SPLASH INTO SUMMER AT REALIZE BRADENTON’S MINI-MARKETS
By NICOLE MISKOVIC
As the heat dials up and the end of the school year approaches, the hunt for new activities to fill the summer schedule begins. For those wanting to make the most of their summer, whether ‘staycationing’ in the community or visiting Bradenton as their tropical destination, Realize Bradenton’s monthly Mini-Markets might be the
perfect events to add to the itinerary.
Realize Bradenton, a local nonprofit dedicated to enhancing the vitality of Bradenton through arts, culture, and community, will host these morning markets filled with local vendors, guest speakers, engaging activities, and the warm welcome of a Florida summer. The markets take place from 8 a.m. to noon on Old Main Street on the second Saturday of June, July, and August.
Offering something for everyone, the Mini-Markets will feature small activities that engage children and parents alike, 50+ vendors setting up shop each month – showcasing a range of locally made crafts, fresh produce, delicious treats, and
unique finds – and a bustling gathering place for our community to come together and get connected.
JUNE 8 – SUMMER SAFETY
The first Mini-Market of the summer will focus on Summer Safety. Water safety, in particular, is important to consider during the hot Florida months, which is why one of this Market’s guest speakers will be Amanda Girton, a local swim instructor who founded Sunshine Swimming. She also authored a book on pool safety, Teach Your Child to Swim, designed to empower parents to take an active role in their child’s
aquatic education.
“I wanted to create a resource that encouraged and educated parents on how to teach their kids how to swim,” Girton said. “So, if they like my methods but they can’t afford lessons, or they don’t have access to a pool, or whatever the situation is, I want to make the knowledge of that safety more accessible.”
A CPR-certified Water Safety Instructor (WSI) with a passion for water safety, Girton began teaching swimming classes over a decade ago. She’ll be bringing a wealth of tools to the June Market that will help parents create a safe and fun water environment for kids, along with an engaging activity for kids. Girton will also be sharing details about her upcoming program, which will provide free swim lessons to underserved children in the community, particularly those who lack access to
pools.
“I think it’s important that Realize Bradenton is having an event focused on safety and that water safety is a part of that,” said Girton. “Drowning is the leading cause of death in children 1 to 4 years old, and many parents and guardians can benefit from knowing everything they can do to protect their children around water.”
JULY 13 – SUMMER SANTA
July will bring a delightful twist on tradition as none other than Bradenton’s Mayor Brown and his wife, Gina, will attend the Mini-Market as Mayor Santa and his First Lady Claus – decked out in summer style, of course. Meet local leaders, participate in fun activities – and maybe even get a rare photo of summer snowfall…
AUGUST 10 – SCHOOL SPIRIT
August’s Mini-Market offers the perfect opportunity to get ready for the upcoming
school year with vendors and activities designed to be the perfect one-stop shop for kids’ smooth transition back to class when school starts.
MAKE MEMORIES & SUPPORT LOCAL
“The summer Mini-Markets are the perfect opportunity for us to be creative with our activities and try new things that we are not able to do during the regular Market season,” said Andrea Knies, Director of Communications at Realize Bradenton. “We hope that this will become a fun, family tradition for the community.”
Take the opportunity to support local businesses, artisans, and farmers, connect with neighbors, and enjoy summer mornings under the Florida sunshine this summer — mark your calendar and get ready to experience the best of Bradenton!
For more information and updates on the Mini-Markets and Realize Bradenton’s other initiatives, visit www.RealizeBradenton.com.