SRQ DAILY Oct 1, 2026
Thursday Family and Recreation Edition
"We have to climb one rung, one game at a time."
In a season of firsts, the Sarasota Paradise are attempting to do what many deemed impossible: earn a spot in the 2026 USL League One Playoffs. The Paradise currently sport a 9-12-6 record, slotting the first-year franchise at 10th place in the 17-team league. The top eight teams will earn a spot in the playoffs. With just five games left in the regular season, the Paradise have been doing everything possible to climb in the standings. The club is riding a seven-game undefeated streak heading into its matchup with Charlotte Independence this Saturday, racking up four wins since August 19. A 6-0 drubbing of Greenville Triumph on September 19 marked the largest home victory in USL League One history. To say the Paradise are hot, would be an understatement.
“The number one thing that’s fed into this is the belief in what you’re doing and what you’re building,” says head coach Mika Elovaara. “From the very first game, we’ve competed in spells against the best in the league. Over the course of time, when we’ve stayed true to ourselves and our objectives and ways of teaching and coaching, the outcomes have started to go our way.”
Part of what makes the team’s push for the playoffs so significant is that the Paradise are a first year club. None of the players have been teammates with each other before. The team has benefited recently from two new additions, in forward Romain Gall and defender Kisa Kiingi. “Both Kisa Kiingi and Romain Gall have been excellent additions,” says Elovaara. “They’ve been added to the roster based on what we identified were the needs, and when you look at how well they’ve come in and started to play, they were very important for us to add.”
For Elovaara, the message to the team is to not get caught up in the standings, but each game one at a time. “You can use the analogy of the ladder—we have a ladder to climb, but if you climb too fast, you can slip and fall. We have to climb one rung, one game at a time,” says Elovaara.
Sarasota Paradise vs Charlotte Independence, October 3, 7:30pm, Premier Sports Campus, at Lakewood Ranch, 5895 Post Blvd, Lakewood Ranch. 
Defender Anderson Rosa makes a play on the ball. Provided photo.
The New College Foundation is battening down the hatches for their 47th annual Clambake on Nov. 5 from 5 to 10 p.m. at their very own New College of Florida Campus. This tradition on the beautiful bayfront of College Hall is one you won’t want to miss. The foundation and this year’s co-chairs, Mary Gratehouse and Elizabeth Moore, are keeping the tradition alive by setting the bay as the backdrop to create an evening where coastal charm meets academic excellence. Guests will enjoy a delicious New England-style clambake meal catered by Michael’s On East while celebrating the New College of Florida’s students and mission. “It’s more than a wonderful tradition; it’s a celebration of friendships, spirit and our students that make New College so special,” said Tony Balistrere, the new Executive Director at New College Foundation. Tickets and sponsorships to this year’s Clambake are now available.
Noah Backboard, Noah Basketball’s newest shot-tracking product, provides high-quality shot tracking data for coaches at all levels. The Noah Backboard product sets up in less than an hour but offers all the same fundamental shot tracking data as the Pro model that is used by NBA and NCAA teams. To learn more about Noah Basketball, visitnoahbasketball.com.
For 36 years, Florida Studio Theatre (FST) has invited young people across Florida to discover the power of storytelling through its award-winning WRITE A PLAY program. Each year, the program gives students the opportunity to experience live theatre, learn the fundamentals of playwriting, and create original works of their own. Through partnerships with schools and communities throughout the state, FST continues to help young people transform and fully realize their ideas. Teachers and group leaders interested in bringing FST’s WRITE A PLAY to their classrooms should contact Caroline Saldivar at writeaplay@floridastudiotheatre.org or by calling (941) 366-9797.
