The annual Sun Fiesta Bed Races are coming back to Venice, turning downtown into one of the strangest—and most entertaining—competitions of the year.

If you happen to be walking through downtown Venice on the morning of October 17 and suddenly see a group of people sprinting down the street while pushing a bed, don't panic.

You're not dreaming. 

You're watching one of Venice's most unusual traditions.

The 2026 Sun Fiesta Bed Race is returning Saturday, October 17, and yes, teams will actually race beds through downtown as part of the annual Sun Fiesta.

And once you learn how this thing works, it gets even better.

The race is scheduled to begin at 9:30 a.m. at Centennial Park in downtown Venice, with teams checking in beforehand. According to the organizers, each team consists of one rider, four pushers and two relief pushers.

In other words, somebody gets to climb into a bed while six other people are responsible for getting that bed moving.

And there is one very important rule: no mechanical propulsion.So don't expect anyone to show up with a motorized mattress.

This year's race has an especially appropriate theme: "Running for 100 Years of Venice Celebration." Teams can bring their own bed or rent a shared bed, and the entry fee is listed at $100 per team.

Registration is due October 9.

The race is part of Venice's 2026 annual community events calendar, with Sun Fiesta taking over Centennial Park and downtown from October 16 through October 18.

And the bed race isn't the only reason the weekend gets a little unusual.

Sun Fiesta is a longtime Venice tradition organized by the Women's Sertoma Club of Venice. The organization says it has sponsored and organized the festival since 1994, with proceeds helping support its scholarship efforts.

That means underneath all the costumes, cheering and people voluntarily pushing beds down the street, there's a serious community purpose.

The larger festival is expected to include food vendors, arts and crafts, live entertainment, a beer and wine tent, children's activities, raffles and other contests.

But let's be honest. People are going to remember the beds.

There's something wonderfully strange about seeing a perfectly normal downtown Venice morning suddenly turn into a makeshift racing circuit. The same streets people use for shopping, grabbing coffee and strolling through the historic district become the backdrop for teams trying to push a bed faster than everybody else.

And that's exactly the kind of thing that makes local traditions stick around.

 

It's not polished. It's not something you see in every Florida town. And it doesn't require an expensive ticket or a fancy venue.

 

You just show up.

 

The City of Venice lists Sun Fiesta on its October calendar, with the festival continuing through October 18.

 

For anyone who has never seen the bed race before, October 17 might be the morning to finally find out what all the commotion is about.

 

Because in Venice, apparently, if you have a bed, a few friends and enough determination, you've already got the beginnings of a racing team.

 

And somewhere downtown that morning, one person is going to climb into that bed and trust six other people to push it as fast as they possibly can.

 

That's Venice.

 

And honestly, we wouldn't want it any other way.

 

For more information, check the official Sun Fiesta Bed Race information, including registration details and rules.

What happens when a community gives teenagers something better than a place to hang out?

You get opportunity. You get confidence. You get connection. And, sometimes, you get a young person who discovers that their future can be a whole lot bigger than they thought.

That is the idea behind the WareHouse of Venice, a nonprofit serving middle and high school students throughout the Venice, Florida area.

The WareHouse opened its doors in 2007, originally serving students at Venice High School. The mission is straightforward: give young people a safe, positive community where they can connect, discover talents, develop skills, serve others and make good choices. Learn more about the WareHouse's story.

It's Not Just About Keeping Kids Busy

This is the part worth paying attention to.

The WareHouse isn't simply filling a calendar with activities. Its programs are designed to help young people become part of their community.

Through Venice D-Fy, local middle and high school students can voluntarily commit to living drug-free, alcohol-free and nicotine-free while receiving access to member events, rewards and discounts from participating local businesses.

And then there is the service component. Teens can participate in volunteer opportunities, event planning, community projects and other activities where they aren't simply watching from the sidelines—they're helping make things happen.

That's an important distinction.

They're not just being told to make a difference. They're being given opportunities to actually do it.

What's Coming Up?

The WareHouse calendar is already moving as the 2026-27 school year gets underway.

