SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Title
Approve High Impact Event Funding request for the 2nd Annual Taste of Clearwater hosted by Rotary Club of Clearwater Charities, Inc., to be held on Saturday, April 18, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on the 600 Block of Cleveland Street and Station Square Park.
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SUMMARY:
The 2nd Annual Taste of Clearwater is a one-day, Rotary-sponsored community event celebrating local flavors, family fun, and community engagement in Downtown Clearwater. This festival-style block party will feature food from local restaurants and vendors, live music, artisan and nonprofit booths, and family-friendly entertainment throughout the day. Proceeds from the event will support scholarships, reading programs, and community grants benefiting Clearwater residents.
The event welcomes residents, local businesses, and visitors alike and is expected to attract between 3,000 and 5,000 attendees, creating a vibrant atmosphere throughout Downtown. Scheduled prior to a large event at The BayCare Sound, the event is anticipated to capture early concertgoers, further increasing foot traffic and overall downtown activation.
Local businesses are invited to participate at an affordable vendor rate, providing an excellent opportunity to showcase their products and services to a wide and engaged audience. Vendors located within the Downtown Redevelopment Area may participate at no cost and may host a booth or simply open their doors to welcome attendees.
Event Details:
Event Name: 2nd Annual Taste of Clearwater
Date: Saturday, April 18, 2026
Time: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Location: 600 Block of Cleveland Street (between North Garden Avenue and North East Avenue), including Station Square Park
Estimated Attendance: 3,000 - 5,000 attendees
Event Highlights:
• Food offerings from local restaurants and vendors
• Beer and wine sales
• Live music and entertainment throughout the day
• Booths featuring local shops, artisans, and nonprofits
• Family-friendly, inclusive block party atmosphere
• Free admission to the public
MARKETING & OUTREACH:
• Promotion through Rotary Club networks and community partnerships
• Social media marketing and digital outreach
• Vendor cross-promotion
• Hashtag promotion: TasteOfClearwater #ClearwaterRotary
SOCIAL MEDIA INFORMATION:
• <https://www.clearwaterrotary.org/>
• <https://www.facebook.com/ClearwaterRotary>
• <https://www.instagram.com/rotary_club_of_clearwater/>
• https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rotary-club-of-clearwater
THE 2ND ANNUAL TASTE OF CLEARWATER BUDGET & FUNDING CALCULATION:
*The applicant was previously awarded funding in the amount of $30,000.00 to support the Taste of Clearwater on May 31, 2025. Placer Ai. Data for attendance was 1,300
• Total Expenses: $41,625.00
• Total Revenue: $21,000
• Calculation for DDB Funding Request:
o Total Expenses - Total Revenue = $20,625.00
Staff recommend awarding $20,625. Portable restrooms are not included as an eligible expense under the grant program; however, the applicant has requested approval to include this expense as part of the applicant request.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommend approval of the High Impact Event Funding for the 2nd Annual Taste of Clearwater in amount not to exceed $20,625.00
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
Funding for this request is available in cost code 1829411-558600, DDB Marketing.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
2.1 Strengthen public-private initiatives that attract, develop, and retain diversified business sectors.
2.2 Cultivate a business climate that welcomes entrepreneurship, inspires local investment, and supports small businesses.
2.3 Promote Clearwater as a premier destination for community events, cultural experiences, and downtown activation.
