Bradenton Weekend Planner: De Soto Parade, World Tai Chi Day

MANATEE COUNTY, FL — Looking for something fun to do this weekend? Here are five events that you don't want to miss in Manatee County.

What: De Soto Grand Parade

When: Saturday, 7 p.m.

Where: The parade begins at Manatee High School at the corner of 9th Avenue West and 30th Street West.

The Hernando De Soto Historical Society’s De Soto Heritage Festival, including its annual De Soto Grand Parade, returns this year. With about 80 units, this even celebrates Manatee County’s Spanish-American heritage.

What: Healthy Kids Day

When: Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where: The Manatee County Family YMCA’s Lakewood Ranch (5100 Lakewood Ranch Blvd.) and West Bradenton (3805 59th St W.) branches.

This free event offers games, arts and crafts, safety tips, giveaways, competitions, and fun physical fitness activities for children.

What: Earth Day with Keep Manatee Beautiful

When: Saturday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Where: 1005 5th Street W. in Bradenton

This neighborhood revitalization initiative focuses on the Ward Temple area near 5th Street West and 9th Avenue West. Activities include litter clean-up, planting a pollinator garden and native flowerbeds, and providing yard work and small home repairs to residents.

What: World Tai Chi Day

When: Saturday, 9 to 11 a.m.

Where: G.T. Bray Park, 5502 33rd Ave., Bradenton

Learn different forms of Tai Chi and the benefits of the practice, including stress reduction, lowering of blood pressure, and improvements in flexibility and balance at this free event for all ages.

What: Hillbilly Gospel Brunch

When: Sunday, 11 a.m.

Where: Cottonmouth Southern Soul Kitchen, 1114 12 Street West, Bradenton

The Divebombers will perform live at this Village of the Arts staple.

Have an upcoming event you want to share with Bradenton Patch? Email Tiffany.Razzano@Patch.com.