Watch as the characters of "Strega Nona" come alive on stage. This performance is recommended for kindergarteners through fourth graders. The Van Wezel offers several school performances each year to introduce children to the performing arts. Homeschool students are eligible for the same modest charge at public schooler students. Take advantage of Van Wezel's other performances such as Mummenschanz, suitable for all ages.
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall
777 North Tamiami Trail
Sarasota, FL 34236
941-955-7676
vanwezel.org/education/schoolTime.cfm
Visit Europe without a passport when you attend the Hungarian Festival, held each fall in mid-October. As you study European history or world geography, students wonder what it's like to visit that country. Provide a slice of Hungary by attending the fest featuring folk music, dance, costumes, food, games and a Saturday evening concert. Children under 12 are free.
Hungarian Festival
Sarasota County Fairgrounds
3000 Ringling Blvd.
Sarasota, FL 34232
941-953-4359
gffusa.org/
Little ones like to see and do, not just sit and listen. Schedule a day at Sarasota Children's Garden as a break in your schedule, or a reward for working hard. Explore the garden paths discovering the maze, pirate ship, tree fort and fairy garden. Pack a picnic lunch for the outing. A special outing can freshen up the whole family, from students to moms.
Sarasota Children's Garden
1670 10th Way
Sarasota, FL 34236
941-330-1711
sarasotachildrensgarden.com/index.html
Open year-round, this Florida gem is a nice place to visit anytime. Walk the self-guided trails through the five habitats or reserve spots on a guided tour. Learn about native plants and animals, including insects and birds. Attend the Southwest Florida Heritage Festival in early January. See educators demonstrating Florida pioneer skills such as sugar cane grinding, basket weaving, blacksmithing, soap making and more. Participate in activities such as gourd painting, archery and toy making.
Crowley Museum and Nature Center
16405 Myakka Road
Sarasota, FL 34240
941-322-1000
cmncfl.org/
Just a few miles south of Sarasota's city limits is the location of Spanish Point, an archaeological site worth exploring. The 30-acre site has a 15-foot-tall prehistoric midden, a shell mound, the only one in the United States. Visit the reconstructed dwelling from 1,000 years ago. You can also tour a pioneer home, circa 1901, and an accompanying citrus packing house. Stroll the formal gardens and discover native plants along the nature trails. Set aside a full day for a leisurely visit.
Historic Spanish Point
337 N. Tamiami Trail (U.S. 41)
Osprey, FL 34229
941-966-5214
historicspanishpoint.org/