Nathan Benderson Park

Walk MS: Sarasota 2025
2025-03-22 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

Learn to Safety Squadron
2025-03-22 12:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York)
Interested in becoming a member of the safety squad? Learn all the ins and outs of the role and make new connections. For more details and to sign up, contact programs@nathanbendersonpark.org.

Florida Intercollegiate Rowing Assn. Championships/Sunshine State Invitational (FIRA)
2025-03-28 08:00 - 2025-03-30 17:00 UTC
Florida Intercollegiate Rowing Assn. Championships/Sunshine State Invitational: March 28-30. More info coming soon!

Sarasota 2K - Alumni Watch Party
2025-03-28 16:00 - 19:00 (America/New_York) | Finish Tower
Only at Nathan Benderson Park!
Brown, Harvard, Northeastern, Washington & Yale Alumni will come together for an exclusive Watch Party! Friday, March 28, 4:00-7:00 PM
Tickets: $20 includes appetizers, BBQ dinner, two drink tickets and prime race viewing with indoor and outdoor access
Alumni – Ticket sales closing soon! Purchase your tickets now.
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 reach out to NBP’s administrative offices at info@NathanBendersonPark.org, prior to the event.

PURCHASE TICKETS

My Hometown Fest
2025-03-29 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/

Walk to End Summer Hunger
2025-03-30 08:30 - 13:00 (America/New_York)
Join All Faiths Food Bank to kick off the 2025 Campaign Against Summer Hunger with a walk around Nathan Benderson Park. The walk will mark the start of a six-week-long campaign to raise funds to feed children at risk of hunger over the summer. Register today!

USA Swimming Open Water Nationals & Juniors
2025-04-04 - 2025-04-06
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.
Click here for Schedules & Maps for the event.

FSRA West Districts
2025-04-05 - 2025-04-06
Hosted by Florida Scholastic Rowing Association & Sarasota Crew. To learn more and register, please visit their events page

Florida Scholastic Rowing Assn. Sculling Championships
2025-04-12 08:00 - 2025-04-13 17:00 UTC
Florida Scholastic Rowing Assn. Sculling: April 12-13. 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

B1G Ten Women's Rowing Invitational Regatta
2025-04-18 08:00 - 2025-04-19 17:00 (America/New_York)
Join us to cheer for B1G 10 and collegiate rowers as they race along our world-class course.
Big Ten Invites:
Big Ten
1. Washington
2. Michigan
3. Ohio State
4. Rutgers
5. Indiana
6. USC
7. UCLA
8. Minnesota
9. Wisconsin
10. Michigan State
11. Iowa
Guest
1. Tennessee
2. Brown
3. Penn
4. Duke
5. Oregon State
6. Alabama
7. Notre Dame
8. Harvard/Radcliffe
9. Miami
10. SMU
11. Oklahoma
12. Clemson

Sunshine State Conference Rowing Championships (NCAA Div. II women)
2025-04-25
The 2025 Sunshine State Conference Women’s Rowing Championship will be hosted by Embry-Riddle at Nathan Benderson Park in Sarasota on Friday, April 25th. This year marks the 12th consecutive SSC Rowing championship at Nathan Benderson Park.
NCAA Postseason: The NCAA Regatta will be held at Lake Mercer in West Windsor, New Jersey from May 30th to May 31st. Qualifiers for the regatta will be announced by the NCAA on Monday, May 19th.
2023-24 SSC Champion: Embry-Riddle
2023-24 SSC V8 Champion: Embry-Riddle
2023-24 SSC V4 Champion: Tampa

Florida Scholastic Rowing Assn. Sweeps Championships
2025-04-26 08:00 - 2025-04-27 17:00 UTC
Florida Scholastic Rowing Assn. Championships: April 26-27
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.

SUP & Run 5K
2025-05-03 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 10th 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 3, 2025
All Races Start at 8 AM sharp!
If renting a paddleboard, please arrive by 7 AM to secure your board & paddle.
2025 Packet Pick-Up Times, Dates and Locations
Wednesday, April 30th | 4PM – 7PM | Fleet Feet Sarasota | 711 S. Osprey Avenue, Sarasota (34236)
Thursday, May 1st | 4PM – 7PM | Big Top Brewing Company | 3045 Fruitville Commons Blvd. (Cooper’s Hawk Plaza) Sarasota (34240)
Friday, May 2nd | 4PM – 7PM | Nathan Benderson Park (at the Finishing Tower) | 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle (34235)
Need more reasons? Visit our Facebook page for regular updates: SUP & RUN 5K or our website: www.SUPandRUN.org

Sarasota International Dragon Boat Festival
2025-05-10
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.

