Nathan Benderson Park

8th Annual Everything Buffalo Party
2026-03-04 17:00 - 22:00 (America/New_York)
The 8th Annual Everything Buffalo Party
This event features all the foods, drinks and favorite things of Buffalo, NY brought to Sarasota for you to enjoy! Hope Rises will be the WNY Charity of Choice again this year as Kate Glaser has done and continues to support and help so many families and charities in Buffalo area. Wagner Realty is back as the Exclusive Real Estate Company Sponsor. We’re here to help YOU with any of your Commercial & Residential needs. www.BUF2SRQ.com

Tickets include entry, parking, entertainment & food buffet, all from Buffalo, a drink ticket, opportunity to see almost 500 fellow Buffalonians and know a portion of proceeds are going to WNY non-profit, Hope Rises!
Ticket on Sale soon! www.EverythingBuffaloParty.com

2026 Autism 5K - Presented by Alpha Law Group
2026-03-07 08:30 - 12:00 (America/New_York)
Registration is now open!
Fighting for justice and awareness, Alpha Law Group, a personal injury law firm headquartered in Sarasota, Florida, is proud to present their first annual Autism Benefit Walk. This event aims to raise awareness and funds for autism support initiatives.
RACE DAY/TIMESaturday, March 7, 2026
7-8am Race Day Registration & Day of Packet Pickup5k Race Starts at 830 AM sharp! 1 mile walkers will follow
With a strong commitment to community involvement, Alpha Law Group seeks to make a positive impact by supporting those affected by autism, fostering inclusivity, and helping to create resources for individuals and families in need. Alpha Law Groups Autism 5K event will directly benefit Autism Society of Florida and The Haven of Sarasota.

Sarasota Suncoast Half Marathon & 5K
2026-03-08 06:30 - 17:00 (America/New_York)
Sign up for the Sarasota Suncoast Half Marathon & 5K in Sarasota, Florida, at Nathan Benderson Park, and take on one of the most scenic courses in the state. The race winds through the stunning Nathan Benderson Park, an award-winning venue with a 400-acre lake and world-class rowing facilities. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting out, this event offers both Half Marathon and 5K options, making it accessible for all levels of participants.
But the excitement doesn’t end when you cross the finish line! Sarasota, renowned for its breathtaking beaches, vibrant arts scene, and lively downtown, offers plenty to see and do. After the race, indulge in a delicious meal at one of the many seafood restaurants, explore the city’s galleries, or visit the iconic Ringling Museum. Relax on the beach, soak in the Gulf’s serene waters, or head to St. Armands Circle for shopping, dining, and entertainment.

The Market at NBP - Every Tuesday, 9am-2pm
2026-03-10 09:00 - 14:00, 2026-03-17 09:00 - 14:00, 2026-03-24 09:00 - 14:00, 2026-03-31 09:00 - 14:00, 2026-04-07 09:00 - 14:00, 2026-04-14 09:00 - 14:00, 2026-04-21 09:00 - 14:00, 2026-04-28 09:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York)
Check out the latest and greatest weekly market in the area – The Market at NBP
Eat, Drink, and Shop with us at this brand new, mid-week market conveniently located right at Nathan Benderson Park in our drop-off loop! This is a community market featuring over 30 local artists, small businesses, coffee and infused drinks, produce, fresh baked good, gluten-free options, and crafters from all walks of life.

In addition, there will be food trucks, live music and themed events.

Interested in being a vendor? Contact My Promotions to sign up.

Bus Pull For Inclusion
2026-03-14 08:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York)
Are you tough enough to take on a 40,000-pound public transit bus?
Grab your crew and get ready to PULL for a purpose! This isn’t your average fundraiser, it’s a full-throttle, high-energy challenge to see which 8-person team can drag a 20-ton Sarasota County Breeze Transit Bus 30 feet the fastest. Fitness clubs. Firehouses. Auto dealerships, Families. Co-workers. Rivals. Friends. Enemies.
Who will take the title, and who will go down in blazing defeat in this oversized game of tug-of-war?!
Don’t have a full team of eight? No problem. Sign up and join team “Bus Pull Free Agents,” our all-stars made up of individual pullers!

NBP Spring Recess Adventure Camp
2026-03-16 08:00 - 2026-03-20 17:00 (America/New_York)
Make a Splash this Spring at Nathan Benderson Park with full and half-day Water Adventure Camps, ages 6–13!
These camps are packed with fun activities on and off the water, designed to build skills, confidence, and water safety knowledge in a supportive, adventurous environment.