September 14: The VHS D-Fy Club meets after school from 2:20–3:00 p.m. The meeting is open even if a student isn't currently a D-Fy member. See the event calendar.

September 15: Volunteers can participate in the WareHouse's monthly community-service effort supporting Community Assistance Ministry and local families through food distribution.

September 28: The next Twig Drop-Off Day is scheduled from 4:00–6:00 p.m., giving volunteers another way to serve.

And looking ahead, the Venice 2026 Holiday Parade is scheduled for November 28 from 5:00–9:00 p.m. in Downtown Venice.

The Bigger Picture

Venice is fortunate to have organizations that understand something every community eventually learns: young people don't just need rules. They need relationships, responsibility and reasons to believe in themselves.

The WareHouse is creating those opportunities one event, one volunteer project and one teenager at a time.

If you're a parent, student, business owner, volunteer or community member looking for a way to get involved, start with upcoming activities, explore partnership opportunities, or volunteer your time.

And if you simply want to stay informed, contact the WareHouse or sign up for its updates.

Because a better future doesn't happen by accident. It happens when a community decides its young people are worth investing in.

 

After the crowds leave and the sun drops, one small corner of Venice gets surprisingly busy — and the cast includes wading birds, bats and even alligators.

Most people think of the  Venice Audubon Rookery Park  as a place to watch birds during the day.

And it is.

But here's the part that makes this little spot much more interesting: the Rookery doesn't really shut down when the sun goes down.

In fact, sunset is when the place starts putting on a completely different kind of show.

The Rookery is a small island in a pond surrounded by the city, but it serves as a protected roosting and nesting site. The  Venice Area Audubon Society  says birds regularly gather on the island in the evening to settle in for the night.

The Birds Come Home at Sunset

During the year, visitors can see species including the  Great Blue Heron , Great Egret , Anhinga and Black-crowned Night-Heron , along with other wading birds.

There's also a  Purple Martin  colony at the park.

And according to the local  Rookery Watch  program, the site has been monitored by Venice Area Audubon volunteers for more than 25 years, with records going back to 1997.

That makes this more than a pretty place to take a picture.

It is a long-running piece of local wildlife science happening right in the middle of Venice.

Then the Bats Show Up

Here's the unexpected part.

Near the pond are six bat houses installed by  Sarasota County Parks . As darkness approaches, bats emerge from those houses and begin their nightly feeding.

The  Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission  notes that Florida's Evening Bat is an insect-eating species that can use man-made roosts such as bat houses.

The Rookery's own information identifies the  Evening Bat  as one of the species associated with these nighttime surroundings.

So there's a pretty unusual sequence happening here: birds settle into the trees, daylight fades, and then bats take over the air above the pond.

And There's an Alligator Twist

The Rookery's island isn't simply an open island sitting in a pond.

Sarasota County Parks  and the Venice Area Audubon Society warn visitors that alligators are present in the water.

The local Audubon group says the alligators patrol the pond around the island, creating an added layer of protection for nesting birds.

That is one of those details that sounds almost too perfectly Florida to be true.

Birds roosting above.

Alligators below.

Bats taking flight overhead.

And all of it is happening just off a busy part of Venice.

You Don't Have to Be a Serious Birder

The park is open to the public from dawn to dusk, and the pond has a short walking path. The  Venice Area Audubon birding guide  specifically points visitors toward the period before sunset, when birds return to roost.

One practical tip: bring binoculars if you have them.

The  Rookery education program  also provides opportunities for visitors to learn more about the wildlife that calls the area home.

And remember the rules.

No dogs or other pets, no fishing and no drones are allowed at the Rookery. Visitors should also keep a safe distance from the water because alligators are present.

There's Even a Night-Themed Event Coming Up

If you want to make an evening of it, Sarasota County's current events calendar lists Family Bats and Birds Night  for October 30, 2026, at the Venice Area Audubon Rookery.

The free family event is scheduled to include activities about bats and birds before visitors watch the bats emerge from their houses.

The Bottom Line

Venice has plenty of obvious attractions.

Beaches. Restaurants. Downtown. The pier.

But sometimes the better local story is hiding somewhere people drive past every day.

The Rookery is one of those places.

