Arts and Crafts

24th Annual St. Armands Circle Craft Festival

One of the most popular outdoor craft festivals in the Southeast, set among the landmark shops and restaurants of St. Armands Circle on Lido Key.

The St. Armands Circle Craft Festival is one of the most attended outdoor art and craft festivals in the Southeast. Set among the landmark shops and restaurants of St. Armands Circle on Lido Key, the festival features artists and craftspeople juried from across the country, with fine art, jewelry, sculpture, photography, and handmade goods displayed against one of Florida's most scenic outdoor retail backdrops.

What to Expect

Your Guide to the Event

1

Juried Artist Lineup

The St. Armands Craft Festival uses a competitive jury process that consistently attracts artists at the top of their categories. The jewelry, painting, sculpture, and photography sections are all competitive, and the overall quality of the work substantially exceeds the typical outdoor festival standard.

2

The St. Armands Setting

The four-quadrant circle design creates a natural flow for the festival layout. Artists set up within the circle and along the surrounding blocks. The outdoor dining terraces of the St. Armands restaurants stay active during the festival, creating the option to take a break for lunch or dinner mid-circuit.

3

Live Entertainment

Live music typically runs on a stage positioned within the circle throughout both festival days. The entertainment schedule ranges from solo acoustic to full bands. The sound is ambient rather than overwhelming, maintaining the gallery-walk character of the event.

4

Shopping and Dining

The St. Armands Circle retailers remain open during the festival, creating a combined retail and festival experience that is unique in the county. Dining options on the circle range from quick casual to full sit-down restaurants. Making a reservation on the circle for the evening is advisable on festival days.

Frequently Asked Questions

What events happen in Sarasota year-round?

Sarasota hosts hundreds of events annually, from craft festivals at St. Armands Circle to international rowing championships at Nathan Benderson Park. The winter season runs the densest cultural and festival calendar.

How do I find out about upcoming Sarasota events?

The Visit Sarasota events calendar is the most comprehensive source for ticketed and free events across the county, updated throughout the year.

Are most Sarasota events family-friendly?

Yes. The majority of outdoor festivals, arts events, and community gatherings in Sarasota County are designed to accommodate families with children of all ages.
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