GET OUT: Weekend Events Preview, December 16-19

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 out for what's happening around Bradenton's bar scene this weekend.

DIAMOND RIO IN CONCERT

When/Where: Friday, 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. First Baptist Church, downtown Bradenton.
Why go? Diamond Rio, the Grammy Award winning country band is known for singing songs with a positive message, and are now including Christian songs in their concerts. Friday's concert, Holidays and Hits, at First Baptist Church will include favorites from both genres. All seats are reserved.
Pricing: Seats range in price from $20 to $25

HURRICANES AT STATE CHAMPIONSHIP GAME

When/Where: Friday. A bus leaves from Manatee High School for the Citrus Bowl in Orlando. For those driving to Orlando, the game starts at 7 p.m.
Why go? The Manatee High Hurricanes Football team has done it again. Their season has led to the state championship game in Orlando. The game against First Coast will decide who wins the state trophy and championship title.
Pricing: Tickets are on sale at Manatee High School for $12 until 10 a.m. Friday. Reserved seats can be purchased through ticketmaster for $18.50. Tickets will also be sold at the gate.

DOWNTOWN FARMER'S MARKET

When/Where: Saturday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. downtown Bradenton.
Why go?  On the third Saturday of each month, the Bradenton Farmers’ Market on Old Main Street expands to include Mainly Art, a monthly art, craft, and gift showcase featuring the handmade work of local artists and artisans. It's a great weekend to shop for Christmas, as you pick up some fresh produce. This is the last Farmer's Market of the year. The market will return on January 7.
Pricing: Free to go, spend as much as you like.

WINTER LUMINARY WALK

When/Where: Saturday, 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. on the trails of De Soto National Memorial
Why go? The trails at the park come alive with hundreds of luminary bags, music and living history. The air will be full of holiday music as violin and flute soloists, guitar quartets, and a chamber orchestra play throughout the evening. This include Native American musician Juan R. Leon who will share melodies of the Native American flute on the shores of the Manatee River. Living History re-enactors will tell stories of how the Spanish and Native American cultures celebrated the winter season. Jose’s Real Cuban Food will sell authentic cuisine.
Pricing: Free!