Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall
One part bandstand, one part sunset and one part shimmering Sarasota Bay, the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall's Friday Fest on the Bay is a potent cocktail for a sultry summer evening.
Whether it's jazz, samba, swing or a serenade, one Friday a month from May through October, the bayfront lawn behind the beautiful Van Wezel in downtown Sarasota fills with blankets, lawn chairs and both locals and visitors for a free outdoor concert.
With crowds numbering in the thousands, this summer and fall music series is a local favorite delivering a heavy dose of sound and an opportunity to unwind from the week while kicking off the weekend.
Local vendors offer delectables that complement the musical headliners, as well as a full bar serving beverages of all kinds.
Arts and crafts are also on display and up for sale.
Friday Fest on the Bay takes place from 5 - 9 p.m. and the music ranges from country to Caribbean.
This magical series delivers on every level: social, cultural, culinary and, of course, musical. It's hard to find a more enchanted evening.
Upcoming Performances:
August 28: YESTERDAYZE, The Ultimate '60s Experience
September 18: BIG NIGHT OUT, Latin and Caribbean Music
The Van Wezel is located at 777 N. Tamiami Trl., Sarasota, just a few blocks north of Main Street. For more information, call 941-953-3368 or visit www.vanwezel.org.
