Across the state, cities, towns, and villages marked Florida City Week 2025 with events and activities that highlighted the essential role of municipal government in everyday life. Held October 20–26, the week offered residents opportunities to learn more about their local services, engage with city staff, and see firsthand how their communities are supported and strengthened. From open houses and neighborhood tours to youth activities and community outreach events, Florida’s municipalities showcased the many ways they work to serve and connect the people they represent.
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Arcadia
The City of Arcadia partnered with the Leadership DeSoto Alumni Class to host Government Day. Held in the City Council Chambers, the program introduced participants to local government functions through presentations from city and county officials. Topics included budgeting, growth management, and transparency, with roundtable discussions covering economic development and public safety. A simulation exercise and open dialogue concluded the day, helping attendees better understand the roles and responsibilities of municipal government.

Auburndale
The City of Auburndale recognized Florida City Government Week with a proclamation at the October 20, 2025, City Commission meeting.

Bartow
The City of Bartow observed Florida City Week with two activities designed to promote civic engagement. A “City Services Speed Dating” event connected residents with department representatives in an informal setting to discuss city programs and services. The City also hosted Bartow High School students for a mock commission meeting, where students debated how to allocate a hypothetical $1 million grant. Both events encouraged public awareness and youth participation in local government.

Belleview
The City of Belleview marked Florida City Week with a proclamation and several community engagement activities. Students participated in an “If I Were Mayor” essay contest, and winners were recognized during a meet-and-greet with the Mayor, Commissioners, and staff. The City also held a Business Coffee Hour, providing information on licensing, permitting, and community programs. These efforts helped promote civic understanding and stronger community relationships.

Brooksville
Brooksville recognized #FLCityWeek with a proclamation and a variety of public engagement activities. Residents participated in a photography contest featuring local landmarks, with winning entries displayed at City Hall. The City also organized a scavenger hunt and produced a Public Works informational video highlighting essential city services. These activities encouraged civic pride and public awareness of municipal operations.

Cape Canaveral
The City of Cape Canaveral celebrated Florida City Week with a mix of educational and community-based activities. The City Council issued a proclamation recognizing the week, followed by a Coastal Hazards Awareness training session in partnership with Federal Emergency Management Agency. The City also hosted Poetry Night and a Coffee with the City Manager event, providing residents with opportunities for creative expression and open dialogue about local issues.

Chiefland
The City of Chiefland celebrated Florida City Week by engaging elementary students in the Mayor’s Essay Contest, themed “If You Were Mayor for a Day.” Students shared ideas to improve their community, from park enhancements to neighborhood initiatives. Two winners were recognized for creativity and civic insight. The event encouraged youth participation and introduced students to the value of local leadership.

Cocoa
Cocoa observed Florida City Week through social media features and its annual Touch-A-Truck event. The City highlighted various departments online, emphasizing their contributions to daily operations. At the Touch-A-Truck event, residents interacted with city staff and explored service vehicles, gaining a better understanding of how municipal services support the community.

Coconut Creek
Coconut Creek hosted a series of educational activities during Florida City Week. More than 220 students participated in presentations at City Hall, learning about public safety, civic leadership, and municipal operations. The City organized a mock commission meeting and a career panel featuring city employees from multiple departments. A companion social media campaign highlighted staff members and their roles in serving the community.

Coral Springs
The City of Coral Springs highlighted its operations through a “Department a Day” social media campaign. Each day featured a behind-the-scenes look at departments such as Parks and Recreation, Public Works, and Fire, helping residents better understand the scope of city services and the employees who provide them.

Deerfield Beach
Deerfield Beach celebrated #FLCityWeek by visiting local schools to discuss the role of city government and civic engagement. City officials met with students at the elementary, middle, and high school levels, sharing insights about community leadership. Teen Center members also participated in a volunteer project at Constitution Park, reinforcing the importance of service and civic pride.