Highlights include:-Kayaking and paddleboarding-Team games and outdoor challenges
Don’t miss out, spots fill quickly! Register today and give your child an unforgettable experience.

Walk MS: Sarasota 2026
2026-03-21 07:30 - 11:00 (America/New_York)
A walk that brings together passionate people for a powerful purpose: to end MS forever.
Click here to register now

My Hometown Fest
2026-03-21 12:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York)
Each year, My Hometown Fest draws thousands of people from Florida’s Suncoast for a day of fun featuring food from dozens of area restaurants, craft beer samples from around the country, and live music from the region’s best bands. The event features plenty of family friendly activities as well.
To purchase your tickets, please visit https://myhometownfest.com/

Sarasota 2k - Coaches, Support Staff & Alumni Kickoff Party at PopStroke (Invite only)
2026-03-26 18:30 - 19:30 (America/New_York)
Coaches, Support Staff & Alumni Kickoff Party (Invite Only)
Please join us at this complimentary event to kickoff this year’s Sarasota 2K at PopStroke, 195 University Town Center Dr, Sarasota, FL 34243! Includes food & two drinks per person. Indoor/outdoor event space and bar, with foosball, cornhole and more.
Thursday, March 27, 6:30pm (Practice concludes at 6pm)
PopStroke is a technology-infused, premium mini-golf and dining experience, co-owned and designed by Tiger Woods (TGR Design). It features two 18-hole synthetic turf putting courses—ranging from family-friendly to challenging—along with a full-service restaurant, games, and bars.
Event is FREE! Please RSVP below so we can have an accurate count of attendees. Questions? Email Info@nathanbendersonpark.org or call 941-358-7275.

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2026 Sarasota 2K - Sun, Rowing & Rivalry
2026-03-27 - 2026-03-28
Presented by WinTech and King Racing, the finest championship Mens and Womens schools, NCAA Division I Women and Florida rowing schools come together in a spectacular 2K Sprint event. Formerly known as the IRA Sarasota Invitational, this year hundreds of athletes will participate in fierce competition on the lake. Don’t miss the excitement of the ivy league races Friday afternoon when athletes from Harvard, Yale, Washington, Stanford, Brown, Northeastern and many more schools will battle in 2 epic races for the chance to win the Benderson Cups. Sponsorship opportunities available!
Thank you to our Silver Sponsor, PopStroke.
Practice begins on Thurs, March 26. Races will take place on March 27 and March 28. Bulletin #1 is now available and includes the schedule! Click below for full details.
SPECIAL EVENTS:

Thursday, March 26 at 6:30-7:30pm: Kickoff Party for Coaches, Support Staff & Alumni at PopStroke, 195 University Town Center Dr, Sarasota, FL 34243. FREE! Click here to RSVP.

Friday, March 27, 4-7pm: Exclusive Watch Party for championship Mens & Womens alumni in the Benderson Family Finish Tower – Registration now open! Click here or below to purchase your tickets!

Link to livestream of Races – Or download the app – RHS TV

REGISTERBULLETIN #1

Team Tent RentalBe A Sponsor

Watch Party

2026 Sarasota 2K - Exclusive Alumni Watch Party
2026-03-27 16:00 - 19:00 (America/New_York) | Finish Tower
Sarasota 2K – Alumni Watch Party for Championship Mens & Womens Schools Alumni
Only at Nathan Benderson Park!
During the third year of the Sarasota 2K Regatta at NBP, the schools of Brown, Harvard, Northeastern, Stanford, Washington & Yale Alumni will come together for an exclusive Watch Party! Friday, March 27, 4:00-7:00 PM. Alumni from Cornell, Dartmouth, UPenn & Princeton are also invited to attend!
Tickets: $20 includes complimentary food, two drink tickets and prime race viewing with indoor and outdoor access
Alumni – Purchase your tickets now! See ticketing form below
Please note that handicapped parking is available. Event will take place on the second floor of the Benderson Family Finish Tower, accessible by elevator. Should you have any questions or need special accommodations due to handicapped/health needs, please indicate on the form below or reach out to NBP’s administrative offices at info@NathanBendersonPark.org, prior to the event.

