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Florida collectible show is back, in a new location
Author, historian and memorabilia merchant Ken Breslauer had a tough decision to make when it came time to plan his Floridiana Fest for 2025. For three consecutive years, the one-day event – sort of a giant indoor yard sale of nothing but vintage Florida memorabilia, souvenirs and books – had been held at the Gulfport Casino.
The room was always full, with well over 1,000 attendees investigating (and purchasing) Sunshine State goodies from some 35 vendors.
The Gulfport Casino was severely damaged by Hurricane Helene and remains closed for extensive repairs. Breslauer, whose own books include Florida Roadside Attractions History and 50 Years of Stock Car Racing, went looking and found something that might be even better: “The Sarasota Auditorium was a great alternative – it’s a historic building and has a little more room than the Gulfport venue.”
Located at 801 N. Tamiami Trail in Sarasota, the auditorium welcomes the 4th annual Florida Fest Friday (3-6 p.m.) and Saturday (9 a.m.-3 p.m.).
The expansion to two days (or, more specifically, to 1 and ½ days) was strategic. “I’m hoping for crowds comparable to the previous three shows,” Breslauer said. “We’d like to top 1,500 in attendance.”
The Floridiana Fest is a labor of love for Ken Breslauer. “I’ve always had an interest in Florida history, and collecting Florida travel memorabilia,” he explained.
“The first show I did back in 1994 in Coral Gables was an informal gathering of enthusiasts. It has since really grown in popularity – Florida kitsch and collectibles has a big following. It’s great nostalgia and visually a lot of fun.”
For details, visit the Floridana Fest website.
