(U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Ryan Dickinson)
As Southwest Florida gears up for the summer season, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 91 is emphasizing how local boating education directly enhances the safety and quality of life for local waterfront communities. From the deep-water canals of Siesta Isles to the bustling docks of Bayside Estates, the presence of educated, responsible boaters ensures that shared waterways remain a safe environment for all residents.
The upcoming Boat America course on Responsible Boating, a NASBLA-approved program, provides boaters with the “Rules of the Road” necessary to navigate tight channels and busy passes with professional precision. By training residents in situational awareness, the Auxiliary helps transform potential “near-misses” into controlled maneuvers, reducing the strain on local emergency resources.
Participants will learn:
1. The “Rules of the Road” (Nav-igation Basics)
2. Emergency Preparedness & Safety Gear
3. Understanding the Environment
4. Legalities and Ethics
Aside from the knowledge, you’re gaining situational awareness and risk mitigation. Instead of reacting with panic when a large wake approaches or a storm rolls in, you now have a mental checklist to follow. It turns a stressful “near-miss” into a controlled, professional maneuver.
National Safe Boating Week & Community Safety
As a launching pad for National Safe Boating Week, May 16-22, the Coast Guard Auxiliary reminds all mariners that safety is a collective community effort. This national initiative highlights the importance of wearing life jackets, emergency preparedness, and the dangers of Boating Under the Influence (BUI). Educated boaters in communities like Whiskey Creek and Hidden Harbor act as a first line of defense in maintaining the integrity of our local waters.
Complimentary vessel safety checks
In addition to public education, the Coast Guard Auxiliary offers free Vessel Safety Checks. These complimentary evaluations ensure that boats in neighborhoods like Catalpa Cove or St. Charles Harbour are fully equipped with functional safety gear — such as the correct fire extinguishers and PFD types — without the threat of legal citations. These checks are a vital tool for ensuring peace of mind before heading out to the Gulf.
Event registration details
The Auxiliary invites all local residents and out-of-state visitors to register for the upcoming basic safety course:
What: Boat America: Responsible Boating Course
When: Saturday, May 16, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Pine Ridge Community Center, 15660 Pine Ridge Road, Fort Myers, FL 33908
Cost: $45 per person; Students under 17 are free when accompanied by an adult
Registration: Online at aux91fmb.org or call (239) 690-6780.
About the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 91, Fort Myers Beach
The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed civilian volunteer component of the United States Coast Guard. Flotilla 91 of Fort Myers Beach is dedicated to promoting boating safety through public education, vessel safety checks, and providing support to the U.S. Coast Guard in various missions, including search and rescue and environmental protection.
Feature courtesy Fort Myers Beach Observer/Breeze Newspapers
Enjoy capturing photos of wildlife or can’t get enough of the city’s official bird? The Cape Coral Friends of Wildlife will accept entries for its fifth annual Burrowing Owl Photo Contest starting Friday.
The non-profit organization committed to protecting the city’s wildlife is looking for the best the public has to offer when it comes to pictures of the city’s official bird.
Photo contest submissions need to be in by May 17, and the grand prize winner will have their photo used on CCFW’s 2027 official Burrowing Owl Festival T-shirt. The contest is open exclusively to amateur photographers, who must self-certify their eligibility upon entry.
“This is one of our favorite events for several reasons,” said CCFW spokesperson Janet Windisch. “The photos submitted to us are always so beautiful. The talent and enthusiasm of local photographers is truly inspiring. We are also always excited to see the photo chosen as the grand prize winner because it will be featured on next year’s Burrowing Owl Festival T-shirt. The 2027 festival will be our 25th annual, so it will be especially special.”
There are two division categories for the contest: amateur youth (7 to 17) and amateur adult. No professional photographer can enter the contest.
“This is a great opportunity for young photographers and wildlife lovers to put their photos on display,” Windisch said. “CCFW hopes that encouraging young people to participate will help them appreciate and love wildlife as we do. The youth of today will be the stewards of our environment in the future.”
Participants may submit just one photo.
Permitted photo editing is limited to the following: Crop; make minor adjustments to color, white balance, lighting levels and curves, shadows and highlight, saturation, contrast, sharpness; moderate dodging and burning; removal of dust sports and moderate reduction of image noise. Photographs that have been digitally or otherwise altered beyond standard optimization will be disqualified.
Windisch said Pelican Baseball Complex and the Cape Coral Lee County Public Library are great spots to capture photos.
“Mornings are usually the best time for owl viewing, because they frequently retreat into their burrows to escape the heat of the afternoon,” she added.
In years past, CCFW has received more than 100 submissions and always looks forward to seeing the different ways the city’s favorite bird is captured.
