Events

Join nearly 4,000 of your closest friends Thanksgiving morning for the fifth annual Florida Turkey Trot Presented By Publix! The 5K run/walk begins at 8 a.m., with the Kids Dash at 7:15 a.m. This event brings runners, joggers and walkers from across the Suncoast and beyond for what's become a new Thanksgiving tradition. All participants receive a finisher medal and race shirt, as well as food and drink at the after-race party. This event is a partnership of Fit2Run, The Runners Superstore, and the Nathan Benderson Park Conservancy, and benefits the Conservancy and the Big Bill Foundation. The Big Bill Foundation is named for former NBP Conservancy board chairman and legendary area businessman Bill Robinson, who began Fit2Run with his son, Parks.

This annual fundraiser for the American Cancer Society returns to NBP, bringing thousands of supporters for a 5K walk around the park and related ceremonies and activities. Learn more and sign up today!

This fun, family-friendly festive event features dozens of Christmas decorations at the start and finish line and music that creates an atmosphere that will get your Christmas season started off right! This professionally chip-timed night glow run will be a memorable experience like no other. Athletes run or walk the lakeside Christmas themed course at night. Athletes add to the atmosphere with their complimentary glow products that are included with registration. Spectators will enjoy free live runner tracking with the ​Elite Events Tracker App. ...and YES, there is 100% chance of pretty snowfall at the finish!​ National anthem and pre-race instructions are at 5:50 p.m., and the race begins at 6 p.m. Parking is $10 per car.  

The ninth stop on the South Florida Half Marathon Tour is the Sarasota West Coast Half Marathon and 5k at Nathan Benderson Park. The scenic course takes runners through and around the University Town Center area with nearly constant water views. National Anthem and Pre-Race Instructions start at 6:50 a.m.  Both races start at 7 a.m.