This weekend, there are fun things to do in the Sarasota and Bradenton communities. There are also some big events going on in the surrounding areas that you definitely shouldn’t miss. Whatever your weekend plans are, be sure they include one of these wonderful events.

17th Annual NMCA Muscle Car Mayhem

If cars, speed, and adrenaline are your thing, this is a great event happening in Bradenton at the Bradenton Motorsports Park. On March 7 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., you can check out some custom cars as they race for specialized awards. If you own one of these fine, street-legal automobiles, enter one of the races, or if you just want to watch, purchase a spectator ticket for just $25 for people 12 years and older. Children under 12 get in free.

31st Annual Hob Nob Bar-B-Q

This is a great networking opportunity for professionals in the community. March 7 beginning at 5:30 p.m. Dolphin Aviation will host a barbeque featuring dishes prepared by local businesses and restaurants. Music, raffles, and photo booths are just some of the things you’ll get to enjoy at this networking event.

Poetry and Liberty

On March 8 at 7:30 p.m., the Sarasota Ballet will perform at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. The opening night of Poetry and Liberty will feature dancing accompanied by a fantastic orchestra. Check out this performance that you’re guaranteed to enjoy.

Firestone Grand Prix of St. Pete 

See car racing as you’ve never seen it before at the Firestone Grand Prix in St. Petersburg. This event is worth the extra travel time. Indy cars will race while fans participate in special fan experiences. With beer gardens, interactive games, exhibits, and shopping, this is sure to be the event of the years for those who enjoy motorsports. The competitions begin at 8 a.m. on March 8 and continue throughout the weekend.  

PJ Masks Party!

For those of you with children, chances are you know who the PJ Masks are. You may even know all their names, superhero alter-egos, and powers. If your kids are crazy about PJ Masks, visit Dojo Martial Arts and Awesome Youth Sports on Manatee Avenue in Bradenton on March 9 from 6 to 9 p.m. For only $15, your little ones will enjoy a pizza dinner and then learn how to save the world using techniques just like their favorite heroes.           

Gasparilla Music Festival 

If you’re looking for the biggest musical event of the weekend, look no further. Tampa’s waterfront will have everything you need to enjoy music and community in the best way possible. Starting March 9 at 11:30 a.m. and lasting until March 10 at 8:30 pm., head out to Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park to enjoy the stylings of more than 40 bands including White Denim, Sleepwalkers, Ruen Brothers, Savants of the Soul, and the Tampa Metropolitan Youth Orchestra.

Englewood Community Music Showcase

Supporting local musicians is always a good thing, and Pioneer Park in Englewood is giving locals the chance to present their musical talent to the community at an open mic night. Com out on March 10 from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. to show your support for the people living in your community, and enjoy some undiscovered talent as well. Admission is free for the whole family. However, you are welcome to donate to the scholarship fund for some of the local talent you’ll hear.

Women's Self Defense Workshop

There’s nothing quite as empowering for women than being confident that you can handle yourself in any situation. No matter your age, self-defense is a great idea. It boosts confidence and gives you the knowledge and skills to protect yourself. Thrive Yoga and Fitness will offer a self-defense workshop designed specifically for women and girls over the age of 14. Combining Judo, Jiu-Jitsu, and karate, these experienced instructors will provide this workshop on March 10 from 12:30 to 2 p.m.

Whether you want to stay close to home or travel a short distance for a tremendous amount of fun, these events are the perfect things to add to your weekend schedule. Providing fun for the whole family or some adult time away from the kids, there is something happening that is exactly what you’re looking for.

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