Destin
The City of Destin hosted its annual Open House in observance of Florida City Week. This year’s theme, “Mardi Great,” provided a festive atmosphere as residents visited departmental exhibits, learned about ongoing projects, and viewed educational materials on municipal government. The event served to strengthen transparency and community connection.

Fellsmere
The City of Fellsmere partnered with local schools to hold a City Flag Design Contest in celebration of the week. More than 80 student designs were displayed at City Hall, with the winning flag selected during a special City Council meeting. The event encouraged creativity, civic participation, and community pride, reinforcing Fellsmere’s commitment to youth engagement and local identity.

Fort Myers
Fort Pierce observed Florida City Week with a series of community-based and educational initiatives. The celebration began with a proclamation from the City Commission and featured the “Where’s the Mayor or Commissioner?” photo challenge, which encouraged online engagement. The City’s Youth Advisory Council hosted an “If I Were Elected Mayor” essay contest, while Main Street Fort Pierce offered guided Ghost Walk tours highlighting local history.

Gainesville
The City of Gainesville celebrated Florida City Week by hosting fifth-grade students from Alachua County Public Schools for “Celebrate City Government Day.” Students toured City Hall, met the Mayor, Commissioners, and City staff, and learned about the services that keep Gainesville running—from police and fire to transit and public works. They also visited the Regional Transit System and Gainesville Police and Fire facilities for hands-on demonstrations. A social media series featuring city employees complemented the program, highlighting the people and departments serving Gainesville residents every day.

Green Cove Springs
Green Cove Springs observed the week with a variety of student-centered activities. Kindergarteners learned about the city through a story program, while fifth graders participated in an “If I Were Mayor” essay contest. City staff visited middle school students to discuss public works and city services, showcasing vehicles and safety equipment. The week concluded with demonstrations by the Police and Fire Departments, giving students a close-up look at public safety operations and the teamwork behind city services.

Haines City
Haines City’s celebration included a proclamation and several community engagement events. High school students participated in a Mock City Commission meeting after submitting essays for selection, gaining firsthand experience in local decision-making. City staff promoted civic involvement through volunteer programs and videos highlighting longtime employees. The City’s Community Redevelopment Agency hosted a public mural meeting, while elected officials engaged with local schools. Haines City also used the week to showcase its involvement in literacy programs and to highlight public service careers.

Hampton
Hampton combined Florida City Week with its Centennial Celebration on October 25. Residents gathered at Bobbie Sheppard Memorial Park for a day of community fun featuring food vendors, music, and family-friendly activities. The event recognized the City’s 100th anniversary and its ongoing commitment to serving residents through local governance.

Hilliard
The Town of Hilliard marked #FLCityWeek with a variety of civic education and community connection events. Daily social media posts spotlighted departments and staff, highlighting their roles in serving residents. A partnership with Hilliard Elementary School introduced students to civic processes through a mock election, essay contest, and mock council meeting led by the “Kid Mayor.” The Town also hosted a “Muffins with the Mayor” event, giving residents an informal opportunity to discuss community issues. These efforts emphasized education, transparency, and engagement across all age groups.

Key Biscayne
The Village of Key Biscayne recognized Florida City Week through a mix of community, cultural, and educational activities. Fourth-grade students participated in the “Why I Love My Village” essay contest, with winning entries published in the Islander News and honored during the October Council meeting. The Village also celebrated the 15th anniversary of its Concert Series with a performance by the Taiko Ronan Drummers, hosted a Fall Festival, and held a Community Programs and Events reception to thank volunteers. Additionally, the Fire Rescue Department conducted an air rescue training exercise with Miami-Dade County, and a newly renovated Council Chamber was unveiled as a flexible community space.

Lake Alfred
The City of Lake Alfred began Florida City Week with a proclamation presented by Mayor Fuller during the October 7 Commission meeting. City leaders and department heads then visited Discovery Academy, speaking to more than 350 sixth graders about their roles in local government and public service careers. The City also hosted an exhibit table at the Edwin Moore Memorial Library featuring municipal resources and information. These initiatives promoted awareness of city operations and inspired future civic leaders.