2025 Big 12 Rowing Championship
2025-05-18 08:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York)
The 2025 Big 12 Rowing Championship is coming to Nathan Benderson Park in Sarasota, Florida on May 18. Tulsa and Old Dominion will join UCF, Kansas, Kansas State and West Virginia to compete in the Big 12 championship in 2025.
For day of event information with practice times, course maps and heats, please visit: https://nathanbendersonpark.org/event-information

All Around NBP Summer Camp
2025-06-02 09:00 - 2025-06-06 16:00 (America/New_York)
ALL AROUND NBP CAMP – AGES 6-13

Dive into a world of water sports including kayaking, paddleboarding, canoeing, and fishing. This camp focuses on water safety, wildlife education, and hands-on learning. Campers will receive on-land instruction and personal flotation devices for all water activities.
Camp runs 9:00am-4:00pm. Early drop-off at 8am is available for an additional fee. Space is limited. Register now!

Free Pilates Outdoor Mat Classes, hosted by Club Pilates
2025-06-05 09:00 - 10:00 (America/New_York) | Playground and Event Pavilion
Pilates by the Lake at Nathan Benderson Park – Free!
Come join us for a relaxing Pilates session by the lake at Nathan Benderson Park! Take in the serene views of the water while getting a great workout in. This in-person event is perfect for all fitness levels, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro. Bring a mat, some water, and get ready to strengthen your core and improve your flexibility in this beautiful outdoor setting. Don’t miss out! Perfect for ages 15+. You can sign up in advance on eventbrite or just show up!
Join us on the following dates:

January 9
February 13
March 13
April 10
May 8
June 5
No Class in July or August
September 18

Zumba
2025-06-07 09:00 - 11:00 (America/New_York) | Restrooms at 500m mark along World Championship Drive
Join Yael Campbell for a total workout set to Latin rhythms, combining all elements of fitness – cardio, muscle conditioning, balance and flexibility, boosted energy and a serious dose of awesome. Located at the base of the finish tower. Pre-registration is required. $10
Additional Classes:

July 5
August 2
August 9
September 6

Register Now

NBP Freshwater Fishing Summer Camp
2025-06-09 09:00 - 2025-06-13 17:00 (America/New_York)
Freshwater Fishing Camp

Cast a line and reel in the fun at Nathan Benderson Park’s Freshwater Fishing Camp! Perfect for young anglers of all skill levels, this camp teaches the fundamentals of fishing, including casting techniques, knot tying, fish identification, and catch-and-release best practices. Led by experienced instructors, campers will explore the park’s freshwater lake while learning about local ecosystems and the excitement of the sport. Join us for a week of outdoor adventure, hands-on learning, and plenty of fishing fun!

THIS CAMP IS FOR CHILDREN AGED 6-13 AND IS HELD AT OUR WEST LAKE LOCATION
Spaces are limited! Register now. Half and full day options available with late pick up***

Spirit of America (Boaters Safety Power Paddle)
2025-06-17 09:00 - 2025-06-20 17:00, 2025-07-14 09:00 - 2025-07-18 17:00 (America/New_York)
THIS CAMP IS FOR CHILDREN AGED 10-14 ONLY AND WILL HAVE OFF-SITE VISITS

Spirit of America offers a unique, safe, comprehensive water-based educational and recreational program. The Spirit of America Foundation instills confidence and fosters the Spirit of teamwork in our nation’s youth. Our underlying goals include developing self-esteem while nurturing responsible behavior and positive, lifelong ambitions.
Spaces are very limited! Register now.

All Around NBP Summer Camp
2025-06-17 09:00 - 2025-06-21 16:00, 2025-06-23 09:00 - 2025-06-27 16:00, 2025-07-07 09:00 - 2025-07-11 16:00 (America/New_York)
ALL AROUND NBP CAMP – AGES 6-13

Dive into a world of water sports including kayaking, paddleboarding, canoeing, and fishing. This camp focuses on water safety, wildlife education, and hands-on learning. Campers will receive on-land instruction and personal flotation devices for all water activities.
Camp runs 9:00am-4:00pm. Choose a half day or full day option. Early drop-off at 8am is available for an additional fee. Space is limited. Register now!

