Chefs on Deck!
Venice! "A Foodie Heaven Kind Of Town"
Food, glorious food—and drinks too! That’s the theme of this month’s “Venice City Lifestyle,” and I’m happy to say what you probably already know: Venice is a foodie heaven kind of town. From fresh seafood to craft cocktails to comfort dishes with a twist, our community has an appetite for flavor—and we’ve put together a full menu of stories to match.
We kick things off with “Chefs on Deck,” where we gathered some of Venice’s culinary luminaries aboard the yacht Detzel’s Dream at the Venice Yacht Club. On a sun-drenched morning, they shared their passion for food, their inspirations, and a few good laughs. It was a hot day, but the conversation was even hotter.
On the drinks side, “Mix, Sip, Repeat” invites you to refresh your glass and your home bar. We’ve highlighted seasonal recipe books brimming with cocktails, mocktails, and spirited concoctions—perfect for autumn gatherings or simply unwinding at the end of the day.
Of course, no food feature would be complete without a stop at one of Venice’s favorite burger joints. In “BrewBurgers and Beyond,” we spotlight Michael Bacon, a man who knows what locals crave. From his classic burgers and bagels to community-minded innovation, Michael has turned BrewBurgers into a local institution with heart.
Because fall is also the season of fresh flavors, we asked Marci Weidemiller of Venice Olive Oil to share a recipe from her own collection . “Harvest Pumpkin Salad Magic” is bright, colorful, and delicious, capturing the essence of October on a plate.
And for a sweet encore that’s not on the table but on the stage, we close with “Gulf Coast Gypsy: Nightbird’s Rise.” This Fleetwood Mac tribute band brings Stevie Nicks-inspired magic to the Venice Performing Arts Center, offering a night of music and memories for fans old and new.
I hope you enjoy this flavorful issue as much as we enjoyed creating it. Wishing you a delicious season ahead. May it be filled with good food, great company, and all the joys of October.
Warmly,
October 2025
PUBLISHER
Charmaine Tincher | charmaine.tincher@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Emily Leinfuss | emily.leinfuss@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Emily Leinfuss, Marci Weidemiller, Yvette Wasserman, Jessica Baird
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Brian Glantz-1st Glantz Media, Marci Weidemiller
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford
LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray
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QUALITY
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The Difference Is Clear… So Is The Choice.
Not all emergencies are made equal — and neither are emergency rooms. At the SMH-Venice Emergency Room, our patients receive not only the highest standard of care from a multidisciplinary team of board-certified emergency medicine physicians and specialists, but immediate access to the wide-ranging resources of the entire Sarasota Memorial Health Care System and direct admission to SMH-Venice or a hospital of your choice. You can’t decide when emergency strikes, but you can choose where to go if it does. With SMH, you’ll never have to go far.
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inside the issue
Sierra Abelardo and The Sarasota Ballet in Jessica Lang’s The Lorenz Butterfly
Photo by Christopher Duggam; coutesy of Jacob’s Pillow
business monthly
“America’s Big Band” Offers Free Concert at Venice Performing Arts Center
Don't miss the world-famous, DC-based Jazz Ambassadors, aka “America’s Big Band's" FREE all-American jazz celebration at VPAC on Thursday, October 16, at 7 p.m. Since 1969, this 19-member U.S. Army ensemble has wowed audiences with a mix of jazz, Latin, and patriotic favorites. “We’re thrilled to welcome the Jazz Ambassadors to VPAC,” said Executive Director Derek Blankenship. “It’s a privilege to host a group that showcases world-class musicianship and the spirit of our nation.” veniceperformingartscenter.com/the-jazz-ambassadors
Scan to read more
Venice Wildlife Center Expands Deer Run to Support Fawn Rehabilitation
The Wildlife Center of Southwest Florida has begun construction on an expanded deer run, providing white-tailed deer a larger, natural space for rehabilitation. This growth comes as the center cares for nearly twice as many fawns this year compared to last. Part of a broader site expansion, the project includes species-specific habitats with native foliage and old-growth trees. The nonprofit serves Florida’s reptiles, mammals, and birds. More at wildlifeswfl.org.