Lantana
The Town of Lantana’s week began with a proclamation to the Palm Beach County League of Cities and continued with events such as a “Coffee with the Mayor” community discussion and a “What Makes Lantana Great” student video contest. The Public Library hosted a “Parkitect” program where elementary students designed park concepts and budgets, introducing them to city planning and finance. A social media campaign highlighted Town employees and ongoing projects, reinforcing Lantana’s focus on transparency and public service.

Largo
The Largo City Commission issued a proclamation recognizing the week and encouraging community engagement. Throughout the week, the City shared social media features spotlighting programs, projects, and staff members who contribute to Largo’s reputation as the “Community of Choice.” Residents were invited to a Mayor’s Coffee Chat and to participate in the “Your City, Your Story” online campaign, which included city trivia and opportunities for public input. These activities reinforced Largo’s commitment to transparency, inclusion, and civic pride.

Lauderdale Lakes
The City of Lauderdale Lakes celebrated #FLCityWeek with a full schedule of community-building events under its “We Care City” theme. The week featured staff videos highlighting city departments, a City Trivia Contest, and a City Hall Tour for students led by Mayor Veronica Edwards Phillips and the City Commission. Residents gathered for “Breakfast with the Commission” and a #FLCityWeek photo contest showcasing landmarks and civic pride. A citywide proclamation reaffirmed the importance of public service and collaboration.

Live Oak
The City of Live Oak kicked off Florida City Week with a goodwill luncheon alongside Suwannee County Commissioners, followed by daily community activities. City leaders read to students at Riverside Elementary, visited the Arc of North Florida, and hosted Coffee with the Mayor to discuss local projects. The week concluded with a popular Candy Carnival attended by thousands. Residents also enjoyed a scavenger hunt spotlighting historic sites, an essay contest titled “Why I Love Live Oak,” and a poster competition whose winner served as “Mayor for a Day.” Through creativity, volunteerism, and outreach, Live Oak’s events showcased the city’s dedication to civic engagement and community pride.

Lantana
The Town of Lantana’s week began with a proclamation to the Palm Beach County League of Cities and continued with events such as a “Coffee with the Mayor” community discussion and a “What Makes Lantana Great” student video contest. The Public Library hosted a “Parkitect” program where elementary students designed park concepts and budgets, introducing them to city planning and finance. A social media campaign highlighted Town employees and ongoing projects, reinforcing Lantana’s focus on transparency and public service.

Longboat Key
Longboat Key marked Florida City Week with a focus on community wellness and connection. Events included a vaccine clinic, CPR and boater safety classes, an ice cream social, and a community cleanup. Residents also participated in a week-long scavenger hunt, while city staff partnered with local organizations such as Walgreens and Forty Carrots Daycare to provide educational opportunities. These activities underscored the city’s emphasis on health, safety, and civic engagement, highlighting how collaboration keeps Longboat Key a strong and resilient community.

Madeira Beach
Madeira Beach celebrated its comeback after a challenging hurricane season by highlighting community resilience during Florida City Week. The city showcased the reopening of businesses, restoration of public spaces, and return of major events such as the John’s Pass Seafood Festival. Residents and visitors were invited to participate in holiday celebrations, tree lightings, and boat parades that reaffirmed local spirit and unity. Through these festivities, Madeira Beach demonstrated that while storms may test a community, dedication, teamwork, and pride help it thrive—reminding everyone that the city is not only open, but stronger than ever.

Mary Esther
The City of Mary Esther celebrated Florida City Week with programs that emphasized civic learning and community pride. Residents participated in City Planning 101 and a Beautification Day, while children enjoyed Storytime with the Mayor and an essay contest at the local elementary school. Each event encouraged residents of all ages to understand and take part in city life, reflecting Mary Esther’s ongoing commitment to education, engagement, and teamwork.

