Many special events are held in the city of Venice throughout the year. Most of them take place annually between October and April. Among those are Sun Fiesta, Sharks Tooth Festival, Venice MainStreet Art Fest, Holiday Parade, Christmas Boat Parade, Rotary Art Fest and the Italian Feast and Carnival.

Special events must be approved by the city council. The Planning and Zoning Department then issues a permit allowing them to take place on public right of way. 

The gazebo in Centennial Park is a popular place for weddings and concerts. Reservations are scheduled through the Planning and Zoning Department. Sunset beach weddings, concerts in the park, arts and crafts shows, and the downtown strolls are part of city’s unique charm.

To schedule a special event, or for more information, call Planning Coordinator Kellie Bricker at 486-2626, Ext. 28002 or e-mail at kbricke@ci.venice.fl.us.

Sarasota County issues permits for Venice Beach, Brohard Beach, Maxine Barritt Park, Patriots Park and several other parks located within the city. Contact Sarasota County Parks reservations office to inquire about scheduling events at these parks at 861-PARK (861-7275).

All event holders must adhere to the city’s noise ordinance. Please click here for a copy of the ordinance.

The city’s Web site special events calendar serves as a clearing house of events in the community. To place a community event on the calendar or to view the events already listed, click here.

To submit a Special Event Application on-line, click here.