“We are always amazed at the great shots submitted,” Windisch said. “Some of them are breathtaking, some are cute, and some are amusing. It’s also interesting to see where the owls are — at their nest, on front porches, fire hydrants, road signs.”
Judging will be conducted by a CCFW-appointed panel that includes expert photographers. Judges will score eligible photographs on technical quality (30%), originality (30%), and artistic merit (40%).
A final group of pictures will be passed along to judges who are Cape Coral City Manager Michael Ilczyszyn, NBC2 Meteorologist Rob Duns, and last year’s photo contest winner, Darlene Coughlin.
There will be first-, second-, and third-place prizes given to the highest-scoring photograph from the adult division and youth division. Prizes include CCFW swag and a one-year membership to the group.
CCFW encourages every photographer to practice responsible bird photography. Prior to submitting any photograph, participants are strongly encouraged to read Audubon’s Guide to Ethical Bird Photography and Videography. A photograph that appears to the sponsor or judges to reflect a harmful situation is not eligible for submission, and if submitted, will be disqualified at CCFW’s sole discretion.
Cape Coral Friends of Wildlife is a volunteer-driven organization dedicated to preserving and enhancing habitats for protected wildlife species while educating the community about Cape Coral’s unique wildlife resources.
“Hopefully, the contest provides a little incentive to get outdoors and enjoy the local wildlife,” Windisch said. “Once you spend a little time watching the owls, you can learn about their habits. Sometimes you’ll see sand flying as they clean out their burrows. Sometimes you’ll notice bits of trash and debris around the nest-that’s called ‘decorating the nest,’ and owls do it for a number of reasons during nesting season. It’s normal, so don’t be tempted to clean up the trash. Sometimes we get photos or owls eating insects or feeding their young which is really neat.”
Winners will be revealed during a special awards ceremony on May 30 at noon at Rotary Park.
(Pictured above, 2025 winning entry by Conrad Peloquin)
Photo contest submissions
Photo contest submissions need to be in by May 17, and the grand prize winner will have their photo used on CCFW’s 2027 official Burrowing Owl Festival T-shirt. The contest is open exclusively to amateur photographers, who must self-certify their eligibility upon entry.
There are two division categories for the contest: amateur youth (7 to 17) and amateur adult. No professional photographer can enter the contest.
Participants may submit just one photo.
Permitted photo editing is limited to the following: Crop; make minor adjustments to color, white balance, lighting levels and curves, shadows and highlight, saturation, contrast, sharpness; moderate dodging and burning; removal of dust sports and moderate reduction of image noise. Photographs that have been digitally or otherwise altered beyond standard optimization will be disqualified.
For full contest rules, prize details, more information on CCFW, and to enter the photo contest, visit ccfriendsofwildlife.org.
To reach CJ HADDAD, please email cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com
The Fort Myers Beach Shrimp Festival is one of Southwest Florida’s largest annual celebrations, drawing thousands of visitors each March to honor the local shrimping industry. This two-day event features a parade, arts and crafts fair, shrimp boil, 5K run, and unique competitions like a shrimp-eating contest. The festival takes place the second full weekend in March and has been a beloved tradition for nearly seven decades.
The Fort Myers Beach Lions Club organizes this festival to raise money for community programs that help people in need while celebrating the area’s “Pink Gold” shrimping heritage. You’ll find over 100 vendors offering handmade goods, food, and crafts during the weekend festivities. The event also includes a Queen’s pageant, kids run, and the Blessing of the Fleet ceremony that started it all back in the late 1950s.
Whether you’re interested in local seafood, family activities, or community events, the Shrimp Festival offers something for everyone. The festival has grown from a simple dockside blessing into a major celebration that brings together residents and visitors from across the country and around the world.
Key Takeaways
- The Fort Myers Beach Shrimp Festival is a two-day event held the second full weekend in March featuring food, entertainment, and competitions
- The Lions Club runs the festival to raise funds for local charitable programs while celebrating Fort Myers Beach’s shrimping industry
- You can enjoy activities like the parade, arts and crafts fair, shrimp boil, 5K run, and shrimp-eating championship during the weekend
Fort Myers Beach Shrimp Festival Overview
The Fort Myers Beach Lions Club Shrimp Festival is a free community event held during the second full weekend of March. The festival celebrates the local shrimping industry with a parade, arts and crafts fair, and various shrimp-themed activities that draw thousands of visitors each year.
History and Significance
The Fort Myers Beach Shrimp Festival dates back to 1959 when it started as a simple blessing of the shrimp boats. Over the past six decades, this small ceremony grew into a major community celebration of the area’s shrimping heritage. The Lions Shrimp Festival has become a tradition that honors the local fishing industry while supporting charitable causes.
