From Staff Reports
In Summary:
Apopka is hosting a weekend full of events for residents of all ages. On Friday morning, the State of the City event at the Apopka Community Center will feature Mayor Bryan Nelson's review of Apopka's accomplishments in the past year and a look ahead. Saturday begins with the Horsepower for Heroes Car Show at Kit Land Nelson Park, featuring classic cars, food, and awards, with proceeds benefiting Honor Flight Central Florida. Later, the Phil the Boot Truck Pulling downtown Apopka challenges teams to tug a fully loaded fire truck while providing children’s activities, live entertainment, and food vendors. All events highlight the community spirit of Apopka while honoring local heroes and first responders.
From car shows to fire truck challenges, this weekend offers residents numerous opportunities to celebrate heroes, enjoy family activities, and connect with the community.
- Friday, November 7 – State of the City with Mayor Bryan Nelson
Kick off the weekend with a morning breakfast and insights from Apopka’s mayor at the State of the City event. Doors open at 7:30 a.m. at the Apopka Community Center (519 S. Central Ave.), with Mayor Bryan Nelson presenting highlights from the city budget, departments, and past year events starting at 8 a.m. Breakfast is provided by Jeff’s Bagel Run and Edible Arrangements, and general seating is free.
- Saturday, November 8 – Horsepower for Heroes Car Show
Car enthusiasts can head to Kit Land Nelson Park from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. for the inaugural Horsepower for Heroes, hosted by the Apopka Police Department. This free community event will showcase classic cars, law enforcement vehicles, local vendors, food, and live music. Awards will be given to top vehicles in categories including GM, Ford, Mopar, and others, with proceeds supporting Honor Flight Central Florida, honoring veterans. Registration is $25 per car.
- Saturday, November 8 – Phil the Boot Truck Pull
The excitement continues downtown on 5th Street from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. for the Phil the Boot Truck Pull, presented by the Apopka Fire Department, the Apopka Firefighters Association, and the City of Apopka. Teams of eight will compete to pull a fully loaded 40,000-pound fire truck 100 feet in the fastest time, all in support of Phil Faro. This family-friendly event also features live entertainment, children’s activities, food vendors, and fire safety demonstrations. Admission is free, and participants can register as a team or individual for a chance at the “Fastest Team Pull” trophy.
Weekend in Apopka at a glance:
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Friday, Nov. 7: State of the City, 7:30–9 a.m., Apopka Community Center
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Saturday, Nov. 8: Horsepower for Heroes Car Show, 9 a.m.–1 p.m., Kit Land Nelson Park
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Saturday, Nov. 8: Phil the Boot Truck Pull, 4–9 p.m., Downtown Apopka
Residents are encouraged to come out, have fun, and support local heroes while experiencing all that Apopka’s community spirit has to offer this weekend.
