Sarasota families with young children can celebrate the start of the school year with free art supplies, books, music and hands-on activities at a community event in North Sarasota on Aug. 29.
Free event geared toward pre-K through fifth grade
The Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation is hosting "Imagination Installation: A Family Celebration of Arts and Learning" on Saturday, Aug. 29, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at Harvest House Family Center, 3650 17th St. The event is free and open to all ages and abilities, though it's geared toward families with children in pre-K through fifth grade.
Kids and parents can expect art-making stations, music, dancing and movement activities. Everyone who attends will take home complimentary books and art supplies.
"Every child deserves the opportunity to discover their creativity and experience the joy that comes from making art," Kelli Maldonado, the foundation's executive director of mission and impact, said in a July 28 announcement. "Imagination Installation is about giving families the tools and inspiration to continue creating together."
The event lands about three weeks after Sarasota County schools open for the fall term, putting it squarely in back-to-school season.
Why Harvest House
The foundation chose Harvest House Family Center as its venue. Harvest House, a nonprofit at the same 17th Street address, provides emergency shelter, supportive housing and hunger relief for families and adults across Sarasota and Manatee counties. Bringing a free arts event to its campus puts programming directly in front of families who might not otherwise access it.
The Performing Arts Foundation, formerly the Van Wezel Foundation, has partnered with the city of Sarasota on arts education since 1987.
How to attend
Space is limited and registration is required. Families can RSVP through Eventbrite. Tickets have been available since July 13.
Upcoming community events
- Saturday, Aug. 29: Imagination Installation at Harvest House Family Center, 3650 17th St., 10-11:30 a.m. Free; registration required.
- Thursday, Nov. 12: Ruby Bridges public town hall at Booker High School.
