UTC 2024 Recap: Reflecting on the year’s best moments

And with that, 2024 has come to an end. As we reflect on an incredible year, we want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all of our guests who shared in the moments that made 2024 unforgettable. Together, we made a positive impact, supported small business and embraced new experiences. With over 400 events hosted and the doors of popular brands like Pura Vida Miami, Alo, Abercrombie & Fitch, Madewell, Naked Farmer and more opened, 2024 set an extraordinary standard. We can’t wait to see what the new year holds. Stay tuned, there’s so much more to come! 

Making An Impact

From UTC initiatives to collaborative community efforts, these events served as shining examples of the power of generosity, kindness and coming together for a shared purpose.  

• Sarasota Cars & Coffee: Monthly car show revved up over $34,000 for local charities and collected thousands of unwrapped toys in December.
• UTC Pumpkin Patch: Raised more than $15,000 for Nate’s Honor Animal Rescue Center.
• Rocktoberfest: Rocked out at 7 venues around UTC and raised over $8,000 for local families affected by Hurricane Helene.
• Charity Cornhole Tournament: Raised over $6,000 for the Sarasota Police Foundation.
• UTC Night Market: Monthly market event supported over 100 small businesses, with special markets designed to benefit black-owned businesses and boutique owners impacted by hurricanes Helene and Milton.
• Festival of Trees: A tree-mendous holiday showcase and silent auction, raising over $23,000 for 32 local charities.
• Santa’s Grand Arrival Parade: Welcomed 20,000 attendees and awarded $75,000 to local schools, nonprofits and businesses, including $10,000 to veteran-run organization Operation Warrior Resolution.

Making New Memories

The Green at UTC continued to bloom with creativity and community spirit during new events like UTC Kids Club with Miss Jodi and a special Black History Month Celebration in partnership with the Sarasota African American Cultural Coalition. An extra dose of fun was also added with Karaoke on The Green, the outdoor Paint & Sip series and Dance Party on The Green, with different themes each month from ‘70s to country edition. Celebrations continued with Braves Gameday at UTC; an Earth Day Event with The Conservation Foundation and REI; and Let’s Beat Breast Cancer Rally, featuring free screenings and resources.

More Reasons to Celebrate

The UTC District is proud to be a hub for culture and community in Sarasota-Bradenton.

• Helped make Olympic dreams come true during the 2024 U.S. Rowing Olympic and Paralympic Team Trials at Nathan Benderson Park.
• Hosted the Bal Harbour Shops Access Pop-up, featuring a curated collection of the top luxury brands.
• The Mall at UTC marked its 10-year anniversary.
• The Lunar New Year Night Market featured traditional lion and dragon dances to bring good fortune to all.
• Pride brought the community together in celebration of love and acceptance.