Venice Art Center Winners Featured Oct. 18 for Humanity Day 2025
Winners of the Sept 12th Venice Art Center’s juried exhibit, "I Am Humanity," will be featured at the October 18 presentation of the 4th annual Humanity Day 2025 celebration. Organized by the nonprofit I AM HUMANITY, this global event combines virtual and live broadcasts to celebrate the flourishing of humanity and all life on Earth. Please join a 'live' event October 18 at Fogartyville, downtown Sarasota. 525 Kumquat Ct., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. See ad page 13. wslr.org/fogartyville, iamhumanity.net, veniceartcenter.com
of hope for cancer patients and their families. Today, as our population grows, so does the need for cancer care. The new outpatient Milman-Kover Cancer Pavilion will expand critical patient programs and services. Many are fully supported through philanthropy.
You can play a vital role in ensuring that families continue to find the hope and healing they deserve.
Learn how you can make an impact, call 941.917.1286 or visit smhf.org.
ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRIAN GLANTZ, 1ST GLANTZ MEDIA
CHEFS ON DECK
VENICE CULINARY LUMINARIES BOARD A VESSEL AT VENICE YACHT CLUB FOR CANDID PHOTOS AND LIVELY CONVERSATION
Venice City Lifestyle gathered five of the area’s top culinary doyens—Bryan Meek of the Venice Yacht Club, Steve Longet of Longet: Fusion with a French Accent, Jimmy Nadell and Judy Gaspar of Tuscany Nokomis, and Ashley Lauren of Plated Per Palate—for a stylish photo shoot and conversation about food, creativity, and passion. A special thank you to the Venice Yacht Club and its members Dave and Tammy Detzel, proud owners of Detzel’s Dream, a stunning 50’ SeaRay Sedan Bridge, for hosting us onboard.
Aerial view of the Venice Yacht Club
Chefs Bryan Meek, Ashley Lauren, Steven Longet, Epicurean Director Judy Gaspar and Chef Jimmy Nadell, gather around the grill overlooking Roberts Bay.
Q. WHAT FIRST DREW YOU TO COOKING?
A. I used to watch cooking shows and cook with my grandmother when I was young. I was also a picky eater. One day my mom said, “If you don’t like what I make for dinner, then make your own food.” That turned into making dinner for everybody. At 13 or 14, I didn’t have a big repertoire— just stir-fries or chicken on the grill—but it gave me basic cooking skills.
Q. HOW DID THAT BECOME A CAREER?
A. I didn’t expect to be a chef. I went to a fine arts school for graphic design and planned to work in automotive advertising, but the market wasn’t there. I got into cooking, loved it, and eventually moved to Denver for culinary school.
Q. HOW DO YOU APPROACH MENUS AT THE YACHT CLUB?
A. My favorites—and the members’ favorites—are steak and seafood. I start with the protein. For fish, I explore the freshest local products, and for steaks we use Braveheart Beef, a premium Black Angus brand.
Q. WHAT’S UNIQUE ABOUT COOKING HERE?
A. I enjoy the freedom to be creative. I can try new dishes, get feedback from members, and adjust quickly. It’s rewarding to see people enjoy the food and share it with each other.
Executive Chef Bryan Meek
Venice Yacht Club | veniceyachtclub.com/amenities/dining
Chef Bryan Meek, Executive Chef of Venice Yacht Club
“I fell in love with food. The creativity, artistry, and the chance to
Owner & Executive Chef Steve Longet
Q. WHAT DEFINES YOUR STYLE OF “FUSION WITH A FRENCH ACCENT”?
A. My partner is Greek, I’m French, and I didn’t want to repeat my earlier full French restaurant. Fusion feels more inventive, more creative.
Q. HOW DID YOU DISCOVER YOUR PATH?
A. At 15, I enrolled in a culinary school near my home in Bonneville, France. At first, I didn’t know what I wanted, but then I fell in love with food. The creativity, artistry, and the chance to travel— those kept me going.
Q. WHAT’S THE MOST REWARDING PART OF BEING CHEF AND OWNER?
A. I spent five years in Michelinstarred restaurants in Switzerland, then 11 years as a private chef there. Owning a restaurant was always my mission. Doing it here in the U.S. was challenging, but we love the culture and it’s been a great experience.
Q. WHAT INSPIRES YOUR COOKING NOW?
A. Farmers markets and travel. Even a short trip gives me new ideas. Right now we’re so busy, even vacations are local— but inspiration always finds a way.
Chef Steve Longet, Co-owner of Longet.
