Good morning, Bradenton.

Manatee County hosted its ‘A Night Before Christmas’ event at G.T.

Bray Park on Dec. 13, where families enjoyed professional photos with Santa & Mrs. Claus and activities including a snow slide, foam zone, inflatables, face painting, letter writing and a petting zoo with free admission and local vendors.

Virgil Cain, a seasoned musician with over 20 years of live performance experience, will bring his one-man band show — featuring live looping and electric and acoustic instruments — to Freckled Fin Irish Pub where guests can enjoy a no-cover event.

Memphis Lightning will perform at Cottonmouth’s event at Flamingo Bay Brewing Co. in Bradenton with a $20 cover charge, offering an energetic blues set featuring soulful guitar and performances by Big Red and Rick Curran (Mr. Mayhem).

Attendees can enjoy southern soul cuisine and a spacious beer garden.

The Manatee River Holiday Boat Parade is set for today on the water, featuring decorated boats and seasonal displays (details coming soon) that highlight Bradenton’s festive spirit.

Oscura Performing Art’s Center in Old Manatee hosts jazz night with local drummer Chance Reynolds and his trio every Thursday.

Doors open at 7 p.m. and music starts at 8 p.m. with no cover, and all ages are welcome (under 18 requires a guardian).

Ken Macy, an award-winning Florida artist with 19 years of touring, will perform live at Wicked Cantina, offering a mix of original songs and covers in country, blues and rock — an event that brings his high-energy style to a local Tex Mex venue.

Messenger, an energetic band with male and female lead vocals, will perform a free show playing a mix of classic rock, country, and billboard hits at The Cortez Kitchen — a waterfront venue known for fresh seafood and strong cocktails.

Stockton Bros. (Cam and Tony Stockton), an acoustic duo known for their feel-good tunes, will perform at Island Time Bar and Grill on Anna Maria Island’s Bridge Street with no cover charge.

The venue offers a tropical open air setting for a relaxed beachside experience.

A Christmas Carol Performance

2:30-3:30 p.m. — Manatee High School — Suitable for all ages — Experience the classic tale of redemption in this engaging performance.

Zack Pomerleau Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Swordfish Grill — No cover charge — Enjoy the soulful sounds of blues with Maine-born musician Zack Pomerleau.

The Nutcracker by International Ballet of Florida

6 PM — Manatee Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience the enchanting classic tale of The Nutcracker featuring dancers from renowned ballet companies.

Christmas Day at Pier 22

11 a.m. - 8 p.m. — PIER 22 — Chef-created Holiday Menu — Make merry memories this Christmas with seasonal delights by the waterfront.

Zack Pomerleau Live Performance

6:30-10:30 p.m. — Inner Compass Brewing Company at LWR — Check for cover charge — Enjoy a night of classic blues and originals from a talented local multi-instrumentalist.

New Year’s Eve Gala 2025

7 PM - 2 AM — Gala Banquets and Events — $160 Members, $170 Non-members — Celebrate the New Year with elegant dining, live music, and an open bar in a grand venue.

The Ultimate Elvis Concert

7:30-10:30 p.m. — SCF Neel Performing Arts Center — Ticketed event — Experience an unrivaled multimedia tribute to Elvis Presley featuring champion tribute artist Cote Deonath and The Infinit-E Tribute Band.