10 Fun Holiday Events in Clearwater, St. Pete & Tampa

It’s a festive time of year, and here in Clearwater and St. Pete the excitement is building for the upcoming holiday season. There are plenty of fun-filled events throughout the area that will help you and your family get into the holiday spirit. So to help you plan your activities this December, we’ve put together our list of ten fun holiday events for you and your family to enjoy.

Holiday events in Clearwater & St. Pete. Photo credits: visitstpeteclearwater.com

1. Busch Gardens Tampa Christmas Town – Through 12/31. Now included with your park admission, this holiday family favorite features a million lights, special holiday shows, Mrs. Claus’ Family Feast, and a visit by St. Nick himself.

Corvette Show at Dimmitt Benefits Suncoast Animal League

On Saturday, Oct. 18, Dimmitt Chevrolet hosted the 17^th Annual Bay Area Corvette Club (BACC) gathering, benefiting the Suncoast Animal League. More than 700 Corvette enthusiasts attended the festive affair, which featured dozens of meticulously maintained Corvettes on display for all to enjoy. Dimmitt Chevrolet is an official sponsor of the BACC.

As part of the organization’s commitment to the local community, the event benefited the Suncoast Animal League, a non-profit, no-kill animal shelter located in Palm Harbor. An Adopt-A-Thon was held during the event, and 10 animals were either placed in foster care or adopted. Additionally, the BACC donated $1,500 to this worthwhile organization.

“The Bay Area Corvette Club finished another banner year with its sponsor Dimmitt Chevrolet of Clearwater, Florida,” said BACC President Andrew Domarasky. “In addition to being a social club committed to promotion and enjoyment of ‘Americas Sports Car’ through motoring events such as Corvette Show participation, Autocross, and high-speed events, BACC’s charter is to support local charities through monetary donations and promotion at its two yearly Corvette shows.”

Watch: Top 5 Chevy Commercials of All Time

Over the years, Chevrolet has been recognized for outstanding quality and ingenuity. Chevrolet focuses on the journey of life and all the good things that come with it. From music, to fashion,  to travel, Chevy expands their brand to all aspects of American life. Their hearty, sometimes humorous commercials are the perfect reflection of what the Chevrolet brand is all about. Here are our five of our favorite Chevy commercials of all time.

1961 Chevrolet with Dinah Shore

This throwback commercial goes way back to 1961, and features an amazing vocal performance from Dinah Shore.

8 Chevy Camaro Facts You May Not Know

The Chevy Camaro was first introduced in 1966, and has since become an iconic member of the Chevrolet lineup and an irreplaceable part of American automotive history… with a legion of fans that few other cars can boast. You may think you know everything there is to know about your favorite car, but we’ve compiled a list of strange and interesting facts about the Camaro that may surprise you.

2015 Chevy Camaro. Photo Copyright General Motors.

1. While in the design phase, the Camaro was given the internal code name “Panther,” and nearly went to market with the name. Chevy ultimately decided to continue its trend of model names beginning with “C” (like Chevelle, Corvette, and Corvair), and “Camaro” was the result.

Infographic: Teen Driving Stats to Encourage Safe Driving

Instead of trying to convince you how dangerous texting and driving is, we’ll let the stats do the talking. Did you know? At any given time during daylight hours, at least 660,000 drivers in the U.S. use cell phones. Also, 77% of teen drivers are convinced they can safely text while driving, but road statistics show distracted driving as the leading cause of car accidents. Before ignoring any of the laws against distracted driving this summer, check out these teen driving stats:

2015 Chevrolet Traverse: Lookin’ cool for back to school

It’s that time of year again!  There’s something undeniably exciting about dropping the kids off at school in the morning–unless you’re in the wrong vehicle.  The difference between a stressful commute and a worry-free ride is having a reliable vehicle that seats everyone comfortably.  That’s where the 2015 Chevrolet Traverse comes in.  Going back to school in a Traverse is just plain smart.  Here are the reasons why:

• Seating up to 8 in a refined interior

• Forward Collision Alert

• Lane Departure Warning

• Chevrolet Complete Care comes standard.  That means  2 years or 24,000 miles of scheduled maintenance, warranty coverage that features powertrain, bumper-to-bumper, rust-through protection

