Local Businesses Invited to Sponsor Sarasota’s 10th Annual Big Mama’s Collard Green Fest

September 11, 2026 admin

The October 17 celebration will bring families, local businesses, food vendors, community organizations and visitors together at the Robert L. Taylor Community Complex.

SARASOTA, Fla. — The Newtown Nation Inc. and the Newtown Farmers Market are inviting local businesses, organizations and community partners to sponsor the 10th Annual Big Mama’s Collard Green Fest, scheduled for Saturday, October 17, 2026, from 12 to 6 p.m. at the Robert L. Taylor Community Complex, 1845 34th Street, Sarasota, Florida 34234.

The milestone festival will celebrate food, family, culture, entrepreneurship and the rich legacy of Sarasota’s historic Newtown community. The event’s official theme centers on community, culture and legendary collard greens.

For 10 years, Big Mama’s Collard Green Fest has brought together families, local businesses, food vendors, farmers, community organizations, performers and visitors for a day of connection and celebration.

This year’s festival is expected to feature:

Local food and culinary experiences
Farmers and fresh-produce vendors
Arts and crafts
Small businesses and entrepreneurs
Community resources
Youth-focused activities
Live entertainment
Family-friendly activities
Opportunities to support local organizations and businesses

Why Become a Festival Sponsor?

Sponsorship support will help fund event production, youth activities, entertainment, community outreach, marketing and other essential festival expenses.

Depending on the sponsorship level, participating organizations may receive recognition through:

Event signage
Festival website and social media promotion
Program advertising
Market flyers
Festival T-shirts
Public announcements
Exhibitor or vendor space
Certificates and other recognition opportunities

The official sponsorship information identifies opportunities for businesses, vendors, chefs, community organizations and other supporters to participate in the 10th-anniversary celebration. (NEWTOWNNATION)

By sponsoring Big Mama’s Collard Green Fest, an organization can:

Increase visibility among Sarasota families and community members
Support local economic development
Promote small businesses and entrepreneurs
Help preserve and celebrate Newtown’s cultural heritage
Connect with potential customers and community partners
Demonstrate a commitment to youth, families and neighborhood vitality
Receive recognition as a valued community supporter

“Big Mama’s Collard Green Fest is turning 10,” organizers stated, inviting local businesses, vendors, chefs, community organizations and supporters to participate in the milestone event.

The Newtown Nation Inc. is a Sarasota-based nonprofit organization focused on economic and social development in Newtown. Its initiatives include community building, education, health, nutrition and the Newtown Farmers Market.

Organizations interested in sponsoring the festival can register through NEWTOWNNATION or request the printable sponsorship package. Customized partnership opportunities may also be available.

Relive Big Mama’s Collard Green Fest Through Photos

Big Mama’s Collard Green Fest has grown into a signature Newtown celebration of food, culture, family and community. Explore past festival coverage and photo galleries from previous years:

Big Mama’s Collard Green Festival 2025: A Community Story in Photos — Photos of the cooking, judging, vendors, entertainment and community gatherings from the 2025 festival.

2022 Big Mama’s Collard Greens Festival Photo Gallery — A visual look back at the 2022 celebration.

— Coverage of the fifth annual festival and its recognition by local officials.

Big Mama’s Collard Greens Fest Returns to Newtown — Earlier Sarasota Magazine coverage explaining the festival’s Newtown roots and cultural significance.

Sponsorship Contact Information

Website: NEWTOWNNATION.com
Email: info@newtownnation.com
Phone: (941) 822-6518
Organization: The Newtown Nation Inc.

Together, we can help make the 10th Annual Big Mama’s Collard Green Fest the biggest and most meaningful celebration yet—while building stronger businesses, stronger families and a stronger community.