Charles & Margery Barancik Foundation, in partnership with Sarasota County Schools, has recognized three more outstanding educators with its Ripple Effect Teacher Award. The Ripple Effect award celebrates school-district educators whose influence extends beyond their immediate roles and makes a lasting difference for students, colleagues, and school communities. The fall award presentations bring the total number of Ripple Effect honorees for 2026 to 10. The fall 2026 Ripple Effect Teacher Award winners are: Heather Bingle, Science Teacher, Atwater Elementary School, Eric Bishop, Assistant Principal, North Port High School, Chelsea Tuggle, School Counselor, Taylor Ranch Elementary School. For more information, visit www.barancikfoundation.org
The Hermitage Artist Retreat announced the launch of two new series at the Hermitage Englewood Art Center (HEAC). The facility was acquired by the Hermitage earlier this year from Ringling College of Art and Design. These two new series mark a new chapter of Hermitage programming at the HEAC, which will continue to evolve over the coming seasons. Hermitage Saturday Sessions will offer a series of weekend workshops for the community. One Saturday during the month, an accomplished Hermitage Fellow will lead an intimate group of participants through a hands-on exploration of their respective craft. Workshops will vary in topic and span the disciplines of visual art, music, dance, theater, literature, and more, allowing participants the unique chance to tap into their creativity through the guidance of the Hermitage’s world class artists. The Hermitage Book Clubis an opportunity to read and explore the extensive literary work of our illustrious Hermitage Fellows. Curated and facilitated by Hermitage Programs Director Tiffany Colli-Moon, this group will meet on the first Monday of each month at 5:30pm for a lively group discussion about a work written by one of our distinguished literary alumni – many written and/or developed in part at the Hermitage. Visit HermitageArtistRetreat.org to learn more.
Sarasota Orchestra invites families to experience the excitement of the live music at “The Conductor’s Magical Book,” a free family concert on Friday, October 9, at 7 p.m. at Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. Designed to thrill and inspire listeners of all ages, the concert offers a lively and accessible introduction to orchestral music for the whole family. Following a spectacular week of Young Person’s Concerts for thousands of local fourth- and fifth-grade students, Sarasota Orchestra will offer the entire community an opportunity to enjoy an encore performance of this engaging musical experience. Combining live orchestral music with an imaginative story, the concert introduces young listeners to symphony in a fun and approachable way. For further information, please visit www.SarasotaOrchestra.org.
Sarasota Opera announces the appointment of PJ Albert to the role of Managing Director, a newly defined position that will oversee finance and theater operations and be a key partner to General & Artistic Director Richard Russell. Mr. Albert began his work at the opera on Monday, September 28. Learn more at sarasotaopera.org.
Enjoy a delicious lunch in our world-class bayfront setting and a fascinating discussion with contemporary artist featured in The Orchid Show Christian Sampson together with Dr. David Berry, Selby Gardens' Vice President for Visitor Experience and Director of the Institute for Nature and the Arts. Proceeds from Lunch in the Gardens support Selby Gardens’ community outreach education programs; international research and conservation; and beautiful, world-class horticulture displays.
Fall Lunch in the Gardens, Thursday, October 29, 11 am-1pm, Downtown Sarasota campus in celebration of The Orchid Show 2026: Christian Sampson.
Every Saturday and Sunday, Cask and Ale on Main Street lifts a toast and taps a toe to a delicious brunch with a diverse chef-prepared menu. Try the rotating chef's special menu, bottomless mimosas and a wide selection of craft cocktails. On Sundays, hear live jazz music from 12pm-4pm.
Cask and Ale, 1548 Main St., Sarasota
From the smooth soul of Motown to the irresistible hooks of pop and R&B, this dynamic tribute spans the greatest classics from the 1960s through today. Relive beloved hits made famous by icons like The Jackson 5, Stevie Wonder, Earth, Wind and Fire, The Four Seasons and The Temptations. Featuring tight harmonies and charismatic showmanship, this energetic revue delivers constant hits and fresh takes on old favorites.
Goldstein Cabaret, 1239 N Palm Ave., Sarasota
Ever wonder what goes into creating a circus? The Ringling's Canvas City exhibit offers a behind-the-scenes look at the people who make the spectacular entertainment venues come to life, from tentmakers and photographers to costume designers. See over 1,500 pieces, including circus costumes, leotards, band uniforms, animal blankets and more. Costumes on view will be rotated throughout the year as museum registrars review the collection and add notes and new photography to their records.
The Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Rd., Sarasota
Think while you drink! Gather your friends, co-workers or family and join us for a fun-filled evening. Prizes and specials each night. Monday – Wednesday at 7:30pm. Gecko’s on Clark – Monday ; Gecko’s on SR64 & Stickney Point – Tuesday ; Gecko’s on Hillview – Wednesday.
This long-term installation in Gallery 10 of the Museum of Art showcases five outstanding examples of 17th-century Dutch painting on loan from the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. Featuring a dramatic seascape, an expansive landscape, and captivating portraits set in detailed interiors, this exhibition offers a window into the vibrant artistic production of the Netherlands as the small nation rose to global prominence in the 17th century. The five exceptional paintings from the collections of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, complement The Ringling's holdings of Dutch art and provide additional perspective on the artistry, historical significance, and continuing appeal of Dutch painting from this period.
Ringling Museum, 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota
For the fourth annual Diverse Fest, the Harvest Sarasota invites the community to come together for this celebration of inclusion, connection and love. Diverse Fest welcomes local nonprofits, LGBTQ+ groups, BIPOC-owned businesses, artists and performers. Highlights of this year's festival will include live performances by DJ Brianna Lee, The Harvest Band and Georgia Moore. Workshops will be presented by Crunch Fitness, The Sarasota Players and more. Food trucks include Simply Greek by WynnBerry, Rolling Perk Coffee Truck, Chasin Chicken Food Truck and others.
Harvest House Campus, 3650 17th St., Sarasota
Celebrating 15 years of Strider Cup World Championships, this event will bring together hundreds of toddlers and preschoolers from across the globe to the same track that Olympians will be racing on to qualify for LA28. Register your 2-, 3- or 4-year-olds to race on their Strider Bike; no other balance bike brands are allowed. Non-racers and families are welcome to join in and attend the event. Local vendors, games and giveaways are available, along with a beach party on October 11.
Sarasota BMX, 1590 N Tuttle Ave., Sarasota
This gripping musical journey by Karl Jenkins is widely recognized as the most performed classical work by a living composer. Hear musical traditions and texts from cultures around the world that echo a universal plea for peace. The Armed Man moves audiences from conflict to hope in this unforgettable concert experience presented by Key Chorale, with guest artist Amanda Crider.
First United Methodist Church, 104 S Pineapple Ave., Sarasota
Opening the fall 2026–spring 2027 season at SPAACES, this exhibit showcases artists who work outside the public eye. Curator Yosnier Miranda brings together artists who maintain dedicated, disciplined studio practices while choosing not to exhibit their work publicly. Bedroom Communities offers a rare opportunity to encounter work that has largely remained unseen despite years of thoughtful and passionate creation.
SPAACES, 2051 Princeton St., Sarasota
Sarasota Opera's DaCapo Society invites Sarasota's younger arts patrons aged 21-45 to go Behind the Seams at the fall season launch party: Cocktails, Costumes and Connections. The evening will include appetizers, an open bar and a behind-the-scenes tour of Sarasota Opera's renowned costume warehouse led by longtime resident costume designer Howard Tsvi Kaplan, highlighting this season's newest designs. DaCapo's launch party will give both current DaCapo members and those interested in learning more about the group a backstage look into the world of opera costuming.
Sarasota Opera Costume Warehouse, 8161 25th Ct. E, Sarasota
This new outdoor music event celebrates the missions of both The Pops Orchestra of Bradenton and Palma Sola Botanical Park through live performances, natural beauty and opportunities to gather with friends. Guests will enjoy the scenic grounds of the Park while listening to live jazz from The Pops Orchestra's Jazz Combo. Valet parking and food add-ons will be available, and guests are encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs.