• Roadside assistance for 5 years or 100,000 miles, including courtesy transportation

Top 5 Summer Driving Hazards (And How to Deal With Them)

On average, July is the warmest month of the year in Clearwater, Florida. As you prepare for long summer days at the beach, don’t forget to get ready for summer driving. The roads are busier during summertime. Everyone is scrambling on the highways to get to the Tradewinds Splash Island Water park or beach house on time. You are bound to come across driving behaviors and road distractions that will raise your blood pressure. Instead of being complacent behind the wheel, keep driving hazards on your radar. Ignoring them can put you and your loved ones at risk. Here are the top 5 summer hazards to watch out for and how to avoid them:

Road Construction 

Travel is not the only thing that peaks during summertime. Once summer is in full swing, roadway construction also kicks into high gear. The combination of increased travel and construction zones leads to crowded, slow-moving traffic. It’s no wonder accidents peak during the summer.

5 Ways to Celebrate Father’s Day

According to a spending survey conducted by BIGinsight, the average person will spend about $120 on Father’s Day gifts this year. Instead of sticking to the usual traditional clothing and electronic gifts, why not surprise Dad with a special outing.

Clearwater, Florida is home to some of the clearest beaches and most captivating attractions. From the SeaWorld adventure park to pirate cruises and daily festivals, there’s always lots to do and lot’s to see. Make this summer all about bringing out the child within. Here’s a fun-filled activity guide to help you plan the perfect outing with Dad:

Stop by the Clearwater Marine Aquarium 

The Clearwater Marine Aquarium offers fun encounters with dolphins, stingrays and sharks. Come prepared to get a little wet working alongside one of the aquariums trainers. With lots of opportunities to take awesome pictures, you will get to keep the memories with you forever. Visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium website for more info.  

Ride a Wave at the Surf-Style Flowrider

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6tsXj2N7JRI

Giving the man who taught you how to ride your first bike another boring tie on Father's Day isn’t going to cut it. Why not bring out Dad’s inner child with some summer-fun at the Surf-Style Flowrider. Besides, it’s never too late to learn how to surf. There’s no need for experience and no age restrictions, all you need is a fun-loving spirit. The Surf-Style Flowrider is open every day from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Find out more information here.

Take a Swing at the Congo River Adventure Golf Course

According to TripAdvisor, The Congo River Adventure Golf course is one of Clearwater’s top 10 attractions. It is a unique course where you can enjoy a round of miniature golf while exploring and enjoying a scenic view. To top it off, you’ll experience your closest encounter with over 20 live gators that you’ll get to feed. The Congo River Adventure Golf course is full of fun activities and exclusive photo opportunities. Get more info here.

The best thing about making memories in the Clearwater region it is that it’s fun and effortless. Why not give Dad the best gift this Father’s Day by creating extraordinary memories he’ll never forget. 

Before you hit the road, here are a few tips to help you get there safely.

Special Offer: 2014 Chevrolet Camaro LS

2014 Chevrolet Camaro LS

MSRP:	$24,450
Qualifying Incentives:	$1,000
Cash or Trade:	$3,000
Rebate:	$1,500
Conquest:	$1,000
Bonus Cash:	$500
From Dimmitt:	$1,953
$15,497*	Lease for $179 (24m/10k/year)

* For full details, please see Dimmitt Chevrolet's Weekly Ad.

 Call us at 888-867-1203 to speak to a sales consultant today!

Car Themed Gifts for Recent Grads

“What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

Do you have a Chevy Spark enthusiast about to graduate? Why not help your recent graduate express their unique style with genuine Chevy Spark accessories. Here are some chic gift ideas to that you graduate will enjoy.

Chic Center Console Set

The interior trim kit is a great way to add more color to your grads Spark. It comes with custom colors that match the seat inserts, interior trim and exterior color. This is a great feature to add if your grad is looking for a personalized look.

Roof Rack Carrier

Life after graduation can be hectic. Moving out of a campus dorm to that new apartment requires extra storage space. The Spark might be a compact car, but the Roof Rack Carrier will provide your grad with extra space to carry all their special valuables.

