Esplanade Lifestyle - Azario | Jan/Feb 2025 by Overflow

LIFESTYLE

LETTER FROM THE LIFESTYLE TEAM

A note on what's coming up

TEAM SPOTLIGHT

Meet Madison Harrison

PET FEATURE

Furry Friend: Chance

FEATURED EVENT

Sarasota Polo Outing

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Carol & Jeff Sowers

SPA

Robe, Relax, Repeat

CONCIERGE

Exclusive offerings, just for you!

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

Conrad Tidswell, General Manager 941-253-2924

Conrad.Tidswell@TeamEsplanade.com

Doug Walkowiak, Community Association Manager, 941-253-2910

Doug.Walkowiak@TeamEsplanade.com

Chris McDonald, Food & Beverage Director, 941-253-2914

Chris.McDonald@TeamEsplanade.com

Ashley Tuohy, Assistant Community Association Manager, 941-253-2913

Ashley.Tuohy@TeamEsplanade.com

Delaney Anderson, Lifestyle Manager Delaney.Anderson@TeamEsplanade.com

Mary Winter, Wellness and Sports Director, 941-253-2921

Mary.Winter@TeamEsplanade.com

Stephen Smith, Landscaping Manager Stephen.Smith@TeamEsplanade.com

Madison Harrison, Director of Sports Courts Madison.Harrison@TeamEsplanade.com

AZARIO GOLF

Mike Tuohy, PGA, Director of Golf 941-253-2911

Mike.Tuohy@TeamEsplanade.com

TAYLOR MORRISON SALES

Sales Gallery Hours Sun, 12 - 6 p.m. Mon-Sat, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Community Sales Team Arthur Korney: 941-993-6164 AKorney@TaylorMorrison.com

Levent Yamuk, 941-320-3006 LYamuk@TaylorMorrison.com

Dianne Christian, 813-545-8337 DChristian@TaylorMorrison.com

Maria Amundson: 941-462-5871 MAmundson@TaylorMorrison.com

Melanie Byrnes: 941-773-4109 MByrnes@TaylorMorrison.com

Elizabeth Sherwood: 949-400-6677 ESherwood@TaylorMorrison.com

Rod Mesplay: 863-266-7769 RMesplay@TaylorMorrison.com

800-720-0028 Mon-Fri, 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Letter From the Lifestyle Team

DELANEY ANDERSON YOUR LIFESTYLE MANAGER

Happy New Year!

As we stand on the threshold of 2025, a fresh chapter unfolds before us, filled with endless possibilities and new beginnings. The turning of the year invites us to reflect on the moments that have shaped us and to embrace the opportunities that lie ahead. It’s a time to set new intentions and renew our sense of hope.

With each passing year, we grow and evolve, and as we step into this new one, we carry with us the lessons of the past while looking forward to the future with optimism and excitement. Here’s to a year of growth, connection, and making the most of every moment. Welcome, 2025!

In January and February, we welcome many new adventures. We kick off the year with a Buccaneers game at Raymond James Stadium, setting the tone for a season of excitement and community spirit. We will continue our monthly bingo games, Yappy Hour and Sunset Sips for those looking to unwind and connect.

We will end the month of January at the Van Wezel, with a lively evening at the Yacht Rock Revue.

In February, in honor of Heart Month, we will offer CPR training to ensure we are prepared to help when needed. Our “Barking Hearts” event will celebrate the furry companions who bring so much joy to our lives. For a touch of elegance, join us for an outing at Sarasota Polo. Don’t miss the heartwarming card-making event, where we will be dropping the cards off at an assisted living community in Lakewood Ranch.

Let’s come together as a community to celebrate all that is to come this year, embracing every adventure, every connection, and every new beginning with open hearts and a spirit of togetherness.

Madison Harrison

YOUR DIRECTOR OF SPORTS COURTS

Please join us in welcoming Madison Harrison to the team as our new Director of Sports Courts. Originally from New Braunfels, Texas, Madison brings a wealth of experience having played tennis at Mississippi State University. She also competed internationally at the professional level and coached Division 1 college tennis.

