GET OUT: Weekend Events Preview, August 12-14

It’s Thursday, and you’ve got no idea what you're doing this weekend.

Patch is coming to the rescue. We’ve got the best bets for entertainment and things to do around Bradenton. As always, you can also browse our Events Calendar, and if you spot something we missed, be sure to add it!

Be sure to check Bar Tab for what's happening around this weekend.

When/where: Check out Bradenton Patch for some of the best retail spots for shoes, clothes and school supplies. And don't forget to check out the largest Bradenton-based retailer, . If you don't find what you want around town there's always the mall and we have two nearby. and Ellenton Premium Outlets have everything your kids need to go back to school in style. The tax savings will be offered Friday through Sunday.
Why go: Savings! Need we say more? Tax free shopping automatically cuts nearly 7 percent off of your total bill for school supplies and clothing. Combine that with a sale and you get to keep even more money in your wallet.

When/where:  ArtsCenter Manatee, 209 9th Street West, is hosting a reception and exhibit from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday to close out its KidsArt Summer Camp. Call 941-746-2862 for information or visit www.artcentermanatee.org.
Why go: The exhibit shows off the spontaneous and joyful work created in the KidsArt summer camp by students, ages four to fifteen. The colorful work includes pottery, photography, jewelry design, drawing and painting. 

When/where:  About 50 students from across Manatee County will be honored during a Summer Graduation Ceremony at 6545 S.R. 70 East., on Saturday at 10 a.m. Graduates at the ceremony represent all of the county’s public high schools.
Why go: For the graduates being honored, this ceremony represents a milestone achievement. Superintendent Tim McGonegal, Assistant Superintendent Lynette Edwards and Secondary Schools Director Angela Essig will be among the speakers. School Board Chairman Robert Gause will be the keynote speaker.