SRQ DAILY Oct 8, 2026
Thursday Family and Recreation Edition
"I communicate and connect with kids and adults alike while in the cockpit."
Since 1981, Punta Gorda Airport has been home to the Florida International Air Show. On November 7 and 8, the airport, which was built in 1941 as a combat pilot training base for the U.S. Army Air Forces’ Third Air Force, will play host to the Air Show once again.
From its inception, Punta Gorda Airport was designed as a space to test the limits of flight. While the airport’s post-war existence has been that of a commercial and private airfield, it’s fitting that some of the best and brightest in the aeronautical industry would come to Charlotte County to continue that legacy. The Air Show’s 2026 attractions range in size and scope—demonstrations include flights from the TA-4J Skyhawk, an iconic attack jet from the Vietnam War; the MiG-17 620, the most recognizable enemy fighter jet of the Vietnam War and Red Bull pilot Kevin Coleman.
The headlining act, however, will take place in Aarron Deliu’s Zivko Edge 540. Deliu is an internationally acclaimed Australian aerobatic pilot—the Air Master Cup Series Champion has made a career out of making the impossible seem routine. “I’m going to be bringing the heat this year,” says Deliu. “The Edge 540 is a one of a kind plane, it can pull +/-12 Gs. In the show I will go to +12Gs and -8.5Gs—in the plane I am grunting, sweating and hurting a little bit.”
Deliu is equipped with a microphone in the cockpit, allowing him to address the audience as he flies. “I communicate and connect with kids and adults alike while in the cockpit. It allows me to share my passion and hopefully inspire the next generation,” he says.
The Air Show’s attractions, however, are not just limited to what is in the sky. On the ground, an Alenia C-27J Spartan—a large, military transport plane—a Sikorsky MH-60 Jayhawk, a Coast Guard rescue helicopter and a T-6A Texan II, a single-engine turboprop aircraft used by the U.S. Military for pilot training, will all be on view.
Florida International Air Show, November 7 and 8, Punta Gorda Airport, 28000 A-1 Airport Rd, Punta Gorda 
The P-51 Mustang, Sweetie Face, at Punta Gorda Airport. Photo by Dylan Campbell.
Sarasota Art Museum of Ringling College of Art and Design (SAM) is pleased to announce the addition of a new playscape located on the Museum’s Great Lawn. Titled “Natural Curiosity,” this piece will serve as part art installation, part outdoor classroom, inspiring creativity, social connection and well-being for locals, tourists and school students alike. Designed by Brooklyn, New York-based, award-winning multidisciplinary design studio The Urban Conga, this inviting, site-specific installation will create a dynamic outdoor respite for Museum visitors, sparking connection with nature and social activity through open-ended play. More at SarasotaArtMuseum.org.
Oakcrest Preparatory Academy offers full-time childcare and preschool services to children ages 6 weeks to Pre-Kindergarten and a school age program for elementary school children. Our facility has a healthy full-service kitchen, an indoor community atrium, an art studio, a sensory/tactile room, and a Technology Center. Oakcrest offers a full range of curriculum that is designed to educate the whole child and use our full-service enrichment spaces to supplement your child’s day with fun and exploration.
Our educational philosophy encourages a learning environment that stimulates and nurtures children’s growth and development. Our unique learning atmosphere incorporates a careful blend of Traditional and Montessori styles of learning through teacher directed activities and structured play. We believe each child should be provided with experiences that build self-esteem, which are essential in the adjusting, exploring, and growing stages of child development. This approach ensures each child’s learning experience at Oakcrest will be nurtured at the proper pace and level, and will provide them with the educational foundation for a bright future.
For enrollment information, please contact us to take a tour or complete the form on your location’s page and we will contact you.