Come near sunset, and you might catch the city getting quiet while the wildlife gets busy.

That's Venice's night shift — and it has been working here long before most of us noticed. 

If you drove past Sharky’s On The Pier in Venice this week and thought, “Wait...what happened to Sharky’s?”, you're not alone.

The restaurant is dark.

The parking lot is quieter.

And if you were hoping for a waterfront dinner, you're going to have to wait a few more days.

But before anyone starts worrying about another local favorite disappearing, there's good news:

Sharky’s isn't going anywhere.

The longtime Venice restaurant is taking a short break from Sunday, August 23 through Friday, August 28 for what it calls its annual “Buff & Polish.”

It's scheduled to reopen Saturday, August 29.

And honestly, the timing makes sense.

Anyone who's lived in Southwest Florida for a while knows that restaurants here don't exactly follow the same calendar as restaurants everywhere else.

There is summer.

Then there is season.

And those can feel like two completely different businesses.

During the slower months, a restaurant has something it doesn't always have when the snowbirds return and the dining rooms fill up:

Breathing room.

A short closure gives restaurants an opportunity to tackle maintenance, cleaning and other behind-the-scenes projects without trying to work around a packed dining room and a line of hungry customers.

Sharky’s doesn't provide a detailed list of everything included in this year's “Buff & Polish,” but the restaurant's timing is pretty telling.

Late August is right around the time local businesses start looking toward the months ahead.

And Sharky’s doesn't appear to be planning on easing into September.

According to the restaurant's official website, live entertainment is already scheduled following the reopening, including Deep Blu on August 29 and additional performances throughout September.

In other words, Sharky’s is taking a few days off...

Then it's right back to waterfront dinners, drinks, music and everything else that makes the pier a popular stop for locals and visitors.

And maybe that's the bigger takeaway here.

When a restaurant you've known forever suddenly puts up a “Closed” sign, it's easy to assume the worst.

But in Southwest Florida, a temporary summer closure can mean something very different.

Sometimes the kitchen needs attention.

Sometimes the building needs a little love.

Sometimes the staff needs a breather.

And sometimes a restaurant is simply getting ready for the months when everyone comes back.

So if you were wondering where Sharky’s went this week, now you know.

It's not goodbye.

It's more like, “Give us a minute. We're cleaning up.”

And on August 29, the view from the pier should be back on the menu.

Have you noticed another local restaurant taking a summer break?

Tell us about it.

We want to know which restaurants around Venice, North Port and Port Charlotte are taking a little time off — and what you'd like to know about what happens behind those closed doors.

Because around here, “closed for the summer” doesn't always mean closed for good.

 

Sometimes the best local stories don't involve city meetings, construction projects or another new business coming to town.

Sometimes they're about two tiny ducklings that simply needed a little help.

In Venice, Florida, neighbors recently found themselves in the middle of an unexpected duckling rescue after a family of black-bellied whistling-ducks made their home in a duck box near a residential pond.

And if you've never seen one of these ducks up close, they're worth a look.

They're not exactly your typical backyard duck.

Black-bellied whistling-ducks have long legs, distinctive pink bills and a surprisingly loud whistle. According to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, the species readily uses nest boxes and often spends time around shallow ponds, lawns and other areas where people live.

Which brings us back to the little family in Venice.

When it was finally time for the ducklings to leave their nest box, most of them managed to make the journey down to the ground and toward the water.

Two didn't.

The tiny ducklings ended up stranded near the bottom of the box while the rest of their family continued toward the pond.

That's when some nearby residents noticed what was happening.

Instead of simply walking away, neighbors stepped in.

Carefully.

Because there was one important detail to remember: Mom and Dad were still nearby.

The goal wasn't to turn the rescue into a scene. It was simply to get the two little stragglers safely back with their family without creating more stress for the birds.

Eventually, the ducklings were gently retrieved and reunited with the rest of the family at the pond.

And just like that, a potentially heartbreaking situation had a happy ending.

It's easy to overlook moments like this when you're living in a growing place like Venice.

There's always something happening. New construction. New businesses. Traffic. Development.