Palma Sola Botanical Park, 9800 17th Ave. NW, Bradenton
Ringling College of Art and Design alum Chie Fueki synthesizes Japanese ukiyo-e atmospheric techniques with Western abstraction, perspectival space and practices of overlay and juxtaposition. Drawing from her own Japanese and Brazilian heritage, Fueki's vibrant and densely layered works dance with an elaborate interplay of painting, drawing and constructed mulberry paper compositions. Spanning 25 years of Fueki's career, these works carve out familiar scenes that fuse figuration and abstraction to create an intricate floating world.
Sarasota Art Museum Ringling College Museum Campus, 1001 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
Explore the collection of photographer and humanitarian Judy Glickman Lauder in this exhibit featuring approximately 100 photographs by over 50 artists. Presence creates an inspiring dialogue through tender portraits, candid photojournalism and spontaneous cityscapes. See works by Diane Arbus, Richard Avedon, Danny Lyon, Gordon Parks and more.
Sarasota Art Museum Ringling College Museum Campus, 1001 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
Hear this award-winning Chicago-based saxophone quartet at the First Presbyterian Church of Sarasota for an evening of lively contemporary music. Synchrony Quartet features Philip Kleutgens on soprano saxophone, Hudson O'Reilly on alto, Matthew Johnson on tenor and Haven Kahn on baritone. The program includes works by Caroline Shaw, Anton Webern, Astor Piazzolla and more. After the concert, join the musicians at a meet and greet with light refreshments.
First Presbyterian Church, 2050 Oak St., Sarasota
One night, two great causes and countless wagging tails. This dog-friendly fundraising event benefits the American Cancer Society and EIO Rescue Ranch. Enjoy live music by Nora Ricci, adoptable animals, raffles and a dog fashion show while supporting local businesses and community partners. Join Paws for the Cure to help support people impacted by cancer and animals in need.
Dog Bar Sarasota, 1314 10th St., Sarasota
Throughout November, visit all 10 library locations of Sarasota County Libraries for a literary celebration featuring author talks, book signings, writing workshops and family activities. See bestselling authors including Anthony Horowitz, Brad Meltzer, Nathaniel Philbrick and Kate Quinn. This annual event will kick off on November 1 with a publishing day and local author fair, and a family day will be held on November 7.
Sarasota County Libraries
The only U.S. stop of the 2026 UCI World Cup brings the world's elite BMX Racing riders to Sarasota on the road to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. Sarasota BMX was selected by the UCI to host two UCI World Cup final rounds in 2026 and two in 2027. The facility is home to a year-round local racing program with USA BMX-certified coaching for riders at every level.
Sarasota BMX Track, 1590 N Tuttle Ave., Sarasota
Across from Marina Jack's in downtown Sarasota, see a variety of original fine art pieces. Peruse and purchase drawings, fiber works, jewelry, photography, paintings, sculptures and other media. Hot Works focuses on visual arts that are juried by art professionals.
J.D. Hamel Park, 199 Bayfront Dr., Sarasota
Experience a morning of fall fun at the Runaway Pumpkin 5K and free family festival. Food trucks, trick-or-treating, pumpkin painting, a bounce house, costume contest and PAWS therapy dogs are featured. Kids ages 12 and under can participate in the mini monster dash. Consider donating non-perishable food items that will be distributed to local families facing food insecurity through partnering organizations.
The Child Protection Center's Monda Campus, 5600 Peace River Rd., North Port
Get ready for a fang-tastic afternoon of fun at Wellen Park's Spooktacular Halloween! Bring family and friends for trick-or-treating, music, costumes and spooky good vibes.
Downtown Wellen Park, 19745 Wellen Park Blvd, Venice
Featuring a special performance by Sarasota Ballet's Dance: The Next Generation program, this high-energy concert highlights a delightfully spooky set list that fills the theater with eerie melodies, playful chills and family-friendly fun. Dancing is inspired by iconic hits like Thriller and The Monster Mash. Costumes, choreography and suprises at every turn make this Halloween-eve celebration truly unforgettable.
Riverview Performing Arts Center, 1 Ram Way, Sarasota
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