| PALMETTO, Fla. — Oct. 8, 2025 — The countdown is on for Parenting Matters’ 9th Annual Sangarita Showdown, happening Friday, Nov. 14, 2025, from 7 to 10 p.m. at the Manatee County Fairgrounds (Veterans Hall). With nearly 250 tickets already sold and tables running out fast, now is the time to secure your spot for the tastiest competition on the Suncoast.
This year’s event brings together 15 local restaurants to battle for the titles of Best Sangria, Best Margarita and Best Small Bite. Guests will sip, savor and cast their votes while enjoying music, raffles, auctions and a lively night out — all to benefit Parenting Matters’ mission of strengthening families and protecting children in Manatee and Sarasota counties.
Fifteen competing restaurants
- Bonefish Grill
- Carrabba’s Italian Grill
- Chicken Salad Chick
- Feast Restaurant
- Fiorelli Winery & Vineyard
- Freckled Fin Irish Pub
- The Fountain Kitchen & Wine Bar
- Loaded Cannon Distillery
- Mean Deans Local Kitchen
- Pesto Bistro & Wine Bar
- Riverhouse Waterfront Restaurant
- Rocco’s Italian Kitchen
- Taverna Toscana
- Tequila’s Mexican Restaurant
- The Toasted Yolk Cafe
“This event is always a highlight of the year,” said Katie Becker, executive director of Parenting Matters. “The community comes together for incredible food, drinks and fun — but most importantly, every ticket purchased directly supports parents and children in our community.”
“At Grande Aire, we believe strong families build strong communities,” said Robert Miller, CEO of Grande Aire Services. “That’s why we’re proud to be a premier sponsor of the Sangarita Showdown.”
“Hearing and connection go hand in hand,” said Dr. Kristin DesErmia, audiologist and owner of Coastal Hearing Care. “Supporting Parenting Matters means helping families connect in deeper, healthier ways.”
“I’ve been part of this event for years, and I can tell you it’s one of the most fun nights in Manatee County,” said Bob Slicker, owner of Slicker’s Eatery and 2024 – 2025 auctioneer. “Come ready to eat, drink and bid — it all goes to a fantastic cause.”
“We’re proud to serve up bold flavors while standing behind such an important mission,” said Dave Potter, managing partner of Bonefish Grill.
“Family is at the heart of what we do,” said Karen Jordan, owner of Chicken Salad Chick. “Partnering with Parenting Matters through this event is a natural fit.”
The 2025 Sangarita Showdown is made possible by generous community partners:
- Presenting Sponsor: Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau
- Premier Sponsors: Floridacentral Credit Union, Grande Aire Services, LocaliQ/Herald-Tribune Media Group
Event Details
Date: Friday, Nov. 14, 2025
Time: 7 – 10 p.m.
Location: Manatee County Fairgrounds — Veterans Hall, 1402 14th Ave. W., Palmetto, Fla. 34221
Tickets: SangaritaShowdown.com
Ages 21+
All proceeds benefit Parenting Matters, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to advancing the lives of children — together with their parents — through evidence-based parenting education and support.
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