Tampa Bay prepares for a vibrant year of running events in 2026, welcoming athletes of all experience levels.

 

The 49th Publix Gasparilla Distance Classic on February 21-22 promises excitement, with multiple races along Bayshore Boulevard, including 15K, 5K, Half Marathon, and 8K options.

 

Runners can tackle the renowned Michelob Ultra Challenge, racing various distances across one weekend, while the fast, scenic route encourages personal bests.

 

Youngsters can join the Publix Jr. Gasparilla Distance Classic for free at Thomas Jefferson High School on February 14, nurturing fitness at an early age.

 

Spring brings a twist with the Spartan Stadion 5K at Raymond James Stadium on May 2, featuring stadium stairs and obstacles for an extra challenge.

 

Summer heats up with the Night Nation Run on June 27, blending a music festival vibe with a lively evening run and post-race celebration.

 

The year ends sweetly at the SKECHERS Hot Chocolate Run in December, where runners earn chocolatey rewards and premium swag, strengthening Tampa’s running community spirit.

Ken Babby, newly appointed CEO of the Tampa Bay Rays, has announced the team’s active search for a future stadium site in the Tampa Bay area.

 

Speaking from the MLB winter meetings in Orlando, Babby emphasized hope for a public-private partnership, aiming for a new stadium by 2029.

 

The Rays are committed to Tropicana Field through 2028, though Hurricane Milton’s roof damage forced a temporary move for 2025.

 

Plans center on Tampa, with discussions about the Hillsborough Community College campus, Ybor City, Rocky Point, and the Florida State Fairgrounds.

 

The Rays exited a $1.3 billion St. Petersburg project in March 2025, citing storm damage and rising costs.

 

Meanwhile, the team will play at George M. Steinbrenner Field in 2025, as St. Petersburg invests $22.5 million to repair Tropicana Field’s roof.

 

The Rays remain focused on a mixed-use stadium development, working closely with local leaders to shape Tampa Bay’s baseball future.

Tampa International Airport is undergoing major upgrades to improve both passenger experience and operational capacity.

 

A new 20,000-square-foot security checkpoint at Airside E, launched in March 2025, features seven lanes with advanced technology that lets travelers keep electronics in their bags. This addition aims to ease wait times, especially during busy seasons like spring break.

 

Construction began in December 2024 on Airside D, a $1.5 billion expansion set to open in 2028.

 

This modern terminal will include 16 gates for both domestic and international flights, increasing TPA’s capacity to serve up to 35 million passengers annually by 2037.

 

However, a government shutdown in November 2025 forced a 10% cut in flights at TPA, causing significant delays for holiday travelers.

 

"Phoebe the Flamingo," a vibrant 21-foot sculpture installed in 2022, continues to greet visitors as an iconic local landmark.