Bay Fest

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.

Important Links:

• Click here to see the Bay Fest Map indicating the locations of various offerings.
• Click here to see the Bay Fest Schedule of Events for good, clean and green family fun :)

This event is a part of Good to Be Green Months at The Bay (March & April). Click here to see the line-up of green events in the park.