When we think of the annual Suncoast Super Boat Grand Prix Festival, we may conjure up images of fast boats and family fun on gorgeous Lido Beach, but it's so much more.

Throughout its quarter century run, the festival proceeds helped create over $14 million worth of facilities for charities that help the physically and mentally challenged (www.suncoastcharitiesforchildren.org). It also helped make Sarasota the longest running powerboat race site in existence.

The boat races and most other events are completely free of charge. The festival sponsors make it possible for visitors and locals to have a great time even in a tough economy.

For 10 days leading up to the 4th of July, the festival serves up fun in the sun for people of all ages. This year, the festival runs June 25-July 4, 2011. The Kilo World Speed Record Event will feature a 56' Phenomenon boat powered by a team hoping to beat the world record speed of 220 miles per hour.

The Schedule

Saturday, June 25, 2011

The first event is the Aqua Plumbing and Air Grand Prix Golf Classic at the Heritage Oaks Golf and Country Club. Registration begins at 7 a.m. and the event starts at 8 a.m. For registration and sponsorship information, visit www.suncoastoffshore.org.

The Festival Kickoff Party takes place that evening from 7 p.m.-1 a.m. at the Sarasota Municipal Auditorium. Tickets are $100/person and a silent auction, dinner buffet, open bar and live entertainment are included.

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

The "Ebb and Flo" Fashion Show will take place. Check the site for details as they become available.

Thursday, June 30, 2011

The Festival Parade of Boats starts at 7 p.m. at U.S. 301. It runs up Main Street in downtown Sarasota and goes to Gulfstream Avenue.

Friday, July 1, 2011

The "Friendliest Catch" Fishing Tournament for the Physically and Mentally Challenged will take place at the Sarasota Outboard Club at City Island. It runs from 8:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Participants receive lunch.

The Kilo World Speed Record Event takes place the same day, from 7 a.m.-noon along Sarasota Bay (around Centennial Park). Boaters will have the best view on the water. You can watch from land at New College of Florida, as well. The event is free.

Bring the kids to meet the boat drivers at the "Meet and Greet Who's in the Driver's Seat" event. It takes place in the Tropics Room at the Hyatt Regency Sarasota from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Racers will be signing autographs and giveaways will also take place. Children under 12 get in free and adults are in for $5.

Powerboats by the Bay runs all day July 1 and 2, from 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Check out the powerboats that are on display at Centennial Park and enjoy live entertainment and food. The event is also free.

Saturday, July 2, 2011

The Motorcycle Speed Card Ride will take place, starting at Haps Cycle Sales and Rossiters Harley-Davidson. Registration is from 9:30-11 a.m. The ride, which is $10 per person, ends at the Powerboats by the Bay event and cash prizes will be given to three lucky winners. Contact trishpayne@comcast.net or bob@hapscycle.com for more information.

The Miss Super Boat Grand Prix Bikini Contest will also take place at the event. Judging is at 3 p.m. Contact offshorebikinicontest@gmail.com for more information.

Sunday, July 3, 2011

It's all leading up to this: the day of the Annual Suncoast Super Boat Grand Prix Boat Race. It goes down at Lido Beach between New Pass and Big Pass. Races will begin at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. It's completely free. Expect crowds, so arrive early or car pool and don't forget your bathing suits. There will be a VIP viewing party at the nearby Lido Pool. There will also be live race coverage under the big tent.

While races are at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., the day goes from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Food and drinks will be for sale and live entertainment will also be provided.

An awards ceremony will follow at the Sarasota Municipal Auditorium (5-6 p.m., doors open at 4:30 p.m.). It's free and everyone is invited. There will be a cash bar on site.

Monday, July 4, 2011

Celebrate your independence at the annual Bayfront Fireworks Spectacular. Fireworks will begin around 9 p.m. at Sarasota Bayfront Park. The view over the water at the marina is not to be missed.

For information on hotel deals or to check out photos, purchase merchandise or to become a vendor, sponsor or volunteer, visit www.suncoastoffshore.org.

The Suncoast Grand Prix Headquarters are located at 4620 17th St. in Sarasota. For more information on the events, call (941) 371-8820 ext. 1800.