But then you get a reminder that there is still plenty of wildlife sharing the neighborhood with us.

And sometimes, those wild neighbors need a little help.

The black-bellied whistling-duck is actually doing quite well as a species. Cornell reports that its range has expanded in the southern United States, and the species has adapted surprisingly well to human-altered environments. You can even see recent sightings and its range.

Still, watching two tiny ducklings get separated from their family is enough to make just about anyone stop and pay attention.

And that's what makes this story worth telling.

Not because it was a major rescue operation.

Not because there were flashing lights or emergency crews.

But because a few people saw something vulnerable and decided it mattered.

That's the kind of thing that makes a community feel like a community.

So the next time you spot a family of ducks wandering around a neighborhood pond, take a second look.

You never know what little story is unfolding right in front of you.

Have you spotted black-bellied whistling-ducks around Venice, North Port or Port Charlotte? Tell us where you've seen them. We'd love to know which local ponds and neighborhoods have become their favorite hangouts.

Think about the woman who always seems to show up.

The one who stays late to help.

The business owner who built something from nothing.

The coworker who somehow manages to encourage everyone around her.

The volunteer who never seems to ask for recognition.

Or maybe it's the woman who simply makes your corner of Venice a little better by being in it.

She could be the next Empowering Woman of the Year.

The Venice Area Chamber of Commerce is accepting nominations for its 2026 Empowering Woman of the Year award, and nominations are open through August 28.

The award is part of the Chamber's annual Women Empowering Women Summit, which celebrates women making an impact throughout the local business and community scene.

According to the Chamber, the award recognizes a woman who demonstrates leadership, character, integrity and a commitment to lifting up the people around her.

And that leaves a pretty big door open.

Because making a difference doesn't necessarily mean having your name on a building.

It could be the woman running a local business who takes the time to mentor someone just starting out.

It could be a teacher, healthcare professional, nonprofit volunteer, entrepreneur, manager or community advocate.

It could even be someone whose biggest accomplishments never make the newspaper.

Sometimes the people making the biggest difference are the ones who aren't looking for a spotlight in the first place.

That's what makes this nomination interesting.

You don't have to be the person being recognized to make sure someone gets noticed.

The 2026 Empowering Woman of the Year nomination is open to women whose leadership, accomplishments and dedication have made an impact on others.

The winner will be recognized during the Women Empowering Women Summit on October 2.

This year's theme is “Nothing Is Impossible, the Word Itself Says, ‘I'm Possible!’”

And honestly, there may be no better time to ask Venice one simple question:

Who is your “I'm Possible” woman?

Who encouraged you when you needed it?

Who built something that inspired you?

Who makes your workplace better?

Who gives back without expecting anything in return?

If someone immediately came to mind, don't just tell your friends about her.

Nominate her.

Nominations close August 28, so there isn't much time left to get her name in.

Click here to view the nomination information and submit a nomination through the Venice Area Chamber of Commerce.

And if you already know exactly who deserves it...

Tell us about her, too.

We want to know who the women of Venice are that you think deserve a little extra recognition

Here’s a question almost nobody asks when that property tax notice shows up: “What if they got my property value wrong?”

Most of us open the envelope. Look at the numbers. Say something that probably shouldn't be printed in a family newsletter. And move on. 

If the property record contains incorrect information, comparable properties suggest a substantially different value, property in your area has been or something else simply doesn't add up, the assessment may deserve a closer look. And yes, You Can Question It.

 

 

 

 

Cleo, a timid yet lovable Chihuahua mix, is winning hearts as she bravely steps beyond her comfort zone.

Once frightened by loud noises and bustling crowds, this sweet pup recently ventured out for her first real adventure—an outing to Cocoplum Plaza and Starbucks.

Though the new sights were overwhelming at first, gentle encouragement from her handlers and plenty of reassuring cuddles helped Cleo grow more confident.

By the outing's end, she was exploring with curiosity and even faced once-intimidating automatic doors head on.

 

At just two to three years old and 17 pounds, Cleo is highly intelligent, food-motivated, and full of playful spirit.

 

She’s looking for a patient, loving family—ideally with a secure yard—ready to help her bloom into her happiest, most adventurous self.

