What's Happening on the Island
Island Events Calendar
The island operates on its own time, but it loves a good reason to gather. Browse the months to find festivals, markets, and beachfront celebrations.
Hosting something on the island? We'd love to feature it. Send the details to info@onestopami.com and we'll add it to the calendar.
On the Sand Right Now
This Week
October 18–24
Sunday, October 18
Coquina Beach Market
10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Tuesday, October 20
Anna Maria Farmers Market
9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Wednesday, October 21
Coquina Beach Market
10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Friday, October 23
Coquina Beach Market
10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Live Music Around the Island
Evenings
Plan Ahead
Month by Month
October 2026
The Whole Month
Happening in October
Dolphin Dash 5K & Fin's Fun Run
Run, walk, and cheer by the Gulf at a timed beach 5K and untimed, stroller-friendly 1K fun run benefiting Anna Maria Elementary School.
BayFest
The 25th annual BayFest is a one-day festival on Saturday, October 17, 2026, hosted by the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce. Free admission, live music, food vendors, arts and crafts, and a classic car show. Street parking is limited; the free trolley is the easiest way to get there.
Official infoTrail of Treats
Halloween treats with the island community.
Island Trunk or Treat
A family Halloween evening at The Center.
Sundown Get Down Halloween Spooktacular
AMI South End's Halloween celebration.
Anna Maria Farmers Market
Weekly Tuesday market, October through May, weather permitting. Hours and location have been listed differently by different sources - please check the market's page before you go.
Official infoCoquina Beach Market
Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, 10am–2pm. The 2026–27 season began October 2, 2026. A seasonal open-air beach market at 1800 Gulf Drive South, Bradenton Beach, with local vendors. Check the official market page for weather cancellations and daily vendor updates.
Official infoCoquina Beach Market
Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, 10am–2pm. The 2026–27 season began October 2, 2026. A seasonal open-air beach market at 1800 Gulf Drive South, Bradenton Beach, with local vendors. Check the official market page for weather cancellations and daily vendor updates.
Official infoCoquina Beach Market
Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, 10am–2pm. The 2026–27 season began October 2, 2026. A seasonal open-air beach market at 1800 Gulf Drive South, Bradenton Beach, with local vendors. Check the official market page for weather cancellations and daily vendor updates.
Official infoLive Music Around the Island
From the Ugly Grouper to the Drift In, island venues fill the night with live bands and singer-songwriters.
The Seasonal Rhythm
"Season" peaks November through April. Summer is hot but beautiful, with fewer crowds. Spring break brings families. October is the ultimate local secret — warm water, mild temperatures, and empty beaches.
These are recurring island traditions — always confirm exact dates and times before you go.
Event information last checked October 7, 2026. Dates and times change - always confirm with the organiser.
For Independence Day parade information, check the Anna Maria Island Privateers' announcement for the relevant year, route and start time.
Planning New Year's Eve on the island? Check individual venues and the Chamber calendar for confirmed celebrations, booking requirements and times.
More events: Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce · The Sun's island events calendar