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USA Swimming Open Water Nationals & Juniors
2026-04-01 - 2026-04-04
Watch the best open water national and junior national swimmers take the waters of Nathan Benderson Park as they swim for the national championship titles in various distances.
Schedules & Maps for the event – coming soon

Florida Scholastic Rowing Assn. Sculling Championships
2026-04-11 08:00 - 2026-04-12 17:00 UTC
Florida Scholastic Rowing Assn. Sculling: April 11-12. Watch as thousands of youth compete in the sculling championships.
For specific details and the most up to date info during the event, please visit: www.nathanbendersonpark.org/event-information or scan the QR code posted around the park.
Can’t make it to Nathan Benderson Park? No Problem! Watch FSRA Sculling Championships LIVE STREAM on RHStv at www.rhstv.com
Available to download FREE on Roku, Amazon Fire, AppleTV, Samsung, LG, mobile devices and www.rhstv.com.
Immerse yourself in the action with our LIVE CHAT available during the event; accessible on mobile devices for you to cheer on YOUR team and send shoutouts! 📣
After our live broadcast ends, the event will be available Video on Demand. Watch anywhere, any time!
Follow @watchrhstv and share your favorite highlights with us! #FSRASarasota

Sarasota International Dragon Boat Festival
2026-04-18
Looking for an event in Florida’s Gulf Coast? Join us in Sarasota, welcoming both competitive and recreational teams.
Don’t have a team? We have the Experience Dragon Boat Program. Click here for more information.
In what will promise to be a fiercely competitive Sport Division and widely attended Community Division, the event offers racing for established and entry-level teams alike looking to gain competitive experience by competing in a world-class sports facility. Nathan Benderson Park features a 400-acre lake built to FISA specifications. In 2017, the multi-use sports venue hosted the World Rowing Championships, so teams can expect the best racing conditions come race day!
Race distances include 200m, 500m, and the ever-thrilling 2k pursuit for Sport Division teams, while Community Division teams will race 3x500m.
Festival grounds offer something for everyone. Spectators can take in the action and follow the excitement of racing while learning about the sport of dragon boat. Another point of interest is the Health and Wellness Village, where participants and spectators can receive products and services to help maintain a healthy lifestyle. Families are invited to bring their children to come to spend time at the races and enjoy the outdoors.

Sip N' Brew - Every Mon & Wed, 9am-1pm
2026-04-22 09:00 - 13:00, 2026-04-27 09:00 - 13:00, 2026-04-29 09:00 - 13:00, 2026-05-04 09:00 - 13:00, 2026-05-06 09:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York) | Playground and Event Pavilion
Sip N’ Brew is now at NBP every Monday & Wednesday, 9:00am-1:00pm!
Visit their beverage truck for a wide variety of delicious, custom- made beverages!
Stop by, grab a delicious brew and jumpstart your day with Sip N’ Brew. Visit their truck over by the NBP Playground on the West Shore. Sip, enjoy, experience, and support this local business.

Sunshine State Conference Rowing Championships (NCAA Div. II women)
2026-04-24 07:00 - 12:00 UTC
The 2026 Sunshine State Conference Women’s Rowing Championship will be hosted by Rollins at Nathan Benderson Park in Sarasota on Friday, April 24th. This year marks the 13th consecutive SSC Rowing championship at Nathan Benderson Park.
NCAA Postseason: The NCAA Regatta will be held at Lake Lanier Olympic Park in Gainesville, Georgia from May 29th to May 30th. Qualifiers for the regatta will be announced by the NCAA on Monday, May 18th.
2024-25 SSC Champion: Embry-Riddle
2024-25 SSC V8 Champion: Embry-Riddle
2024-25 SSC V4 Champion: Embry-Riddle
2024-25 NCAA Regatta: Embry-Riddle (National Champions)
2025 Women’s Rowing Championship

Florida Scholastic Rowing Assn. Sweeps Championships
2026-04-25 08:00 - 2026-04-26 17:00 UTC
Florida Scholastic Rowing Assn. Championships: April 25-26
Watch thousands of youth compete on the water at the Sweeps Championship. Catch the free livestream all weekend on RHSTV at www.rhstv.com or download the app.
For the most up-to-date information during the event, visit www.nathanbendersonpark.org/event-information or scan the QR code posted around the park.