Melbourne Village
Melbourne Village invited residents to an open house at Village Hall in honor of Florida City Week. Guests enjoyed light refreshments, met town staff, and learned more about ongoing projects and community services. The event fostered transparency and strengthened the bond between residents and local government.

Miami Beach
Miami Beach used Florida City Week to spotlight its history, government structure, and vibrant community life. Through social media features, the city shared insights into its parks, public art collection, and recreational offerings while encouraging residents to stay connected year-round through its digital platforms. The campaign celebrated Miami Beach’s unique identity and highlighted the people and services that sustain its world-class community.

Midway
The City of Midway marked Florida City Week by celebrating a major public safety achievement—securing $550,000 in funding for a new street-lighting program. Working closely with Talquin Electric, the city began installing and maintaining enhanced lighting throughout neighborhoods. This initiative symbolized Midway’s ongoing efforts to improve safety, visibility, and quality of life for residents while reinforcing the city’s commitment to infrastructure improvements and community collaboration.

Mount Dora
Mount Dora’s Florida City Week featured educational and interactive events highlighting essential city services. The week began with “Electric 101,” led by the Electric Utility Director, offering residents a look at how power reaches homes and businesses. A Building Department “Lunch & Learn” followed, showcasing planning, fire safety, and urban forestry practices. Later, the Fire Department hosted free CPR and safety demonstrations, while the City Council issued a formal proclamation. These programs reflected Mount Dora’s dedication to transparency, safety, and resident engagement.

Neptune Beach
Neptune Beach celebrated Florida City Week by emphasizing collaboration and community pride. The City began the week with a ribbon cutting for its new Butterfly Garden at Jarboe Park, where Mayor Cori Bylund read the official proclamation. Activities included a “Color the City Seal” station, youth outreach at the Beaches Town Center Fall Festival, and a joint safety meeting with neighboring cities. The week concluded with residents enjoying the Sea and Sky Air Show, capping off a celebration that blended education, partnership, and local pride.

New Port Richey
The City of New Port Richey celebrated Florida City Week with a creative video series featuring staff from multiple departments. Each day, employees answered questions about their work, favorite events, and what makes the city special. The campaign highlighted teamwork and transparency while offering residents a behind-the-scenes look at municipal services. By showcasing the people who keep New Port Richey running smoothly, the city inspired civic pride and community appreciation.

Niceville
The City of Niceville built its Florida City Week around connection, learning, and civic pride. Activities included social media employee highlights, Library Storytime readings, and a City Department Passport event encouraging residents to explore departments and meet staff. History Night and the Fall Festival honored community heritage, while City Clean-Up Day and a community prayer service united volunteers and residents in shared reflection. Through hands-on learning and celebration, Niceville emphasized that local government works best when it’s personal, transparent, and community-driven.

North Port
North Port’s Florida City Week celebrated innovation, civic engagement, and community connection. The city launched an in-house video highlighting teamwork and essential services, along with a “Hidden Gems” scavenger hunt encouraging residents to explore parks and landmarks. North Port University hosted both an alumni summit and its first Teen Edition graduation, cultivating lifelong civic involvement. Together, these initiatives demonstrated the city’s commitment to informing, engaging, and empowering residents.

Ocean Ridge
The Town of Ocean Ridge recognized Florida City Week with a proclamation at its October 6 commission meeting, reaffirming the importance of strong local leadership and transparent governance in serving the community.

Okeechobee
The City of Okeechobee celebrated Florida City Week with a proclamation and community-oriented events. Mayor Dowling R. Watford Jr. visited Yearling Middle School to discuss local government operations, while council members volunteered at a food distribution event. A video campaign highlighted city services and the employees who deliver them. Together, these efforts educated residents, supported families, and reinforced Okeechobee’s dedication to civic engagement and service.

Oldsmar
Oldsmar honored Florida City Week with a proclamation and citywide social media campaign showcasing the programs and people that serve residents daily. Posts featured departments from public safety to public works, offering a transparent look at local operations. The celebration underscored Oldsmar’s commitment to community engagement and innovation while reminding residents that their city works for them every day.

