Top 10 Weekend events, Feb. 24-26

10. Watch the Oscars in style on the big screen at Burns Court Cinemas.

9. Celebrate Mardi Gras with acclaimed singer-songwriter and former New Orleans resident Beth McKee and her Funky Time Band at Fogartyville.  

8. Standup star Rita Rudner brings her witty one-liners and clever observations to McCurdy's. 

7. An impressive lineup of local and regional bands are paying tribute to Johnny Cash at Kelly's Live. 

6. Superstar wirewalker Nik Wallenda and his Fabulous Wallendas troupe headline Circus Sarasota's "Synergy." 

5. Drink, eat and dance to some live rock 'n' roll for a good cause at Beertopia.

4. "Bops and Hops" event at Darwin Brewing Company features a performance by celebrated national alt-country act Woody Pines. 

3. Mote will transform into gator country this weekend with the opening of "The Teeth Beneath: The Wild World of Gators, Crocs and Caimans."

2. The free grilled cheese and music festival that we loved in August returns to same spot Saturday.

1. The 29th annual Venice Italian Feast & Carnival offers lots of food and fun including thrilling rides plus, for the first time, fireworks.