Hard to believe that we're nearly one-quarter of the way through the new century! Our real estate agents will be ringing in 2024 at these lively events around Sarasota homes for sale. 

• Joey Gratton Memorial New Year's Day Fun Run - 10th Street Boat Ramp, 1105 10th St., Sarasota, FL 34236
  Feeling the need for speed to jump-start 2024? Join upwards of 100 boat enthusiasts in the Joey Gratton Memorial New Year's Day Fun Run. This event, entering its second decade, honors Joey Gratton, a beloved offshore competitor based in Sarasota who passed away in a 2011 racing incident. The 26-mile trip begins at Centennial Park's 10th Street Boat Ramp and concludes at with lunch at Tarpon Point Grill, not far from Bradenton homes for sale. No advance registration or entry fees are required. Just show up ready for some fun! Follow the Facebook page for updated information.
  
  
• Salute to Vienna New Year's Concert - Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trl., Sarasota, FL 34236
  Looking for a family-friendly New Year celebration? All ages are in for a treat as the Strauss Symphony of America brings their traditional Salute to Vienna New Year's Concert to Van Wezel. With a new cast and program each year, every event is a different experience. Maestro András Deák shares some delightful jokes during the lively show of music and dance. Salute to Vienna takes place at 7 p.m. on Saturday, December 30. Tickets are $68-$101.
  
  
• New Year's Eve Cocktails at Jack Dusty - Ritz-Carlton, 111 Ritz-Carlton Dr., Sarasota, FL 34236
  Enjoy an elegant evening of coastal cuisine and crafted cocktails hosted by one of the iconic names in hospitality. New Year's Eve Cocktails at Jack Dusty features live entertainment to add to the festive atmosphere. Reserved lounge seating includes a bottle of champagne. Mark your calendar for 9 p.m. - 1 a.m. on Sunday, December 31. Price is $400 for parties of up to four people, with $100 for each additional guest at the 21-and-over event. 
  
  
• Sarasota Pineapple Drop Carnival - Selby Five Points Park, 1 Central Ave., Sarasota, FL 34236
  Selby Five Points Park turns into one big block party with the Sarasota Pineapple Drop Carnival. In addition to the best amusement park rides, there will be three stages of bands and DJs as well as specials at nearby bars and restaurants. Everything leads up to the giant glowing pineapple drop at midnight, followed up by a rousing fireworks show. Carnival hours are 10 a.m. - 1 a.m. on Sunday, December 31. Admission is free, with rides available through individual tickets ($1.50) or unlimited wristbands ($30). 
  
  
• New Year's Eve Gala - Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, 1534 Mound St., Sarasota, FL 34236
  Don your most sophisticated holiday finery for the dazzling New Year's Eve Gala hosted by Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. The gardens and walkways are ablaze with more than two million lights for the Lights in Bloom display. Passed hors d'oeuvres precede a sit-down four-course dinner prepared by Michael's on East. Entertainment includes a performance from the Sarasota Ballet's Margaret Barbieri Conservatory as well as dancing to tunes spun by DJ Karim. At the end of the evening, you'll have the best view in town of the fireworks display over Sarasota Bay. Festivities are scheduled for 7 p.m. - 1 a.m. on Sunday, December 31. Tickets are $450, with full-table sponsorships available. 

Do your New Year's resolutions include buying or selling a home in Sarasota or Bradenton? Contact us at Wagner Realty to get started.