What to do, Where to go
Fishermen’s Village welcomes Santa Claus inside the main entrance. STOCK PHOTO
TOP PICKS
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Florida Studio Theatre presents “Lucky Stiff”. -COURTESY PHOTO
Fishermen’s Village welcomes Santa Claus inside the main entrance from Nov. 21-23. Bring the kids to meet Santa and share their gift wishes. 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda. 800-639-0020 or www.fishermensvillage.com/events.
- “The Sound of Music” is at Venice Theatre through Nov. 23. Experience the timeless songs and heartwarming story. 941-488-1115 or venicetheatre.org/events/the-sound-of-music.
- Florida Studio Theatre presents “Lucky Stiff” through Dec. 28. In this comedic mystery, a man must pass off his murdered uncle as alive to claim $6 million. 941-366-9000 or www.floridastudiotheatre.org/events-and-tickets/plays.
OTHER HIGHLIGHTS
Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe presents Langston Hughes’ “Black Nativity”. -COURTESY PHOTO
Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe presents Langston Hughes’ “Black Nativity” through Dec. 21. A vibrant retelling of the nativity with gospel, blues, spirituals and Langston Hughes’ poetry, featuring new voices and inspiring hope, joy and peace. Tickets are $20-$45. 1012 N. Orange Ave., Sarasota. 941-366-1505 or www.westcoastblacktheatre.org/productions/langston-hughes-black-nativity.
7th Annual Braves Tomahawk 5K & Beer Run is a family-friendly race at 7:30 a.m. Dec. 6. Run the stadium, finish on the field, enjoy breakfast, medals, holiday fun and prizes for all ages. 18800 S. West Villages Parkway, North Port. 941-413-5000 or www.cooltodaypark.com.
Feeling Good – On stage at Florida Studio Theatre’s Court Cabaret through Feb. 1 with multiple showtimes. A show bringing the style and swagger of Sinatra, Bublé, Gaga and more. With captivating vocals, hit songs and dazzling charm, this high-energy show will leave you smiling. Tickets are $18-$24. 1265 First St., Sarasota.
THURSDAY 11/20
Dine for a Cause – Support Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens by dining at P.F. Chang’s from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. 10% of your check will be donated to the nonprofit. 10081 Gulf Center Drive, Fort Myers. www.peacerivergardens.org/upcoming-events#calendar-4f793cd0-7977-4289-9c25-69acacae4f89-event-3557ef7a-8842-4c5e-b0d2-dfdfcf891fbf.
Live Music – Brigid’s Cross performs live at The Celtic Ray at noon. 145 E. Marion Ave., Punta Gorda. 941-916-9115 or celticray.net/our-events.
Live Music – Shawn Brown performs live at the Center Court at Fishermen’s Village at 4 p.m. 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda. 800-639-0020 or www.fishermensvillage.com/events.
“The Sound of Music” is at Venice Theatre. -COURTESY PHOTO
Live Music – Bad Kitty performs live at the Sunset Beach at Fishermen’s Village at noon. 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda. 800-639-0020 or www.fishermensvillage.com/events.
Live Music – Shindig performs live at the Sunset Beach at Fishermen’s Village at 4 p.m. 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda. 800-639-0020 or www.fishermensvillage.com/events.
Live Music – Singer James Lee performs live at the Center Court at Fishermen’s Village at 5 p.m. 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda. 800-639-0020 or www.fishermensvillage.com/events.
Live Concert – The Open Studio’s Thursday Night concert series presents “Remnants of the Coil” (AKA Recoil) at 6 p.m. Enjoy an evening of ’60s, ’70s, and ’80s hits at the open-air venue with on-site food trucks. 380 Old Englewood Road, Englewood. 802-473-0808 or theopenstudio.info/events/events-calendar.
Suncoast DJ Bingo – Tomahawk Tiki Bar & Grill in CoolToday Park hosts DJ Bingo at 6 p.m. Put your music knowledge to the test with different categories each round, one lucky winner takes home a prize for each. 18800 S. West Villages Parkway, North Port. 941-413-5000 or cooltodaypark.com/events.
Live Music – Randy Stephens performs live at TT’s Tiki Bar at 6 p.m. 33 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda. 941-637-6770 or www.ttspg.com.
Live Music – Doug Deming & The Jewel Tones perform live at The Celtic Ray at 7 p.m. 145 E. Marion Ave., Punta Gorda. 941-916-9115 or celticray.net/our-events.
Comedy Show – Comedic magician Bob Burr performs live at The Library Comedy Club at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $15. 33 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda. 305-342-2930 or www.facebook.com/librarycomedyclubfourpointspuntagorda.
