Who produces the festival?
The festival is produced by Realize Bradenton, a nonprofit organization that brings people together to create a vibrant and prosperous downtown area for residents, visitors, and businesses. As a community-benefit organization, we work with others to continually strengthen the social, cultural, and physical assets in the Bradenton area.
Where is the festival located?
The festival is held at the award-winning Riverwalk overlooking the Manatee River. The festival address is 452 3rd Avenue West, Bradenton, FL 34205 (map).
Parking
Parking is marked on this map.
When do the gates open?
Gates open 1 hour prior to the first performance.
Friday, December 1: 4:00 pm
Saturday, December 2: 9:00 am
How much are festival tickets?
2023 Bradenton Blues Festival Ticket Prices
Friday Only General Admission = $20 (Day of $30)
Saturday Only General Admission = $55 (Day of $65)
Friday and Saturday General Admission = $65 (Day of $75)
Friday and Saturday Front of Stage = $135 Sold Out
Tickets purchased the day of the festival will increase in price.
Kindly note that there are no refunds, and that the festival will be rain or shine
Do I need to purchase a ticket for my child?
Children 4 and under do not need a ticket.
What is the difference between ‘Front of Stage Seating’ and ‘General Admission’?
- Front of Stage Seating provides you with the best seat in the venue! You’ll be guaranteed a comfy seat in a private area in front of the main stage. No more lugging those heavy chairs from your car to the venue, or worrying about getting the perfect spot.
- General Admission guarantees you access to the open, grassy lawn near the front and sides of the main stage on a ‘first come, first serve’ basis. You’re more than welcome to bring your blanket and collapsible chair.
Is the event handicap accessible?
Yes, the event is handicap accessible (map).
Is re-entry allowed?
Re-entry is allowed if you get a stamp when exiting.
What items may I bring with me to the festival?
The following items ARE permitted:
- Blankets
- Chairs
- Cameras
- Sunscreen
- A personal bag
- Kindly note that all bags and purses will be inspected by security upon entry
What items should I leave at home?
The following items are NOT permitted and may be confiscated and forfeited during the bag check:
- Outside food and drink, including alcohol
- Weapons of any kind
- Illegal drugs and/or drug paraphernalia
- Glass, metal, or plastic beverage/food containers
- Flasks
- Water bottles
- Laser pointers
- Coolers
- Roller skates/blades, bikes, scooters, skateboards, and hoverboards
- Umbrellas, tents, and chairs with sun screens
- Pets of any kind (only service animals with appropriate credentials will be permitted)
- Kindly note that all bags and purses will be inspected by security upon entry
My pet really loves the blues—may I bring them?
Although we really like pets, please leave them at home. Only service animals with appropriate credentials will be permitted. We kindly ask you to bring proper identification for your service animal.
May I smoke at the festival?
We ask that you be courteous to other festival patrons and smoke your cigar, cigarette, or e-cigarette in the designated area near the roundabout. Please keep our park clean and place your ashes and butts in the ashtrays.
Alcohol Sales
Manatee County safety regulations require that the sale of alcohol stops one hour prior to the end of the event. Therefore, alcohol sales will end on Friday at 7:40 pm and on Saturday at 5:25 pm. A last call reminder will be announced from the stage.