In her free time, she enjoys hiking, reading, and traveling. We’re excited to have her on board and look forward to the expertise and enthusiasm she’ll bring to our team!

Furry Friends Meet Chance

LOVED BY LARA HARP & ROGER PARTRIDGE

Chance, the beloved furry friend of Lara and Roger, is a cherished Member of the community. He’s known for his love of costumes and has become quite the local celebrity, winning several contests in Sarasota and Bradenton, especially around Halloween and St. Patrick’s Day. One of his most memorable outfits was the golfer costume he wore in last year’s Howl-O-Ween contest. He truly enjoys getting dressed up!

In addition to his flair for costumes, Chance is highly inquisitive, which has occasionally led him into a bit of trouble. He’s also an avid agility enthusiast and excels in his classes. His love for running makes agility training a perfect match. At the Bark Park, he relishes the freedom of open space, often running on his own or with other dogs. He’s particularly fond of having them chase him!

HAVE FURRY FAMILY MEMBER THAT YOU WANT TO FEATURE?

Contact your Lifestyle Manager to be featured in the next edition of the Lifestyle Magazine. Answer a few questions about your furry, feathery, or scaly friend and share a couple pictures. Don’t have a furry family of your own, but know a community Member who does? Nominate them to be the next Featured Furry Friend. Contact the Member to suggest the feature or let your Lifestyle Manager know.

Polo Outing

Sunday, February 16

Gates Open: 10 a.m. Polo Match: 1 - 4 p.m.

Sarasota Polo Club 8201 Polo Club Lane

Tickets are $15. There will be a private tent for Members to watch the polo match. Please bring your own chairs. Our tent will be available when the gates open. You may also bring your own food and beverages! Food will also be available for purchase.

Carol & Jeff Sowers

The Members of our community are truly what make this a wonderful place to live. In each edition, we will spotlight a Member, couple or family to showcase the amazing people that call our community home. If you would like to be featured or want to nominate another Member, please contact your Lifestyle Manager.

Robe, Relax, Repeat

Spa Package: $199, a Savings of over $100

Indulge in our Valentine’s “self love” package this February. Enjoy our 100-minute tranquility massage, followed by a glass of bubbly in our meditation salt lounge. Continue the relaxation at home in our Signature Esplanade Spa Robe. Spend two hours and feel like you spent the day!

*Package must be used in February, gratuity not included.

Why did you choose Esplanade and where are you from?

When Carol and Jeff decided to move to Florida, they wanted to live in Lakewood Ranch to be near family. Esplanade at Azario became their top choice due to the appealing models and amenities it offered. The Azario community is known for being very friendly, with a wide variety of activities available for Members to enjoy. They made the move to Azario from Cape May Point, New Jersey, a charming community at the southern tip of the state, famous for the iconic Cape May Lighthouse and the beautiful State Park. Before that, they enjoyed life in the Philadelphia suburbs, where they worked and built lasting memories.

What is your favorite place to travel?

They love traveling north to the Pennsylvania and New Jersey areas to visit family and friends. Looking ahead, they’re excited to expand their travels, with plans to explore the Western USA and international destinations in the future.

What activities and events do you like to participate in at Azario?

Carol stays active by participating in many of the exercise classes offered at the Wellness Center. She’s also a Member of the Creative Arts Club and enjoys playing Bunco and Bocce Ball. Meanwhile, Jeff takes full advantage of everything the golf course has to offer. Together, they look forward to the Signature Events and other organized activities in the community.

What is your favorite dish to make?

Carol and Jeff follow a plant-based diet as much as possible and are always on the lookout for new and exciting dishes to try. They joined the Azario plant-based group, where they’ve gathered a variety of recipes and ideas to support their plant-based lifestyle.

Exclusive Concierge Offerings

Part of the Esplanade Lifestyle is rolling out the red carpet and giving our Members VIP access to exclusive offers and services! We’ll continue to build and foster these relationships with local organizations and businesses to offer special rates for our community. If you know of a business that would like to partner with Esplanade at Azario Lakewood Ranch, please contact your Lifestyle Manager. To see full details on all offerings, visit esplanadeazariolifestyle.com/concierge.