Yogativity - A Yoga Class for All Levels
2025-06-24 18:30 - 19:30 (America/New_York) | Finish Tower
Join Kelly for an all-levels slow flow yoga class at the base of the Finish Tower at Nathan Benderson Park! This grounding practice is designed to gently release tension—especially in the neck and shoulders—and help you transition into the subtle, calming energy of the evening. We’ll move mindfully, breathe deeply, and reconnect with balance and ease.
✨ Please bring a yoga mat, water, any props you enjoy using when you practice Yoga and good vibes. Dress in layers/ bring a sweater for the relaxation phase of the session.
🌿 Since we’ll be practicing on a hard surface, consider bringing a towel for a little extra cushioning
📝 https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4FA9A92BA3FFC34-56282686-yoga
🪙 Fee: $10 can be paid via venmo @kelly-naughton-kn or cash on site, credit cards not accepted on site

All Around NBP Summer Camp
2025-06-30 09:00 - 2025-07-02 16:00, 2025-07-14 09:00 - 2025-07-18 16:00 (America/New_York)
ALL AROUND NBP
Dive into a world of water sports including kayaking, paddleboarding, canoeing, and fishing. This camp focuses on water safety, wildlife education, and hands-on learning. Campers will receive on-land instruction and personal flotation devices for all water activities.
Camp runs 9:00am-4:00pm. Early drop-off at 8am is available for an additional fee. Space is limited. Register now!

NBP Fireworks on the Lake Driven By Lamborghini Sarasota
2025-07-03 17:00 - 22:00 (America/New_York)
Fireworks on the Lake is coming back with a bang! All are invited to a sparkling celebration at Nathan Benderson Park on Thursday, July 3. This year’s NBP Fireworks on the Lake Driven by Lamborghini Sarasota will feature live music by Twinkle & Rock Soul Radio, a Kids Zone presented by MOTE Marine, plenty of food trucks at the south end and Regatta Island, family-friendly activities, and a spectacular fireworks show around 9 p.m. 92.1 CTQ, Sarasota’s Suncoast Country Station will be on-site with Lulu & Maverick to broadcast live and raffle off two Brad Paisley concert tickets, courtesy of Hale Law.
Those who prefer to watch the show from home can tune in to WWSB ABC 7 on Friday, July 4 for a recorded Independence Day special starting at 8p.m.
ADMISSION:

Tickets & Parking Passes can be purchased beginning May 21- June 20
**VIP Tickets & Parking Prices Increase Beginning June 21**

VIP Viewing Experience Tickets: $105 per adult, $65 per child (Ages 12 & under)
Includes complimentary food and beverages, open bar with beer & wine, premium parking pass, exclusive access to the air-conditioned Finish Tower with indoor and outdoor prime viewing spaces and patriotic one-of-a-kind designs & photo ops, created by Oh What Fun Party Co!

General Admission: Free
Regatta Island Parking: $40
South Lot Parking: $30 cars/$60 RVs
Special Event Lot (next to Homewood Suites): $30

Ticket Sales Now Open!
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

Lamborghini Sarasota – Presenting Sponsor for a 3rd Year!
Trademark Roofing
Alpha Law Group
Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
Oh What Fun Party Co
WWSB ABC 7 My Suncoast
City Furniture
Gold Coast Eagle Distributing / Budweiser
iHeart Radio – CTQ 92.1
Observer Media Group
First Horizon Bank
BluefitMD
Detwiler’s
Sarasota County
Visit Sarasota

PURCHASE TICKETS & PARKING PASSES

Zumba
2025-07-05 08:30 - 10:30 (America/New_York) | Finish Tower
Join Yael Campbell for a total workout set to Latin rhythms, combining all elements of fitness – cardio, muscle conditioning, balance and flexibility, boosted energy and a serious dose of awesome. Located at the base of the finish tower. Pre-registration is required.

Special Olympics - West Coast Region Stand Up Paddle Competition
2025-07-11 - 2025-07-12
Time: Friday 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM; Saturday 7:00 AM – 2:00PM
Sports Contact: Danyelle Jones, danyellejones@sofl.org, 813-392-8107
Volunteer Contact: Savannah Rock, savannahrock@soff.org, 689-348-0332
