Friday Fest, the free, outdoor summertime concert series at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall returns with an exciting lineup of bands who will bring the audience to their feet! This year the festivities kick off in May. Each event runs from 5-9 p.m. on the lawn of the Van Wezel overlooking beautiful Sarasota Bay. Opening the Friday Fest series on May 24 is Hot Tonic Orchestra. The high energy musical act mixes swing, Latin jazz, and popular music to create a unique live show like no other.  The fun continues on June 21 returning favorite, Kettle of Fish. Kettle of Fish plays festival music that features blues, soul, and funk with the energy of rock ‘n roll. They make old songs new again, and their originals sound like classics. Friday Fest will take a hiatus in the hot summer months of July and August, and will return on September 20 with Kluv & the United Funk Foundation. Kluv & the United Funk Foundation came together in 2020 during the pandemic. Kim, the lead singer and bandleader, chose the most talented musicians in Florida to complete the team. They have become the most sought-after dance, soul and R&B band in Florida. Closing out the concert series on October 4 will be Big Night Out. Big Night Out is a variety dance band that performs Latin, R&B and island dance music. A powerful horn section and grooving conga add to the commanding vocals of Joni Adno. Big Night Out, over the past 17 years, has become one of southwest Florida’s most in demand dance bands. Bring blankets or lawn chairs, take in the music and the sunset, and enjoy food and beverage from local vendors. Bringing in food, beverages and coolers from outside Friday Fest is prohibited. For additional information, visit VanWezel.org.