GOLF

THE TROON CARD

Members receive 25% off standard Troon Card prices. Golfers experience the World of Troon at the best rates at more than 150 courses. Reserve tee times within 3-days of desired date and savings up to 50% off. troon.com/product/troon-cardesplanade

HEALTH & WELLNESS

BRAIN & BODY CHIROPRACTIC, THE WELLNESS WAY

Food Allergy Testing & More 10% Off All Services 941-702-0553

CELEBRATORY YARD SIGNS

SIGN DREAMERS OF BRADENTON

$60/day for a Single Day Sign Rental Derek Pardue 941-773-5766

CONCIERGE SERVICES

CARVER CONCIERGE SERVICES

Free consultation & 10% off 1st month. 813-546-4070 carverconcierge.com

FOOD

TWO CHEFS ON HILLVIEW

Specialty Food Shop | 10% Off $40+ 941-210-3535 twochefsonhillview.com

SPORTING GOODS

VANHUNKS BOARDING 10% off a full price board or boat. Tyrone: 941-218-9095 vanhunksboarding.com

CAR SERVICES

KEITH BANKS LUXURY SUV TRANSPORTATION

Preferred pricing for local transport. 770-883-4641 banks13@aol.com

JAX CAR WASH

Complimentary car wash (one per person) and 10% off detailing services. 941-746-9274

jaxkarwashfl.com/freebestwash

WOODY’S CAR WASH

$10 off per month on the top 3 Endless Wash Club™ membership packages for life of membership. Use code “AZARIO10” at checkout. mholcomb@woodieswash.com 855-559-3355 | woodieswash.com

PET SERVICES

K9 REVIVE

All-Natural Dog Supplements 10% off using the code AZARIO10. k9revive.com

BAYSIDE PET RESORT 10% off services. 941-755-3047 baysidepetresort.com

LUXURY PET SPA Mobile Pet Grooming | 10% Off Stanley: 941-330-3414

CRUISING

SRQ CRUISES

Experienced cruise consultant offering additional discounts and onboard credit. Let me plan your unforgettable adventure! 941-271-1539

SRQcruises@gmail.com SRQcruises.com

HOME SERVICES

ELEMENT PRO

Elevate the cleanliness of your home with our premium cleaning services. 10% off all home cleaning packages. Mario: 941-549-0023

HOMEWORX

Custom Accent & Fireplace Walls, Built-In’s, Interior Painting, Ceiling Designs, Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring and Wainscoting. Light Fixture and Ceiling Fan Installations. Community discounts offered. 973-886-7399

homeworxproservices@gmail.com homeworxproservices.com

HOME SERVICES BY PETER All Home Services Available 10% off & free consultation. 941-893-7131 vip.handyman@kleedoc.com

PARADISE GRILLS & OUTDOOR KITCHENS 10-20% off retail. 941-271-3048 UTC@paradisegrills.com paradisegrills.com

STOP SLIP SOLUTIONS INC. 10% off surfaces safer to walk on. Mary Ann Hollander: 941-600-8031 stopslipsolutionsinc.com

ZINGA’S

Blinds, Shutters, Shades, Outdoor Screen Shades and Awnings 20% off all products (excluding pergolas).

$1,500 off any power pergola. Just mention “Esplanade Magazine” when booking an appointment. 844-494-6427 zingashome.com

Recent Events

Pickled Pink PICKLEBALL TOURNAMENT

In honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Esplanade at Azario, Skye Ranch and The Heights hosted their third annual Pickled Pink Pickleball Tournament. The event featured an exciting pickleball competition, followed by a lunch and award ceremony. Community Members came together to raise funds for My Breast Friend 941, a local charity dedicated to supporting those affected by breast cancer.

Howl-O-Ween PET PARADE

Azario’s furry friends gathered for a fun-filled Halloween pet parade, starting at the Sales Gallery and making their way to the Bark Park. Dressed in their spookiest and silliest costumes, the pets paraded with pride. Prizes were awarded for the most creative and amusing costumes, making it a memorable celebration for all!