“I focus on presentation and ingredient quality— organic, pasture-raised eggs, high-quality oils, no processed food, I’m even picky about salt.”
Owner & Personal Chef Ashley Lauren
Q. WHY DID YOU START PLATED PER PALATE?
A. A mentor showed me the private chef world. I love meeting people in their homes and personalizing menus. My clients range from families with dietary needs to couples celebrating milestones. I even cook an anniversary dinner for one older couple every year.
Q. WHAT DEFINES YOUR COOKING STYLE?
A. I focus on presentation and ingredient quality—organic, pasture-raised eggs, high-quality oils, no processed food, I’m even picky about salt. I like tropical flair and themed menus.
Q. HOW DO YOU EASE CLIENTS’ LIVES?
A. For meal-prep families, I handle cooking and cleanup so parents can focus on their kids. For events, I design the menu, shop, set up, and clean up—so they just enjoy.
Q. WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE PART OF PERSONALIZATION?
A. I love creating menus around dietary needs. If someone craves baked ziti but can’t have wheat or dairy, I find substitutes so they can still enjoy the dish they love.
Chef Ashley Lauren, Owner of Plated Per Palate.
“I realized I loved Mediterranean cuisine—Greek, Italian, Spanish, French—because it’s all so fresh...I’m always trying out new dishes.”
Owner & Executive Chef
Jimmy Nadell & Epicurian Director Judy Gaspar
Tuscany Nokomis | tuscanynokomis.com
Q. HOW DID YOUR LOVE OF MEDITERRANEAN CUISINE BEGIN?
A. My family owned 17 restaurants in Chicago, and I used to walk to them from school, so I’ve always been in the business. At a young age, I fell in love with Mediterranean cuisine—Greek, Italian, Spanish, and French—and especially with cooking lamb, chicken, and fresh seafood over open-fire grills.
Q. WHAT DISH EXCITES YOU MOST?
A. I love creating dishes no one else has—which is tough with so many chefs and restaurants in the world! In Aspen, I worked as a private chef for the royal family of Saudi Arabia and invented “Princess Potatoes” to honor Her Royal Highness Princess Haya bint Hussein. Whipped with saffron and reduced heavy cream, these golden potatoes are now served daily at the restaurant.
Q. WHAT ABOUT YOUR OWN EATING STYLE?
A. My fiancée Judy Gaspar and I eat Mediterranean all the time. Judy, a former culinary arts instructor, is now our CFO and Epicurean Director. We’re here every day—trying new dishes, grilling fish, and keeping it healthy.
Q. WHO’S THE MOST IMPRESSIVE PERSON YOU’VE COOKED FOR?
A. Jon Bon Jovi. I’ve cooked for hundreds of celebrities, but he’s the real deal—a total gentleman. He married his high school sweetheart, built his career with her, stuck it out through the lean years, and rose to stardom.
Tuscany Nokomis’ Chef Jimmy Nadel and his fiancé Judy Gaspar, who serves as CFO and Epicurean Director.
Chefs poolside at the Venice Yacht Club!
Our smiling group of culinary mavens are all aboard the “Detzel’s Dream.”
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MICHAEL BACON CONTINUES TO GIVE PEOPLE WHAT THEY LOVE - BURGERS, BAGELS AND MORE!
ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRIAN GLANTZ - 1ST GLANTZ MEDIA
BrewBurgers and Beyond
“I’ve learned you have to make tough decisions. “But if you focus on food, service, and environment—and keep caring for your community—you’ll succeed.”
When you talk to Michael Bacon, owner of BrewBurgers, the theme that emerges is resilience— seasoned with more than a dash of perseverance.
Bacon opened the original BrewBurgers in 2011, and it quickly became a go-to for locals craving classic burgers and friendly service. A few years later, he doubled the fun by opening BrewBurgers Back Porch on Venice Island. Then, in 2022, he reimagined that spot into a roomy hangout with a full bar, live music, trivia nights, and a sports bar vibe, all without losing the BrewBurgers flavors fans love.
Not everything went according to plan. In early 2022, Bacon opened Shuck N' Ale, a seafood spot that quickly won fans. But when the hospital across the street closed, foot traffic dried up, and he had to shut the doors. Still, instead of letting the concept disappear, he has reimagined it. Soon, diners will be able to
order Shuck N' Ale favorites—think jambalaya and étouffée—through a new ghost kitchen operating out of Brew Za Bagels, his other restaurant. Alongside it, "American Comfort" will offer homestyle classics like shepherd's pie and lasagna for pickup or delivery.