Hurricane Ian severely damaged Fort Myers Beach in 2022, forcing the cancellation of the 2023 festival. The event returned in 2024 with significant changes as the community continued rebuilding. The Fort Myers Beach Lions Club adapted the festival format while maintaining its core mission of celebrating shrimp and supporting local charities.
All proceeds from the Fort Myers Beach Lions Club Shrimp Festival benefit Lions Club charities that serve people in need throughout the local community.
Key Dates and Festival Location
The festival takes place during the second full weekend of March each year. In 2026, this falls on March 14-15. Events span two days across multiple locations in Fort Myers Beach.
The main parade starts at 10 a.m. Saturday at School Street and travels north on Estero Boulevard to the Matanzas Pass Bridge. You’ll find the arts and crafts fair along Old San Carlos Boulevard between 1st Street and 3rd Street, running from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday.
The Blessing of the Fleet occurs Sunday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 1100 Shrimp Boat Lane. You should arrive before 8 a.m. on Saturday if you need to cross the Matanzas Pass Bridge, as it closes from 9 a.m. to noon for the parade.
Signature Events and Activities
The Fort Myers Beach Shrimp Festival brings together several major events that draw thousands of visitors each year. The festival weekend centers around the parade, culinary experiences, competitive eating, and a community 5K run that takes place across Saturday and Sunday.
Shrimp Festival Parade
The parade serves as one of the most popular attractions during the festival weekend. It takes place on Saturday morning and showcases local organizations, floats, and community groups celebrating the area’s shrimp industry.
The parade route requires the closure of the Matanzas Pass Bridge from 9 AM to 12 PM. This allows marchers and floats to travel safely through the main festival area. You can watch from various spots along the route as participants celebrate the local shrimp fishing heritage.
The event brings together residents and visitors who line the streets to view the colorful procession. Local businesses, schools, and civic groups participate in the march each year.
Shrimp Boil and Culinary Attractions
The festival puts pink gulf shrimp at the center of its food offerings. Local vendors serve fresh shrimp prepared in multiple ways throughout the weekend. You’ll find traditional shrimp boils alongside other seafood dishes that highlight the region’s fishing industry.
The culinary attractions celebrate the economic and cultural importance of Fort Myers Beach’s shrimp fleet. Multiple food vendors set up during festival weekend to serve thousands of visitors.
Beyond shrimp, the festival includes other food options and beverages. The focus remains on showcasing the quality of locally caught pink gulf shrimp, which the area has become known for over the decades.
Shrimp Eating Championship
The shrimp-eating contest tests competitors on how quickly they can consume shrimp. This competitive event draws both participants and spectators who want to watch the challenge unfold.
Contestants face off against each other in a timed competition. The championship has become a notable addition to the festival’s lineup of activities. You can register to compete or simply watch as participants attempt to eat their way to victory.
Fort Myers Beach Lions Club 5K Run
The 5K run takes place on Saturday morning before the parade begins. Runners start early to complete the course before the bridge closure affects traffic flow. The race route goes through Fort Myers Beach and gives participants views of the local area.
The Lions Club organizes this run as part of the festival weekend events. Registration is required in advance, and the race serves as a fundraiser for the club’s charitable missions. Both serious runners and casual participants join the event each year.
Family and Community Highlights
The Fort Myers Beach Shrimp Festival offers activities for all ages, with special events designed for children and families. The festival weekend features a kids running event, vendor marketplace, and preliminary activities that build excitement before the main celebration.
Kids Shrimp Run and Activities
The Kids Shrimp Run gives young participants a chance to take part in the festival weekend action. This running event is designed specifically for children and provides a fun, age-appropriate alternative to the adult 5K race.
Your kids can join other young runners in a safe, organized course that lets them experience the excitement of a community race. The event takes place during the main festival weekend alongside other family-friendly activities.
Beyond the run, children can enjoy various entertainment options throughout the festival grounds. The weekend atmosphere welcomes families with activities that celebrate the local shrimping culture while keeping younger visitors engaged and entertained.
Arts & Crafts Expo
The Arts & Crafts Expo brings together local and regional artisans during the festival weekend. You’ll find a variety of handmade items, artwork, and crafts from multiple vendors in one location.
The expo features different types of vendors selling unique products you won’t find in typical retail stores. You can browse through booths while enjoying the festival atmosphere and supporting small businesses and local craftspeople.
This marketplace adds a shopping element to your festival experience beyond the food and entertainment. The expo runs throughout the weekend, giving you multiple opportunities to explore the vendor offerings and find special items to take home.
