North Port Magazine

01/13/2026

12/19/2025

In Venice, Florida, a homeowner woke to unusual noises in her kitchen, only to find a six-foot alligator roaming among her appliances. According to USA Today, the reptile had likely entered through an unlocked door, drawn by the home’s lights or temperature.

Authorities from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission responded quickly, restraining and removing the alligator. While no one was injured, minor property damage occurred as the animal knocked over household items during its unexpected exploration.

The incident highlights a unique aspect of Florida living: abundant wetlands and wildlife mean that encounters like this, though rare, can happen in homes near natural habitats.

Residents are reminded to secure entry points and remain aware that the state’s alligators are always nearby.

12/13/2025

Celebrate the first night of Chanukah with us in Downtown Wellen Park. ✨

Join us on December 14th from 6-9pm for a Chanukah celebration featuring live music by Dr. Laz and a menorah lighting for the first night of the holiday. 🎶

Everyone is invited to share the joy—see you there! 🫶

12/06/2025

12/01/2025

🎄Thousands of lights fill a five-acre Nokomis property in Sarasota County. 🔗⬇️

11/30/2025

Get ready to experience two distinct zones packed with tropical holiday cheer, gifts, and fun for the whole family at our new and improved Jingle Jam, presented by Latham, The Pool Company, Next Saturday, December 6!

🌴 North Palm Plaza: a tropical twist on the north pole with fun for all ages!

🍪 Sip, Shop, & Sleigh in the Stadium: Holiday treats, live music, and shopping—all around the diamond!

Plus, wrap up the day with the Caddy Carts Parade of Lights at 6:00 PM!

Full Event Details: cooltodaypark.com/jingle-jam

11/27/2025

11/26/2025

ℹ️ This year’s “Once Upon a North Port Holiday” themed Poinsettia Parade, presented by Quality TV Smart Home & Security, will be marching down Sumter Boulevard on Saturday, Dec. 6!🚦 To prepare for the parade, road closures and detours will begin at 2 p.m. the day of the event.

For complete list of road closures and detours, please visit ➡️ NorthPortFL.gov/Poinsettia

08/21/2025

08/21/2025

07/29/2025

Lightning Over Downtown Sarasota ⚡️🏙️ 7.27.25

Massive thunderstorm passes over Sarasota, FL last night around 9 PM on July 27th 2025

📷: Dylan Jon Wade Cox Photography



(Composite: This is 4 different lightning bolt photos layered together from the same scene. Back-to-back bolts basically. Amazing to see such large strikes!)

07/18/2025

𝗡𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗵 𝗣𝗼𝗿𝘁 𝗥𝗮𝗻𝗸𝗲𝗱 𝗮 𝗧𝗼𝗽 𝗨.𝗦. 𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗺𝘁𝗼𝘄𝗻 𝗯𝘆 𝗟𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗧𝗿𝗲𝗲.

North Port is more than one of America’s fastest-growing cities. It’s a city positioned for long-term success, with land to build, a growing workforce, and strong economic momentum.

See the full list: https://www.lendingtree.com/business/small/biggest-boomtowns-study