“I’ve learned you have to make tough decisions,” Bacon said. “But if you focus on food, service, and environment—and keep caring for your community—you’ll succeed.” It’s a philosophy he lives out daily, whether serving as Chair of the Board of the Venice Chamber
of Commerce, as a trustee for Family Promise of South Sarasota County, or through his restaurants themselves. Many of his staff have been with him since the early days, treating guests with empathy and heart. And during the Covid-19 pandemic, that same spirit drove BrewBurgers to supply hundreds of boxed meals to local nonprofits. Bacon's journey hasn't been easy— pandemics, hurricanes, rising food costs—but he's kept going. As he said, "Anybody can sell a burger. We do it with care and passion."
Michael Bacon at BrewBurger's Back Porch bar.
VENICE INSTITUTE
for
SIXTIESMANIA® A JOURNEY THROUGH THE SIXTIES
Sunday, November 16, 2025 • 3:00 pm
Sixtiesmania® is America’s ultimate ’60s tribute band—from the Beatles’ British Invasion to Woodstock and beyond! Stones, Monkees, CCR, Doors, Beach Boys, and more—all the anthems of the Summer of Love!
NIGHTBIRD SWFL
THE ULTIMATE TRIBUTE TO STEVIE NICKS
Sunday, November 23, 2025 • 7:00 pm
Get ready for a night of Stevie magic with NightBird—Florida’s #1 Stevie Nicks tribute! Angela Chang rocks hits like “Gold Dust Woman,” “Everywhere,” and “Edge of Seventeen.”
THE TEXAS TENORS
DEEP IN THE HEART OF CHRISTMAS
Monday, December 22, 2025 • 7:00 pm
The Texas Tenors bring holiday magic with Deep in the Heart of Christmas! Enjoy “O Holy Night,” “Joy to the World,” “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’,” and their hit “Bootdaddy.” Soaring harmonies and festive fun—perfect for the whole family!
BEE GEES GOLD: THE TRIBUTE
Sunday, January 4, 2026 • 7:00 pm
John Acosta’s Bee Gees Gold Tribute brings Barry, Robin, and Maurice to life with uncanny vocals, look, and energy. Backed by a live band, this exciting show captures the magic of the Bee Gees in their prime— performing hits from “Massachusetts” and “I Started a Joke” to “Stayin’ Alive” and “You Should Be Dancing”!
THE HIGHWAYMEN SHOW: AMERICAN OUTLAW TRIBUTE
Saturday, January 17, 2026 • 7:00 pm
Don’t miss The Highwaymen Show in Venice—celebrating Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, and Kris Kristofferson with hits like “Highwayman,” “Mama Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys,” “Always on My Mind,” and “Me and Bobby McGee.”
THE BRASSROOTS BAND
Sunday, January 25, 2026 • 7:00 pm
They’re back in Venice! Brassroots Band, a 12-piece powerhouse, brings funk, jazz fusion, and soul to life with sizzling brass, grooveheavy rhythms, and soaring vocals. From Tower of Power to Snarky Puppy and Stevie Wonder, their high-energy show will have you moving all night—don’t miss these masters live!
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ARTICLE BY JESSICA BAIRD
PHOTOGRAPHY BY LOVELAND CENTER VENICE
LOVELAND CENTER VENICE IS COOKING UP SKILLS, CONFIDENCE, AND COMMUNITY!
HEARTY KITCHEN ACADEMY
A group of Hearty Kitchen Academy workers and instructors
At Loveland Center in Venice, the kitchen isn’t just for cooking—it’s where independence is seasoned, stirred, and served. The Hearty Kitchen Academy (HKA) gives adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities the chance to sharpen essential life skills while building confidence, teamwork, and self-reliance.
In HKA’s fully equipped kitchen, participants master culinary techniques— from chopping and measuring to plating with flair. But this program is about more than following a recipe—it’s about learning skills that carry into everyday life. Outings to local grocery stores teach participants how to shop smart, use coupons, and make decisions about what to buy for their next meal.
