2025 Publix Gasparilla Distance Classic Leads the Pack of Weekend Events and Traffic
More than 150,000 people, many of them pedestrians, will be taking over the streets of Tampa this weekend as several major events will be taking place in and around downtown, including the annual Gasparilla Distance Classic Races.
Packet pickup, which often leads to a steady flow of people in and out of the Tampa Convention Center, is scheduled to begin on Friday, February 21, at 10 A.M. The first races will begin at 6 A.M. on Saturday on Bayshore Boulevard, although many runners will be arriving even earlier. Sunday’s races also begin at 6 A.M. on Bayshore. Post-race celebrations will start at 9 A.M. at Cotanchobee Fort Brooke Park on both Saturday and Sunday.
The Harbour Island bridges will remain open both Saturday and Sunday.
Other events this weekend include a concert at Amalie Arena, Fiesta Day in Ybor City, a Lightning game on Sunday, as well as shows at the Straz, Tampa Theatre, and more.
Drivers should expect delays and road closures around the racecourse and the Tampa Convention Center. Please also be extra cautious of the large volumes of pedestrians in and around the event areas.
The Mobility Department encourages event goers to use alternate transportation options whenever possible including the free TECO Streetcar, DASH service, rentable scooters, HART buses etc. Arriving early is also recommended.
For the latest road closure and work zone updates, visit: Tampa.gov/road-closures
To learn more about the race and view additional course maps, visit: http://rungasparilla.com/