Comedy Show – The Celtic Ray presents “Comedy Night: The Local Lunatics of Comedy” at 8 p.m. Tickets are $5-$15. 145 E. Marion Ave., Punta Gorda. 941-916-9115 or celticray.net/our-events.
FRIDAY 11/21
“Feeling Good” on stage at Florida Studio Theatre’s Court Cabaret. -COURTESY PHOTO
Live Music – Andre Roy performs live at the Center Court at Fishermen’s Village at noon. 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda. 800-639-0020 or www.fishermensvillage.com/events.
Live Music – Risk & Romance performs live at the Sunset Beach at Fishermen’s Village at noon. 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda. 800-639-0020 or www.fishermensvillage.com/events.
Live Music – Singer Lee Birchfield performs live at the Sunset Beach at Fishermen’s Village at 5 p.m. 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda. 800-639-0020 or www.fishermensvillage.com/events.
Live Music – Singer James Lee performs live at the Center Court at Fishermen’s Village at 5 p.m. 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda. 800-639-0020 or www.fishermensvillage.com/events.
Live Music – The Lacey Jane Band performs live at the Superior Pools Tomahawk Tiki Bar & Grill in CoolToday Park at 5:30 p.m. 18800 S. West Villages Parkway, North Port. 941-413-5000 or cooltodaypark.com/events.
Live Concert – The Gulf Theater at the Military Heritage Museum presents “Supernatural: Tribute to Carlos Santana” at 7 p.m. Enjoy a powerhouse Santana tribute delivering spot-on vocals, look-alike flair and note-perfect hits from “Black Magic Woman” to “Smooth.” Tickets are $52. 900 W. Marion Ave., Punta Gorda. 941-205-8545 or ci.ovationtix.com/35397/production/1237512?performanceId=11631977.
Comedy Show – Comedian RC Smith performs live at The Library Comedy Club at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $15. 33 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda. 305-342-2930 or www.facebook.com/librarycomedyclubfourpointspuntagorda.
Live Concert – TT’s Tiki Bar presents the “Ultimate Anthem: The Arena Rock Tribute” at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $25. 33 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda. 941-637-6770 or www.ttspg.com.
Live Music – Kettle of Fish performs live at The Celtic Ray at 8 p.m. 145 E. Marion Ave., Punta Gorda. 941-916-9115 or celticray.net/our-events.
SATURDAY 11/22
Celtic Ray Market – Enjoy a day at the market featuring local vendors, breakfast pasties and morning drinks from the pub’s outdoor bar starting at 8 a.m. Set up across from the pub on Nesbit Sreet. 145 E. Marion Ave., Punta Gorda. 941-916-9115 or celticray.net/our-events.
Christmas Rummage Sale – The Englewood Methodist Church presents the 7th Annual Huge Christmas Items Rummage Sale at 8:30 a.m. Look through a wide variety of gently used, quality holiday decorations and unique gifts. 700 E. Dearborn St., Englewood. 941-474-5588 or www.englewoodmethodist.com/calendar.
Grilled Cheese Festival – CoolToday Park hosts the 5th Annual Grilled Cheese Festival at 11 a.m. Enjoy gourmet grilled cheese creations from local food trucks, live music, craft beer and much more. 18800 S. West Villages Parkway, North Port. 941-413-5000 or cooltodaypark.com/events.
7th Annual Braves Tomahawk 5K & Beer Run. -COURTESY PHOTO
Live Music – Chris Terp performs live at the Center Court at Fishermen’s Village at noon. 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda. 800-639-0020 or www.fishermensvillage.com/events.
Live Music – Paul Duffy performs live at The Celtic Ray at 2 p.m. 145 E. Marion Ave., Punta Gorda. 941-916-9115 or celticray.net/our-events.
Cannafeast – The Charlotte County Fairgrounds hosts the 6th Annual Cannafeast featuring Drifting Roots at 4 p.m. Experience the ultimate fusion of top-shelf cannabis, live reggae, EDM, top vendors and elevated vibes, plus a new EDM experience and the chill Red Eye Tribe Lounge. Tickets are $30.52. 2333 El Jobean Road, Port Charlotte. thecharlottecountyfair.com.
Live Music – Singer Paul Roush performs live at the Sunset Beach at Fishermen’s Village at 5 p.m. 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda. 800-639-0020 or www.fishermensvillage.com/events.
Live Music – Andre Roy performs live at the Center Court at Fishermen’s Village at 5 p.m. 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda. 800-639-0020 or www.fishermensvillage.com/events.