Loveland’s programs run Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., offering a structured, supportive environment. Beyond daytime classes, Loveland promotes independent living through apartments and villas at the Senator Nancy C. Detert Residential Community, with exciting new units opening in early 2026.
A highlight of the HKA is its tradition of giving back. Once a week, participants prepare and deliver free meals to residents of the Detert Residential Community. It’s a hands-on way to practice skills while nourishing neighbors—fostering pride, purpose, and connection.
The Hearty Kitchen Academy is more than a program—it’s a recipe for empowerment. By blending practical training with real-world service, Loveland ensures participants have the ingredients they need to live more independently and contribute meaningfully to their community.
Learn more at lovelandcenter.org.
Going home with Hearty meals.
Hearty Kitchen chef hard at work.
MIX, SIP, REPEAT
From cozy fall sippers to spooky party potions and booze-free beauties, these books bring the “drink” to our Food & Drink theme. Whether you’re toasting the harvest, channeling Halloween vibes, pairing novels with cocktails, or skipping the spirits entirely, you’ll find a recipe here worth mixing.
Turn any night into witching hour with over 100 eerie-yet-delicious drink recipes. From Poison Apple Cider to a Black Magic Margarita, every concoction is paired with chilling garnishes and hauntingly gorgeous photography. Perfect for Halloween parties, scary movie marathons, or anyone who likes their cocktails with a side of spooky charm. SEASONAL RECIPES AND
AUTUMN SPIRITS: COZY FALL COCKTAIL AND DRINK RECIPES
By Adams Media
Cooler days call for a seasonal sip. This recipe card set features 75 autumn-inspired drinks, from Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martinis to Cranberry Mimosas. The card format makes picking a cocktail fun, with plenty of classics and fresh twists to enjoy all season.
SPOOKY COCKTAILS: 100+ SPIRITED AND WICKEDLY DELICIOUS DRINKS
By Clair McLafferty
GET LIT: COCKTAILS THAT BRING YOUR FAVORITE BOOKS TO LIFE
By Elizabeth Sagan
Where literary love meets cocktail craft. This book pairs 50 creative drink recipes with beloved books, from fantasy “fiery goblets” to thriller “suspenseful spirits.” Cleverly organized by genre, it’s perfect for book club happy hours or solo reading escapes. Every recipe is a toast to the worlds, characters, and stories we can’t put down.
THE BOOZE-FREE BAR(C)ART BOOK
By Cece Bailey Page
Mocktails get their moment in this colorful, easy-to-follow guide with 45 zero-proof recipes for every palate. Organized by flavor profile—from Sweet & Smooth to Tart & Tangy—it includes party-sized tips, fun substitutions, and charming illustrations. Whether you’re sober-curious, hosting a mixed crowd, or just skipping the alcohol, these drinks bring full flavor and festive vibes.
Harvest “Pumpkin” Salad Magic
ES A COLORFU L , FLAVORFUL O
October’s bounty comes alive in this vibrant harvest salad, created with the flavorful touch of Venice Olive Oil. Golden roasted butternut squash, deep jewel tones of berries and cabbage, and crisp greens capture the beauty of the season. Playful “pumpkin” oranges add whimsy, while a rich maple black pepper vinaigrette ties it all together. It’s autumn on a plate—colorful, fresh, and perfect for celebrating the flavors of fall.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARCI WEIDEMILLER
The finished salad!
INGREDIENTS
• 6 tbsp Madagascar black pepper olive oil
• 3 tbsp Vermont maple balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp minced shallots
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 1 tbsp rosemary
• 9 mandarins or “Cuties” oranges
• 1 handful green beans
• 3 cups spring mix lettuce
• 2 cups arugula
• 1 cup shredded red cabbage
• 1 pt blackberries
• 1 cup shelled pecans
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup minced chives
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a jar or cruet, combine 4 tablespoons olive oil, balsamic vinegar, shallots, and ½ teaspoon salt. Whisk or shake until emulsified.
3. Toss the remaining olive oil with the squash, rosemary, and remaining salt until evenly coated.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper; spread squash in a single layer. Roast 20–25 minutes, until tender. Let cool.
5. Insert green bean pieces into the tops of the oranges to resemble pumpkins.
6. To assemble, layer spring mix, arugula, and cabbage on a serving platter. Arrange“pumpkins,” roasted squash, pecans, blackberries, cranberries, and chives on top.
