Florida Fair Hopping: Fabulous Art Festivals in Sarasota
In our series on art fairs and festivals, we recently introduced readers to the wonderful experience of Florida art fair-hopping and the many locations in which it is great. Now we're taking a closer look at some of the communities that have turned art fairs into an art form, starting with beautiful Sarasota on Florida's gulf coast.
In addition to being a great place for art, Sarasota is a beautiful oceanside community. Its charm is enhanced by its proximity to several beaches such as Vero Beach as well as half a dozen barrier islands including Siesta Key, Lido Key, and Longboat Key.
Whether it’s a jazz festival or repertory theater, there is almost always something interesting to do in Sarasota. Known for its rich history in the arts, it's no surprise that Sarasota County is home to many a craft expo and some of the best art fairs and festivals in the region. If you’re in the market for unique artworks or just enjoy window-shopping, there are many events to consider. Though it isn’t an exhaustive list, we're sharing a few of our favorites, from the traditional art show to a Florida celebration of creative sand-sculpting.
Annual Downtown Sarasota Art and Craft Festival
As the name would imply, the festival takes place once a year (in early April) and is held in downtown Sarasota. Over 100 artists including talented international as well as regional artists display their wares. The event features handmade ceramics, pottery, jewelry, and an eclectic variety of artworks. The festival also features a "Green Market" where attendees can purchase plants, florals, and gourmet food items.
https://www.artfestival.com/festivals/downtown-sarasota-art-craft-festival
St. Armands Circle Art Festival
A quick trip across the bridge over Sarasota Bay to St. Armands Key, St. Armands Circle is a charming circular park and retail area that is home to sophisticated boutiques and upscale dining. Twice a year it serves as the lovely setting to the St. Armands Circle contemporary art festival, which is frequently ranked among the best in the country by Sunshine Artist Magazine. The event features renowned fine artists from all over the country, whose art includes sculpture, glass, photography, and other interesting works.
https://www.artfestival.com/festivals/st-armands-art-festival-sarasota-florida
Sarasota Chalk Festival
The Sarasota Chalk Festival is an incredible spectator event. Exceptionally talented artists create phenomenal three-dimensional artworks of objects and people as though springing to life from the asphalt. The family-oriented event is typically held once a year and includes food vendors, live music, and fun kids’ activities.
Siesta Key Crystal Classic Sand Sculpting Festival
This truly one-of-a-kind event which takes place each November in Siesta Key brings a whole new dynamic to a day at the beach. We know what you might be thinking - is sand sculpting considered art? We contend that it is and especially the way in which these artists work.
Similar in format to the chalk festival, art happens in real-time in the form of amazing sculpted sand creations. The best-of-the-best in sand sculpture receive bragging rights and prize medals for their day’s work. Another fun family experience, festival-goers can enjoy food trucks and other vendors.
https://www.siestakeycrystalclassic.com
You will find that a trip to Sarasota to see great art never disappoints. If you aren’t ready to make the trip but love checking out original artworks, you can view new art weekly on the UGallery website.
