Located in Manatee County, just south of the Tampa Bay area, Bradenton Florida is a tropical spot along Florida’s gulf coast. Hernando De Soto originally discovered the area in 1539. Originally named Bradentown after Dr. Joseph Braden whose home once served as a refuge for early settlers during Indian raids and attacks. It wasn’t until 1943 when the Florida legislature merged Bradentown with the city of Manatee to form what is now Bradenton. A city that treasures its history with an event each spring, the Florida Heritage Festival sponsored by the Hernando De Soto Historical Society. This month long festival celebrates De Soto's landing with a variety of events that includes a Seafood Festival, fishing tournaments, a homemade boating race at Palma Sola Causeway Beach, musical and fashion show, and parades.