Venice Community Center: Hours, Events, Rentals and Visitor Information
Venice Community Center is a public community gathering and event venue located at 326 Nokomis Avenue South, Venice, FL 34285. The facility hosts concerts, exhibitions, club meetings, community celebrations, wellness classes, seminars, weddings and other approved gatherings.
The approximately 45,000-square-foot facility has a large ballroom, stage, flexible meeting rooms, catering kitchen and visitor parking. It serves residents, community groups, organizations and event planners in Venice and the surrounding Sarasota County area.
Venice, FL 34285
Extension 111
Information reviewed October 19, 2026. Confirm public access, upcoming programs, booking terms and all rental rates with the current operator.
Who Manages Venice Community Center in 2026?
Venice Community Center is a City-owned facility. Sarasota County previously operated the venue through an interlocal parks agreement.
That arrangement ended September 30, 2026. Beginning October 1, 2026, the City of Venice resumed responsibility for the building and appointed Venice Institute for Performing Arts Management (VIPAM) as its facility operator.
VIPAM is now responsible for coordinating rentals and events, supporting facility operations and developing community and performing arts uses.
| Responsibility | Current arrangement |
|---|---|
| Facility owner | City of Venice, Florida |
| Current manager | Venice Institute for Performing Arts Management (VIPAM) |
| Transition date | October 1, 2026 |
| Event reservations | Through VIPAM |
| Current venue website | VeniceCommunityCenter.com |
| Rental contact | Georgia Peacock, VIPAM |
| General enquiries | VCCinfo@vipam.org |
For official confirmation, see the City’s Community Center transition page and September 16, 2026 reservation update.
Venice Community Center Hours
Venice Community Center primarily functions as an event, class and rental venue. A verified, fixed Monday–Sunday schedule of unrestricted public walk-in hours was not available from the current operator.
| Visit purpose | Schedule information |
|---|---|
| General public visiting | No verified universal daily walk-in schedule; check the operator’s calendar or contact VIPAM. |
| Rental telephone assistance | VIPAM’s published phone hours are 8 AM–4 PM. The announcement does not specify days of the week. |
| Concerts and performances | Doors, showtime and admission depend on the individual event. |
| Recreation and wellness classes | Follow the instructor’s current class schedule. |
| Clubs and community meetings | Dates and hours vary by organizer. |
| Private rentals | By confirmed reservation, based on available dates and approved terms. |
| Special holidays | Availability depends on the venue’s calendar and staffing. |
To verify an upcoming class, event or site visit, contact VCCinfo@vipam.org or check the venue calendar.
Venice Community Center Facilities and Amenities
The center is designed for everything from small club meetings to concerts and large events.
A large open event space historically advertised with seating for up to 1,000 guests, depending on configuration and approval.
An approximately 1,800-square-foot stage with theatrical lighting and access to production facilities.
Adjustable meeting and activity rooms for educational programs, seminars, clubs and private gatherings.
Food preparation and cooking facilities, subject to the operator’s approved rental terms and equipment use rules.
Technical booth, sound systems and equipment capabilities for suitable events.
Backstage and dressing-room amenities for applicable performances and productions.
Portico-style entrance useful for guest arrival, loading and accessible drop-off planning.
Parking serving the cultural campus, subject to availability and any event-specific instructions.
Spaces adaptable for civic functions, workshops, exhibitions, weddings and performing arts.
Classes and Programs at Venice Community Center
The center has historically hosted independent instructors and local organizations offering fitness, wellness, cultural and educational activities.
Programs previously listed by Sarasota County include:
Slow, structured movement activities focused on balance, body awareness and gentle exercise.
Movement and breathing classes designed around relaxation, mobility and wellness.
Instructor-led guided relaxation and meditation sessions.
Dance-based group exercise with independent instructors.
Meetings for groups such as orchid enthusiasts and local interest organizations.
Seminars, presentations and community learning events hosted by outside organizations.
Previously Published Class Examples
| Program | Historical listing |
|---|---|
| Qigong for Life | Thursdays; earlier listings show a $10 class fee. |
| Tai Chi for Health | Wednesdays around 10:30–11:30 AM. |
| Yoga Nidra Meditation | Tuesdays 7–8 PM; earlier listings show a $10 fee. |
| Zumba classes | Several weekday morning options, subject to instructor schedules. |
| Orchid Society | Historically met on the first Monday of the month. |
Ask the current operator or the individual instructor whether a class is still running, which room it uses, what it costs and whether preregistration is necessary.
