An icon in the heart of downtown Sarasota’s cultural district, the Sarasota Municipal Auditorium stands out as a premier event space for formal and corporate events. From elegant galas to business meetings, seminars, tradeshows, and private parties the auditorium offers 10,000 square feet of unobstructed floor space and excellent acoustics. Key Building Features Built in 1938 and designed in an amazing Art Deco style by Chicago architects Thomas Reed Martin, the Municipal Auditorium has been painstakingly remodeled to maintain its iconic charm while providing the infrastructure needed for modern events. The tall ceilings and stunning hardwood floors create an elegant aesthetic. The facility boasts a 39-foot ceiling, and seating can be planned to accommodate both small groups and large parties. We offer our hosts and their guests free on-site parking, in-house concessions, and an ATM located within the facility. The auditorium’s location grants easy access to downtown Sarasota’s finest theaters, museums, hotels, and restaurants. To help your event run smoothly, we offer a front breezeway for ticket sales or registration along with a staging area for catering. Plan Your Event Our event space offers the versatility of planning your event the way you want, as our clients are free to design the space to suit their specific event needs. With the help of our management team and support staff, you'll enjoy a stress-free planning process that ensures a successful event. Our well-equipped spaces provide the foundation you need for a truly spectacular event. We also offer other facilities that specialize in smaller events. The John Chidsey Bayfront Community Center is a 2,000-square-foot space attached to the west side of the Sarasota Municipal Auditorium. It can accommodate 80 guests for a sit-down dinner or up to 175 with theater-style seating. In downtown Sarasota, our Payne Park Auditorium is 4,000 square feet and is ideal for weddings. Auditorium Events The Sarasota Municipal Auditorium has hosted the Sarasota Youth Orchestra’s Debutante Ball, the Miss Florida pageant, and the renowned West Coast Symphony. Within the walls of its modern design hide whispers of the past. From numerous high school proms and elaborate receptions to concerts, fundraisers, trade shows, exhibits, and business meetings, our staff will meet your event needs and exceed all expectations. Theatre, banquet, trade show, and open floor plans are all available. If you're interested in viewing this dynamic event space contact us to schedule a visit. Let us help you make your next event or expo a success!