Pre-Festival Events
Several events take place before the main festival weekend in March. These pre-festival activities help build community excitement and extend the celebration beyond just two days.
The Shrimp Crawl is a notable pre-festival event where local restaurants offer special shrimp dishes. You can visit participating establishments to sample different shrimp preparations and vote for your favorites.
Other preliminary activities may include pageants and community gatherings that honor the shrimping heritage of Fort Myers Beach. These events allow you to engage with the festival tradition in the days and weeks leading up to the main weekend celebration.
Traditions, Charitable Impact, and Local Involvement
The Fort Myers Beach Shrimp Festival combines time-honored traditions with meaningful community support. The event raises funds for scholarships, vision programs, and local families while celebrating the island’s shrimping heritage.
Blessing of the Fleet
The Blessing of the Fleet stands as one of the festival’s most significant traditions. This ceremony honors Fort Myers Beach’s fishing families and the historic shrimping industry that built the community.
Local fishermen bring their boats for the blessing, which celebrates the area’s “Pink Gold” Gulf shrimp first discovered off the island in 1949. The ceremony recognizes the hard work and dedication of those who continue the shrimping tradition today. You can witness this special event during the festival weekend as boats pass by for their blessing.
The tradition takes on extra meaning after Hurricane Ian’s devastating impact on the local shrimping industry. The blessing represents the community’s resilience and commitment to preserving its maritime heritage.
Role of Fort Myers Beach Lions Club
The Fort Myers Beach Lions Club organizes and hosts the entire festival. This organization has run the event since 1959, making it a decades-long community tradition.
The Lions Club handles all aspects of the festival, from coordinating the parade to managing vendors and entertainment. They organize the Shrimp Queen pageant, the 5K run, and the shrimp-eating contest. The club’s volunteers work year-round to plan and execute this major weekend event.
All proceeds from the festival go directly to the Lions Club’s charitable programs. The organization uses these funds to support their vision services, provide scholarships to local students, and assist families in need throughout the year.
Community Support and Scholarships
The festival serves as the primary fundraiser for Fort Myers Beach Lions Club charitable programs. Your attendance and participation directly support local families and students.
The Lions Club distributes scholarships to deserving students in the community. They also fund vision programs that provide eye exams and glasses to those who cannot afford them. The club offers financial assistance to local families facing hardship.
Local businesses contribute significant support to make the festival possible. Doc Ford’s restaurant donated $5,500 to the 68th annual event, including sponsorship of a Shrimp Queen candidate. Sanibel Captiva Community Bank also serves as a festival sponsor, helping fund charitable organizations serving individuals and families in need.
Local Shrimp Industry and Vendors
The festival spotlights Fort Myers Beach’s historic shrimping industry and its importance to the local economy. You’ll find vendors selling fresh Gulf shrimp prepared in various styles throughout the event.
The festival runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days, giving you plenty of time to sample different shrimp dishes. Local restaurants and vendors offer traditional shrimp boils, fried shrimp, and other seafood specialties. The event also features an arts-and-crafts fair where local artisans sell their work.
Festival merchandise includes t-shirts, trucker hats, and shrimp-themed items. These sales provide additional funding for the Lions Club’s charitable work. The event celebrates fishing families who continue working despite challenges like Hurricane Ian, which forced the festival’s cancellation in 2023.
Places to Stay Nearby
When planning your trip to Fort Myers Beach for the Shrimp Festival, choosing the right place to stay can make all the difference. Roelens Vacations offers a collection of spacious, well-appointed vacation homes just minutes from the action. Whether you’re looking for a comfortable retreat with a private pool, a waterfront home with relaxing views, or a large property to accommodate your whole team, Roelens has a variety of options to fit your needs. With all the comforts of home and the convenience of being close to the action, Roelens Vacations is the ideal vacation rental choice for your Shrimp Festival stay.
Every spring, 15 Major League Baseball teams head to Florida for spring training, where they practice and play exhibition games before the regular season begins. The 2026 spring training season in Florida runs from February 20 through March 24, giving you over a month to watch your favorite teams prepare for the upcoming season.
Florida has hosted spring training for over 100 years. This tradition draws millions of fans each year.
The Grapefruit League is what people call the group of teams that train in Florida during spring training. These teams practice at stadiums across the state, from the Gulf Coast to the Tampa Bay area and the Treasure Coast.
You can watch games almost every day during March. See players up close in smaller stadiums than you would during the regular season.
Planning a trip to Florida spring training lets you enjoy more than just baseball. You can visit multiple ballparks in different cities, explore local attractions, and experience the warm Florida weather.