Concerts, Performances and Community Events
The center regularly serves as a venue for concerts, community showcases, civic gatherings, exhibitions, dance events, graduations, proms and local organization activities.
The main ballroom and stage make the center particularly suitable for:
- Ticketed music and tribute performances.
- Cultural presentations and stage productions.
- Vendor shows, trade fairs and exhibitions.
- Public meetings and seminars.
- Community recognition ceremonies.
- Fundraising galas and nonprofit activities.
- Wedding receptions and other private celebrations.
Upcoming Public Meeting: October 28, 2026
The City of Venice public meeting calendar lists a Venice Parks Master Plan Public Workshop at Venice Community Center on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at 5 PM.
| Event | Venice Parks Master Plan Public Workshop |
|---|---|
| Date | Wednesday, October 28, 2026 |
| Listed start | 5:00 PM |
| Venue | 326 Nokomis Avenue South, Venice, FL |
| Organizer | City of Venice |
Check the City’s meeting notice for attendance conditions, accessibility details and any schedule change.
How to Attend an Event at Venice Community Center
- Identify the organizer. Find the event’s official announcement or ticket seller.
- Check the date. Confirm the exact day and start time.
- Review admission. Some activities are free; concerts and private events may require paid tickets or registration.
- Confirm door time. Doors may open later than the time staff begin event setup.
- Check seating. Ask whether admission is reserved-seat, general admission or standing-room.
- Review event rules. Confirm food, bags, photography, age restrictions and accessibility accommodations.
- Use the correct entrance. Follow organizer and VIPAM instructions upon arrival.
Venice Community Center Rentals and Event Spaces
Venice Community Center is available for approved rentals through VIPAM, subject to room availability, staffing and the operator’s current terms.
Common Rental Types
Ballroom configurations, stage access, kitchen use and guest-arrival arrangements for large celebrations.
Smaller rooms with flexible layouts for associations, businesses and community groups.
Use of the ballroom stage, technical support areas and approved audio or lighting equipment.
Open exhibition floor space and configurable rooms for vendors, exhibitors and attendees.
Community organization meetings, charitable activities and fundraising events.
Recurring or one-time educational sessions, wellness instruction and training events.
Current Rental Contact
| Primary contact | Georgia Peacock, VIPAM |
|---|---|
| Telephone | 941-218-3779, extension 111 |
| Georgia.Peacock@vipam.org | |
| Published phone hours | 8 AM–4 PM; contact VIPAM to confirm applicable weekdays. |
| General contact | VCCinfo@vipam.org |
| Booking website | VeniceCommunityCenter.com |
Venice Community Center Rental Rates: What Changed?
Sarasota County previously published detailed hourly rental rates and event packages. However, those published documents were developed before VIPAM became the operator.
VIPAM and the City are reviewing venue pricing and reservation rules. A current comprehensive VIPAM rate schedule could not be independently verified for October 2026.
Earlier County Rental Prices — Historical Reference Only
| Rental option | Community/social | Private/commercial |
|---|---|---|
| Room A, B or C | $25/hour | $50/hour |
| Room D | $30/hour | $60/hour |
| Room E, F or G | $25/hour | $50/hour |
| Room J | $15/hour | $36/hour |
| Ballroom plus stage | $130/hour | $260/hour |
| Stage only | $25/hour | $50/hour |
| Lobby entertaining use | $25/hour | $50/hour |
| Kitchen, preparation only | $25/hour | $50/hour |
| Kitchen, preparation plus cooking/heating | $50/hour | $100/hour |
Older High-Season Rental Package Examples
A previous county fee schedule also included event packages during the October–March high season.
| Historical package | Community/social | Private/commercial |
|---|---|---|
| Large event, 300–500 guests, up to 10 hours | $2,000 | $3,000 |
| Smaller event package, up to 10 hours | $1,000 | $1,500 |
| Three-day show/expo package | $4,000 | $6,000 |
These examples help illustrate the venue’s historical rental scale, but should not be used to calculate a final 2026–27 event budget without operator confirmation.
Ballroom Capacity and Room Selection
The venue’s historically published floor areas provide useful planning information. Final occupancy limits and layouts must be approved by the current operator.
| Area | Published size | Common uses |
|---|---|---|
| Main ballroom | Approx. 10,000 sq. ft. | Concerts, receptions, major meetings and exhibitions. |
| Stage | Approx. 1,800 sq. ft. | Music, presentations and performing arts. |
| Room A | 2,160 sq. ft. | Meetings and workshops. |
| Room B | 2,160 sq. ft. | Meetings and workshops. |
| Room C | 2,160 sq. ft. | Meetings and workshops. |
| Room D | 3,700 sq. ft. | Larger event or group arrangements. |
| Room E | 1,439 sq. ft. | Classes and smaller gatherings. |
| Room F | 1,548 sq. ft. | Wellness classes and meetings. |
| Room G | 1,314 sq. ft. | Meetings and group activities. |
| Room J | 850 sq. ft. | Smaller meetings. |
How to Rent Venice Community Center
- Identify the event. Choose a wedding, seminar, concert, trade show, club meeting, class or other permitted gathering.