Halloween at the BAHAMA BAR

Members gathered at the Bahama Bar for an unforgettable Halloween night, filled with spooks, silliness, and sensational fun! The Bahama Bar was transformed into a haunted haven, complete with a buffet, a lively DJ spinning spooky tunes, and a photo booth for capturing all the creepy and clever costumes.

Recent Events

Veterans Day CEREMONY

On Veterans Day, Members gathered around the flagpole to honor the brave men and women who have served. The veterans shared which branch they served in, and each was presented with a commemorative coin as a token of our deep appreciation. It was a special moment to express our gratitude and honor their service.

Friendsgiving EVENT

To celebrate Thanksgiving, Members gathered to give thanks and enjoy each other’s company. Azario provided the ham and turkey, while the Members brought their favorite holiday dishes and desserts to share. It was a festive and heartwarming gathering filled with good food, gratitude, and camaraderie.

Boots and BBQ SIGNATURE EVENT

Members dusted off their cowboy boots and hats to celebrate our Boots & BBQ Signature Event. The evening was packed with line dancing, fun backyard games, and delicious food, creating a memorable Western-inspired celebration.

Upcoming Events

Keep an eye on weekly Lifestyle emails for more fun and enriching events! All activities and events are subject to change. Visit esplanadeazariolifestyle.com to see the most up-to-date information.

TOSS AND TOAST

Thursday, January 2 | 5 - 6 p.m.

Bocce Courts

Roll into 2025 with a friendly social at Toss and Toast! Join us on the Bocce Courts for a lively round robin where Members can mingle while they showcase their bocce skills! Enjoy a day of competition, light bites and a celebratory toast to ring in the New Year with new and old friends!

BUCCANEERS FOOTBALL GAME

Sunday, January 5 | 8 a.m. - 11 p.m.

Raymond James Stadium | $180

Come cheer on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as they face off against the New Orleans Saints at Raymond James Stadium! We’re providing transportation to and from the stadium, so all you have to do is show up, wear your Buccaneers gear, and get ready for an unforgettable game day experience.

“NEAR THE BAR” BINGO

Thursdays, January 9 & February 6 | 6 - 7:30 p.m.

Wellness Center Veranda

Join your Lifestyle team for a fun night of “Near the Bar” Bingo! Stop by the Bahama Bar for dinner and refreshments before the eventful evening.

POTLUCK WORLD TOUR

Monday, January 13 | 6 - 8 p.m.

Sales Gallery

Join fellow Members for food and frolic. One of the best parts of living in Azario is the coming together of friends from all over the United States and beyond. Bring your favorite dish to share with the group. Water will be provided, but feel free to bring another beverage of your choice. Lifestyle will provide the dessert.

YACHT ROCK REVUE

Thursday, January 23 | 7:30 - 9:30 p.m.

Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall | $45

Get ready for an unforgettable evening with the 10-piece Atlantabased band. They’ll take you on a nostalgic journey through the smooth, sun-soaked melodies of the ‘70s and ‘80s, with their upcoming album Escape Artist paying bold homage to the genre. Don’t miss the chance to experience this unforgettable performance!

SUNSET SIPS

Thursdays, January 30 & February 27 | 5 - 7 p.m.

Sales Gallery Lanai

Visit the lanai for a relaxing evening with your neighbors! Unwind, sit back, and enjoy the beautiful sunset in great company. It’s the perfect way to relax and connect with those around you.

CPR TRAINING

Tuesday, February 4 | 6 - 8:30 p.m.

Sales Gallery | $60

Join Traveling Annies and become CPR certified! Our CPR Training session will cost $60, payable upon arrival. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain life-saving skills and enhance your emergency preparedness!

HANDMADE HUGS: VALENTINE CARD MAKING

Monday, February 10 | 5:30 - 7 p.m.

Sales Gallery

We’ll come together to create cards for adults in an assisted living and memory care facility, spreading a little extra love and kindness. These thoughtful cards will be delivered to Inspired Living at Lakewood Ranch. If you’re unable to join us, we welcome you to drop off your cards at the Sales Gallery anytime in the weeks leading up to the event. Your participation will bring joy and brighten someone’s day!