Live Music – Singer Mike Russell performs live at the Sunset Beach at Fishermen’s Village at 5 p.m. 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda. 800-639-0020 or www.fishermensvillage.com/events.
Live Music – Karate in the Garage performs live at the Superior Pools Tomahawk Tiki Bar & Grill in CoolToday Park at 5:30 p.m. 18800 S. West Villages Parkway, North Port. 941-413-5000 or cooltodaypark.com/events.
Live Concert – Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall presents “RAIN: A Beatles Christmas Tribute” at 7 p.m. Celebrate the season with holiday favorites and timeless hits in one unforgettable family-friendly night. Tickets are $61-$96. 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. 941-263-6799 or www.vanwezel.org/events/detail/rain-a-beatles-christmas-tribute.
Live Concert – TT’s Tiki Bar presents “Get Lucky: Loveryboy, Bad Company, Aerosmith Tribute” at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $25. 33 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda. 941-637-6770 or www.ttspg.com.
Live Music – Tuff Son performs live at The Celtic Ray at 8 p.m. 145 E. Marion Ave., Punta Gorda. 941-916-9115 or celticray.net/our-events.
SUNDAY 11/23
Live Music – Enjoy Music by Mike V live at the Sunset Beach at Fishermen’s Village at noon. 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda. 800-639-0020 or www.fishermensvillage.com/events.
Live Music – Rust Nut performs live at the Superior Pools Tomahawk Tiki Bar & Grill in CoolToday Park at 1 p.m. 18800 S. West Villages Parkway, North Port. 941-413-5000 or cooltodaypark.com/events.
Live Music – West of Galway performs live at The Celtic Ray at 2 p.m. 145 E. Marion Ave., Punta Gorda. 941-916-9115 or celticray.net/our-events.
Live Music – The CJ Sterlace Band performs live at TT’s Tiki Bar at 4 p.m. 33 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda. 941-637-6770 or www.ttspg.com.
MONDAY 11/24
Holiday Art Sale – The Visual Art Center hosts the opening day of “Art for Everyone! $200 or Less.” Enjoy holiday artwork from local artists in the Goff and Main galleries, and find unique gifts just in time for gift giving. 210 Maud St., Punta Gorda. visualartcenter.org/pages/calendar-of-events.
Music Trivia Night – At The Celtic Ray from 7-9 p.m. Music Trivia with Zimco Entertainment. Play solo or with a group. 145 E. Marion Ave., Punta Gorda. 941-916-9115 or celticray.net/our-events.
TUESDAY 11/25
Live Music – Matt Krause performs live at the Center Court at Fishermen’s Village at 4 p.m. 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda. 800-639-0020 or www.fishermensvillage.com/events.
WEDNESDAY 11/26
Live Music – Chris Terp performs live at the Sunset Beach at Fishermen’s Village at noon. 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda. 800-639-0020 or www.fishermensvillage.com/events.
Live Music – Singer Mark Groka performs live at the Center Court at Fishermen’s Village at noon. 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda. 800-639-0020 or www.fishermensvillage.com/events.
Live Music – Singer Dan Meadows performs live at the Center Court at Fishermen’s Village at 4 p.m. 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda. 800-639-0020 or www.fishermensvillage.com/events.
Tiki Karaoke – Enjoy a night of karaoke at the Sunset Beach Club at Fishermen’s Village at 5 p.m. 31 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda. 800-639-0020 or www.fishermensvillage.com/events.
Pub Trivia Night – At The Celtic Ray from 7-9 p.m. Test your trivia skills. Play solo or with a group. 145 E. Marion Ave., Punta Gorda. 941-916-9115 or celticray.net/our-events/.
Live Music – The Outsiders perform live at TT’s Tiki Bar at 7:30 p.m. 33 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda. 941-637-6770 or www.ttspg.com.
ONGOING
Skyspace by James Turrell – The Ringling Museum of Art presents “Joseph’s Coat,” a work by renowned artist James Turell, through Dec. 29. Experience sunset like never before, where a shifting light show transforms your view of the sky and sparks a mesmerizing experience within this harmonious space. Tickets are $10. 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. 941-358-3180 or www.ringling.org/event/josephs-coat-skyspace-by-james-turrell.
“The Sound of Music” – At Venice Theatre through Nov. 23. Experience “The Sound of Music”, winner of five Tony Awards, with timeless songs, a heartwarming story and unforgettable family magic for all ages. Tickets are $18 – $40. 140 Tampa Ave. W., Venice. 941-488-1115 or venicetheatre.org/events/the-sound-of-music.
