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Fall & Winter Events and Festivals
Festivals, Markets, and Seasonal Cheer
As the season shifts from summer to the crisp days of autumn and into the heart of the holidays, Bradenton and its surrounding communities come alive with a delightful array of festivals, cultural events, and local markets. Whether you’re drawn to festive lights and hay rides, or the vibrant community spirit of outdoor markets, there’s a rhythmic buzz through our destination all fall and winter long!
Markets: Your Weekly Dose of Local Charm
- When: Every Saturday, October through May, 9 AM–2 PM
- Where: Old Main Street, Downtown Bradenton
A weekly gathering featuring over 80 vendors, chef demos, live music, fresh produce, crafts, and plenty of community entertainment.
- When: October 1, 2025, – Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, 10 AM–2 PM
- Where: South Coquina Beach, Bradenton Beach
Enjoy roughly 80 vendors selling crafts, clothing, food, and more all with a beautiful beach backdrop.
Anna Maria Community Farmers Market
- When: Every Tuesday, October 7, 2025 – April 28, 2026
- Where: The Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave, Anna Maria
This market offers fresh produce, flowers, artisan items, and a friendly community atmosphere.
NEW! North River Community Market
- When: Every first Sunday, 10 AM–2 PM, September 14, 2025 – October 2026
- Where: The Yard, Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa
A warm, open-air marketplace bringing together artisans, local producers, live music, and family-friendly fun.
- When: Every third Saturday, 10 AM–2 PM October – April
- Where: Main Street, Lakewood Ranch
A curated outdoor market highlighting local creators, artisans, and prepared foods.
Hunsader Farms Pumpkin Festival
WHEN: October 11–26, 2025
WHERE: Hunsader Farms
Celebrate autumn with hayrides, corn mazes, a petting zoo, live music, craft vendors, and famed homemade ice cream at this beloved farm festival. Catch shows like the FMX stunt performances or world-record juggling, and don’t miss the pumpkin cannon, trick-or-treating, and costume contests on select days
Bayfest
WHEN: October 18
WHERE: Pine Avenue, Anna Maria
Stroll through Pine Avenue, enjoy live music, indulge in fresh local seafood, shop arts & crafts, and peruse over 100 classic cars—all with free admission at this island-charm street festival
Pumpkin Patch Express
WHEN: October 11–26, 2025
WHERE: Florida Railroad Museum
All aboard for a festive 2½-hour train ride through scenic countryside to a pumpkin patch! Includes hayrides, crafts, games, and a pumpkin for every kid, plus food options along the way
Festival of the Skeletons
WHEN: October 31-November 2
WHERE: Village of the Arts
Join this colorful Día de los Muertos-themed ArtWalk as artist galleries open their doors to reveal vibrant shrines honoring loved ones, live music, food trucks, and a celebration of life and creativity.
North Pole Express
WHEN: November 28–30; December 3–7, 10–22
WHERE: Florida Railroad Museum
Enjoy a magical nighttime train ride to Santa’s “North Pole,” complete with campfires, unlimited hot chocolate & cookies, live entertainment, and a visit from Santa himself.
European Holiday Market
WHEN: November 28–30; December 3–7, 10–22
WHERE: Bradenton Area Convention Center
Step into an enchanting, European-style holiday village featuring artisan stalls, festive food & drinks, live performances, and a warmly festive atmosphere right here on Florida’s West Coast.
Winter Wonderland
WHEN: Saturday, December 14
WHERE: Old Main Street, Downtown Bradenton
Downtown Bradenton transforms into a snowy wonderland with falling “snow,” student performances, holiday crafts and shopping, prizes, and a special Santa appearance. Plus, a perfect occasion for family photos and bonding!