Upcoming Events

BARKING HEARTS

Wednesday, February 12 | 1 - 3 p.m.

Bark Park

Bring your furry friends for some Valentine fun! Celebrate the season of love with your pets and enjoy festive activities together! Bring a donation for a local animal shelter. Donations could be food, beds, blankets, bowls, etc. Can’t make it to the event, but want to donate? Drop off items to the Sales Center any time in February.

Monthly Member Meetings

ESPLANADE 101

Tuesdays, January 14 & February 11

10 a.m. | Virtual

Join us for new homeowner orientation with the Lifestyle Manager and Community Association Manager as we introduce you to everything Esplanade. Come with questions!

LOVE MEANS NOTHING

Friday, February 14 | 9 - 10 a.m. Tennis Courts

Join us for our Valentine’s Day Mixed Doubles Social for a morning of timed match play! Players are encouraged to wear their best red, pink and white attire. Players will play with the same partner for the entirety of the event, so sign up with your partner. Single entries can be taken and paired up with other single entries before the event.

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS

Thursdays, January 16 & February 20

10 a.m. | Virtual

Join your Community Association Manager for the most current updates about your community. Meetings will be held in person and via Zoom.

Commit to Fit U

COFFEE & CONVERSATION

Thursdays, January 30 & February 27

9:30 a.m. | Sales Gallery Lanai

Join your Lifestyle Manager for coffee and conversation, as we discuss the latest and greatest Lifestyle news in a relaxed and social atmosphere.

Annual Fitness Memberships

nlock your fitness potential with our fitness memberships! Enjoy state-of-the-art facilities, comfortable class settings with personalized exercise programs, and unlimited topquality fitness programming designed just for you! Whether you’re a beginner or a fitness enthusiast, join us on a journey to a healthier, stronger you. Did you know - aquatic classes are great for lowimpact exercises designed to work every muscle group and support recovery? Interested in strength training and flexibility? You’ll love the low-impact interval training class, which will teach you the proper usage of weights and various fitness equipment to help you reduce body fat. We offer over 40 classes each week in the studio and Resort Pool. Classes start as early as 6:15 a.m. and go through 6 p.m. Please see your Wellness team for more information. All Members that purchase an annual fitness membership will receive a $100 gift card to The Spa at Esplanade!

Interest Groups & Social Clubs

Meet fellow Members with similar interests by creating or joining an interest group or club! Any Member wishing to develop an interest group or club should contact the Lifestyle Manager to receive information and an application. The Lifestyle Manager will then help to facilitate promotion of activities developed by the Members. All groups and clubs must be open to any Member of the community who is interested in joining.

Current Groups & Clubs

AZARIO RUN/WALK CLUB

One group run/walk a week with plans for additional activities throughout the year. All skill levels and running and walking paces welcomed as we seek to provide a forum for fellow Members to enjoy the camaraderie, inspiration and support of group running and walking. Please contact John D’Allegro at johnd742@icloud.com for information.

AZARIO SPORTING CLUB

This group is dedicated to furthering skills and building friendships with a focus on fishing, firearms, archery and sporting clays/skeet/trap. For additional information, please contact Eric Kunkel at 708-5653918 or kunks57@gmail.com.

BOOK CLUB

Gather to discuss a different book each month in depth, chosen by the Members. For more information, please email Susan Parelman stodd49@yahoo.com or Sheri Schiffs at Sherischiff@comcast.net.

BOWLING CLUB

Two Tuesdays Per Month | 6 - 9 p.m.

Moved to Sarasota Lanes. New bowling teams are added throughout the year. Teams of four bowlers. For information: Tom Buchanan at twbuch1982@hotmail.com or 941-915-0243 (text).

BUNCO CLUB

Third Thursday | 6:30 - 8 p.m.

Wellness Center Veranda

Contacts: Darla Perz at darlaperz@outlook. com or 412-400-5790 or Jennifer Chudy at 845-664-1913.

CANASTA CLUB

Wednesday | 1 - 4 p.m.

Wellness Center Veranda

Contact Susan Parelman at stodd49@gmail. com or 847-707-2402 for more information. This club is for experienced players.