 

Every small step for Cleo is a major victory—and she’s ready to share a lifetime of joy, zoomies, and affection with her new best friend.

 

Horizon 880 LLC is locked in a heated dispute with the City of Venice over its lease at Venice Municipal Airport, where plans for a boutique hotel and entertainment complex have stalled.

 

The city alleges the developer owes more than $570,000 in back rent and late fees, citing issues such as overdue payments, missing insurance documents, and unapproved site changes.

 

Horizon 880, through attorney Robert K. Lincoln, blames unexpected rezoning, city actions, and infrastructure changes for the delays, emphasizing over $550,000 already invested.

 

The proposed Ringling Park project aims to revive the site’s circus heritage with a hotel, restaurant, and space for Tito Gaona’s Trapeze Academy.

 

Meanwhile, Walmart and Benderson Development signal Venice’s ongoing commercial boom, reflecting strong investment interest and the city’s evolving economic landscape.

Venice, Florida’s dining scene is thriving, with a wave of new restaurants introducing exciting flavors and fresh culinary energy.

 

G-Boys Cheesesteaks, a family-owned eatery at 321 Jacaranda Blvd, now offers Venice an authentic bite of South Philly with classic ribeye and chicken cheesesteaks, all crafted from cherished traditional recipes.

 

Open daily, it’s already a local favorite for those seeking a true Philadelphia experience.

 

Harbor Bistro, nestled in the storied Caspersen House, features modern American fare focused on local ingredients and boasts the title of Best New Restaurant in Venice, blending the city’s history with contemporary flair.

 

For Italian coastal cuisine, Acqua Pazza in Wellen Park dazzles with house-made pastas and wood-fired specialties in a lively setting perfect for evening gatherings.

 

Even more is on the horizon, from French bakery delights at La Maison to healthy acai bowls at Grain & Berry and spirited Mexican dishes at Agave Bandido.

 

Venice’s restaurant scene is more vibrant than ever, offering options for every palate.

Nova, a 3.5-year-old German Shepherd, stands out as a loving and loyal companion.

 

Initially shy, she transforms into a devoted “Velcro dog” with time and trust.

 

Her gentle, affectionate nature makes her ideal for families—especially those with children.

 

Nova relishes energetic play sessions with other dogs and is impressively quiet, rarely barking.

 

She’s sensitive about her collar, so gentle, patient handling is key.

 

With steady positive reinforcement, Nova is doing well with leash training, building happy associations with daily walks.

 

Venice, FL locals seeking to adopt can connect with rescue organizations specializing in German Shepherds or attend the Suncoast Humane Society’s monthly adoption events.

 

Welcoming a rescue dog like Nova promises not only companionship, but the joy of giving a deserving pet a forever home.

TJ Carney's, a cherished hotspot in downtown Venice, Florida, has temporarily shut its doors following a recent Health Department inspection.

 

The popular restaurant at 231 West Venice Avenue, famous for its lively events and welcoming crowd, is addressing health code violations found during a routine review.

 

Officials have not released the exact nature of the issues, but common reasons for these closures include concerns over sanitation or food safety practices.

 

Many in the community are hopeful for a swift resolution, recalling previous incidents where other local eateries rebounded after similar setbacks.

 

Regulars have voiced their support for the staff and underscored the venue’s essential role in Venice’s social scene.

 

Residents are encouraged to follow official updates as TJ Carney's works toward reopening, prioritizing safety for both guests and employees.

Venice, Florida will soon launch a major beach renourishment effort to restore 3.2 miles of eroded shoreline, with a $27.5 million contract awarded to Weeks Marine Inc.

 

This extensive project, stretching from just south of the Venice Inlet to past the Venice Fishing Pier, will involve dredging sand from an offshore site located 11 nautical miles away.

 

Environmental protection is a key aspect, as Mote Marine Laboratory manages the careful relocation of sea turtle nests to safeguard the species during construction.

 

Starting in May 2026 and wrapping up by September, the work will require temporary closures, affecting segments of the beach, portions of parking, and access points near the Fishing Pier for short periods.

