SARASOTA, Fla. (WWSB) – The Suncoast region is bustling with activities this weekend, offering a wide variety of events for residents and visitors alike on Saturday, October 18, 2025. n nAt the Robert L. Taylor Community Complex, the Big Mama’s Collard Green Festival runs from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., celebrating African American culinary traditions, cultural heritage, and community unity through food and music. n nOn Anna Maria Island, Pine Avenue hosts Bayfest from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., featuring live performances, artisan vendors, and a classic car exhibition. n nDowntown Sarasota comes alive with Rocktoberfest at J.D. Hamel Park, a three-day festival showcasing local bands and food trucks from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. n nA political gathering honoring conservative activist Charlie Kirk takes place at Robarts Arena at 11 a.m., drawing Republican figures from across the region. n nFamilies can visit Sarasota County Fire Station 16 between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. for an open house event, where attendees meet first responders and learn fire safety practices in an interactive setting. n nHCA Florida healthcare centers host Drug Drop-off Day from 9 a.m. to noon, allowing the public to dispose of expired or unused medications safely and responsibly. n nA community protest titled ‘No Kings’ is scheduled at Whitaker Gateway and Payne Park starting at 9 a.m., organized by local activists. n nThe North Port Aquatic Center welcomes families to the Pumpkin Plunge from 9 to 11 a.m., combining seasonal festivities with pool games and pumpkin-themed fun. n nVolunteers are invited to the Venice Cleanup event at 4004 S. Tamiami Trail from 8 a.m. to noon to help maintain the cleanliness of South Venice. n nGT Bray Park hosts a Pickleball Tournament beginning at 8 a.m., raising funds for families of law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty. n nAdditionally, the Firehouse Chili Cook-Off in downtown Sarasota brings together local fire departments competing to create the best chili recipe. n— news from ABC7 WWSB
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What’s happening around the Suncoast this weekend
SARASOTA, Fla. (WWSB) – It’s a packed weekend in the Suncoast! Here’s what’s happening around Sarasota and Manatee this Saturday, October 18, 2025. n nBig Mama’s Collard Green Festival at Robert L. Taylor Community Complex, 12-6pm. A soulful celebration of food, heritage, and community. n nAnna Maria Bayfest – Pine Avenue, 10 am – 9 pm. Live music arts and crafts, and a classic car show on Anna Maria Island. n nRocktoberfest – J.D Hamel Park, 10am – 10 pm. A three-day music and food festival in downtown Sarasota. n nCharlie Kirk Tribute – Robarts Arena, 11am. Republican leaders gather to honor Charlie Kirk. n nSarasota County Fire Open House – Station 16, 9am – 1pm. Meet local firefighters and learn safety tips, fun for the whole family. n nDrug Drop-off Day – Various HCA Florida locations, 9am – Noon. Safely dispose of unused or expired medications. n nNo kings protest – Whitaker Gateway & Payne Park, 9 am. Community members gather for a local protest. n nPumpkin Plunge – North Port Aquatic Center, 9 – 11 am. Families dive into fall fun with pumpkins and pool games. n nVenice Cleanup – 4004 S. Tamiami Trail, 8 am – Noon. Help keep South Venice clean with this free community event. n nPickleball Tournament for Fallen Officers – GT Bray Park, 8 am. A fundraiser supporting families of fallen officers. n nFirehouse Chili Cook-Off – Downtown Sarasota. Local fire departments face off to see who makes the best chili.