PHOTO BY TOM NEWTON
also offers local actors the chance to audition
for productions and volunteer behind
the scenes.
The Arts Alliance of Lemon Bay (452 W.
Dearborn Street) and The Englewood Art
Center, a division of The Ringling College of
Art and Design (350 S. McCall Road) offers
exhibits and classes throughout the year as
well as the opportunity to purchase the work
of local artists and artisans.
The Hermitage Artist Retreat on
Manasota Key is open to the public several
times a year when the artists and writers
in residence give back to the community
with readings on the beach, open studios,
workshops and exhibits. All events are free.
The Open Studio (380 Old Englewood
Road) encourages visitors to check out its
organic garden, open house events, exhibits
and many classes focusing on art, healing,
organic gardening, and healthy living.
On Sunday evenings, about one hour
before sunset, everyone is invited to the
Sunday Drum Circle on Englewood Beach.
Bring a percussion instrument, hula-hoop or
dance along.
Cruzin’ on Dearborn is held the first
Saturday each month. Antiques, rods, muscle
cars and more line Dearborn Street for
everyone to come out, see and talk with
the owners.
And then there is Englewood Beach
Waterfest. This week-long event attracts
people from all over the US. It begins with a
SUP (stand up paddle board)event the first
weekend and culminates with the OPA/
APBA Offshore World Championship boat
races the following weekend.
After a “tough” day fishing, hanging out at
the beach, playing golf or shopping, who can’t
use a little evening entertainment? Fittingly,
much of the area’s nightlife takes advantage
of the warm temperatures, offering outdoor
venues for enjoying food, your favorite
beverage and a variety of music.
In the Englewood Beach area, The Lock
‘N Key Restaurant (2045 N. Beach Road) is
a long-time favorite spot for dinner, drinks,
music and dancing. The Waverly (2095
N. Beach Road) offers one of the area’s
most scenic views and dishes with fresh,
seasonal ingredients. Downstairs is Waves
Beachside Café with a casual menu and live
entertainment. Walk around the area and
you’ll find other places for music, dancing
and hanging out with friends, including the
PHOTO BY LYNNE PEDLAR
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