CREATIVE ARTS CLUB

Third Tuesday | Locations & Times Vary

Contact Nancy Borchers at 513-379-2747 or email nancy.borchers@gmail.com for more information, as pre-registration and payment for some events are required.

CORNHOLE CLUB

Select Tuesdays | 6 - 8 p.m.

Wellness Center Veranda

Contact Tom Vandehey at tomvandehey@ outlook.com or 941-324-6092.

EUCHRE CLUB

This club is for experienced players only. Contact Steve Barr at 248-535-4838 or stevebarr32@gmail.com for more information and to receive up-to-date club meeting days and times.

EVENING SOCIAL BRIDGE

Select Fridays | 7 - 9 p.m.

Wellness Center Veranda

Contact Lizanne Snyder at lizannesnyder@ gmail.com or call 908-279-5767 for more information.

GARDEN CLUB

Fourth Saturday | 1 - 3 p.m.

For more information and the location to meet, contact club leader Rosemary Vermost at rosesbeaches@gmail.com or call 309-721-1213.

LADIES LUNCH BUNCH & DINNER DIVAS

Ladies gather to dine out on the town. Contact Michelle Beierschmitt at 860-8845191 or email shelly10766@aol.com for more information and to get on the list.

MAHJONG CLUB

Tuesday at 1 p.m. | Thursday at 2:30 p.m. Wellness Center Veranda

Tuesday: Contact Barbara Drew at bdmeetings@gmail.com. Thursday: Contact Kathleen Piper at 352-362-8255.

MEN’S HAPPY HOUR

Second Sunday | 4:30 - 6 p.m.

Join your fellow men for a happy hour! Contact John Markiewicz at 847-951-1948 or chitowngolfer18@comcast.net for info.

PHOTOGRAPHY CLUB

First Tuesday | 10 - 11:30 a.m.

Wellness Center Veranda

For more information, contact the club leader Steven Wolfson at vonwolf.sw@ gmail.com or 516-317-4808.

PICKLEBALL CLUB

Play with friends! Contacts: Darla Perz at 412-400-5790 or darlaperz@outlook. com or Philly Dillon at 973-945-6641 or phillyg00@gmail.com.

PLANT BASED EATING FOR EVERYONE

For more information, please email the club leader at cfrazier731@gmail.com.

SAMBA CLUB

First Three Fridays | 1 p.m.

Wellness Center Veranda

Contact Antoinette Gambardella at 516428-1206 or acgambardella@gmail.com to learn more and get involved!

SINGLES CLUB

Would you like to connect with other single Members in your community? Contact the club leader Karen Hernandez for more information at karenhernandez@verizon.net or 516-655-9898.

TENNIS CLUBS

Ladies Tennis - Lisa Powell: 770-238-6563

Azario Tennis Club

Gabby Ferraro: 201-394-6338

TOGETHER WE CAN GROUP

Focusing on philanthropy in Sarasota and Manatee County communities. Contact Patti Barr at togetherwecanazario@gmail.com.

Cooking & Cocktail Series

The World of Lamb EVENT RECAP

On October 15 and 16, our National Manager of Food, Beverage, and Culinary Experience, Patrick Scully, led the last installment of the Cooking & Cocktail Series of 2024. He explained the rich history of lamb and taught the Members different techniques to properly cook lamb. Members were given samples of the featured items and enjoyed beverages with friends.

SIP Wine Club

Created to empower wine lovers of all levels to discover, purchase and enjoy wine, SIP Wine Club gives Members access to a diverse selection of wine with opportunities to enjoy wine tastings, unique private label selections and Member only discounts. With expert guidance and unmatched convenience, everyone from those just starting to explore the world of wine to a seasoned sommelier can easily find their go-to wines or discover new flavor profiles. Using the QR code, hear from Patrick Scully, National Manager of Food, Beverage and Culinary Experience as he outlines the details of the SIP Wine Club!

Around Town

“JOHNNY

CASH” &

“SHANIA

TWAIN” TRIBUTE DINNER SHOW

Saturday, January 11 | 7 - 9 p.m.

