Saturday, May 2, 2026 
9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Public Safety Center, 2101 47th Terrace E., Bradenton

Bring the kids and meet the people who help keep Manatee County safe. 

Safety Fest is a free, family-friendly event for families. Kids can climb aboard emergency and service vehicles, explore lifesaving equipment and meet the public safety professionals who serve our county every day.

This event is sponsored by The Patterson Foundation.

The first 200 guests will receive a free hot dog, drink, and shaved ice.

What to Expect

• Touch-a-truck style vehicle displays
• Emergency and service vehicles on site
• Interactive safety activities
• Opportunities to speak directly with public safety professionals
• Guided, hands-on tours inside the Public Safety Center (registration required)

---

Interactive Tours (Registration Required)

Families will have the opportunity to sign up for timed, guided experiences inside two critical public safety facilities. 

Emergency Communications Center (911)

Participants will learn how 911 calls are handled and take part in a simulated call experience designed to show how dispatchers gather information and coordinate response. All scenarios are educational simulations.

Emergency Operations Center (EOC)

Participants will step into a mock emergency scenario and learn how leaders use real-time information to make decisions during hurricanes and other large-scale incidents. This is an education exercise designed to demonstrate how emergency coordination works.

Space is limited for each session. Registration details and time slots will be announced soon.

---

Participating Agencies 

Manatee County Public Safety Divisions:

• Emergency Management
• Emergency Communications (911)
• Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
• Beach Patrol & Aquatic Safety

Community Partners: 

• Manatee County Code Enforcement
• Manatee County Sheriff's Office
• Florida Highway Patrol
• Tampa General Hospital Aeromed
• Cedar Hammock Fire Rescue
• Florida Department of Transportation
• FPL
• Kona Ice Truck
• Southern Manatee Fire Rescue
• Suncoast Remake Learning Days
• Willy-Yums Hometown Hotdogs