Local Highlights, New Happenings & Events Around Town
There’s always something happening in Sarasota! From nationally recognized farmers markets and exciting new destinations to community celebrations and seasonal events, there are plenty of reasons to get out and enjoy everything our area has to offer. Here’s what’s happening around town this November.
Local Highlights
Sarasota Farmers Market Named No. 1 in the Nation
A big reason to celebrate! The Sarasota Farmers Market has been voted No. 1 in the nation in American Farmland Trust’s 2026 America’s Farmers Market Celebration.
The recognition comes as the downtown favorite celebrates 47 years of bringing local growers, food producers,
artisans, and shoppers together. Founded in 1979 to help revitalize downtown, the market has grown to include more than 80 vendors along Lemon Avenue.
From fresh produce, flowers and plants to artisan breads from Camelot Breads and fresh seafood from Maggie’s Seafood, there’s something for everyone. It's the perfect place to pick up ingredients for the week, enjoy breakfast and take a stroll through downtown.
And Sarasota isn't the only local market making headlines! The Farmers’ Market at Lakewood Ranch also earned national recognition, taking the No. 2 spot in the competition.
Plan Your Visit:
Sarasota Farmers Market: Saturdays, 7 a.m.–1 p.m., year-round, rain or shine. Main Street and Lemon Avenue, downtown Sarasota.
The Farmers’ Market at Lakewood Ranch: Sundays, 10 a.m.–2 p.m., year-round. Waterside Place, 1561 Lakefront Drive, Lakewood Ranch.
Sarasota Motor Club: A New Destination for Car Enthusiasts
A new gathering place for automotive enthusiasts is coming to Sarasota!
Located at 1060 Goodrich Avenue near downtown, Sarasota Motor Club will combine climate-controlled storage for luxury and collector cars with a members' lounge, dining, golf and racing simulators, and organized driving experiences.
With membership options designed for both collectors looking for additional vehicle storage and enthusiasts interested in connecting with others who share their passion, the club aims to bring a new social experience to Sarasota.
Vehicle storage is expected to open in December 2026, followed by the social club in July 2027.
Learn More: Sarasota Motor Club
Upcoming Events
Whether you're looking to celebrate the community, enjoy live music, explore local art or get a head start on Thanksgiving festivities, mark your calendar for these upcoming Sarasota events!
Honoring Our Veterans
November 11 | 10 a.m.
Join the Sarasota community in honoring the men and women who have served our country at the annual Veterans Day Parade.
The parade begins along Main Street at 10 a.m., followed immediately by a ceremony at J.D. Hamel Park.
Location: Main Street and J.D. Hamel Park, 199 Bayfront Drive, Sarasota.
After Hours: A Night of Motown
November 24, 2026 | 5:30–7:30 p.m.
Enjoy an evening of classic Motown and rhythm and blues as Soul Sensations bring the music to the plaza at Sarasota Art Museum. Dance along or simply relax and enjoy an evening of great music and community.
Location: Sarasota Art Museum, 1001 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota.
The Orchid Show
Now Through December 6
A seasonal favorite returns to Marie Selby Botanical Gardens! This year's Orchid Show features beautiful displays of living orchids alongside playful installations by artist Christian Sampson.
Using glass, acrylic, and dichroic film, Sampson explores color, light, and form, drawing inspiration from Selby's renowned orchid collection. It's a wonderful opportunity to experience the beauty of Sarasota's botanical scene.
Location: Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, 1534 Mound Street, Sarasota.
Thanksgiving Turkey Trot
Thursday, November 26 | 5K at 8 a.m. | Kids' Dash at 7:15 a.m.
Start Thanksgiving morning with a little movement and plenty of community spirit! The annual Turkey Trot is a festive 3.1-mile run and walk welcoming participants of all ages and abilities.
Registration includes a race shirt, finisher medal, post-race refreshments, and a sweet treat to take home. Even better, proceeds benefit Nathan Benderson Park Conservancy and the Big Bill Foundation.
Location: Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle, Sarasota.
Enjoy Everything Sarasota Has to Offer
From Saturday mornings at the farmers market to festive holiday traditions, Sarasota offers so many ways to connect with the community and enjoy the local lifestyle. We hope you'll take some time to explore, discover something new and make the most of the season!
Stay tuned for more local highlights, happenings and things to do around Sarasota from Peninsula.