Rosemary Rises for Holiday Walk

The intent of Rosmary Rising Holiday Walk might be to get you in the holiday mood, but it might be a way for people realize you can walk to the Rosemary District with ease.

"We mainly see this event as a way to just getting people on the street and get people to understand that just because we're north of Fruitville doesn't mean we're not downtown," said Darby Pursifull, secretary of the Rosemary District and event organizer.

The seventh annual event will run from 5 to 9 p.m. on Thursday.

The Rosemary District is located between Fruitville Road, North Tamiami Trail, Orange Avenue, and 10th Street. This historic district is known for its creative economy, including artists, small businesses and boutiques.

"It's fun to be able to expose people (to the Rosemary District) that normally don't come this way," she added.

Holly Jolly at Holiday Walk

There will be plenty of activities to expose people to the district and some holiday cheer.

Each block along Central Avenue, between Fruitville Road and 10th Street, will showcase some of Sarasota's public safety squads, including the SWAT team, K-9 Team, local police and fire truck with Santa riding on top.

These teams will welcome children and adults to explore their vehicles, ask them questions and meet the K-9 dogs.

Also along Central Avenue, bring your pooch to compete in the dog costume contest. Don't have a dog? You can adopt one from Give Me Shelter at the event.

There will be T-shirt silk screening, cooking demonstrations by Publix’s Apron School, complimentary yoga lessons at Rosemary Court, and Sarasota’s Jeff Leherd will offer a tour of at 6:30 p.m.

"Most of our pioneers of Sarasota have been buried there, and that's awesome," Pursifull said.

Local artisans will be outside selling their wares, and Tube Dudes will guide you.

will offer ale tastings, while will offer tours of its new studio.

Musicians perform throughout the district, including Joe Bonfiglio; Completely From the Mountains; Bud Buckley on acoustic guitar; Heart Machine; and Another Roadside Attraction.

The Green Hopper and Pedi Cabs will offer rides around the district.

Santa Claus will be at Savory Street Cafe and Bakery from 6 to 8 p.m., where photos can be taken with him, and he will also be at made by gallery after 8 p.m.

Savory Cafe will open for dinner, which is a first, Pursifull said.

For more information, visit Rosemary Rising's Facebook page or contact Darby Pursifull at 941-350-6965.

If You Go:

Rosemary Rising Holiday Walk

5 to 9 p.m. Thursday

Rosemary District — Fruitville Road, North Tamiami Trail, Orange Avenue, and 10th Street.

Free