Sarasota Orchestra polled audiences on which film to show at its ultra-popular Movie Pops concert in the 2026–2027 concert season. The response? An overwhelming “finish what you started!” On October 23–24 at the Van Wezel, Sarasota Orchestra completes the original Star Wars trilogy with Return of the Jedi in Concert, featuring the complete film on the big screen with John Williams’ iconic score performed live. In the saga’s climactic sixth episode, Darth Vader readies the second Death Star while Luke Skywalker joins R2-D2, C-3PO, and Princess Leia to free Han Solo from Jabba the Hutt and launch a desperate attack upon the Imperial Fleet. The Orchestra’s last two Star Wars concerts filled up quickly, so don’t wait to secure your seats for the best show in the galaxy! Add this Movie Pops concert to a Flex Pass concert bundle this season and save up to 20% off your ticket price.
The Riverview High School Distinguished Alumni Hall of Fame honored five members of the Riverview community at its annual awards ceremony on Sept. 10, inducting three graduates into the Hall of Fame and presenting Legacy Awards to two longtime former educators. For more information about the Riverview High School Distinguished Alumni Hall of Fame, visit rhsfame.org.
Pictured: Riverview High School Distinguished Alumni Hall of Fame honorees and family members gather at the 2026 awards ceremony Sept. 10. Provided photo.
When the 2026-27 academic year kicked off, students at Team Success: A School of Excellence in Bradenton began learning more than just math, science and history. Through a unique partnership with Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport and Cirrus Aviation, Team Success expanded its thriving STEM program for sixth- through 12th-graders to introduce a new elective course that explores potential careers within the aviation industry. The inaugural aviation program will run throughout the 2026-27 school year and includes both coursework in the classroom and site visits to SRQ Airport to learn about career opportunities and airport operations. Although the school year has started, Team Success is still accepting applications for students in grades K-12, including those interested in the aviation program. To begin the enrollment process, visit TeamSuccessSchools.org or call 941-714-7260 (K-5 campus) or 941-444-4333 (6-12 campus) for more information.
State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota (SCF) has opened enrollment for Spring 2027 classes. The semester runs from Jan. 11 through May 1, with courses available at the college’s Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch and Venice campuses, as well as online. Students can choose from traditional 16-week sessions, Flex Start 12-, 8- and 5-week sessions and online instruction through SCF Online. SCF offers associate degrees, bachelor's degrees and workforce certificate programs across a variety of academic and career-focused disciplines. Students have access to many support services, including tutoring, advising, testing, learning communities and the Free Application for Federal Student Aid for eligible grants, scholarships and other financial aid. Current students can register through MySCF. New students can apply at SCF.edu/Admissions.
Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties (BGCSDC) President/CEO Bill Sadlo was recently elected to the Board of Directors for the Florida Alliance Boys & Girls Clubs. The mission of the Florida Alliance of Boys & Girls Clubs is to secure statewide funding and resources for member organizations to help them enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.
Urban Edge Mentorship, Inc. will recognize the Sarasota High School football program, its coaching staff, and its student-athletes with a $20,000 contribution in recognition of an extraordinary commitment to community service and leadership during the 2025–2026 school year. Visit ncf.edu to learn more.
After welcoming nearly 450,000 visitors in 2026, Embracing Our Differences (EOD) returns in 2027 with its 24th annual international outdoor art exhibition, featuring 50 billboard-sized works of art and thought-provoking quotations celebrating inclusion, kindness and respect. The free exhibition runs January 16-April 18 at Sarasota’s Bayfront Park, where it has been a fixture on the downtown waterfront since 2004. The opening celebration is Saturday, January 16, 1-3 p.m. In St. Petersburg, the exhibition moves to a prominent new location, St. Pete Pier, February 12-March 14, with the opening celebration on Friday, February 12, 4:30-6:30 p.m.
Pictured: Students explore the 2026 Embracing Our Differences exhibition at Sarasota’s Bayfront Park during a docent-led tour. The 2027 exhibition will be on display Jan. 16 through April 18 at Bayfront Park and Feb. 12 through March 14 at St. Pete Pier
In museums and cultural organizations, we spend a great deal of time creating conditions for wonder. We invite people to look closely, to be curious, to share ideas and to make connections. But what happens when we turn those same practices toward ourselves? In this interactive keynote, author and museum educator Claire Bown will explore this idea through three values at the heart of her work: observation and noticing, shared visual inquiry, and personal discovery. Tickets for this Keynote lecture may be purchased individually, or it is included with the full Wonder Symposium package.