Hermitage Sunsets - Making Songs & Making Sense
2026-04-30 18:30 - 19:30 (America/New_York)
These outdoor events are one part of many “Hermitage North” programs, series, and collaborations planned throughout the season, spanning Sarasota County and the surrounding region. The programs feature industry-leading and award-winning playwrights, visual artists, musicians, poets, choreographers, and more
Hermitage Sunsets @ Benderson Park: “Making Songs and Making Sense,” featuring Hermitage Fellow Michael R. Jackson, Thursday, April 30 @ 6:30pm
Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award-winning playwright, composer, and Hermitage Fellow Michael R. Jackson exploded into the public consciousness with the premiere of his celebrated musical A Strange Loop, which transferred to Broadway after an acclaimed run at Playwrights Horizons. The New York Times described Jackson’s work as “so unexpected, contrarian, and maximalist that I spend a lot of time between them wondering what he’ll do next” – so if you’re in the audience at this Hermitage program, you might just get a ‘sneak peek’ of what that will be! A returning Hermitage Fellow, Jackson has previously shared selections from A Strange Loop and his musical White Girl in Danger with Hermitage audiences. This time, Jackson will offer insight into his latest work and his creative process. Presented in partnership with Nathan Benderson Park Conservancy.
Returning Hermitage Fellow Michael R. Jackson was named as one of Time Magazine‘s “100 Most Influential People” of 2022. His Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award-winning musical A Strange Loop received 11 Tony Award nominations and was called “a full-on laparoscopy of the heart, soul, and loins” as well as a “gutsy, jubilantly anguished musical with infectious melodies” by The New York Times. In addition to A Strange Loop, Jackson also wrote book, music, and lyrics for White Girl in Danger, the book and lyrics for Teeth, and the libretto for the opera Complications In Sue, which had its world premiere at Opera Philadelphia in 2026. Awards and associations include: a New Professional Theatre Festival Award, a Jonathan Larson Grant, a Lincoln Center Emerging Artist Award, an ASCAP Foundation Harold Adamson Award, a Whiting Award, the Helen Merrill Award for Playwriting, an Outer Critics Circle Award, a Drama Desk Award, an Obie Award, a Fred Ebb Award, a Windham-Campbell Prize, a Dramatist Guild Fellowship, and a Hermitage Fellowship. Jackson is an alum of Page 73’s Interstate 73 Writers Group.

SUP & Run 5K
2026-05-02 08:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York)
Three great races, world-class venue, awesome shirts, custom 4″ finisher medals, CHALLENGE coins, great prizes, spectacular post-race party and more!
The 11th Annual SUP & RUN 5K event will be held at Nathan Benderson Park to benefit RUCK9 (www.RUCK9.com) with partial proceeds going to Operation Second Chance (www.OperationSecondChance/com).
The SUP & RUN 5K gives athletes three great races in one to choose from.

5K RUN
5K Stand Up Paddle Board (SUP) OR
5K SUP & 5K RUN
(There is a start line mat (chip) for the combination SUP & RUN)

Athletes participating in the combination SUP & RUN will run the 5K first and then hop on their paddle board for a 5K paddle around Nathan Benderson Park. The SUP & RUN 5K draws top runners and SUP’ers who compete for cash prizes but it’s our not-so-serious athletes who have the most prominent place in the event.

Athletes participating in the SUP portion of the race MUST know how to swim. If you are not able to swim, you may not participate in the SUP portion.

The SUP & RUN 5K is a family style event.

WALKERS ARE WELCOME and encouraged to attend.

Why choose the SUP & RUN 5K?

Every finisher receives a custom finisher medal.
The race shirts are AMAZING!
AWARDS GO 6 DEEP IN EACH 5 YEAR AGE GROUP!
SWAG, to quote a participant, “this race SWAG is truly head and shoulders above most races“
The food & post-race celebration party is FUN! FUN!
Whoa! There is a beer garden, a SIP & RUM station and AMAZING VENDORS where you can buy really cool stuff AND
The Athletes, Vendors, Sponsors, and Spectators: ALL CELEBRATING OUR Uniquely Created Canines and our VETERANS!

RACE DAY/TIME
Saturday, May 2, 2026
All Races Start at 8 AM sharp!
If renting a paddleboard, please arrive by 7 AM to secure your board & paddle.
Need more reasons? Visit our Facebook page for regular updates: SUP & RUN 5K or our website: www.SUPandRUN.org