Feeling Good – On stage at Florida Studio Theatre’s Court Cabaret through Feb. 1 with multiple showtimes. A show bringing the style and swagger of Sinatra, Bublé, Gaga and more. With captivating vocals, hit songs and dazzling charm, this high-energy show will leave you smiling. Tickets are $18-$24. 1265 First St., Sarasota.
Three Pianos – Florida Studio Theatre presents “Three Pianos” onstage at Goldstein Cabaret through March 29 with multiple showtimes. “Three Pianos” is a rocking show hitting the stage, with hits from Billy Joel, Elton John, Alicia Keys and more. A high-energy tribute to the rebels and romantics who turned 88 keys to pure magic. Tickets are $18-$24. 1239 N. Palm Ave., Sarasota.
Live Music – The Ringling Museum of Art presents “Ringling by the Bay” through April 20 at the Bayfront Gardens, with events monthly at varying times and multiple performers. Tickets are $25 ($20 for members). 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. 941-358-3180 or www.ringling.org/event/ringling-by-the-bay-4.
Joy In the Hall Holiday Market – The Visual Arts Center hosts Joy in the Hall Holiday Market through Dec. 29. Shop handmade holiday gifts featuring festive creations by talented artists in a magical seasonal showcase. 210 Maud St., Punta Gorda. 941-639-8810 or visualartcenter.org/pages/calendar-of-events.
“Come From Away” – The Asolo Repertory Theatre presents “Come from Away” at the Merz Theatre through Dec. 28 with multiple showtimes. Experience the true story of stranded travelers in Gander, Newfoundland, showing how kindness, music and community can bring hope after 9/11. Tickets are $37-$81. 5555 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. 941-351-8000 or asolorep.org/show/come-from-away.
Lucky Stiff – Florida Studio Theatre presents “Lucky Stiff” through Dec. 28 with multiple showtimes. A comedic murder mystery in Monte Carlo where a man must pass off his murdered uncle as alive to claim $6 million, and chaos ensues. Tickets are $39-$59. 1241 North Palm Ave., Sarasota. 941-366-9000 or www.floridastudiotheatre.org/events-and-tickets/plays.
FST Improv Comedy – the Florida Studio Theatre Hosts “FST Improv: Out of Bounds” through Nov. 22 with multiple showtimes. Two teams of improvisers face off in fast-paced games, scenes, and songs—audience applause decides the ultimate comedy champion. Tickets are $18. 1241 North Palm Ave., Sarasota. 941-366-9000 or www.floridastudiotheatre.org/events-and-tickets/plays.
Nature Through the Lens – Marie Selby Botanical Gardens Presents “Nature Through the Lens” by Clyde Butcher through Aug. 31. See the stunning black-and-white Florida landscapes at Selby Gardens’ Historic Spanish Point, blending art with nature across 30 acres. 401 North Tamiami Trail, Osprey. 941-366-5731 or selby.org/dsc/dsc-exhibitions/clyde-butcher-nature-through-the-lens.
Call to Artists: Dream Big or Go Small – At the Visual Arts Center through Dec. 29. All artists are invited to explore scale, imagination and impact in “Dream Big or Go Small,” a unique exhibition that celebrates both grand ideas and miniature masterpieces. 210 Maud St., Punta Gorda. tockify.com/visualartcenter.org/detail/696/1763218800000.
Holiday Festival of Lights – Fishermen’s Village presents the Holiday Festival of Lights through Dec. 31. Enjoy daily viewing of more than 1 million lights and themed decorations. 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda. 941-639-8721 or www.fishermensvillage.com/events.
The Amish Project – The Venice Theatre presents “The Amish Project” through Dec. 7 with multiple showtimes. A powerful true-story play exploring forgiveness and compassion after a Nickel Mines schoolhouse tragedy. Tickets are $28-$38. 140 Tampa Ave. W., Venice. 941-488-1115 or venicetheatre.org/events/the-amish-project.
Arts & Crafts Show – The Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center hosts the Indoor Christmas Countdown Arts & Crafts Show from Nov. 22-23. Enjoy art from local artists and find unique gifts for the holidays along the way. 75 Taylor St., Punta Gorda. 941-833-5444 or www.charlotteharborecc.com/events/2020/indoor-christmas-countdown-arts–crafts-show.
Live Performance – The Charlotte Players presents “Over the Tavern” through Dec. 14. A sharp, funny and heartfelt look at a 1950s Buffalo family as young Rudy challenges faith, family values and growing up in the most unexpected ways. Tickets on sale at www.charlotteplayers.org/upcoming-events or call 941-255-1022. 1182 Market Circle, Port Charlotte.