- Estimate attendance. Consider guests, performers, vendors and staff when planning room size.
- Choose potential dates. Prepare a preferred date and alternatives, especially during the October–March high season.
- List required spaces. Decide whether you need a meeting room, ballroom, stage, kitchen or lobby area.
- Visit the official reservation site. Open VeniceCommunityCenter.com and check the current calendar or enquiry process.
- Contact the rental coordinator. Email Georgia.Peacock@vipam.org or call 941-218-3779, extension 111.
- Request a full quotation. Ask about base rental fees, deposits, room setup, staffing, equipment and additional services.
- Review the current agreement. Check approval conditions, insurance requirements, payment deadlines and cancellation rules.
- Submit the required documents. Follow VIPAM’s present process, including any applicable permits and insurance certificates.
- Make payments through approved channels. Use the official instructions provided with your reservation agreement.
- Obtain confirmation. Keep written confirmation of your room, dates, timing, services and total price.
Previously Submitted Sarasota County Rental Requests
If you submitted a request for a date after September 30, 2026, through Sarasota County before the transfer, the City says those applications are being reviewed by VIPAM.
The City states that applicants will be contacted and that the new management team will attempt to accommodate earlier requests where no scheduling conflict exists.
If You Already Submitted a Request
- Find your original Sarasota County submission or reference details.
- Record the event date, requested rooms and contact information.
- Email VIPAM and mention that the request predates October 1, 2026.
- Ask whether the event is approved or remains pending.
- Confirm the current agreement, price, required documents and payment route.
- Do not assume an earlier request is automatically a finalized VIPAM reservation.
The September 2026 City update says the operator is actively processing bookings, deposits and payments. Email is preferred for maintaining a record of enquiries during the transition.
Read the City’s Rental Transition UpdateQuestions to Ask Before Booking an Event
Large events can involve more than a basic room rental. Ask the facility team for clear answers to the following:
- What is the final room capacity for the proposed layout?
- Which dates and time slots are available?
- Are setup, rehearsal and cleanup included in the rental period?
- Does the quotation include tables and chairs?
- Are sound, microphones, projectors or stage lighting included?
- Will a technician be required for theatrical lighting or sound?
- Can outside caterers be used?
- What kitchen equipment and food-preparation activities are permitted?
- Will additional staff or security be required?
- Are event insurance or alcohol-related approvals required?
- How are deposits, cancellations and refunds handled?
- Where should guests and vendors park?
- What entrance and delivery procedures apply?
- What accessibility arrangements are available?
Weddings and Receptions at Venice Community Center
The center is listed by the City of Venice as a potential wedding and reception venue. Its large ballroom, stage, kitchen and covered entrance can support sizeable celebrations.
Wedding Planning Checklist
Confirm attendance, table sizes, seating arrangements, dance-floor needs and an approved floor plan.
Ask whether outside catering is permitted and which kitchen services or operator-approved food options are available.
Check rules for DJs, bands, stage access, amplified music and technical support.
Review guest parking, the covered drop-off portico, vendor deliveries and accessible entrances.
A wedding reception’s final cost may involve additional services beyond room rental. Request an itemized VIPAM quotation and verify the payment and cancellation conditions.
City of Venice Wedding Venue GuideParking, Accessibility and Event Arrival
Venice Community Center is part of the Venice cultural-campus area. The venue is near the Venice Public Library, Venice Museum and other downtown community destinations.
The City and visitor bureau identify parking and a covered portico for drop-off near the venue.
Practical Arrival Tips
- Use the exact address: 326 Nokomis Avenue South.
- Follow any parking plan provided by your event organizer.
- Allow extra time for larger concerts and exhibitions.
- Ask which doors open for ticketed events.
- Confirm any designated accessible drop-off or seating requirements.
- Do not assume parking reserved for other cultural-campus users is available for a private event.
- For equipment deliveries, request the approved loading and vendor-entry procedure.
The nearby West Blalock Park is a separate public facility. Organizers wishing to use nearby parks or cultural-campus parking for an outdoor event should confirm the applicable City permissions.
