FREE (reservation requested): Bay Fest @ Common Ground at The Bay Park. All Ages
Bay Fest returns for a third year with an immersive celebration of the Wonders of Water.
This extraordinary FREE, family-friendly event invites kids of all ages to engage, explore and learn through a variety of hands-on experiences inspired by Sarasota’s local waterways.
Engage with experts and exhibits to learn about local vibrant marine life, underwater habitats and innovative efforts to improve water quality above and below the surface.
Dive in with marine masters as dolphins and other sea creatures come to life on a stadium-size screen through sights, sounds, and stories.
Interactive presentations include:
Sarasota Bay “Above & Below” (Presented at 11:30am and 12:30pm) | Join scientists from the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program for a virtual fly-over and snorkel of Sarasota Bay! View the estuary from all angles. Experience up-close encounters with the marine life who call it home.
“Your Dolphin Neighbors” (Presented at 12:00pm and 1:00pm) | Katie McHugh (Sr. Scientist, Brookfield Zoo Chicago’s Sarasota Dolphin Research Program) shares videos and stories from studying six generations of resident bottlenose dolphins in Sarasota Bay.
Climb into a kayak and explore the restored Mangrove Bayou.
Soak in live music, then refuel with bites from The Nest Café and local food trucks.
Curious, playful, and full of discovery — BayFest makes a splash for all.
Presented by Sarasota County, Sarasota Bay Estuary Program and The Bay.