Custom Graphics

Help your recent grad make their Spark outshine the rest with genuine exterior graphics by 3MTM Original Wraps. These custom designed graphics are crafted to give your Spark a chic sports car look. This is a great way to enhance the appearance of your grad’s Spark at a low cost.

All Weather Floor Mats

Chevy’s premium all-weather floor mats mare made with heavy duty materials designed to protect floors from spills and stains. They are not only easy to clean but also protect the interior from foul odors that develop from wet spills. Your grad can drive worry free knowing that whatever the weather brings it’s not going to mess up the Spark.

These are great gift ideas to help your soon to be graduate express their inner style. Visit our online store to check out more accessories and our latest specials.

Dimmitt Chevrolet, is dedicated to helping you find the perfect accessories, parts and service for your Chevy. Come visit us at 25485 US Highway 19 North, Clearwater FL 33763. For more information, give us a call at (727) 216-2811.

Secrets to the Perfect Road Trip

“The traveler sees what he see, the tourist sees what he has come to see.” – Gilbert K. Chesterton

Are you dreaming of your next vacation? This summer, take a road trip and enjoy your car! Better yet, branch out and discover something new in your Chevy. Planning a road trip doesn't have to be hard, which is why we've done the work for you! Dimmitt Chevrolet has all the secrets to a successful road trip.

Prepare Your Ride

Be sure not to jump the gun on starting your road trip. First, make sure your Chevrolet is in tip top condition. You'll want to check your tire pressure, all the vital fluids, head lights and tail lights, horn and brakes. Don’t forget to take a look at those wiper blades too, because you never know when it’s going to rain. If your car needs a tune up before you leave, check out our service specials, and we’ll send you off, in your road trip ready Chevrolet.

It’s a Marathon

The beauty of a road trip is just that; the beauty. Don't rush and be sure to take in all of the scenery along the way. Make sure you get plenty of rest and don’t drive all night to get to your destination. There's a reason truck drivers aren't allowed to drive over 11 hours in a day – it's not safe! Make frequent pit stops, too. Every few hours, stop for coffee, gas or a meal. You and your passengers will thank you.

Plan, Plan, Plan

Vacations can sometimes feel like a perfect occasion to fly by the seat of your pants. That notion couldn't be further from the truth. Plan your route before you leave. Whether you're using a state-of-the-art GPS system, or going old school with a paper map, planning is important. Taking this extra step gives you an opportunity to research all the local attractions along the way.

The All-New 2014 Silverado

The redesigned 2014 Chevrolet Silverado was named the 2014 North American Truck of the Year. The Silverado was selected out of three finalists including the Jeep Cherokee and Acura MDX. What earned the Silverado’s top spot is its weight reduction and fuel efficient engine. Chevrolet engineers were able to reduce the overall weight without minimizing the truck’s size. Premium lightweight materials were used throughout along with a stronger engine for class-leading horsepower. Here are more details on the 2014 Chevrolet Silverado.

Interior

The Silverado raised the bar for its competitors with its class leading tech-advanced and a quieter interior. The use of sound-absorbing materials in the interior and the triple-sealed doors enhance the driving experience. The interior is much quieter and made more comfortable with new countered all-day comfort seats. To ensure the seats retain comfort for a long period of time, resilient dual-firmness foam is used. The flexible center console offers ample storage space big enough for mobile devices or laptops. The rear seats offer extra leg and storage room in the upper and lower glove boxes.

Technology

The Silverado is adorned with smart technology developed to entertain, inform and protect its users. The Driver Information Center (DIC) consists of a 4.2-inch color screen is strategically placed for easy access by the driver. It displays information about the truck’s condition and can be controlled through the steering wheel. Depending on the model, the interior includes six USB ports and four auxiliary power outlets.

The Eco-Friendly 2014 Chevy Volt

The 2014 Chevy Volt offers drivers the best of both worlds; power and performance packed into a fuel efficient and eco-friendly package. Many are surprised when they see the stylish Chevy Volt for the first time, it’s sleek, sporty and edgy – not what you’d normally expect from an electric car.

