No matter what time of year you are visiting, Anna Maria Island has a number of annual events that are the perfect addition to your vacation. Its central location (less than an hour from Sarasota, St. Petersburg, Tampa Bay, or Bradenton) makes it easily accessible for travelers to attend AMIs year-round events.
AMI's beaches set the perfect backdrop for enjoying the much anticipated yearly festivals. From themed parades overlooking the Gulf of Mexico to symphonies on the shore, there's never a dull day on AMI!
We're breaking down AMI's top annual events by season.
Spring
Spring is an excellent time to visit Anna Maria Island. The weather is not too hot, allowing long walks down the beach. This kid-friendly island is a great option for your spring break destination, and if you're lucky, you might be on the island during some of AMI's top events of the year!Cortez Fishing Festival
Photo Credit: Carol VanHook via Flickr CC2.0- When: February
- Location: Cortez
- Website: fishcortez.org/commercial-fishing-festival
The Cortez Fishing Festival festival celebrates the long history of Cortez with a weekend of fun and entertainment.Enjoy live music, arts and crafts, educational exhibits, and of course, tons of amazing food. Grab a cold beer and sample some of the delicious fresh seafood caught by Cortez fishermen.
This is a family-friendly event with plenty to do for all visitors. Admission is $5; children 12 and under are free. The proceeds of the festival are used by the Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage for conservation efforts.
Springfest Art Festival
Photo Credit: islandartleague.org- When: March
- Location: Holmes Beach
- Website: islandartleague.org/festival
Over 80 artists sell their beautiful hand-made wares at the festival.Additionally, you will find delicious food and drink options, live music, and plenty of kid-friendly fun where they can create their own arts and crafts. Springfest is a two-day family-friendly festival located at the City Hall Field in Holmes Beach.
St. Patrick's Day Parade
Photo Credit: Stuart Monk- When: March
- Location: Holmes Beach
After the parade, many guests head to the fantastic Irish pubs around town to continue the celebrations. For a family-friendly continuation, consider the St. Patrick's Day celebration at the Meadows Farmers Market for a family-friendly continuation.
Summer
Summer and Anna Maria Island go hand in hand. There is no better way to spend the dog days of summer than lazing on the sparkling white sands of this unforgettable destination. Visit farmer's markets, attend mouthwatering barbecues, and watch the sunset over the warm Gulf every evening.4th of July (Anna Maria Privateers Parade)
Photo Credit: amiprivateers.wildapricot.org- When: July
- Location: Coquina Beach
- Website: islandartleague.org/festival
The parade features patriotic floats and music and is a great way to get into the holiday spirit. After a day of enjoying the sun, sea, and plenty of barbecues, end your holiday with a bang at an AMI fireworks show! There are typically two or three different fireworks shows across the island, each providing a colorful experience for the whole family.
Fall
As summer fades into fall, the crowds will start to disperse from Anna Maria Island and allow a more low-key vacation. For festival and music lovers, two of the island's top events of the year take place during autumn, and you wonât regret attending!BayFest
Photo Credit: Robert Bieber via Flickr CC2.0- When: October
- Location: Bradenton Beach
- Website: annamariaislandchamber.org/events
Providing food, drinks, live music, vendors, a car show, and more, BayFest is a fantastic event for the whole family. Take note that there will be limited street parking near the festival, or you can take the free Anna Maria Trolley.
Symphony on the Sand
Photo Credit: amicco.org- When: November
- Location: Coquina Gulfside Park
- Website: amicco.org/symphony-on-the-sand
There are five ticket tiers, from the general admission option to a luxurious table seating option with complimentary drinks and hors-d'oeuvres. So book your tickets ahead of time and prepare for a magical evening at Coquina Gulfside Park.
Winter
Visiting Anna Maria Island in the off-season is a truly peaceful experience. But, while the island may be quieter, it certainly isn't boring! Get in the holiday spirit with some of AMI's beloved winter events.Manatee River Holiday Boat Parade
Photo Credit: holidayboatparade.org- When: December
- Location: Bradenton, along the Manatee River.
- Website: holidayboatparade.org
A fleet of festively decorated boats will parade down the river, lighting up the night and bringing plenty of holiday cheer to all the onlookers. Of course, the boat captains are competing to win the title of best decorated, so you can be sure each boat will be all decked out! The best public viewing spots for the parade are the Green Bridge and Palmetto Pier.
The Holiday Boat Parade begins at around 6 pm, once it is dark enough for all the holiday lights to really shine.
New Year's Eve Fireworks
Photo Credit: Corri Seizinger- When: December
- Location: Anna Maria Island Beaches
- Website: annamariaislandchamber.org/island-events
You will find numerous restaurants and bars putting on celebrations to keep you entertained until the fireworks start. Consider stopping by some of the local institutions known for their New Year's Eve parties, such as The Beach House Waterfront Restaurant in Bradenton Beach.
If you'd rather enjoy the great outdoors, head down to Coquina Beach for a magical view as the fireworks sparkle over the ocean.
Stay and Celebrate in AMI
Make lifelong memories when you book a vacation rental on the stunning Anna Maria Island. This barrier island on Florida's Gulf Coast is known for its incredible beaches, relaxing lifestyle, and spectacular annual festivals and events.No matter what season you visit, Anna Maria Island has the perfect event and vacation home rental to make for a memorable getaway!
