Bradenton events spring to life

From balloon rides to barbecue, these Bradenton area festivals give everyone the chance to get a feel for local flair and enjoy family-friendly activities. Taste fresh seafood, join a children’s parade, attend a racing event, and more.

De Soto Heritage Festival
March 29–April 27

Kick off spring at Manatee County's month-long celebration of music, food, and fun. The De Soto Heritage Festival features four weekends of unique events, including a children’s parade, seafood fest with special musical guest Uncle Kracker, Bottle Boat Regatta, and a black-tie ball. The festival culminates with a 5K run and the Grand Finale parade, one of the largest parades in the south.

Learn more at desotohq.com.

Florida Wine & Balloon Festival
April 4-7

Let your spirits soar at Florida's only festival devoted to wine and hot air balloons. The four-day festival features a selection of lunchtime tastings, a dozen winemaker dinners, and an elegant sunset dinner beneath a sky full of balloons. Balloon rides are available--weather permitting--only on Saturday and Sunday..

Learn more at floridawinefest.org.

Exoticycle Spring Cup
April 5-7

Discover the world of drag racing. Watch top fuel motorcycles reach up to 250 mph in five seconds at this Manufacturers Cup motorcycle event at Bradenton Motorsports Park. Racers will compete for titles and cash prizes in a dozen categories.

Learn more at manufacturerscup.info.

Gulf Coast Rhythm & Rib Fest
April 12–14

Part musical festival, part barbeque competition, the Gulfcoast Rhythm and Ribfest serves up fun for the whole family. The weekend features top musical acts from across the country as well as the best ribs around. All proceeds go toward the United Community Centers.

Learn more at gulfcoastribfest.com.

Food & Wine on Pine
May 4

Food, wine, art, and music come together at Anna Maria's Food & Wine on the Pine. Sample food from 25 of the area's top restaurants as well as dozens of upscale wines and craft and domestic beers. Browse works from more than 40 artists and stop in for a performance by any one of 30 musical acts, spanning bluegrass, folk, country, and more.

Learn more at foodandwineonpine.com.