Whether you want to catch a few games or build a full vacation around spring training, Florida offers plenty of options for baseball fans.
Key Takeaways
- Florida spring training runs from February 20 to March 24, 2026, with 15 MLB teams playing in the Grapefruit League across multiple Florida cities
- You can buy tickets to watch games at smaller stadiums where you get closer access to players and a more personal baseball experience
- Spring training offers you the chance to combine baseball with Florida vacation activities like visiting beaches, restaurants, and local attractions near the ballparks
Grapefruit League Overview
The Grapefruit League brings 15 Major League Baseball teams to Florida each spring for training and exhibition games. Eight teams come from the American League, and seven represent the National League.
What Is the Grapefruit League?
The Grapefruit League is MLB’s official spring training circuit in Florida. You’ll find 15 teams spread across the state, training at ballparks along the coastlines and inland areas.
These teams use February and March to prepare players for the regular season through practice sessions and exhibition games. Spring training games begin on February 21 each year.
The teams play against each other in a schedule that runs until late March, when the regular MLB season starts. You can watch major league stars work on their skills in a more relaxed setting than regular season games.
The ballparks seat fewer fans than major league stadiums. This gives you closer access to players and a more intimate baseball experience.
Grapefruit League vs. Cactus League
MLB splits its spring training between two leagues based on location. The Grapefruit League operates in Florida with 15 teams, while the Cactus League hosts the remaining 15 teams in Arizona.
Florida offers coastal training sites and humid conditions. Arizona provides desert weather and drier air.
Your choice between the two depends on your preferred climate and travel plans. The Grapefruit League covers more geographic area.
Teams train from the Gulf Coast to the Treasure Coast and throughout the Tampa Bay region. The Cactus League teams stay concentrated in the Phoenix and Tucson areas, making it easier to visit multiple stadiums in one day.
Both leagues offer the same spring training experience with exhibition games and player development. The main differences are weather patterns and stadium locations.
History of Spring Training in Florida
Florida has hosted spring training since the late 1800s. Teams first traveled south to escape cold northern winters and start their preparation early on warm fields.
The Grapefruit League became the official name for Florida’s spring training circuit. The name references Florida’s famous citrus industry.
Teams built permanent training facilities across the state as spring training grew more popular. Many current ballparks were built or renovated in recent decades.
These modern facilities include practice fields, training rooms, and fan amenities that didn’t exist in earlier spring training sites.
Florida Spring Training Teams and Ballparks
Fifteen Major League Baseball teams train across Florida’s Grapefruit League, with ballparks spread from the Gulf Coast to the Atlantic Ocean. These teams are grouped by region, making it easier for you to plan your spring training visits.
Tampa Bay Area Teams
The Tampa Bay region hosts five MLB teams during spring training. The New York Yankees train at George M. Steinbrenner Field in Tampa, a facility that mirrors Yankee Stadium’s design and seats over 11,000 fans.
The Philadelphia Phillies use BayCare Ballpark in Clearwater, located near the Gulf beaches and popular with visitors who want to combine baseball with beach time. The Toronto Blue Jays play at TD Ballpark in Dunedin.
The Tampa Bay Rays train just south at Charlotte Sports Park in Port Charlotte. The Pittsburgh Pirates hold their spring training at LECOM Park in Bradenton, a historic facility that dates back to 1923.
This area gives you the most concentrated spring training experience. You can visit multiple ballparks within a 30-minute drive.
Southwest Florida Teams
The southwest region features five teams along Florida’s Gulf Coast. The Boston Red Sox train at JetBlue Park in Fort Myers, a ballpark built to replicate Fenway Park’s famous Green Monster wall.
The Minnesota Twins share the Fort Myers area at Hammond Stadium in the CenturyLink Sports Complex. The Atlanta Braves moved to CoolToday Park in North Port in 2019.
The Baltimore Orioles train at Ed Smith Stadium in Sarasota. Both ballparks offer modern facilities with excellent sightlines for fans.
The Detroit Tigers use Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium in Lakeland, positioned between Tampa and Orlando. This location works well if you plan to visit central Florida attractions alongside spring training games.
Southeast Florida Teams
Three teams train on Florida’s Atlantic Coast. The Miami Marlins play at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium in Jupiter, sharing the facility with the St. Louis Cardinals.
This setup creates a unique partnership where both teams use the same training complex and ballpark. The Houston Astros train at The Ballpark of the Palm Beaches in West Palm Beach, which they share with the Washington Nationals.
These dual-team facilities let you catch games from four different MLB teams in just two locations. Both ballparks are relatively new and include state-of-the-art training facilities.