Venice Community Center Map and Directions
Street address: 326 Nokomis Avenue South, Venice, FL 34285, United States.
Finding the Right Venice Community Center
Be careful not to confuse this downtown venue with Venice Gardens Community Center, which is a different organization located at 406 Shamrock Boulevard in Venice.
This guide specifically covers the large City-owned Venice Community Center on South Nokomis Avenue.
Before You Visit: Practical Checklist
| Your purpose | Best next step |
|---|---|
| Attend a concert | Confirm ticket provider, showtime, door time and seating arrangement. |
| Attend a fitness class | Verify the instructor, current date, room and class fee. |
| Attend a public workshop | Review the specific City or organizer announcement. |
| Meet a community club | Ask the group whether the meeting continues under the new management arrangement. |
| Plan a wedding | Contact VIPAM for ballroom capacity, current pricing and approved vendor arrangements. |
| Host a seminar | Ask about meeting rooms, audiovisual equipment and an approved floor plan. |
| Organize an exhibition | Discuss event footprint, loading, staging, insurance and staffing. |
| Follow up on an old reservation | Contact VIPAM with the original Sarasota County request details. |
| Ask about public opening hours | Email VCCinfo@vipam.org; do not rely on rental telephone hours as public building hours. |
Related Community Center Guides
Compare Venice Community Center with other public meeting, recreation and event venues:
Understand how community facilities organize programs, visitor access and room reservations.
Explore another civic gathering and event venue with meeting spaces and organized public events.
Learn how to check official hours, rental conditions and event-specific venue information.
These links lead to independent guides about different facilities. They are not affiliated with Venice Community Center.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Venice Community Center located?
Venice Community Center is at 326 Nokomis Avenue South, Venice, FL 34285, near the downtown Venice cultural-campus area.
Who operates Venice Community Center in 2026?
The City of Venice assumed responsibility for the center from Sarasota County on October 1, 2026. Venice Institute for Performing Arts Management (VIPAM) now manages the facility, events and reservations on the City’s behalf.
What are Venice Community Center’s opening hours?
A fixed daily public walk-in schedule was not verified under the current operator. VIPAM lists rental telephone hours of 8 AM–4 PM, but event, class and public-access times are separate and should be confirmed.
What is the Venice Community Center rental phone number?
Call VIPAM at 941-218-3779, extension 111, for current rental enquiries. Georgia Peacock is the City’s most recently announced primary rental contact.
What events are held at Venice Community Center?
The venue hosts concerts, cultural performances, club meetings, educational classes, seminars, exhibitions, weddings, community gatherings and other approved activities. Each event follows its own schedule and admission rules.
How many people can Venice Community Center hold?
The main ballroom is approximately 10,000 square feet and has historically been advertised for up to 1,000 guests. Actual permitted attendance depends on the room layout, seating plan, stage use and applicable occupancy requirements.
Can I rent Venice Community Center for a wedding or reception?
Yes. The center offers a large ballroom, stage, commercial kitchen and supporting event facilities. Contact VIPAM for availability, current pricing, approved capacity and rental policies.
How much does it cost to rent Venice Community Center?
Current VIPAM rental rates were not independently verified following the October 1, 2026 management change. Older Sarasota County rates and packages are historical references only. Request a written current quotation from VIPAM.
How do I make a Venice Community Center reservation?
Use VeniceCommunityCenter.com or email Georgia.Peacock@vipam.org. You can also call 941-218-3779, extension 111. Confirm the selected space, dates, total charges and approval before treating the booking as final.
Does Venice Community Center have parking and a stage?
Yes. The venue includes visitor parking, a covered drop-off portico and an approximately 1,800-square-foot stage with theatrical lighting. Contact the operator for event-specific parking, technical and accessibility requirements.
Official Sources and Helpful Links
- City of Venice — Current Community Center Management and Reservations
- City Announcement: VIPAM Selected as Operator
- September 2026 Rental Contacts and Payment Update
- Current Venice Community Center Website and Booking Portal
- Official Facility Directory
- Historical Sarasota County Venue and Class Details
- City Wedding Venue Information
- City Meeting Calendar
- Venice Area Events Calendar
- Venice Area Event Venue Directory
General enquiries: VCCinfo@vipam.org
Rental coordinator: Georgia.Peacock@vipam.org · 941-218-3779, ext. 111
Last researched October 19, 2026. This is an independent informational guide, not an official City of Venice or VIPAM website. Historical county activity listings and rental prices may no longer apply. Verify all current arrangements directly with the operator.