It can be pricey living in Sarasota.  There are galas and shows, fundraisers and festivals, but the fun isn’t only for the beautiful people.  There are a surprising number of free things to do around this ritzy city.  February’s free classes through the Sarasota County Extension are listed below.  Not only are the classes free but several are being held at Sarasota County parks, which makes for a nice morning or afternoon out.  Add to the fun and try letterboxing.  Here’s your first clue: After learning about beneficial insects, search for an antique key.  Enjoy!

Call the Sarasota County Extension at 941-861-9900 if registration is required.

• February 2, 2011:
  • Attracting Beneficial Insects to Your Garden
    • 12-1pm at Phillippi Mansion
  • Introduction to Insects
    • 1-2pm at Twin Lakes Park, Registration required
• February 3, 2011:
  • Creating Wildlife Habitat In and Around Stormwater Ponds
    • 2-3pm at Shamrock Park, Registration required
• February 4, 2011:
  • Florida Snakes
    • 1:30-2:30pm at Gulf Gate Library
• February 5, 2011:
  • “First Saturdays” Class on Organic Vegetable Gardening
    • 1-2:30pm at Orange Blossom Community Garden
• February 8, 2011:
  • Composting Workshop
    • 4-5pm at St. Wilfred Episcopal Church
• February 9, 2011:
  • Composting Workshop
    • 12-1pm at Phillippi Mansion
  • Household Pests
    • 1-3pm at Twin Lakes Park, Registration required
• February 12, 2011
  • Florida Yards & Neighborhoods: Creating Your Florida Yard
    • 10:30-11:30am  at Longwood Park
• February 16, 2011
  • The Healthy Home
    • 1–2pm at Twin Lakes Park, Registration Required
• February 17, 2011
  • Chinch Bugs and White Grubs
    • 2-3:30pm at Shamrock Park, Registration Required
• February 19, 2011
  • “First Saturdays” Class on Organic Vegetable Gardening
    • 10:30-12:00pm at Laurel Community Garden
• February 22, 2011
  • Florida Yards & Neighborhoods: Nine Landscape Principles
    • 10-11am at Elsie Quirk Library
• February 23, 2011
  • Storm Protection: Hurricane Shutters
    • 12-1pm at Phillippi Mansion
  • Invasive Insects
    • 1-2:30pm at Twin Lakes Park, Registration Required
  • Stretching Your Food Dollar 
    • 4-5pm at Twin Lakes Park, Registration Required