The New York Mets hold spring training at Clover Park in Port St. Lucie, further north along the coast.
Central Florida Teams
Central Florida is home to one spring training site. The Atlanta Braves previously trained in this region before moving to North Port.
Currently, no teams maintain permanent spring training facilities in the Orlando metro area. The region occasionally hosts exhibition games at various stadiums throughout the spring.
Most spring training action concentrates along the Gulf Coast and southeast Atlantic coast. You’ll find the best selection of teams and games in the Tampa Bay area and southwest Florida regions.
2026 Spring Training Schedule and Key Dates
The 2026 spring training schedule begins on February 20 with opening games in Florida. All 30 teams will be in action by February 21.
This year’s schedule features special exhibition games with World Baseball Classic teams and concludes with Opening Day on March 26.
Pitchers and Catchers Report
Pitchers and catchers will be the first players to report to their Florida training facilities in mid-February 2026. These players arrive first because they need extra time to build arm strength and work on mechanics before the season begins.
Position players will join the team a few days later, bringing the full roster together for spring training camps. The staggered reporting schedule gives pitchers critical preparation time since throwing requires more physical conditioning than other baseball skills.
Once position players arrive, teams begin full squad workouts and practice sessions. You’ll see these early practices focus on fundamentals, team chemistry, and getting players back into game shape after the offseason.
Spring Training Games
The first spring training games start on February 20, 2026, with a limited slate that includes the Yankees facing the Orioles in Florida. Exhibition matchups also feature the Red Sox playing Northeastern University and the Twins competing against the University of Minnesota.
All 30 Major League Baseball teams take the field on February 21 for the first full day of games across both the Grapefruit League in Florida and the Cactus League in Arizona. These games give you your first chance to see players in competitive action.
Spring training games run through late March, providing teams with practice time and allowing you to watch players compete for roster spots. In 2025, Florida’s spring training drew 1,448,778 fans across 231 games, averaging 6,272 fans per game.
Spring Breakout and World Baseball Classic
The 2026 spring training schedule includes 28 special exhibition games between MLB teams and World Baseball Classic national teams. These matchups happen on March 3 and March 4, with 14 games scheduled each day.
You’ll see these games split evenly between Florida’s Grapefruit League and Arizona’s Cactus League locations. The exhibitions help World Baseball Classic teams prepare for their tournament, which begins its North American portion on March 6, 2026.
This year’s schedule also features unique crossover games between the two leagues. The Yankees travel from Tampa to Mesa, Arizona, to play the Cubs on March 23-24.
The Tigers head from Lakeland, Florida, to Scottsdale to face the Rockies on the same dates.
Opening Day Timeline
Spring training games in Florida conclude on March 25, 2026, wrapping up the preseason schedule. That same evening, the Giants host the Yankees at Oracle Park in San Francisco for Opening Night.
The traditional Opening Day follows on March 26 with a full 14-game slate across Major League Baseball. This marks the official start of the regular season after teams complete their spring preparation.
You can plan your spring training attendance knowing the 2026 season spans 33 days from start to finish. The schedule gives you multiple opportunities to watch your favorite teams before they begin their regular season campaigns.
Iconic Florida Spring Training Stadiums
Florida’s spring training venues blend modern amenities with rich baseball history, from the Yankees’ home at George M. Steinbrenner Field to the Red Sox’s Fenway replica at JetBlue Park. Each stadium offers unique features that reflect the character of its home team and the local community.
George M. Steinbrenner Field
George M. Steinbrenner Field in Tampa serves as the spring home for the New York Yankees. The stadium opened in 1996 and was renamed in 2008 to honor the legendary Yankees owner.
You’ll find 11,026 seats at this facility, which mirrors many design elements from the original Yankee Stadium. The ballpark features a replica of the famous frieze that adorned the old stadium in the Bronx.
A Yankees museum inside showcases team history and memorabilia. The facility includes four practice fields and a minor league complex.
The stadium sits next to Raymond James Stadium, home of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. You can reach Steinbrenner Field easily from Tampa International Airport in about 15 minutes.
Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium
The Detroit Tigers train at Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium in Lakeland. This venue has hosted the Tigers since 1966, making it one of the longest continuous spring training relationships in baseball.
A major renovation in 2017 expanded the stadium to 8,500 seats. The updates included new concourses, improved sightlines, and upgraded clubhouses.
The ballpark maintains a classic feel despite its modern improvements. Joker Marchant Stadium got its name from a local parks director who brought baseball to Lakeland.
The facility includes six practice fields for the Tigers’ minor league system. You’ll find the stadium on the eastern side of Lakeland, easily accessible from Interstate 4.