Enjoy a casual evening of cocktails and hors d'oeuvres overlooking Little Sarasota Bay at Selby Gardens' Historic Spanish Point campus. Watch the sunset and preview our new exhibition New Feet Within My Garden Go: The Poetry of Emily Dickinson. A selection of Dickinson’s best-known, nature-inspired poems will be sited throughout the Historic Spanish Point campus. Accompanying the poems will be illustrations by artist Abby Wright and photographs of pages from Dickinson’s own herbarium, featuring her personal collection of pressed plants. An audio recording will allow visitors to hear the poems read by Selby Gardens’ Artist-in-Residence, Patti Smith. The event will be held at the Historic 19th Century White Cottage, Sunken Garden, and Pergola.
Designed to thrill and inspire listeners of all ages, this free family concert offers a lively and accessible introduction to orchestral music. At the center of this imaginative story is young Tony Stradivarius, who uses a magical book to guide the orchestra on a musical adventure. Along the way, children will discover how the various sections of the orchestra work together, become familiar with the sounds of different instruments and even get an introduction to the art of conducting.
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N Tamiami Trl, 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
Directed by Preston Boyd, this bold new drama explores guilt, redemption and the search for light in a world shattered by violence. A haunted young Latino gang member and an aging rabbi form an unlikely bond inside a crumbling East L.A. synagogue, now used as a community center. Blending humor, poetry, rap and prayer, the performance asks whether broken souls can find a way to heal.
The Sarasota Players, 3501 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
From fiery chemistry and haunted experiments to escape rooms and flying pickles, STEAM Saturdays classes return this fall. Every Saturday, students in grades 2-3, 4-5 and 6-8 are invited to participate in hands-on, project-based activities with themes including Haunted Alchemy, Autumn Escape Room, Fireball Chemistry and a pickle-powered aerospace class. Younger students have the chance to build technical skills, confidence and creativity while learning alongside near-peer role models.
Faulhaber Fab Lab, 4452 S Beneva Rd., Sarasota
This special Chilean Wine Dinner featuring Vina Concha y Toro offers guests an elevated evening of curated Chilean wine pairings paired with a four-course dinner, beginning with a welcome reception followed by a dinner service. Meet fellow wine lovers and enjoy a relaxed, fun atmosphere that promises great sips and good vibes. Regional manager for Vina Concha y Toro, Joe Consolo, will educate guests and help them enjoy these robust wines.
Tripletail Seafood and Spirits, 4870 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
This Tony-winning stage musical is about a shy high school student with social anxiety who becomes entangled in a lie after a classmate’s suicide. By fabricating a friendship with the deceased, Evan finds the popularity and connection he always craved. He faces a crisis when his deception threatens to unravel his life and ruin his relationships. Dear Evan Hansen reminds us all that–even in our loneliest moments–you will be found.
Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 3rd Ave. W, Bradenton
In this collaborative playreading series led by Roxanne Baker, The Script Society will read I'm Gonna Marry You Tobey Maguire by Samantha Hurley. Stop by Bookstore1 to buy a copy of Hurley's book and participate in this farcical and subversive play, which takes place at 4pm in the bookstore loft.
Bookstore1, 117 S Pineapple Ave., 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
Decorate floating lanterns with personal messages of love, hope, remembrance or intention and release them together onto the water at sunset. This nationally recognized event offers a display of glowing lanterns to create a powerful, shared moment that many attendees describe as one of the most beautiful nights of their lives. Add a flower crown, mandala throw or glow sticks to your ticket purchase.
Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Cir, 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
Explore the Mote Aquarium after dark as you stroll through immersive exhibits, encounter sharks, rays, sea turtles and thousands of other marine animals, and enjoy tastings from local and regional breweries, wineries, distilleries and other beverage partners. Enjoy live music throughout the evening. Tickets include a commemorative tasting glass, Sharktoberfest swag bag, raffles and access to the entire Aquarium after hours. Must be 21 years or older to attend.
