BRADENTON --There is something for everyone this weekend. For the live music and BBQ lovers, there’s the Gulf Coast Rhythm and Ribfest at the Manatee County Fairgrounds. The sun and sand athletes have the huge volleyball competition at Siesta Key. Dog lovers can head to Ruskin for the Petfest and nature lovers can participate in a photography workshop. Whatever it is that you do, call in your reservations, get the tickets, pack up the dog and kids or grab a volleyball: it’s time for a Weekend Adventure in Bradenton!
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This weekend, the 6th annual Gulf Coast Rhythm and Ribfest will be at the Manatee County Fair Grounds. As always, there will be incredible ribs and a rockin’ lineup. Headliners for the fest include Tyrese, WAR, the Marshal Tucker Band, Molly Hatchet and Eric Darius. Regional and local bands will hit the stages as well during the three day event. The Dr. Dave Band, the Mitch Clark Band, Kettle of Fish and Ace Factor are among the local acts performing.
Award winning rib teams from across the nation will vie for any number of the ”best of’s“ titles given out to the fest’s rib competition participants. Last year’s winners will try to defend their titles against the newcomers and old timers.
The event is a ”Party with a Purpose,“ raising funds for the United Community Centers Inc. The Gulf Coast Rhythm and Ribfest is major annual fundraiser for the non-profit helping disadvantaged youth in Manatee County. Tickets are on sale now.
Gulf Coast Rhythm and Ribfest
Friday 4pm- 10pm
Saturday 11am- 10pm
Sunday 11am- 8pm
Manatee County Fair Grounds
Palmetto
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The fourth annual Fiesta on Siesta Key, returns this weekend, bringing volleyball, sun and sand for all those that make it out. Over the last three years, the Fiesta has become one of the largest collegiate volleyball competitions held. This year, student athletes representing 23 colleges and universities will attend the event.
The two-day event includes games between the college athletes, a skills clinic, a seniors-only competition and sand and indoor play. The first day of the event is for sand programs. Day two is reserved for the indoor court teams and the seniors division. During the skills clinic student athletes and coaches will spend time with underprivileged from the community.
For more information on the Fiesta on Siesta visit their website.
Fiesta on Siesta Key
Friday 12pm- dusk, Saturday 8:30am- dusk
Siesta Key
Sarasota
For something to do this weekend that's a little more low key, head to Emerson Point Preserve and accept the 60 in 60 challenge.
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| Photo courtesy of mymanatee.org |
Nature photographer Dotty Motta is hosting a brand new photography program, testing your eye and design abilities.
The challenge is to capture 60 natural subjects in 60 minutes. After the 60 minutes is up, participants head to the new environmental educational classroom with their shots. In the classroom all the photos will be reviewed and the layout and design of them will be discussed. During the discussion the significance of the number 60 will be revealed.
Reservations are required. To make reservations call (941) 742-5757 ext.9. The program is suitable for participants age 14 and older.
Shutter Stroll: 60 in 60
Saturday 9am- 11am
Emerson Point Preserve
Palmetto
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This Saturday, C.A.R.E. will host the 7th Annual Ruskin PetFest. The event is Tampa Bay's only off-leash dog event. The day will be filled with fun activities for the whole family. There will be a pet fashion contest, a silent auction and a 50/50 raffle. There will also be pet related vendors, food and music.
The proceeds from the event will support C.A.R.E., a non-profit, no-kill, animal shelter in Ruskin. The event will take place at Dr. Ott’s Off-leash Dog Park.
7th Annual Ruskin PetFest
Saturday 9 am - 1 pm
Dr. Ott's Off-Leash Dog Park
Ruskin
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