Visit the Grinch! – Fishermen’s Village welcomes a holiday favorite character inside the main entrance from Nov. 21-22. Bring the kids for a meet-and-greet with the one and only Grinch! 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda. 800-639-0020 or www.fishermensvillage.com/events.
Visit with Santa! – Fishermen’s Village welcomes Santa Claus inside the main entrance from Nov. 21-23. Bring the kids to meet Santa and share their gift wishes. 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda. 800-639-0020 or www.fishermensvillage.com/events.
Comedy Show – The Visani Italian Steakhouse and Comedy Theatre presents Johnny B and the bad Boys of Comedy from Nov. 20-22 with multiple showtimes. Tickets are $25. 2400 Kings Highway, Port Charlotte. 941-629-9191 or visanientertainmentinc.thundertix.com/events/254950.
Dinner and a Show – The Visani Italian Steakhouse and Comedy Theatre presents “The Ultimate Christmas Variety Show” featuring Vegas top impersonators and the Edward Twins from Nov. 24-26. Tickets are $74.95. 2400 Kings Highway, Port Charlotte. 941-629-9191 or visanientertainmentinc.thundertix.com/events/248571.
Live Performance – Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe presents Langston Hughes’ “Black Nativity” through Dec. 21. A vibrant retelling of the nativity with gospel, blues, spirituals and Langston Hughes’ poetry, featuring new voices and inspiring hope, joy and peace. Tickets are $20-$45. 1012 N. Orange Ave., Sarasota. 941-366-1505 or www.westcoastblacktheatre.org/productions/langston-hughes-black-nativity.
UPCOMING VENUES
CoolToday Park. 18800 S. West Villages Parkway, North Port. 941-413-5000 or www.cooltodaypark.com.
7th Annual Braves Tomahawk 5K & Beer Run – Family-friendly 5K at CoolToday Park at 7:30 a.m. on Dec. 6. Run the stadium, finish on the field, enjoy breakfast, medals, holiday fun and prizes for all ages.
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. 777 N.Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. 941-263-6799 or www.vanwezel.org.
’90s Hits & Xmas Riffs – Nov. 29 at 7 p.m. Rock out with Ezra Ray Hart, Mark McGrath, Kevin Griffin and Emerson Hart, bringing ’90s and 2000s hits to life in a high-energy holiday show. Tickets are $56 – $116.
Dave Koz & Friends Christmas Tour – Nov. 30 at 7 p.m. Enjoy a night of smooth sax, holiday classics and unforgettable jazz performances. Tickets are $76-$101.
Joe Bonamassa – Dec. 3 at 8 p.m. A powerhouse guitarist delivering new hits and fan favorites with unmatched energy and soul. Tickets are $235.
The Oak Ridge Boys Farewell Tour – Dec. 4 at 7 p.m. Celebrate more than 50 years of legendary harmonies as The Oak Ridge Boys bring their American Made Farewell Tour for a night of timeless hits and family fun. Tickets are $66-$96.
Masterworks: Close Encounters – Dec. 6 at 7:30 p.m., and Dec. 7 at 2:30 p.m. The Sarasota Orchestra presents an evening of music inspired by imagination and place, featuring “The Sorcerer’s Apprentice,” “Close Encounters” and “Pines of Rome.” Tickets start at $39.
“The Book of Mormon” – Dec. 9-14 with multiple showtimes. The nine-time Tony Award-winning musical “The Book of Mormon” brings its hilarious, irreverent story of two mismatched missionaries to the stage. Tickets are $91-$166.
Venice Theatre. 140 Tampa Ave. W., Venice. 941-488-1115 or www.venicetheatre.org.
“A Christmas Carol” – From Dec. 4-21 with multiple showtimes. Celebrate 25 years of VT’s musical version of Dickens’ timeless tale of redemption, starring Brad Wages as Scrooge. Tickets are $18-$30.
Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall. 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers. 239-481-4849 or www.bbmannpah.com.
Nutcracker Ballet – The Gulfshore Ballet and Gulf Coast Symphony present “The Nutcracker” from Dec. 20-21 with multiple showtimes. Enjoy the magical holiday classic with 90 dancers, 48 musicians and breathtaking stage effects. Tickets are $59-$129.
Asolo Repertory Theatre. 5555 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. 941-351-8000 or www.asolorep.org.
Christmas Truce – At Mertz Theatre from Dec. 3-Dec. 20 with multiple showtimes. Experience “All Is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914,” a moving story of peace and humanity told through song and soldiers’ own words. Tickets are $45-$71. 5555 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota.
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