Sarasota news events:
28th Annual Thunder By The Bay Festival Announces
Three Headline Acts – Special Guest – A New Name
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 is organized by Suncoast Charities for Children and promises
a weekend packed with fun and entertainment. Featured headline acts include:
• Night Ranger — Rock legends known for hits like “Sister Christian” and “Don’t Tell Me You
Love Me”
• 38 Special — On their 50th Anniversary Tour, celebrating a brand-new album release!
• Montgomery Gentry featuring Eddie Montgomery — Bringing high-energy country hits to
the stage.
The weekend also showcases an incredible mix of additional live music performances, from Maiden
Cane, “Given To Fly” (Pearl Jam Tribute), Bobby Friss, and Crossfire Creek.
The festival also welcomes special guest Paul Teutul Jr., of Paul Jr. Designs, star of the Discovery
Channel’s American Chopper. Festival attendees will have a chance to meet the man behind the metal of
some of the most awesome motorcycle builds ever created.
This three-day weekend event will continue to feature vendors, a 14-class bike show, a motorcycle
rodeo, and great food. However, a few new things attendees can expect include:
• “Cars & Country” Sunday Car Show – Hosted by Pete Tromboni, founder of Sarasota’s
popular Cars & Coffee event.
• Motorcycle & Car Charity Dice Run — A ride for a great cause on Saturday morning ending
at the festival.
• Party Pit Tickets — Get up close to the stage for an unforgettable concert experience.
• “Sunday Fun Day” Four-Pack Tickets — Perfect for families and groups.
• On-Site Chair Rentals — Sit back, relax, and enjoy the music comfortably.
Presenting sponsors currently confirmed include Precision Garage Door Service, Sarasota Ford, and Top
Tier Towing. Major sponsors currently confirmed include Budweiser, Sonny’s BBQ, United Rentals,
and USA Fence. Over the past 27 years, the festival has raised $3 million to support local children, teens,
and adults with special needs by providing funding for critical programs and services they need. For
tickets and more information, visit: THUNDERBYTHEBAY.ORG
