Many events are held in the City of Palmetto throughout the year such as the Easter Egg Hunt, Kid's Fishing Tournament, Desoto Children's Parade, The Arthritis Walk and Heritage day, the annual Martin Luther King Parade, Farm City Week, Vintage Car Show, Cinco de Mayo Celebration, Multi-Cultural Festival, the Great Palmetto Clean-up in April.

On Independence Day, There is live entertainment all day, food vendors and a spectacular fireworks display over the Manatee River.

The Manatee County Fair takes place during the last ten days in January.  The fairgrounds are located in Palmetto at 14th Avenue West and 17th Street West.