Mid-August on the Gulf Coast brings a special kind of energy. The summer crowds have eased, the sunsets are painting the sky a little earlier each evening, and the local arts calendar is packed with performances that make you grateful to call this place home. I have three shows on my radar this weekend alone, and I want to make sure you know about them too.
Friday Night: Ronn McFarlane and Andrew McEvoy at the Sarasota Art Museum
On Friday, August 14 at 8 p.m., the Sarasota Art Museum on the Ringling College campus hosts Ronn McFarlane and Andrew McEvoy for an evening of live music presented by the Jazz Club of Sarasota. Doors open at 7 p.m., so you have time to explore the museum's galleries before the performance begins.
Ronn McFarlane is widely considered one of the finest lute players in the world, and his collaborations with Andrew McEvoy on guitar blend Renaissance and folk traditions into something that feels both timeless and fresh. The setting at the Sarasota Art Museum adds a thoughtful visual dimension to the evening. Tickets are $22 for members and $27 for the general public, with student pricing available at $13. It is a rare opportunity to hear world-class musicianship in an intimate gallery space.
The museum itself, housed in the historic Sarasota High School building with its striking modern addition, is worth the trip alone. If you arrive early, grab a coffee at the museum cafe and take a stroll through the current exhibitions before the show starts.
Saturday: The Kings of Queen at the Opera House
On Saturday, August 15 at 7 p.m., the Sarasota Opera House (61 North Pineapple Avenue) transforms into a stadium-rock venue as The Kings of Queen bring their tribute to Freddie Mercury and Queen to the stage. This is a full production with elaborate costumes, dynamic lighting, and a live band that channels the spirit of Queen's legendary performances.
I have seen tribute acts at the Opera House before, and the combination of that gorgeous historic venue with high-energy music creates something truly memorable. The Opera House's intimate size (about 1,200 seats) means you are close enough to feel the energy of every note. The show runs about two hours with an intermission. Tickets are available through the Sarasota Opera website.
Make it a full evening: grab dinner at one of the downtown spots on Main Street beforehand. I like State Street Eating House or Owen's Fish Camp for a pre-show meal that matches the occasion. Both are a short walk from the Opera House.
Saturday: Jim Lauderdale at Fogartyville
If your musical tastes lean more toward Americana and roots, Jim Lauderdale is performing at Fogartyville Community Media and Arts Center (525 Kumquat Court, Sarasota) on Saturday, August 15 at 8 p.m. Lauderdale is a two-time Grammy winner whose songs have been recorded by George Strait, the Dixie Chicks, and the Grateful Dead's Jerry Garcia. His live shows are known for their warmth and storytelling.
Fogartyville is one of those hidden gem venues that deserves more attention. It is tucked away just west of downtown in the Rosemary District, with a cozy indoor stage and an outdoor courtyard. The vibe is relaxed and community-driven. Tickets are affordable, and the venue is BYOB-friendly, which keeps the evening casual and fun.
Also This Weekend: Sarasota Anime-Fest
The Sarasota Anime-Fest takes over Robarts Arena on Saturday, August 15 from 10 a.m., bringing cosplay contests, anime screenings, vendor booths, panels, and gaming to the south side of town. Robarts Arena is at the Sarasota County Fairgrounds, about 10 minutes north of Palmer Ranch on Fruitville Road. Whether you are a longtime anime fan or just curious, this event draws an enthusiastic crowd and makes for a fun Saturday outing.
Outer Space Week at Sun Outdoors Sarasota
From August 17 through 23, Sun Outdoors Sarasota is hosting Outer Space Week, a themed week of activities including arts and crafts, live entertainment, and sports. While this event is centered at the resort property, it is open to the public and offers a unique family-friendly outing. It is located on Fruitville Road near I-75, within easy reach of the Palmer Ranch area.
Ongoing Favorites
Songbirds of the Seventies continues at Florida Studio Theatre's Gompertz Theatre through September 6, celebrating the music of Carole King, Carly Simon, Joni Mitchell, and Linda Ronstadt. Motown and More is also running at FST through August 31. And the "Shared Light: Lynn Goldsmith" photography exhibition at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens continues through September 13.
The Sarasota Farmers Market runs every Saturday from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Main Street and Lemon Avenue. Summer produce is at its peak right now. And the LWR Sunday Market at Waterside Place runs Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., about 15 minutes from Palmer Ranch up University Parkway.
If you are in the area this week and want to explore what it is like to live here full-time, browse the communities or get in touch. I would love to help you find your place on the Gulf Coast.