Good morning, Bradenton.

The 2026 Grand Parade will take place Saturday, April 25 at 7:30 p.m. while parade staging starts at 1 p.m. on Manatee Ave W and closures on 9th St W and the Green Bridge will affect traffic; streets will reopen when barricades are cleared (drivers are advised to plan ahead).

Economic development leaders in Manatee County are forging strategic partnerships between public and private sectors to boost growth at the airport, seaport, beaches, and downtown hubs.

They plan to use community feedback to create jobs & secure the quality of life that attracts residents.

Environmental experts met Wednesday at Bayfront Community Center to discuss water contamination and drought stress driven by microplastics and PFAS chemicals.

Panelists also introduced EcoBeat (a new tool to support local journalism) as part of broader efforts to keep the community informed.

Researchers at Mote Marine Laboratory in Sarasota are testing new treatments to remove red tide residues from waters, while officials adjust Lake Okeechobee water releases (now channeling more water through the Everglades) to reduce toxic blooms.

The combined efforts aim to ease environmental and public health challenges along the Suncoast.

Manatee County honors Commissioner Carol Ann Billberry Felts today at 10:00 a.m. at David J.

Crane Park in Myakka City + flags at the State Capitol will be flown at half-staff in tribute to her service.

Bradenton teen Jasmine Ramirez, who overcame amputation and a life-threatening infection, will serve as a special guest at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital’s 100th anniversary celebration today (her journey inspires hope for others).

UnitedHealthcare and BayCare must finalize a new contract by May 31 to keep BayCare in-network and prevent care disruptions, according to a University of South Florida professor.

BayCare said it is working in good faith with UnitedHealthcare — aiming to secure a fair agreement for local families.

Mark Solo Acoustic Evening

7-11 p.m. — Freckled Fin Irish Pub — Free entry — Enjoy acoustic classics from the 70s and 80s with a soulful twist by Mark Solo.

Yates McKendree Live Performance

7-10 p.m. — Cottonmouth Southern Soul Kitchen — Ticket prices vary — Experience the Grammy-winning talent of Yates McKendree in a soulful evening of music.

Acoustic Thunder Live

7:30-11:30 p.m. — Freckled Fin Irish Pub — Free entry — Dance the night away with high-energy music and all-request tunes from Acoustic Thunder.

MindTravel Live Piano Event

5-7 p.m. — Siesta Beach — Free entry — Immerse yourself in a live piano journey guided by renowned composer Murray Hidary as the sun sets over the ocean.

Pizza and Karaoke with Cantor Taibel

6-7 p.m. — Demetrios Pizza & Grill — Price not specified — Enjoy an evening of pizza, karaoke, and casual conversation.

Finish Line Racing Multi-Sport Events

7-10 AM — Fort De Soto Park — Enjoy a vibrant post-party with food and free beer at this multi-sport race event.

NoFilter Concert

6:30-10:30 p.m. — The Green at UTC — Free entry — Dance the night away with high-energy hits from various decades and genres.

Almost Eagles Concert

7-10 p.m. — Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall — Tickets available — Experience a night with Almost Eagles and enjoy classic tunes in a beautiful venue.

Mother's Day Brunch Buffet

10 AM-3 PM — PIER 22 — Adults: $70+ | Kids: $25++ — Delight in a waterfront brunch with an abundant buffet of seasonal favorites and chef-attended stations.

Bradenton Marauders Faith & Family Night

6:30-9:30 p.m. — LECOM Park — Prices Vary — Experience a fair-themed atmosphere with games, activities, and church performance opportunities during the game.