7. Serve with vinaigrette on the side
Yummy!
Balsamic vinaigrette on the side.
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ARTICLE BY YVETTE WASSERMAN
FLORIDA TRIBUTE BAND, NIGHTBIRD SWFL, HONORS STEVIE NICKS
Enjoy the musical magic on Sunday, Nov. 23, 7 p.m., at Venice Performing Arts Center
Angela Chang, lead singer of Nightbird SWFL, has loved Stevie Nicks for as long as she can remember. An alto like Stevie, she slips into that dusky timbre so naturally that fans often say, “Close your eyes and it’s Stevie.”
The band was built to be different by honoring both Nicks’s solo work and Fleetwood Mac classics. Between songs, Chang shares backstories that give the show shape and heart. Capturing
the voice is only half the alchemy—the look matters too: velvet, lace, shawls, tambourines, and precise, fluttering moves. She hunts era-true pieces to bring Stevie’s style into today. Chang’s forever favorite? “Gypsy,” a retro dream of whimsy and magic. After winning crowds across Florida, Nightbird is eyeing a national tour—and adding a Pat Benatar tribute. veniceperformingartscenter.com
Nightbird SWFL lead singer Angela Chang as Stevie Nicks!
Nightbird SWFL, featuring lead singer Angela Chang.
Members of the Nightbird Band SWFL
• Chain soldered
• Clasps replaced
• Watch links removed/added
• Tight rings made loose
• Loose rings made tight
• Prongs replaced
• Tips rebuilt
• Heads replaced
• Shanks replaced
• Stones tightened
• Pearls re-strung
• Engravings
• Rolex & Watch Repair
• Eyeglass Repair
• Custom Jewelry Designs
• And more!
Jewelry repair while you wait is by appointment only.
events
OCTOBER 3RD - NOVEMBER 1ST
Lights at Spooky Point
Selby Gardens Historic Spanish Point
Don’t miss the chance to see the Historic Spanish Point campus transformed into “Spooky Point!” Visitors can follow an eerily lit path and encounter fantastic creations and bootanically-themed decorations along the way. Equal parts campy, creepy, and cute, this walkthrough show is fun for all ages! selby.org
OCTOBER 10TH - 11TH
A Symphonic Spooktacular
Venice Performing Arts Center
The Venice Symphony returns with a ‘not-so-scary’ Spooktacular featuring a harmonious collaboration of symphonic sounds and storytelling. Become entranced by Bernard Herrmann’s "Psycho: A Short Suite for String Orchestra" and travel to otherworldly dimensions with music from "The Sorcerer’s Apprentice" and other mystical medleys. thevenicesymphony.org
OCTOBER 11TH -12TH
The Venice Home Show
Venice Community Center | 10:00 AM
Everything you need for home improvement in one place: builders, contractors and much more plus cooking seminars all weekend. This Home Show features exhibitors with fabulous ideas for updating and improving your living space. Free admission. Sat: 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. venicehomeshow.com
OCTOBER 15TH
Community Event & Expo
Venice Community Center | 4:00PM
Join the Venice Area Chamber of Commerce for this free community Event & Expo. Connect with local businesses while enjoying food, prizes and giveaways, including a swag bag for the first 100 attendees! Suncoast Blood Centers Bloodmobile on site. From 4 PM-7 PM. Visit venicechamber.com for full event details.
OCTOBER 17TH - 19TH Sun Fiesta
Centennial Park, downtown Venice
The annual Sun Fiesta offers live music and entertainment, food vendors, arts vendors, a beer and wine tent, the infamous bed race, and more. Sponsored by Women’s Sertoma Club of Venice, proceeds go to provide scholarships to members of Venice High’s graduating class and other students. womenssertoma.com/sun-fiesta
OCTOBER 24TH - 26TH
The Sarasota Ballet Program 1- INTRINSIC FSU Center for the Performing Arts
The Sarasota Ballet’s 2025-26 Season opens with Dame Alicia Markova’s ethereal production of “Les Sylphides,” honoring the 100th anniversary of her Ballets Russes debut. Also featured: Jessica Lang’s “The Lorenz Butterfly,” a World Premiere blending chaos and color theory, and Will Tuckett’s “Changing Light,” inspired by Sarasota’s sunsets. Program One promises a luminous start to the season. sarasotaballet.org
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