Sarasota newspaper news events
28th Annual Thunder By The Bay Festival Begins In Three Weeks
Three Headline Acts – New Additions This Year’s Festival
Don’t miss one of Florida’s most anticipated festivals — a weekend filled with music, motors, and making a difference!
The 28th Annual Thunder By The Bay Music & Motors Festival returns to the Sarasota Fairgrounds February 13–15, 2026. This iconic festival, organized by and benefitting Suncoast Charities for Children, promises a weekend packed with fun and entertainment. Featured headline acts and special guest appearances include the following:
- Night Ranger — Rock legends known for classic rock hits like “Sister Christian” and “Don’t Tell Me You Love Me”
- 38 Special — On their 50th Anniversary Tour, and celebrating a brand-new album release!
- Montgomery Gentry featuring Eddie Montgomery — Bringing high-energy country hits the stage.
- Paul Teutul Jr. of Paul Jr. Designs – Meet the man behind the metal of some of the most awesome motorcycle builds featured on Discovery Channel’s American Chopper.
New to this year’s festival and things you need to know:
- America’s Freedom Tribute Display – A special veteran’s park area, presented by America’s Freedom Tribute, will showcase traveling memorial displays—including the “Cost of Freedom”, Vietnam War, and Global War on Terror exhibits. The park will also host local veteran service organizations providing resources and assistance to those who have served.
- “Cars & Country” Sunday Car Show – Hosted by Pete Tromboni, founder of Sarasota’s popular Cars & Coffee event.
- Scenic Motorcycle & Car Charity Dice Run — Participate in your car or on your motorcycle for a great cause on Saturday morning traveling through beautiful Myakka River State Park. Stops include The Haven (one of many local agencies supported by Suncoast Charities for Children) ending at the festival (admission included in registration).
- Expanded Motorcycle Rodeo – Watch riders test their riding skills and coordination.
- Party Pit Passes— Get up close to the stage for an unforgettable concert experience.
- “Sunday Funday” Four-Pack Tickets — Perfect for families and groups.
- Ways To Show Your Support Even If You Cannot Attend The Festival – Bid on some one-of-a-kind silent auction items in an online silent auction from the comfort of your home (Feb. 2-17). A $35,000 donation match is also in place thanks to the James M. Doss Charitable Foundation for all donations made now through end of February.
The weekend will also showcase an incredible mix of additional live music performances from Maiden Cane, Downsyde Up, “Given To Fly” (Pearl Jam Tribute), Bobby Friss, and Crossfire Creek, along with good food, and plenty of vendors. General admission tickets are just $20 for affordable access to all the festival fun with free parking. On-site camping is also available. Limited Party Pit Passes, for a closer look at the main stage performances, and VIP tickets may also be purchased.
Suncoast Charities for Children’s Executive Director, Lucy Nicandri, shared: “For nearly three decades, this festival has been a significant charity fundraiser in addition to being a celebration of music, community, and fun. As we head into our 28th year, we’re thrilled to bring in some exciting new additions that we know attendees will love — while keeping the heart and spirit of the event alive.” Title Sponsor for this year’s event is the James M. Doss Charitable Foundation. Presenting sponsors include Precision Garage Door Service, Sarasota Ford, and Top Tier Towing. Major sponsors include Budweiser/Gold Coast Eagle Distributing, United Rentals, and USA Fence. 100% of the net proceeds from the festival benefit Suncoast Charities for Children, which provides funding support to critical programs and services for local children, teens, and adults with special needs.
Additional festival events include a Sporting Clay Tournament and a “Taste of Thunder” event featuring wine & spirit tastings from around the world paired with food. For tickets and more information, visit: THUNDERBYTHEBAY.ORG