 

This is Venice Beach’s largest renovation since 2015, directly addressing almost a decade of storm-driven erosion and natural wear.

Venice, Florida’s dining scene is buzzing with new excitement, especially for those seeking fresh bar and grill experiences.

 

Coach’s Bar & Grill recently opened downtown, offering an inviting spot for families, with 18 HD TVs, 16 beers on tap, and tempting dishes such as ribeye steaks and Cajun-inspired pastas.

 

The venue stands out by supporting local schools, first responders, and military members, emphasizing its community roots.

 

Anticipation is high for the arrival of Salty Neighborhood Bar & Grill at Venice Village, helmed by local favorite Edwin Morales, and aiming to become the area’s new neighborhood hub.

 

The established Zebra Lounge is celebrated for its wine and live music, while T J Carney’s draws crowds with its lively vibe and diverse menu.

 

With these new and beloved choices, Venice offers residents and visitors an ever-evolving culinary adventure.

The State College of Florida Foundation brought the community together in Venice for its annual “Evening Under the Stars” fundraiser, where residents, educators, and local leaders gathered in support of student scholarships.

 

Guests enjoyed a meaningful evening, inspired by a moving speech from North Port’s Corbin White, who shared how receiving a scholarship transformed his educational journey.

 

Corbin’s story emphasized the profound role these funds play in opening doors for local students.

 

Standing with his father, Jeremy White—a respected Sarasota County law enforcement officer—the moment highlighted a family’s commitment to service and the ongoing power of community support.

 

Events like these demonstrate how unified efforts provide students with the resources they need to succeed.

 

Opportunities remain for those wishing to support or become involved in the Foundation’s impactful programs.

The Venice City Council has advanced plans to expand local housing by approving the first reading of three key ordinances for annexing a 10.12-acre parcel in south Sarasota County.

 

This land, owned by a national radio company, is set to be transformed into a 43-home community called The Chalets of Venice.

 

The initial master plan emphasizes a 35-foot height limit, sidewalks on both sides of the main road, and an 8-foot-wide walking trail close to the Blackburn Canal.

 

This move highlights the city's focus on expanding residential options to address local housing demands.

 

Some concerns remain regarding possible impacts on the Blackburn Canal and current operations on the southern part of the property.

 

The project saw a unanimous vote for annexation, but a 5-1 split for the planned unit development due to worries about future commercial use.

 

Final decisions could arrive as soon as April 7, 2026, following further review by the Venice Planning Commission.

Panda Express will soon join Venice at 4201 Tamiami Trail, adding its popular American-Chinese flavors to the city’s expanding food scene.

 

The restaurant, featuring a drive-thru, aims to serve both dine-in and takeout guests, though the official opening date has yet to be revealed.

 

Origin Pizza Cafe is also set for Venice, unveiling its sixth location at 1693 S. Tamiami Trail B by March 2026, with a menu spanning pizzas, wings, and Mediterranean-inspired fare.

 

The Breakfast Company will open in Spring 2026, debuting its largest restaurant yet with a new drive-thru and a focus on scratch-made breakfasts and bakery items.

 

Easy Does It Comfort Kitchen plans a Summer 2026 opening in Downtown Wellen Park, offering familiar comfort food with a modern twist.

 

These additions spotlight Venice’s rapid growth and ...

The 37th Annual Venice Italian Feast & Carnival returns to Venice, Florida, from February 19 to 22, 2026, promising an immersive celebration of Italian heritage.

 

Hosted by the Italian American Club of Venice, the festival will feature authentic cuisine, lively music, and attractions for all ages.

 

Savor classic Italian dishes, enjoy live performances, and delight in a vibrant selection of rides and games.

 

Admission is $5 on Thursday, $10 Friday through Sunday, with free entry for children under 10, military, veterans, police, and firefighters showing valid ID.

 

Complimentary parking is available at the Venice Airport Festival Grounds, 610 Airport Avenue East.

 

Event hours are 4–9 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, and 12–9 p.m. on the weekend.

 

The club also offers Italian language and cultural classes, plus a weekly Friday pasta dinner for the community.

 

Expect sunny skies with temperatures from the mid-70s to mid-60s.

