and visitors.
Downtown Sarasota Craft Festival
Just a short drive from Siesta Key, you can visit the Downtown Sarasota Craft Festival on the first weekend of October. While known for our sandy beaches, Sarasota has also garnered a rich culture of crafts and art. The pinnacle of this culture can be seen on October 1st and 2nd in Downtown Sarasota! Enjoy an expansive and beautiful green market as well as jewelry, pottery, ceramics, photography, painting, and clothing, among other hand-crafted and creative items.
Lights at Spooky Point Selby Gardens
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is one of Sarasota’s most stunning and prestigious arthouses. It hosts several seasonal events throughout the year, in addition to the breathtaking natural landscape they continue to cultivate and celebrate. Among their events this autumn is the Lights at Spooky Point Festival. Marie Selby Gardens will highlight their fall flower gardens and plant houses with beautiful yet spooky lights to celebrate the season.
Whether it’s a peaceful retreat to experience Siesta Key’s natural beauty or an exciting Sarasota adventure, take advantage of the wonderful autumn season on Florida’s Gulf Coast. From elegant gardens to thrilling festivals and, of course, the renowned beaches of Siesta Key, your visit will be packed with fun fall activities and a relaxing, comfortable stay here at Best Western Siesta Key.