There’s something new happening in Clearwater Thanksgiving week, and we want you to be part of it!
We’re excited to invite you and your family to the very first Achieva Pre-Trot Community Celebration on Wednesday, November 26th, from 5 to 8 pm at BayCare Ballpark in Clearwater. This brand-new event is our way of kicking off Tampa Bay’s favorite Thanksgiving tradition, the Achieva Clearwater Turkey Trot, with community spirit and heart.
What’s the best part? It’s completely free for everyone!
What Makes This Event Special
The night before Thanksgiving, families can gather at BayCare Ballpark for a warm community holiday celebration. The energy will be high, thanks to entertainment from some of Tampa Bay’s favorite radio stations with on-air personalities, such as Drew Garabo from “Drew Garabo Live “on 102.5 The Bone, EJ Greig, Afternoons on 101.5 The Vibe, Fisher, Mornings on 107.3 The Eagle, and Alexia Middays on Magic 94.9. Live music performances of rock, country, and pop songs by the North 2 South band. Adding to the fun, local sports and area mascots, the Lightning Bug and the Phillie Phanatic, and more will be greeting everyone and even participating in some exciting races!
Whether you’re planning to run in Thursday’s Turkey Trot or just want to soak up some community spirit to kick off the holiday season, this celebration is for you. Turkey Trot race participants can pick up their official race packets and if registration is open to sign up in person to participate.
Community Spirit with a Warming Purpose
Here’s what makes this celebration truly meaningful: we’re coming together not just to have fun at the start of the holiday season, but to help people who need it most.
We’re asking everyone to bring a new pair of socks to donate to Clearwater’s Homeless Empowerment Program (HEP). These donations will go directly to local families and veterans experiencing homelessness, providing them with comfort and warmth. Best of all, Achieva Credit Union will match all donations, doubling the impact for people in our community who need support.
You might be wondering why socks are so important. The truth is that clean socks are one of the most needed but least donated items for people without homes. They provide warmth, prevent health problems, and offer comfort to those facing difficult times. It’s a small item, and a big help to those who need them.
Every day, Clearwater’s HEP provides safe housing, hot meals, and essential resources to help people get back on their feet. Your sock donation – doubled by Achieva’s matching program – helps make their important work possible.
From Celebration to Race Day
The community spirit continues Thanksgiving morning with the Turkey Trot 5K race. For 47 years, this beloved tradition has brought thousands of people together to start the holiday with energy and joy, some great costumes, and four-legged participants too.
This year’s races include:
- Achieva 5K Timed Run at 7:00 am
- Frank Crum Family Fun Run 5K at 8:00 am
- Abe’s Place 1-Mile Gobbler Run at 9:00 am
Whether you’re a serious runner or someone who just wants to walk with friends and family, there’s a perfect race for you.
We’ve planned an evening full of activities that families, friends and neighbors will love. Kids can enjoy games and crafts while parents relax with food and drinks. The live entertainment will keep everyone engaged, and the whole atmosphere will be filled with the warmth and gratitude that make Thanksgiving special.
Mark Your Calendar for the Home Run Setting
BayCare Ballpark isn’t just home to the Philadelphia Phillies Spring Training and the Clearwater Threshers. On November 26th, it becomes the heart of our community celebration. There’s something magical about being surrounded by neighbors who care about each other and our city.
We can’t wait to see familiar faces and meet new friends. We can’t wait to watch kids play together while parents connect. And we can’t wait to come together as a community to help local families who need our support.
This Thanksgiving week, let’s show what Clearwater is all about – neighbors caring for neighbors, families coming together, and community spirit that makes our city special.
See you at the ballpark!
The Achieva Pre-Trot Community Celebration
Wednesday, November 26 | 5-8 pm
BayCare Ballpark 601 N. Old Coachman Rd, Clearwater
For Achieva Clearwater Turkey Trot race registration and race details click here
Click here for more Information on the Achieva Pre-Trot Community Event
