Summer Is Here
Experience The Vibrant Spirit Of Summer In Sarasota's Downtown Improvement District
The Downtown Improvement District invites you to savor the delights of our city during this season. Immerse yourself in the warm sunshine as you explore our charming streets lined with eclectic boutiques, art galleries, and inviting cafes. Indulge in a delightful dining experience at our diverse restaurants, offering a fusion of flavors. From sipping refreshing cocktails on lively patios to relishing local seafood delicacies, downtown Sarasota is a haven for culinary enthusiasts. With the perfect weather as your backdrop, embrace the joy of dining and exploring downtown, where every street corner holds the promise of a new adventure.

In the midst of the great weather, downtown Sarasota comes alive with an array of activities and attractions that will captivate your senses. Stroll along the scenic waterfront, where the sparkling blue waters of Sarasota Bay meet soft sandy beaches. Discover the rich cultural heritage of our city by visiting museums and theaters showcasing world-class art, music, and performances. Take a leisurely walk through our beautifully manicured parks and gardens, immersing yourself in nature's embrace. With an abundance of outdoor festivals, live music events, and vibrant street life, downtown Sarasota offers an unforgettable summer experience. Soak up the sun, dine on exquisite cuisine, and explore the vibrant heart of our city, where summer dreams become a reality.

The DID did it!
Upcoming Meetings
Tuesday, June 6, 2023, at 10 a.m.
City Hall, City Commission Chambers, 1565 First Street, Sarasota

AGENDA ITEMS:
City of Sarasota Public Art Master Plan Presentation
Downtown Holiday Décor
DID Boundary Expansion Discussion
Sidewalk Café & Parklet Café Update


View the full schedule and past meetings here.
Sarasota Farmers Market
The Sarasota Farmers Market is open every Saturday, year-round, from 7am to 1pm, rain or shine. We are located in the heart of downtown Sarasota, centered at the intersection of Main Street and Lemon Avenue, extending to First Street on the North End, and Pineapple Avenue on the South End, with Vendors also located on State Street.

Downtown Business Spotlight:
Located at 107 S Pineapple Ave, North Star Fine Jewelry & Gift Boutique is an exquisite new destination for the luxury gift-buying journey, located in beautiful downtown Sarasota. Far and away from ordinary—yet only minutes away from home!

Check them out on Facebook and Instagram.
107 S Pineapple Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236 | View Map/Directions
(941) 350-9992
To sign up for a merchant spotlight, contact us at: DowntownDID@SarasotaFL.com for more information.
The Bay Runner Runner Trolley


Please note, service changes effective June 1:


Current Schedule:
Trolley #1 - 8 a.m. - 8 p.m., 7 days/week
Trolley #2 - 10 a.m. - Midnight, 7 days/week
 


Proposed New Schedule Effective June 1:

Trolley #1 - 7 a.m. - 8 p.m., 7 days/week
Trolley #2 - 10 a.m. - 10 p.m., Monday - Thursday, 10 a.m. - 11 p.m., Friday & Saturday

The open-air Bay Runner Trolley offers scenic, safe, accessible transit between St. Armands Circle, Lido Key, and downtown Sarasota. Download the Bay Runner app to live more, drive less.
PARKLETS INFORMATION MEETING

VIRTUAL PUBLIC INPUT SESSION

June 8, 2023 at 5:30pm via Zoom 
Click the link to register
The DID & City of Sarasota Present
The Downtown Improvement District and the City of Sarasota funded and initiated the second season of the popular Fresh Fridays event series. Here's what's up next on Friday, June 2nd.
Sounds of Summer | Friday, June 2nd
Palm Ave | 7-10 p.m.

The Downtown Improvement District’s freshest block party continues with Sounds of Summer. Join us on Friday, June 2 on Palm Ave. Every summer has a soundtrack, so Fresh Fridays is bringing one to you with the outstanding, high-energy ensemble, Bay Kings Band! Bay Kings Band are live music experts who will be performing summer hits everyone knows and loves, infusing the night with vivacity and filling the street with dancing.

Come early for your free signature giveaways, and grab a bite or beverage from one of our hospitality partners, Art Ovation Hotel, Beso, Azul Steak and Sushi Lounge, or Brick’s Smoked Meats.

Plus, you'll be able to hang out for a bit and meet players from the Paradise, Sarasota’s first pre-professional soccer team with headquarters located in the Downtown Improvement District.
Elevate Your Downtown Sarasota Experience

Sarasota jumped to the No. 5 position for best places to live in the U.S. and it retained its No. 1 ranking for best place to live in Florida, too. The annual U.S. News & World Report list evaluates metro areas based on quality of life, job market, value and desirability. In 2022, the Sarasota area ranked No. 9 on the annual list and No. 1 in Florida. 

What would YOU like to see the DID do?
If you have some ideas for new initiatives for the DID or if you would like to comment on existing programs, please reach out to the Business District Manager to let us know!
Want to Stay Updated?
If you’d like to continue receiving DID updates electronically, please subscribe to our newsletter HERE by filling out the sign-up form. In addition, please feel free to follow our social media channels, @DowntownSarasotaDID on Facebook and Instagram to ensure you stay informed.