No matter what season it is, there is always something interesting going on in Bradenton.

Between October and April, check out the Farmer's Market on Old Main Street. Vendors come every Saturday morning, starting around 6am, to sell farm produce and homemade crafts. You won't find any flea market stalls here, but the vegetables and fruit are as fresh as you can get them. Official market hours are 8am to 1pm, but it is best to come earlier to get a better selection.

In the fall, you will also find various harvest celebrations, including Oktoberfest Suncoast (call 941-708-3456 for details) and a pumpkin festival. There is also the Florida Show in nearby St. Peterburg. On one October Sunday, vendors from all over the state come to display and sell vintage state souvenirs.

Winter brings an onslaught of holiday festivals as visitors flock to Bradenton to escape the cold. There are Nutcracker performances, a holiday open house at the Gamble Plantation, and various celebrations at the Crosley. Anna Maria Island's Art League also hosts a Winterfest to display local artwork.

During the summer, activities are a bit scarcer due to the heat, but you will still find events such as fishing and beach volleyball tournaments.  You might even spot a manatee or even a dolphin in the Manatee River!