Photo courtesy of the organization

There’s a new monthly, outdoor event downtown that kicked off November 5, 2021, and is returning for its second run on December 3. Fresh Fridays welcomes their holiday market, 'Shop, Stroll, Sing!' for those who love the holidays or are just looking to get festive. 

Lemon Avenue and State Street will become pedestrian-only from 8pm-11 pm on the first Friday of the most festive month of the year to listen to some Christmas music, admire the holiday lights and browse your favorite vendors. You never know, you could find the perfect gift, for you or that special person in mind.

There truly is something for everyone. A DJ will play holiday-themed music, and attendees can look forward to free party favors, free dessert bites, karaoke singing with accompanying gift raffle, snow machines, a step-and-repeat photo booth, Menora lighting and a big video screen with special video message from Santa. Desserts come courtesy of State Street Eating House + Cocktails, Element: Steaks. Seafood. Pasta., and Whole Foods Market. Drinks may be purchased within event zone and enjoyed al fresco on State Street and Lemon Avenue. The event will also feature special musical guests from the Sarasota Area Arts Organization. 

Grab a bite at your favorite restaurant off Main Street or enjoy a drink with friends before heading out to the event. “We really want people to feel like it’s a whole-day event,”  says Next-Mark president and event organizer, Joseph Grano. “and we hope our friends and neighbors can come out and support all the great locally-owned businesses that make the city so vital.” 

Photo courtesy of the organization

Learn more at freshfridayssarasota.com, @freshfridayssrq