Community in Action

Countdown to the 9th Annual Sangarita Showdown

Friday, November 14, 2025 | 7–10 PM | Manatee County Fairgrounds (Veterans Hall)

The flavors of fall are about to come with a kick. Parenting Matters’ 9th Annual Sangarita Showdown is only days away, and excitement is bubbling louder than a blender on high speed.

Food lovers and cocktail connoisseurs unite for an unforgettable evening where 15 of Southwest Florida’s top restaurants go head-to-head in a delicious duel for:

  • Best Sangria
  • Best Margarita
  • Best Small Bite

Guests sip, savor, and vote while enjoying music, raffles, and a high-energy live auction. Every ticket fuels Parenting Matters’ mission to uplift families, strengthen parenting skills, and ensure children get the safe, thriving start they deserve.

Three Showdown Favorites Ready to Shine

Here’s a preview of what’s pouring and plating from a few of this year’s featured spots!

Bonefish Grill

The Bonefish team and their loyal guests are like a family. With more than a decade of history among employees alone, this crew knows community. For the Showdown, they’re rolling in with

  • Dragon Fruit Margarita
  • Blackberry Sangria

Smooth and refreshing vs. bold and juicy
Which drink will win your vote?

Bonefish Managing Partner Dave Potter says it best:

“We’re proud to serve up bold flavors while standing behind such an important mission.”

Freckled Fin Irish Pub

Irish energy meets island indulgence

  • The Fin is bringing swagger and strategy:
  • Reuben Rolls stuffed with house-made corned beef
  • Famous Key Lime Pie crowned with Chantilly cream, toasted coconut, and white chocolate
  • A margarita and a sangria because go big or go home

They’re swinging for multiple golds. Cheer them on as they chase the win!

Slicker’s Eatery

Our auctioneer, our neighbor, our hype man

Slicker’s isn’t competing this time around, but owner Bob Slicker is returning to the stage with his signature charisma to lead the live auction.

“Come ready to eat, drink and bid—it all goes to a fantastic cause.”

Through storms, recovery, and now celebration, Slicker’s continues showing up for families. Bob’s passion keeps the spirit of giving loud and lively.

Full Lineup of 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

Event Details

Date: Friday, November 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+

Every Sip Supports a Stronger Community

Parenting Matters is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to advancing the lives of children — together with their parents—through evidence-based education and support programs in Manatee and Sarasota counties.

When you show up, families rise up.
When you raise a glass, a child gains hope.

Join us November 14 for a night that tastes great and gives back even better.

We’ll see you at the Showdown!