TD Ballpark and BayCare Ballpark
TD Ballpark in Dunedin hosts the Toronto Blue Jays for spring training. The stadium underwent a complete rebuild that finished in 2020, replacing the old Dunedin Stadium.
It now seats 8,500 fans with a modern design. The ballpark sits within a larger mixed-use development that includes restaurants and shops.
You can walk from the stadium to Dunedin’s downtown area in minutes. The facility features premium seating options and a 360-degree concourse.
BayCare Ballpark in Clearwater serves as the Philadelphia Phillies’ spring home. The stadium opened in 2004 and holds 8,500 seats.
It sits along the waterfront in downtown Clearwater, offering views of the harbor from some seats. The Phillies train at the adjacent Carpenter Complex, which includes practice fields and training facilities.
You can combine a spring training game with beach activities, as Clearwater Beach is just minutes away.
JetBlue Park and Hammond Stadium
JetBlue Park in Fort Myers is the Boston Red Sox’s spring training home. Fans call it Fenway South because it replicates features from Boston’s Fenway Park, including a 37-foot Green Monster in left field.
The stadium opened in 2012 with 11,000 seats. It includes exact field dimensions matching Fenway Park.
You’ll see the manual scoreboard, Pesky’s Pole, and the triangle in center field. The facility sits within the Lee Health Sports Complex, which houses practice fields and training areas.
Hammond Stadium at the Lee Health Sports Complex hosts the Minnesota Twins. The stadium opened in 1991 and seats 9,300 fans.
It underwent renovations in 2014 that added new video boards and upgraded concessions. The Twins share the Lee County Sports Complex with the Red Sox, though each team has separate facilities.
Hammond Stadium features a distinctive roof design and palm trees beyond the outfield walls. You’ll find both stadiums off Daniels Parkway in south Fort Myers.
Fan Experience and Planning Your Visit
Spring training in Florida offers relaxed stadium atmospheres and closer access to players than regular season games. Most venues sell tickets starting at $15-25, and you can often watch practice sessions for free at training facilities.
Ticketing and Seating Tips
Single-game tickets go on sale in December or January for most teams. You can buy them directly through team websites or at the stadium box office on game day.
Popular matchups like the Yankees versus Red Sox sell out quickly. Buy early for those games.
General admission and lawn seating costs less than reserved seats. These spots let you move around during the game and get closer to the field.
Arrive 30-45 minutes before first pitch to claim good lawn spots.
Many stadiums offer $5-10 standing room tickets. You can watch batting practice if you show up when gates open, usually 90 minutes before game time.
Players often sign autographs along the fence during warm-ups.
Family-Friendly Ballparks
BayCare Park in Clearwater and Joker Marchant Stadium in Lakeland feature grassy areas where kids can play between innings. These ballparks include playground equipment and open spaces for children to run around safely.
CoolToday Park in North Port provides shade structures and wide concourses for strollers. The stadium accommodates up to 8,000 fans with both fixed seats and berm seating.
Ed Smith Stadium in Sarasota offers a kids zone with interactive baseball games.
Most Florida spring training sites have shorter game times than regular season contests. Games last about 2.5-3 hours, making them easier for young fans to enjoy.
Travel Routes and Regional Hubs
Florida’s Grapefruit League splits into three main areas. Tampa Bay hosts six teams within a 60-mile radius, including the Yankees in Tampa and Phillies in Clearwater.
Southwest Florida features four teams, with the Red Sox and Twins both training in Fort Myers.
Southeast Florida includes five teams spread from Port St. Lucie to West Palm Beach. The Mets train in Port St. Lucie, while Houston and Washington share facilities in West Palm Beach.
Miami and Jupiter also host teams in this region.
Interstate 75 connects Tampa Bay to Southwest Florida in about 90 minutes. The drive from Tampa to Port St. Lucie takes roughly 3.5 hours via Interstate 4 and Florida’s Turnpike.
You can see multiple teams in one trip by staying centrally located.
Beyond the Ballpark: Activities and Local Attractions
Florida’s spring training locations offer much more than baseball. The Tampa Bay area hosts major festivals throughout February and March, while Southwest Florida draws visitors to historic sites and natural springs.
Atlantic Coast destinations combine beach access with cultural events.
Tampa Bay and Clearwater Events
The Tampa Bay region packs its spring calendar with festivals that align perfectly with baseball season. The Florida State Fair runs from February 5-16, featuring rides, livestock shows, and concerts.
You can catch the Florida Strawberry Festival from February 26 through March 8, where fresh berries and live entertainment take center stage.
The Gasparilla celebrations offer three separate events. The Gasparilla Festival of the Arts happens February 28-March 1 with hundreds of artists displaying their work.