The North River Marketplace is set to reshape shopping and dining along the North River Road corridor in Venice, Florida.

 

At its center will be a new Publix supermarket, anchoring a blend of retail, restaurants, and specialty shops.

 

This 51-acre project sits near North River Road and East Venice Avenue, west of Interstate 75, making it accessible for residents of Venice, North Port, and neighboring communities.

 

With the area’s population surging by 9.1% annually between 2016 and 2021, demand for more local amenities is higher than ever.

 

Construction timelines are still pending, but development and leasing are underway to bring a modern, convenient shopping hub to this fast-growing region.

 

Once open, the North River Marketplace is poised to become a focal point for both commerce and community life in Venice.

Village on the Isle in Venice, Florida, is launching a major $78 million expansion to answer rising demand for independent senior living.

 

The project will bring 54 modern residences across two five-story buildings, with spacious units measuring 1,300 to 1,800 square feet.

 

This growth complements the community’s existing 234 independent living units, opening even more opportunities for seniors seeking an active lifestyle.

 

The Core, a new wellness center, will anchor the development with a fitness center, indoor pickleball court, spa, sauna, and zero-entry outdoor pool.

 

A poolside lounge complete with a pizza oven will further foster community and relaxation.

 

Presales began in September 2024 and, with nearly 90% of units already reserved, interest is soaring.

 

Construction is on track for completion by late 2026, reaffirming Village on the Isle’s dedication to top-tier, independent living in Venice.

The Honey Baked Ham Company, a household name in holiday and specialty foods, is set to debut a new location in Venice, Florida.

 

The store, opening at 527 U.S. 41 Bypass North inside Bird Bay Plaza, will provide the community easy access to the brand’s famous glazed hams, turkey breasts, and convenient ready-to-serve meals.

 

Owned by local franchisees Charlotte and Craig Marcum, the new shop builds on decades of family traditions and aims to become a local dining staple.

 

With a soft opening planned for March 2026 and a grand opening in April, residents can soon enjoy signature sandwiches and sides, both for holidays and everyday meals.

 

This marks another ....

The Venice Lions Club will host its first-ever Mutt Strutt dog walk on Saturday, January 24, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Laurel Park & Sandra Sims Terry Community Center in Nokomis.

 

This community-focused event aims to raise funds so a local veteran can receive a service dog, providing essential support and independence.

 

The Mutt Strutt goes beyond just a walk, featuring the debut appearance of the Van of Valor, giving residents a rare chance to tour the vehicle and learn about its veteran-driven mission.

 

Attendees can enjoy a scenic group walk, live dog agility demos, food trucks, photo booth, local vendors, and family activities like face painting and toy making.

 

Registration is $20 in advance and $25 on the day.

 

All proceeds help veterans receive life-changing support, ...

Venice’s dining scene is set for a flavorful boost as Coach’s Bar and Grill prepares to open at 124 W. Venice Avenue , where 124 Breakfast, Lunch, & More once served locals.

 

This new family-owned restaurant, led by Rob Burton, his wife Jennifer, and daughter Brooke, aims to create a true neighborhood hub.

 

Coach’s will offer space for almost 100 guests indoors and seat around 40 more on a breezy outdoor patio.

 

The menu promises homemade favorites like juicy ribeye, lobster rolls, wings, and inventive sandwiches, with everything—from sauces to fries—crafted from scratch.

 

With plans to support local schools and make everyone feel welcome, Coach’s is targeting a February opening, serving lunch through dinner daily—and possibly brunch soon.

 

Keep an eye on downtown Venice for this inviting spot, ready to bring the community together over good food and good company.

Matt Devitt has been a trusted figure in Southwest Florida, guiding locals through hurricanes and daily forecasts for nearly a decade on WINK News.

 

His recent and unexpected departure from the NBC/CBS affiliate sparked an outpouring of shock and support from viewers across social media.

 

Devitt’s calm presence during major storms like Hurricane Ian and Irma built deep bonds with the community, making his sudden exit feel deeply personal for many.

 

Online forums and Facebook groups filled with messages calling him “genuine” and “reliable,” while some questioned the station’s silence about the circumstances.

