As our community recovers from the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, the University Town Center District will host a very special event this Saturday, October 5, from 6 to 9 p.m., to raise money for victims of Hurricane Helene right here on the Suncoast. iHeart Radio and Benderson Development are joining forces with Suncoast Charities for Children for a free night of music as seven area rock bands jam out at seven locations around the UTC District. Sponsors include ABC7, SRQ Trolley, and Aqua. Admission is free, and ages 21+ are recommended. Trolley service will run between venues from 6 pm -9 pm. Stop by The Green for your all-access pass to ride the trolley tour, receive special offers at each participating location, and have the opportunity to register to win passes to Welcome To Rockville, America’s largest rock festival held at Daytona International Speedway. Suncoast Charities for Children’s Executive Director, Lucy Nicandri, shared: “ROCKtoberfest has been planned for months as a fundraiser for Suncoast Charities for Children. Immediately after Hurricane Helene, we knew many residents along the Suncoast were impacted, so we quickly shifted the event's focus to help with relief efforts. We are proud to be able to work with such great partners and make a positive impact at such a critical time when so many families here in our local community need assistance right away.” QR codes will be available at all seven locations where you can make online donations. A large donation box will also be at The Green at the iHeart Media tent. All donations will assist in funding vital services for individuals impacted by Hurricane Helene within the Sarasota/Bradenton area. Those who cannot attend the event and want to donate may do so online via this link:https://suncoastcharitiesforchildren.harnessgiving.org/campaigns/16169. Donations may also be mailed, and checks may be made payable to: Suncoast Charities for Children, 5317 Fruitville Road, Suite 43, Sarasota, FL 34232. Please include “Hurricane Relief Fund” in the memo line.

ROCKtoberfest Lineup: One Eyed Jack’s - Playing The Green at UTC where you can pick up your souvenir lanyard; Vitamin G – Playing at Bar George, hosted by Maverick and Lulu from CTQ on 92.1 and 103.1; Ellipsis Band - Playing at Ford’s Garage, hosted by Jones and Company from 107.9 WSRZ
Jane Bond Band - Playing at Kona Grill, hosted by Queen B and DJ Shizm from 106.5 The BEAT; JJ & The Bad Habits - Playing at Oak & Stone; The Meeps - Playing at Origin Craft Beer & Pizza Cafe; Nobody’s Fool - Playing at PopStroke, hosted by Frank the Tank from Z105.