Opa-locka
Opa-locka’s Florida City Week featured activities celebrating both employees and students. Vice Mayor Joseph L. Kelley hosted an appreciation event recognizing staff dedication, followed by a Mock Student City Commission Meeting with students from Dr. Robert B. Ingram Elementary. The program, co-sponsored by Commissioner Dr. Sherlean Bass, gave students firsthand experience in local governance and inspired civic leadership. These events highlighted the city’s values of service, education, and community pride.

Oviedo
Oviedo celebrated Florida City Week by highlighting the City Clerk’s Office and its Art in Public Places program. Activities included the annual Board Appreciation Dinner, an exhibit of historical documents and photos of past mayors, and an art display inside City Hall featuring local works. The celebration connected civic service with creativity, showcasing how Oviedo blends tradition, transparency, and community engagement.

Palatka
The City of Palatka celebrated #FLCityWeek with the “My Favorite Spot in Palatka” photo contest, encouraging residents to capture the beauty and spirit of their community. Nearly 300 votes were cast for the winning photo, later displayed at City Hall and featured online. The contest promoted civic pride, creativity, and community connection, reminding residents that Palatka’s charm shines through the eyes of those who call it home.

Palm Beach
In Palm Beach, third-grade students from Palm Beach Public explored local government through an educational field trip. Escorted by police, students toured Town Hall, met with staff, and participated in a mock vote. Visits to the Police and Fire Rescue departments brought classroom civics lessons to life, showing how municipal services protect and support residents. The event reflected Palm Beach’s dedication to civic education and inspired the next generation of informed citizens.

Palm Beach Gardens
Palm Beach Gardens celebrated Florida City Week with community-driven events that highlighted art, creativity, and civic connection. A citywide Art in Public Places scavenger hunt invited residents to discover installations, while a resident photography contest showcased local talent. The “Toasts & Topics” networking event fostered conversation with city leaders, and the annual Fall Festival brought families together for an evening of music and fun. These programs reflected the city’s belief that engagement and art help build a stronger, more connected community.

Palm Beach
In Palm Beach, third-grade students from Palm Beach Public explored local government through an educational field trip. Escorted by police, students toured Town Hall, met with staff, and participated in a mock vote. Visits to the Police and Fire Rescue departments brought classroom civics lessons to life, showing how municipal services protect and support residents. The event reflected Palm Beach’s dedication to civic education and inspired the next generation of informed citizens.

Palm Beach Gardens
Palm Beach Gardens celebrated Florida City Week with community-driven events that highlighted art, creativity, and civic connection. A citywide Art in Public Places scavenger hunt invited residents to discover installations, while a resident photography contest showcased local talent. The “Toasts & Topics” networking event fostered conversation with city leaders, and the annual Fall Festival brought families together for an evening of music and fun. These programs reflected the city’s belief that engagement and art help build a stronger, more connected community.

Palm Springs
The Village of Palm Springs celebrated Florida City Week by recognizing the dedicated employees who serve residents every day. A formal proclamation and group photo session celebrated staff from every department, emphasizing teamwork and professionalism. Mayor and Councilmembers expressed gratitude for employees’ commitment to service, noting that effective local government begins with engaged, passionate public servants. The week reinforced Palm Springs’ core values of respect, teamwork, excellence, and accountability.

Palmetto Bay
The Village of Palmetto Bay celebrated #FLCityWeek with a social media campaign highlighting community pride under the theme #PalmettoBayProud. Posts showcased city projects, staff, and resident involvement, reinforcing the city’s appreciation for collaboration and civic engagement.

Panama City Beach
Panama City Beach recognized Florida City Week with a special council presentation and daily department spotlights. Each feature highlighted the teams that deliver essential services and maintain the city’s quality of life. The celebration reflected appreciation for city staff and their role in building a vibrant, well-served community.

