Event planned from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Phillippi Estate Park
The Friends of the Sarasota County History Center will host its third annual fundraiser, Friends Fest 2026, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 15, at Phillippi Estate Park, which stands at 5500 S. Tamiami Trail in Sarasota, the nonprofit organization has announced.
“We are planning an exciting and fun fest,” Kim Manning, president of the Friends, says in a news release. “There will be live music and entertainment, food trucks, a silent auction, games for the kids and much more,” Manning continued.
“In addition,” Manning noted, Long Timers of Sarasota County — which comprises people who have been county residents for 30 or more years — will be holding its first reunion during the Friends Fest.
The public is invited, the release points out. “Admission is a donation of $20 to support the History Center,” whose mission is to collect, preserve and share “Sarasota County’s cultural and historical heritage,” the release adds.
The food trucks scheduled to be on-site are Strokes Seafood, Simply Greek & American by Wynnberry, M&M BBQ & Soul food, and Grandpa’s German food, the release continues. Attendees may “bring their own food and drinks and have a picnic on the beautiful grounds on the Phillippi Estate,” the release does note.
Among the live entertainment will be classic oldies performed by the Paisley Craze Band and DJ Alex Roy, the release continues.
“Chucko the Clown and Friends and surprises” will be part of the festivities as well, the release says.
“In addition,” it points out, “Storytellers of Sarasota County will be recording live interviews,” and games and dance contests, nine holes of mini golf and lawn games will be featured.
For the silent auction, the release adds, attendees will be able to “bid on a wine tasting party, theatre tickets, assorted gift baskets, Sarasota tours, local history books and more.”