If you’re in the market for a new car with power and premium performance, but desire something that’s eye-catching and eco-friendly, the 2014 Chevrolet Volt may be just what you’ve been dreaming of. Equipped with a lithium-ion battery, you can drive gas-free for an estimated 38 MPG. While 38 MPG may sound impressive, you’ll be even more impressed to hear that the gas-powered generator allows electricity to power the car for up to 380 miles on a full charge and tank of gas.

Saving money at the pump isn’t the only benefit of choosing an eco-friendly car. Federal tax credits are offered to U.S. residents on purchases of electric cars. You could receive a tax credit up to $7,500 when you buy a new 2014 Chevy Volt or other Chevy electric or hybrid vehicle.

Despite all of the obvious environmental features, the Volt offers an array of other technology and safety features making it a perfect sedan for anyone. The Volt has a 7-inch color touch-screen featuring Chevrolet MyLink™. A push-button start and remote vehicle starter are other nice features offered on this electric car. To find out more about the 2014 Chevy Volt, swing by and take a test drive!

Visit Dimmitt Chevrolet to schedule an appointment. Dimmitt Chevrolet is a premier new Chevy and used car dealership in Tampa, serving Clearwater, Sarasota, St. Petersburg and the surrounding areas. At Dimmitt Chevrolet dealership, you'll find a vast selection of new cars and used cars for sale. If you're looking for professional auto repair, new tires, or other Chevy service, Dimmitt Chevrolet has you covered. Whether you drive a Chevy Cruze, Chevy Silverado, Chevy Equinox, or other type of vehicle, our auto mechanic team services all makes and models. 

Come visit our Chevy dealership near Tampa (25485 U.S. 19, Clearwater, FL 33763), of give us a call at 727-791-1818 for more information.

New Year’s Resolutions for Chevrolet Owners

You may have compiled a long list of goals and changes you want to make moving into 2014. Perhaps you are striving for better management of your finances. In terms of your household budget, there is a good chance your car is at the top of the list when it comes to spending. Whether you drive a new or used car, one of the best resolutions you can make to improve your finances is to take care of that investment.  Build cost reducing habits that will last, by making 2014 the year you resolve to keep your car well maintained.

Check your battery connections and cables. When it comes to safe driving, brakes are the most important part of your car. Dysfunctional brakes can lead to accidents, and this will set you up for some costly repairs. Be sure to inspect your battery and cables for signs of wear and tear.

Get an oil change. Keeping up with regular oil change services is important for new and used cars alike. Oil keeps parts in your engine lubricated and running smoothly. Running your car on oil from last season will wear out your engine, and worn out parts can lead to engine failure.

Get your tires properly inflated. Changes in weather affect the level of your tire pressure. Refer to your owner’s manual to get the recommended air pressure level for your car. To ensure fuel-efficiency for your vehicle, check your tire pressure regularly and be sure to get a tire rotation with every other oil change.

Check your coolant regularly. Having the right mix of coolant is important. A 50/50 mix of water to coolant is recommended. This will keep your engine stabilized when temperatures change. If you are not sure whether your car has the correct coolant mix or not, be sure to visit your local Chevrolet dealership in Tampa to get a coolant flush.

Check and replace your wiper blades. Having bad windshield wipers will impair your vision and put you and other drivers at risk of crashing. If your blades are worn out, call the Dimmitt Chevrolet parts department for advice.

Servicing you new or used car on a regular basis will save you from spending a great deal of money on damage repairs. Check your car maintenance to-dos off your list early in the year to free up your time for sorting out other priorities on your List.

Visit Dimmitt Chevrolet to schedule an appointment. Dimmitt Chevrolet is a premier new Chevy and used car dealership in Tampa, serving Clearwater, Sarasota, St. Petersburg and the surrounding areas. At Dimmitt Chevrolet dealership, you'll find a vast selection of new cars and used cars for sale. If you're looking for professional auto repair, new tires, or other Chevy service, Dimmitt Chevrolet has you covered. Whether you drive a Chevy Cruze, Chevy Silverado, Chevy Equinox, or other type of vehicle, our auto mechanic team services all makes and models. Come visit our Chevy dealership near Tampa (25485 U.S. 19, Clearwater, FL 33763), of give us a call at 727-791-1818 for more information.