Suncoast STARS Community 2nd Annual Stride to Thrive 5k / 1 mile Walk & Family Fun Fest

Lace up for a meaningful morning at the Suncoast STARS Community 2nd Annual Stride to Thrive 5k / 1 mile Walk & Family Fun Fest, set for Saturday, February 28, 2026, in sunny Sarasota, Florida. This inspiring event, hosted at Grace Community Church, offers a beautiful setting for runners and walkers of all ages and abilities, while directly supporting the Suncoast STARS Community's Work & Enrichment Program for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Participants can choose between a scenic 5K loop that winds through picturesque surroundings, including Communications Parkway, Professional Parkway, and Lakewood Ranch Boulevard North, or opt for a 1-mile accessible paved path perfect for strollers and wheelchairs. With typical race day conditions boasting highs around 77°F and lows near 56°F, and only a 5% chance of precipitation, expect pleasant weather for your stride towards a brighter future.

The 5K course begins and ends at the Grace Community Church campus parking lot, featuring generally flat terrain ideal for personal bests or a leisurely pace. What truly sets this event apart is its vibrant, post-race Family Fun Fest. Imagine crossing the finish line and stepping into an atmosphere brimming with delicious offerings from local food trucks like Purple Bol and Ryan's Coffeehouse, lively music from DJ Mike, exhilarating bounce houses, and creative face painting. A bustling vendor village, nonprofit booths, a silent auction, and even the Bradenton Marauder's batting cage add to the excitement. Don't miss the special performance by the "STARS" themselves – the Specially Talented Adults Raising Standards – showcasing the incredible individuals your participation supports. This inclusive event promises a day of fitness, community, and heartwarming fun for everyone.