What you need to know about holding your event on the Bradenton Riverwalk.
What do I need to know as an event planner?
An event permit allows you exclusive use of a specific area within the Riverwalk. It does not prevent the general public from access to space near, or even adjacent to, your reserved area.
Although the City of Bradenton will control the number of permitted events on any day and time, it does not control activities by the general public. It is possible that music and other sound from nearby activities will bleed into your reserved space.
Washrooms must remain open for public use.
Event planners are responsible for the security of their site and all equipment brought to the site.
If you want to rope or fence your site, include the fencing materials and installation in your event plan.
The 1.5 mile long Riverwalk is patrolled by the Bradenton Police Department.
The on duty police are not responsible for the security of equipment or other aspects of an event.
The on duty police are not responsible for enforcing the exclusive use of the reserved event space.
The Riverwalk is maintained by the Bradenton Public Works Department.
The Public Works Department has a 24-hour emergency number to respond to facility problems such as electrical and water issues.
On weekends and evenings, it may take an hour or more to get a worker on site.
City staff are not able to assist with any privately owned equipment brought onto the site for an event.
There are no indoor spaces on the Riverwalk for back up rain planning.
Where can I hold my event?
The Riverwalk is 1.5 miles long. Within this linear park there are many spaces suitable for a range of activities. The walkway along the river must always remain open for public access. Check out our Riverwalk Venues.
How do I know if a venue is available?
Please refer to the event calendar to view available park areas.
A minimum of one police officer is required for each permitted event. A dollar amount per hour per officer will be charged. You would be informed of the anticipated cost prior to your event.
If you have tents larger than 10’ x 10’, a tent permit will also be needed.
A certificate of liability insurance for $1 million of coverage is also required naming the City of Bradenton as an “Additional Insured” and including the name and date of your event. You may wish to compare pricing from various insurance companies.
For large events, additional port-o-lets will need to be obtained.
There may be a charge for Solid Waste (garbage) service.
Barricades and cones must be secured by a private vendor.
How do I reserve it?
An Event Permit Application will need to be submitted. Take a look at the Permit Process.
Where Do I Get The Insurance Certificate?
A certificate of liability insurance for $1 million of coverage is also required naming the City of Bradenton as an “Additional Insured” and including the name and date of your event. You may wish to compare pricing from various insurance companies.
Can I Use Tents?
Tents can be used but no stakes are allowed anywhere in the park to protect the underground utilities and sprinkler systems. Weighted sandbags must be used. For tents larger than 10’ x 10’, a tent permit must be obtained from the Department of Planning and Community Development at City Hall, 101 Old Main Street.
Can We Serve or Sell Alcohol?
Alcohol can be served or sold during permitted events. A temporary liquor license must be obtained from the State and signed by the City of Bradenton Zoning Manager at City Hall, 101 Old Main Street. When alcohol is involved, the certificate of liability insurance must then also include a liquor endorsement.
When Does Music Need To End?
Except for rare and special exceptions, it is recommended that music end by 10:00 p.m. to comply with the City’s Noise Ordinance and for the peace and welfare of the surrounding community.
