Frequently Asked Questions

• When and where is the Sarasota Reptile & Exotics Expo?
  July 17–18, 2027, at Robarts Arena at the Sarasota Fairgrounds in Sarasota, Florida.

• What are the show hours?
  Saturday: VIP Admission 9:00 AM; General Admission 10:00 AM–5:00 PM.
  Sunday: VIP Admission 9:00 AM; General Admission 10:00 AM–4:00 PM.

• When do tickets go on sale?
  Advance tickets go on sale May 1, 2027, at 8:00 AM.

• Can I buy tickets at the door?
  Yes. Day-of admission will be available at the door. Door admission is cash only.

• Is parking free?
  Yes! Free parking is available at the Sarasota Fairgrounds for expo attendees.

• Is the expo indoors?
  Yes. The Sarasota Reptile & Exotics Expo is held indoors in the air-conditioned Robarts Arena.

• Can I bring my own reptile or exotic animal?
  No. For the safety of our guests, vendors, and animals, personal animals are not permitted inside the expo. Service animals are permitted as required by law.

• Can I hold or interact with animals at the expo?
  Some vendors may allow guests to handle certain animals at their discretion. Always ask the vendor before touching or handling any animal.

• Will animals be available for purchase?
  Yes. Vendors will offer a variety of reptiles and exotic animals for sale. Availability will vary by vendor.

• What else will be available besides animals?
  Guests can shop for supplies, enclosures, feeders, artwork, accessories, and other reptile and exotic-animal-related products.

• Will food and drinks be available?
  Yes. Concessions will be available inside the venue. Outside food and beverages are not permitted.

• Can I leave and re-enter the expo?
  Yes. Same-day re-entry is permitted. Guests must receive proof of admission before exiting and show it to re-enter.

• Do vendors accept credit cards?
  Payment methods vary by vendor. We recommend bringing cash in addition to credit or debit cards.

• Are children welcome?
  Absolutely! The Sarasota Reptile & Exotics Expo is a family-friendly event. Children ages 4 and under receive free admission.

• Are tickets refundable?
  No. All admission ticket purchases are non-refundable.

• Can I purchase a weekend pass?
  Yes. Weekend passes will be available online only when advance ticket sales open May 1, 2027, at 8:00 AM.

• What is VIP Admission?
  VIP Admission provides early entry at 9:00 AM on both Saturday and Sunday, one hour before General Admission begins.

• Will there be educational opportunities?
  Yes! Guests will have opportunities to learn about reptiles and exotic animals and connect with experienced breeders, keepers, businesses, and organizations.

• Where can I see which vendors will be attending?
  Visit our Vendor List page to see participating vendors. The list will be updated as the event approaches.