Englewood Elks Lodge | visitsarasota.com

An unforgettable night of live music will take place at the Englewood Elks Lodge as Keith Coleman pays tribute to Johnny Cash in a performance so authentic, you’ll feel like you’re at a Johnny Cash concert. Kim Romine, from “Memories,” will bring the best of Shania Twain’s greatest hits, while Dave Romine channels Elvis Presley and Chris Long performs timeless Kenny Rogers classics. With over 30 years of experience, Chris, Kim, and Dave promise an incredible evening of music and fun. Dinner & Show: $45; Show Only: $30. Dinner seating is also available—reserve your tickets now for a night you won’t forget!

For the Love of Birds

Look for Birds in Winter

SHARKTOBERFEST

Saturday, January 18 | 7 - 10 p.m.

Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium | $55 | visitsarasota.com

Raise a glass with Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium during Sharktoberfest, a craft beer festival in the Aquarium after hours, featuring local and regional breweries. Enjoy samples of their staple selections alongside unique, seasonal brews. Each guest will receive a commemorative tasting glass for sampling. Guests will enjoy the aquarium, live entertainment, food stations, merchandise vendors and special experiences provided by Mote’s Education Department.

27TH ANNUAL THUNDER BY THE BAY

Friday - Sunday, February 14 - 16 | 5 p.m. Sarasota Fairgrounds | 3000 Ringling Blvd | visitsarasota.com

The 27th Annual Thunder By The Bay Music & Motorcycle Festival is a three-day event benefiting Suncoast Charities for Children. Headliners include Blue Oyster Cult (Friday, February 14), Grand Funk Railroad (Saturday, February 15) and Creed Fisher (Sunday, February 16). The festival features continuous live music, vendors, daredevil acts, charity motorcycle ride, bike shows, a motorcycle “sound off” competition, and much more! On-site camping is available for those who want to stay close to the festivities.

DEPARTURE: JOURNEY TRIBUTE BAND

Saturday, February 15 | 7 - 9 p.m.

Riverview Performing Arts Center | visitsarasota.com

Departure, a highly acclaimed Journey tribute band, will be performing live at the Riverview Performing Arts Center on February 15. Known for their spot-on replication of Journey’s iconic sound, look, and energy, Departure will perform all the band’s greatest hits. Don’t miss this unforgettable night of classic rock!

Winter is a great time to look for birds! You will see birds that live where you live year-round and other species that move in temporarily (migrate) from other places. Bird Watching is easy, fun to do alone, or with others, and can be done anywhere you find birds. And, birds are everywhere! Plus, you can help promote greater conservation by joining the Great Backyard Bird Count February 14–17, 2025. Learn more at thegreenhour.org/ activity/for-the-love-of-birds

Culinary-Inspired Adventures Await!

REGISTRATION DEADLINE EXTENDED UNTIL JANUARY 10, 2025!

Destinations by Esplanade and Patrick Scully, National Manager of Food, Beverage & Culinary Experience, proudly invite you to spark your sense of culinary adventure with the introduction of two new food and beverage inspired travel experiences in 2025!

“One of my greatest joys while traveling is discovering new cultures through their cuisine. As your personal culinary guide on each journey, let’s indulge in the flavors and uncover the stories that make every destination unique!”

TASTE OF ITALY WITH SORRENTO 10 DAYS | 9 NIGHTS

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Italy over 10 days and 9 nights. Explore the iconic sights of Venice, Florence, and Rome, then journey to the historic ruins of Pompeii and the stunning coastal gems of Sorrento and the Isle of Capri.

To learn more about both trips, log in to the exclusive Esplanade Member portal on DestinationsByEsplanade.com and use password “esplanade2023.”

SECRETS OF THE DOURO: PORTO TO PORTO LUXURY RIVER CRUISE 8 DAYS | 7 NIGHTS

Embark on an 8-day, 7-night luxury river cruise through Portugal’s enchanting Douro Valley. Discover terraced vineyards, historic landmarks, and charming towns, with an extended stay in the vibrant capital, Lisbon.

EsplanadeAzarioLifestyle.com