Fall in Love with Downtown Sarasota This February | |
Downtown Sarasota is brimming with energy and excitement, offering something for everyone to love. Whether you're savoring a romantic evening at one of our exceptional restaurants, exploring unique local shops, or enjoying vibrant events under the warm Florida sun, there's no better time to experience the heart of our city. This month, the DID invites you to discover the charm, culture, and community that make downtown the perfect destination to shop, dine, and explore. | |
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We would like to welcome and introduce our newest DID Chair, Ronnie Shugar! He brings a wealth of business experience to the DID. A creative entrepreneur, brand disrupter, and philanthropist, Ronnie co-founded the immensely successful lifestyle brand, Raw Sugar, whose products can be found at major retail stores nationwide. His newest venture right here in downtown is an experiential champagne bar to open in the Mark on Pineapple Avenue.
In addition to his business and creative prowess, Ronnie’s passion is to give back and empower others through philanthropic initiatives. His contributions to our board will surely help downtown thrive and create an even more vibrant community.
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Gator Club Named Legacy Business | |
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The Gator Club has been a popular spot for both residents and visitors to socialize and enjoy live music since 1988. The City Commission declared The Gator Club a legacy business in recognition of its 36 years of service to downtown Sarasota.
Congratulations to this iconic downtown business!
The City of Sarasota recognizes the contributions of outstanding local business that have demonstrated economic stability in the City. To be considered, a business must meet the following eligibility criteria: being for-profit, operating in the city limits for at least 20 cumulative years and operating a storefront where customers can make purchases or receive services. For more information, visit the Legacy Business Program website or email LegacyBusiness@sarasotaFL.gov
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Sarasota Architect
DOWNTOWN SARASOTA: BEYOND OUR BORDERS
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Following up on last year’s sell-out speaker series, Downtown Sarasota: Hindsight, Insight and Foresight, Architecture Sarasota is presenting a new speaker series, Downtown Sarasota: Beyond Our Borders. This year’s series will feature renowned urbanists based out-side the United States, providing thought-provoking international perspectives on Sarasota and its prospects. Presenters include Gil Penalosa (February 11th), Brent Toderain (February 25th) and Paul Kalbfleisch (March 11th) ) – each selected for his unique point of view, deep experience, and engaging presentation style. Speakers will offer comments specific to Sarasota, informed by time spent in the city in advance of their presentations. Once again, our aim is to inform, stimulate, and engage our audience, with the practical result of continuing to elevate a community-wide conversation and allowing us to take more effective steps toward a better future for Sarasota. | |
Love Local: Shop, Dine, Explore | |
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Kick off your Valentine’s plans early! Join us for Heart & Soul on Palm! Dance and groove through the evening with performances from K-Luv and the United Funk Foundation. Sip and sample an array of bites and beverages from downtown Sarasota’s premier eateries and restaurants.
Location:
We are excited to pivot back over to Palm Avenue for February’s Heart and Soul on Palm!
Picturesque Palm Avenue is home to a collection of unique shops, stores, studios, and galleries. Royal Palms sway over the walkways, welcoming visitors along this serene corner of Downtown Sarasota. Be sure to check out the shops and stores before the event! Take a Saturday stroll on Palm Avenue, after brunch, or the Farmer's Market. Get inspired, or take home your next piece of artwork from the many fine galleries along the Avenue.
Ample Parking is available at the Palm Avenue and State Street Parking Garages. Follow this link for additional public parking info.
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Stay up to date with our socials on Instagram and Facebook so you never miss a Fresh Fridays update! | |
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Palm Avenue Art Walk
February 7, 2025 | 6 to 9 p.m.
Enjoy gallery openings, dining, antiques, specialty shops, and live performances as you stroll downtown.
Learn more at palmavenuesarasota.com
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First Friday Sip and Shop
February 7, 2025 | 4 to 7 p.m.
Downtown Sarasota Discover the charm of downtown Sarasota at our 1st Friday “Sip & Shop” event for an evening of shopping, sipping, and dining.
Learn more at destinationdowntownsarasota.com
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The Sarasota Farmers Market is open every Saturday, year-round, from 7 am to 1 pm, rain or shine. They are located in the heart of downtown Sarasota, centered at the intersection of Main Street and Lemon Avenue, extending to First Street on the North End, and Pineapple Avenue on the South End, with vendors also located on State Street.
Click to learn more.
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