Florida has approved a state historical marker for Mead’s Bottom, one of Northwest Orange County’s oldest Black settlements. The designation recognizes a community’s role in Apopka’s development and follows three years of research and advocacy by the Apopka & Northwest Orange County Historical Society.

More than 30 Apopka firefighters joined Sunday’s Tunnel to Towers run in New York City despite travel delays and stormy conditions. Former Fire Chief Chuck Carnesale called the group “relentless” in its commitment to honoring those lost on September 11.

Orange County Government and the Hispanic Heritage Network of Orange County are celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with cultural exhibitions, student awards, and other community events. The 2026 celebration carries the theme “Unidos, Somos Más,” meaning “Together, We Are More.”

Apopka’s police and fire departments will hold a memorial service Friday morning to mark the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks. A professor of politics and public affairs reflects on what “never forget” means as firsthand memories of that day gradually pass into history.

Labor Day and incorporated Apopka share a remarkable connection: Both trace their beginnings to the first week of September 1882. From Rock Springs and Wekiwa Springs to free admission at Leu Gardens and restaurant specials, there are plenty of ways to celebrate the holiday close to home.

The City will celebrate its 144th birthday with a public presentation on Wednesday, September 2. The Apopka Historical Society will lead the program from noon to 1 pm at the Apopka Community Center.

Apopka will commemorate America's 250th birthday with two public events over the Independence Day weekend, beginning with a ceremonial flag raising at Mullinax Ford on July 3 and concluding with the city's annual Fourth of July celebration on July 4. The Apopka Fire Department is also encouraging residents to celebrate safely by attending the city's professional fireworks display and following fireworks safety guidelines.

Apopka will begin its local commemoration of America's 250th anniversary on July 1 with a presentation and cake-cutting ceremony hosted by the Apopka Historical Society and the City of Apopka. The celebration will continue July 4 with live music, family activities, food vendors, and a fireworks finale at the Apopka Amphitheater.

As millions celebrate Independence Day with fireworks, experts warn that widespread drought and hot weather have created elevated wildfire risks across much of the United States. Human-caused fires traditionally spike on July 4, making professional fireworks displays the safest option.

While Americans prepare to celebrate the nation's 250th anniversary, Florida's Revolutionary War history is often overlooked. In 1776, Florida was a British colony that remained loyal to the Crown throughout the American Revolutionary War, illustrating the complicated and often contradictory nature of history.

The Apopka Juneteenth Freedom Day Parade steps off at 2 p.m. Saturday from the Apopka Community Center and concludes at Alonzo Williams Park, where a community celebration will feature live entertainment, food, educational exhibits, and family activities.

Florida public safety officials are launching a statewide summer safety campaign to reduce crashes and save lives during one of the year's busiest travel periods. The "Arrive Alive" initiative will run through July 31 and coincide with Independence Day celebrations, America250 events, and increased tourism across the state.

Florida officials are warning that Fourth of July fireworks celebrations could face restrictions if severe drought conditions continue across the state. More than 2,100 fires have already burned this year, and officials say Florida’s wildfire season is nearing record territory.

The City of Apopka and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 10147 will host their annual Memorial Day Service on Monday, May 25, at the Veterans Memorial at Edgewood/Greenwood Cemetery. The ceremony will feature guest speaker David Schoejis, followed by a public gathering and meal at the VFW Post 10147/Apopka Community Center.

Apopka Historical Society President Maribel Brinkle received the 2026 Individual Distinguished Service Award from the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation.

The Apopka Art and Foliage Festival returns this weekend, continuing a tradition that dates back more than six decades. The two-day event celebrates the city’s artistic heritage and its long-standing role in the foliage industry.

In a sharply worded letter to the editor, Apopka Historical Society President Maribel Brinkle challenges Orange County Commissioner Christine Moore and Apopka Mayor Bryan Nelson's record on historic preservation. The letter calls for new leadership ahead of the April 14 mayoral runoff, arguing the city has failed to invest in its cultural institutions.

Apopka mayoral candidate Christine Moore is outlining a vision centered on history, education, and community-building. Her proposal includes expanding student engagement, public art, and historic preservation efforts.

Saint Patrick is widely celebrated as the missionary who brought Christianity to Ireland, but some historians believe the story may be more complicated. Early records suggest there may have been two figures named Patrick — or Patricius — working in Ireland during the 5th century.