 

No official explanation has been given, fueling speculation about his departure.

 

Despite uncertainty, Devitt’s new Facebook page immediately gained over a million followers—showing his enduring local impact.

 

The community is left wondering about both his future and the station’s next steps.

For years, North Venice near Laurel Road was seen mostly as untapped potential, but that’s quickly changing.

 

Plans for a 100,000-square-foot Home Depot alongside a future Walmart at Venice Crossing signal a turning point for this once-quiet stretch.

 

The proposed site, near Laurel Road and Twin Laurel Boulevard, is fast becoming a magnet for national retailers eager to tap into the city’s surging growth.

 

For many locals, this means less travel for major shopping and home improvement needs—reflecting Venice’s rise from a stopover town to a commercial destination.

 

While the promise of jobs and convenience excites some, others are concerned about increased traffic and changing community character.

 

This partnership between two retail giants underscores North Venice’s shift from future promise to present investment, transforming open land into a bustling commercial hub.

 

With change underway, the area’s identity is poised for a new era, as residents weigh the benefits and challenges of this rapid evolution.

Venice homebuyers are increasingly backing out of deals even after contracts are signed, a trend now spreading across Florida.

 

While buyers are still interested in Florida living, many return to the bargaining table—or walk away—after confronting higher insurance premiums, unexpected HOA fees, or costly inspection issues.

 

According to a Redfin report, nearly 15% of pending U.S. home sales were canceled in mid-2025, with Florida communities like Venice among the hardest hit.

 

This shift is driven less by “cold feet” and more by harsh financial realities surfacing late in the process, as insurance quotes soar and HOA documents unveil expensive surprises.

 

Sellers can no longer take offers as guarantees—transparency and solid property conditions are now essential.

 

For buyers, protecting finances has become top priority, with many choosing to walk away rather than gamble on unpredictable future costs.

 

This careful approach marks a new ...

World Turning, a nationally touring Fleetwood Mac tribute band of seasoned musicians, is set to bring its acclaimed live experience to the Venice Community Center this winter.

 

The concert, billed as The Live Fleetwood Mac Experience, is scheduled for Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. at 326 Nokomis Avenue South.

 

Lead singer Jacqi Michaels channels Stevie Nicks with a career spanning Broadway and work with icons like Barbra Streisand.

 

The band’s line-up features guitarist John Mahoney and drummer Mike Zimmerman, both well-traveled Nashville performers, along with versatile pianist Beth Dean, veteran guitarist Gary McGuire, and bassist Ralph Graham, each bringing decades of music industry experience.

 

Tickets are available online, and with World Turning’s national reputation, this Venice show promises an evening that captures the magic of Fleetwood Mac’s greatest hits.

Venice has earned national attention, landing on WorldAtlas’s list of Florida’s 9 Unsung Small Towns thanks to its unique mix of historic charm, coastal beauty, and vibrant community.

 

The city’s walkable downtown showcases Mediterranean Revival architecture, boutique shops, and lively cultural venues, with Centennial Park at the heart of local gatherings and celebrations.

 

Venice’s status as the Shark Tooth Capital of the World draws locals and visitors alike to Caspersen Beach, renowned for fossil hunting along its pristine, natural shoreline.

 

Outdoor lovers are drawn to the Venetian Waterway Park and Legacy Trail, offering scenic routes for walking and biking that link the city to Sarasota.

 

Historic neighborhoods like Venezia Park underscore Venice’s roots as a thoughtfully planned, Mediterranean-inspired city and reinforce its reputation as a hidden Gulf Coast gem.

Day TWELVE of our beloved 12 Days of Christmas Giveaway is here!

 

Win a stylish Handheld Mini Vacuum—perfect for quick cleanups and thoughtful gifting.

 

If you already have one at home, this mini vacuum makes an excellent Christmas surprise for neighbors, loved ones, or a favorite charity.

 

Only subscribers are eligible to win.

 

Not subscribed yet? Don't worry—visit our Day TWELVE page to join.

 

Good luck—and have a wonderful Christmas from everyone at Venice Matters!