Mote Science Education Aquarium, 225 University Town Center Dr., Sarasota
Sarasota's swankiest slumber party returns for its second year in support of Teen Court of Sarasota's restorative justice, prevention, counseling and youth development programs. Justice and Jammies will feature dinner, dancing, live auction experiences, mission moments and an official after-party. Funds raised will help Teen Court continue expanding services that guide young people toward accountability, leadership and brighter futures. Tickets go on sale August 1.
The Westin Sarasota, 100 Marina View Dr., Sarasota
To kick off The Ringling's 2026-27 season, experience an unforgettable celebration under the stars in the Museum of Art Courtyard. Enjoy a first look at the upcoming season's world-class exhibitions, live performances and inspiring educational performances. Hear an electrifying performance by GRAMMY-nominated Cuban vocalist Jose Pepito Gomez and his dynamic ensemble, La Royal Orquesta. Food and drinks are available for purchase, and doors open at 7pm.
The Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Rd., Sarasota
The seventh year of the popular Hermitage Sunsets at Selby Gardens will feature six programs between the Selby Gardens Downtown and Historic Spanish Point campuses. See performances and explorations of works-in-progress by Hermitage artists-in-residence and alumni. Dates include October 16, November 20, February 11, Feburary 25, March 18 and May 6. The first event, New Music Under the Old Oak, is at the Downtown Sarasota Campus at 5:30pm.
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Downtown Sarasota campus and Historic Spanish Point campus, 1534 Mound St., Sarasota
The annual Living Arts Festival showcases diverse art forms in Sarasota through performances, visual art, family events and live music. Throughout Bradenton, Sarasota and Venice, see the Sarasota Orchestra, Artists on Art: Photography, Rising Stars Talent Show, Creative Liberties Galleries, Perlman Music Program, Jazz Club of Sarasota and more. This is your opportunity to join the community in shared experiences, strengthening the connections that make the Cultural Coast a wonderful place to live, work and visit.
Celebrating 20 years, Bowls of Hope attendees select offerings from dozens of the community's finest restaurants and caterers as they serve delicious soups, bread, desserts and more. Guests choose from beautiful, handcrafted bowls–all donated by local potters, artists and students–to keep, while enjoying a modest meal as a reminder of the empty bowls they help to fill. This year's event is chaired by Ruth Hochman. Individual tickets go on sale October 1.
Ed Smith Stadium, 2700 12th St., Sarasota
Learn about Sarasota history with guide John McCarthy on this relaxing cruise to learn illuminating facts about the region. This event is a major fundraiser that helps with the restoration and preservation of the Crocker Memorial Church and the Bidwell-Wood House. Enjoy snacks and a cash bar on board the LeBarge. Reserve tickets soon because seating is limited. Meet at Bayfront Park on the lawn in front of LeBarge at 10:30am to receive your name badge, which serves as your entry ticket.
Bayfront Park, 5 Bayfront Dr., Sarasota
A longtime Sarasota resident, Pirman has developed a distinctive visual language that blends the precision of graphic design with the sensibility of fine art. His work transforms familiar places, architecture and characters into sophisticated compositions of color, shape, pattern and line. The opening reception will be held on November 7 from 5-8pm.
502 Gallery, 502 S Pineapple Ave., Sarasota
Celebrate 10 years of making a difference for homeless animals at the sixth annual Friends of Manatee County Animal Welfare Friendsgiving. Enjoy an exciting live auction, silent auction and live music while helping raise critical funds to support this organization's life-saving programs. Every dollar raised helps provide specialized medical care, heartworm treatment, enrichment and second chances for animals in need.
The Pavilion at Mixon Fruit Farms, 2525 27th St. E, Bradenton
The Sarasota Youth Opera presents a whimsical journey of imagination, family and self-discovery this November. With music and text by Rachel J. Peters, Rootabaga Country follows Gimme the Ax and his children as they journey through the imaginative landscape of Rootabaga Country to learn more about the mother they never knew. Along this way, they discover that love and belonging come in many forms. Tickets go on sale online August 1.