The Gasparilla Outbound Voyage sets sail on March 1. The Gasparilla Music Festival comes later on April 10-12.
Water lovers should check out the St. Petersburg Seafood Festival on February 20-22. Every Sunday, the Tampa Thai Temple hosts a market with authentic food and crafts.
Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg reopens in 2026 after renovations, serving as home to the Tampa Bay Rays. The Tampa Tarpons play summer games at Steinbrenner Field once the Yankees head north.
Southwest Florida Attractions
North Port’s Warm Mineral Springs attracts visitors seeking the therapeutic benefits of its mineral-rich waters. Locals call it “Chudo Ozero” or Miracle Lake.
The spring maintains a constant warm temperature year-round.
Bradenton and Sarasota share access to excellent outdoor recreation. Myakka River State Park offers camping, hiking, and kayaking through pristine wilderness.
The Legacy Trail provides paved bike paths connecting both cities. Anna Maria Island beaches rank among Florida’s best for white sand and calm waters.
History buffs can tour the Ringling Circus Museum in Sarasota or visit the Civil War-era Gamble Mansion.
The fishing village of Cortez maintains its old Florida charm and hosts a Seafood Festival on February 14-15. Selby Gardens showcases tropical plants and orchids in a waterfront setting.
Atlantic Coast Excursions
The Palm Beaches region hosts three teams in close proximity. Port St. Lucie serves as home base for the New York Mets, while Jupiter welcomes both the Marlins and Cardinals.
West Palm Beach features stadiums for the Astros and Nationals.
Miami hosts games for the World Baseball Classic from March 4-17, bringing international teams to South Florida. This tournament runs during spring training, creating extra baseball opportunities beyond regular Grapefruit League games.
The Atlantic Coast beaches offer warmer ocean temperatures than Gulf Coast waters in early spring. You can explore state parks, visit the downtown West Palm Beach waterfront, or take a day trip to the Everglades.
Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium in Jupiter and nearby CACTI Park provide easy access to restaurants and shopping between games.
Frequently Asked Questions
MLB spring training in Florida runs from late February through late March, with 15 teams practicing and playing across 13 locations throughout the state. Fans can attend games at smaller stadiums with more accessible seating and pricing than regular season games.
When does MLB spring training typically start in Florida?
The 2026 spring training season begins on Saturday, February 21 and runs through Tuesday, March 24. Pitchers and catchers report to their training facilities on February 11, about ten days before the first games.
Position players typically arrive a few days after pitchers and catchers. Team practices and workouts start before the official Grapefruit League games begin.
What teams participate in the Grapefruit League for MLB spring training?
Fifteen Major League Baseball teams hold their spring training in Florida each year. These teams make up what’s known as the Grapefruit League.
The teams have established their spring training homes in Florida over more than 100 years of history.
Where are the primary locations for MLB spring training games in Florida?
Spring training games take place across 13 different Florida locations. These sites spread throughout the state from the Gulf Coast to the Atlantic Coast.
Teams train in cities like Sarasota, Tampa, Fort Myers, Jupiter, and Port St. Lucie. Each location features dedicated spring training facilities designed specifically for MLB teams.
The stadiums in these locations are smaller than regular season ballparks. This creates a more intimate atmosphere for fans attending games.
How can fans purchase tickets to attend MLB spring training games in Florida?
You can buy tickets directly through each team’s official website or ticketing page. Many teams offer single-game tickets as well as spring training ticket packages.
Tickets typically go on sale in January before the season starts. Prices are generally lower than regular season games, making spring training an affordable option for baseball fans.
You should check the specific team’s website for their ticket sales dates and pricing information. Some popular games may sell out, so purchasing tickets early is recommended.
What are the best practices for a fan attending an MLB spring training session?
You should arrive early to find parking and explore the stadium before the game starts. Spring training facilities are smaller, so you’ll have better access to players and the field.
Bring sunscreen and a hat since you’ll be sitting outside in Florida’s warm weather. Many stadiums allow you to move around and sit in different sections during the game.
You can often watch batting practice and see players up close before games begin. The relaxed atmosphere makes it easier to get autographs and interact with players compared to regular season games.
How do MLB teams utilize spring training in Florida to prepare for the regular season?
Teams use spring training as their preparation period before the regular season begins. Pitchers build up their arm strength gradually through bullpen sessions and game appearances.
Players work on specific skills and practice game situations during daily workouts. Managers evaluate roster spots and give younger players chances to compete for positions on the team.
Teams play exhibition games against other Grapefruit League teams to simulate regular season conditions. These games help players get into game shape and test different lineups and strategies.
