Parks and Recreation Department in Sarasota announces numerous holiday events for people of all ages

Events planned from Dec. 13 through Dec. 20

This is a poster for one of the upcoming events. Image courtesy City of Sarasota

The City of Sarasota Parks and Recreation Department is inviting people of all ages to celebrate the holidays with festive events, city staff has announced.

The details follow:

Build a Board: Holiday Treat Workshop

  • Friday, Dec. 13 — 5:30 to 7 p.m., Arlington Park & Aquatic Complex, located at 2650 Waldemere St. in Sarasota. Cost is $12 per board. “This family-friendly event offers a cozy evening of festive fun: sip on hot cocoa, dip into a chocolate fountain, and decorate cookies and treats with sprinkles and toppings. Create your own custom dessert board to take home or share!” Space is limited; call 941-263-6732 to register.

Winter Wonderland at the Robert L. Taylor Community Complex

  • Saturday, Dec. 14 – 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Robert L. Taylor Community Complex, 1845 John Rivers St. in Sarasota. Free. “Come together with neighbors, friends, and family for a day of free festive fun. This community holiday celebration offers something for everyone: arts & crafts, cookie decorating, a toy giveaway, pizza for the kids, and a special visit from Santa.” To register, visit https://rlt-winter-wonderland.eventbrite.com. For more information, call the Robert L. Taylor Community Complex at 941-263-6562.

Breakfast with the GRINCH!

  • Friday, Dec. 20 – 7:30 to 9:30 a.m., Arlington Park & Aquatic Complex, located at 2650 Waldemere St. in Sarasota. Cost is $10 per person. “Join us for a festive breakfast where the Grinch himself will be there to spread some holiday cheer! Enjoy a delicious breakfast with pancakes, sausage, fresh fruit, apple juice, and coffee. After breakfast, get crafty with a Grinch-inspired ornament, play games, and cozy up for a holiday movie. Plus, don’t miss the chance to take a memorable photo with the Grinch! Open to all ages, but space is limited.” To register, call 941-263-6732.

Santa SLAM! 

  • Friday, Dec. 20 – noon to 3 p.m., Payne Park Tennis Center, located at 2050 Adams Lane in Sarasota, with social activities at Court 13. Cost: $15 for passholders; $25 for non-passholders. “Join us for Reindeer Games — a Co-ed Doubles Round Robin open to all skill levels. Enjoy friendly competition, meet fellow tennis enthusiasts, and celebrate the season with some festive fun.” Sign up at the front desk or call 941-263-6641.

K.O.P.S. (Kids & Officers Promoting Solidarity) Winter Night Out

  • Friday, Dec. 20 — 5 to 9 p.m. For 8- to 11-year-olds, the time period will be from 5 to 7 p.m.; for 12- to 15-year-olds, 7 to 9 p.m., at the Robert L. Taylor Community Complex, located at 1845 John Rivers St. in Sarasota. “Join us for a free after-hours youth program! K.O.P.S. (Kids and Officers Promoting Solidarity) is a unique program created in partnership with the Sarasota Police Department to promote positive relationships between local youth and law enforcement. Activities may include basketball, volleyball, soccer/kickball, billiards, and video games. Dinner, refreshments, and safe supervision will be provided — all free of charge!” To register, go to https://kops-winter-2024.eventbrite.com or stop by the Robert L. Taylor Community Complex front desk. For more information, contact the complex at 941-263-6562.

Learn more about City of Sarasota Parks and Recreation Department opportunities at www.letsplaysarasota.com/about/winter-events.