Sarasota Opera, 61 N Pineapple Ave., Sarasota
Delight in thrilling tournaments, delicious feasts and exciting games at the 22nd Annual Sarasota Medieval Fair. On Saturdays and Sundays, travel back in time to The Siege of Paris in 845 A.D. through plays and shows about the people who shaped this time period. Kids can participate in crafts, storytime and dress-up while adults embark on a pub crawl or attend the Masquerade of Mordred Pendragon. An artisan marketplace will showcase over 140 vendors. Act fast, because ticket sales end on June 24.
Mallaranny Farms, 29847 FL-70, Myakka City
Each year, SRQ MEIDA recognizes local leading women who have deeply contributed to our community through their business, philanthropic, health and wellness, entrepreneurial, cultural, science, technology and educational endeavors through the Women Who Roar Initiative. We invite our readers to nominate an individual who best exemplifies the attributes of professional acumen, philanthropic passion, personal integrity and community leadership. Gather with us on November 6, 2026 at Michael's on East. Reserve a spot today!
Michael's on East, 1212 S. East Avenue, Sarasota, FL
Celebrate the rebellious nature of America through the music of artists who challenged convention, inspired change and gave voice to generations of Americans. Featuring unforgettable songs like Born in the U.S.A., Blowin' in the Wind, What's Going On and True Colors, this joyous musical journey celebrates the rebels, dreamers and visionaries who helped shape the American story. Written by Richard Hopkins and Rebecca Hopkins; directed by Catherine Randazzo; music arrangements by Jim Prosser.
Goldstein Cabaret, 1239 N Palm Ave., Sarasota
Laurie Maves has spent more than three decades exploring the emotional language of shape, color and abstraction. Inspired by coastal landscapes, travel and the natural world, she creates richly layered works where the quiet geometry of nature, repeated forms, color and gesture invite moments of reflection and calm. A reception for Shapes of Resonance will be held on November 12, and a meet-and-greet is scheduled for December 10.
Beatrice Friedman Symphony Center, 709 N Tamiami Trl, 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
Inspired by the Brothers Grimm fable, this fairy tale opera follows two siblings who encounter a beguiling Gingerbread Witch. This opera displays a timeless reflection on innocence, resourcefulness and the power of family. Hansel and Gretel is presented in three acts and includes music by Engelbert Humperdinck and words by Adelheid Wette. Tickets go on sale online on August 1 and at the box office on September 1.
Sarasota Opera, 61 N Pineapple Ave., Sarasota
Celebrate The Orchid Show 2026 with an exclusive after-hours viewing of the exhibition along with a cocktail reception and live entertainment by the Sarasota Opera in Selby Gardens' Event Center. The evening is sponsored by Mike and Dee Bennett.
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens Downtown Sarasota Campus, 1534 Mound St., Sarasota
Daring, mysterious and unforgettable—The Vampire Circus invites you into a world where the unexpected awaits. Featuring international performers, the show combines acrobatics, dance, comedy and illusion in a thrilling 90-minute immersive experience. Set in 19th-century Bohemia, Count Dracula uses a traveling circus as the perfect disguise for his sinister plan. This performance delivers a dark, high-energy spectacle inspired by Tim Burton and Cirque du Soleil.
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
SRQ DAILY is a daily e-newsletter produced by SRQ MEDIA. Note: The views and opinions expressed in the Saturday Perspectives Edition and the Letters department of SRQ DAILY are those of the author(s) and do not imply endorsement by SRQ Media. The views expressed by individuals are their own, and their appearance in this section does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. SRQ DAILY includes content excerpted from news releases as a public service. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by SRQ DAILY. For rates on SRQ DAILY banner advertising and sponsored content opportunities, please contact Robinson Valverde at 941-365-7702 x703 or via email |
Powered by Sarasota Web Design | Unsubscribe