Parkland
Parkland’s Florida City Week focused on education and civic connection. Mayor Rich Walker published an op-ed in the Sun Sentinel emphasizing the importance of local government and community unity. The city also hosted field trips for third-grade students to learn about municipal operations alongside the Broward Sheriff’s Office, Coral Springs/Parkland Fire Department, and WM. Students toured City Hall, practiced recycling, and learned about public safety, leaving inspired to serve their community in the future.

Panama City Beach
Panama City Beach recognized Florida City Week with a special council presentation and daily department spotlights. Each feature highlighted the teams that deliver essential services and maintain the city’s quality of life. The celebration reflected appreciation for city staff and their role in building a vibrant, well-served community.

Port St. Lucie
Port St. Lucie celebrated Florida City Week with hands-on learning for students and an online trivia campaign. City staff from more than ten departments engaged over 500 students through presentations at local schools, explaining how budgeting, planning, and public works support the community. Educators praised the program for bringing civics lessons to life. The initiative, paired with daily social media trivia, strengthened understanding of local government and inspired youth involvement.

Saint Augustine
The City of St. Augustine celebrated Florida City Week with events promoting history, education, and civic engagement. Residents joined daily “Coffee with a Commissioner” meet-ups, explored Fish Island Preserve, and toured archaeological exhibits and the wastewater treatment plant. The week’s activities encouraged open dialogue between residents and city leaders while highlighting the essential services that preserve the city’s heritage and environment.

Saint Augustine Beach
St. Augustine Beach recognized Florida City Week by highlighting its hardworking employees through photos and a video featuring Officer Kemp of the Police Department. The campaign celebrated public service, showcased essential operations, and reinforced the City’s commitment to keeping the community safe, clean, and welcoming.

Saint Cloud
The City of St. Cloud celebrated Florida City Week with daily “Coffee with a Council Member” events at City Hall, complemented by a lighthearted video series, Sami on the Street, featuring the city mascot interviewing officials. The campaign generated nearly 40,000 impressions and over 9,000 video views. The program’s success inspired plans for quarterly community meet-ups, demonstrating St. Cloud’s dedication to transparency and resident connection.

Sanford
Sanford celebrated #FLCityWeek with creative and engaging programming. The city introduced “Sanford Soundstage,” hosting local artist performances inside city offices, and launched a public works podcast sharing community updates. The Mayor’s Youth Council promoted local businesses, while the City Commission issued an official proclamation. These efforts highlighted Sanford’s innovation in connecting residents through culture, communication, and civic pride.

Sanibel
Sanibel celebrated Florida City Week with interactive events emphasizing safety, community, and collaboration. Highlights included the city’s first Touch-a-Truck event, a “Meet the Rangers” program, and a “Coffee & Code Café” for residents to discuss planning topics. Vice Mayor Holly D. Smith visited The Sanibel School to talk with students about municipal leadership. The week concluded with a “City Chat” featuring the Mayor and city management, strengthening ties between residents and local leaders.

Sebastian
The City of Sebastian celebrated Florida City Week with a “Cookies with the Council” event and an official proclamation recognizing the importance of local governance. Photos shared online highlighted staff participation and community spirit, underscoring Sebastian’s appreciation for teamwork and civic involvement.

Seminole
The City of Seminole welcomed students from Bauder Elementary and Indian Rocks Christian School to City Hall for Florida City Week. Students met city officials, toured departments, and learned firsthand how local government serves the community. The visit fostered curiosity, understanding, and early civic engagement among participants.

Sunny Isles Beach
Sunny Isles Beach marked Florida City Week with educational and cultural activities. The City Commission issued a proclamation, and City Manager Stan Morris read to preschoolers at the public library. Middle school students entered an essay contest on “What Makes My City Special,” with five winners earning recognition and $100 gift cards. The celebration encouraged creativity and civic pride among the city’s youngest residents.

Sunrise
The City of Sunrise celebrated Florida City Week with programs spotlighting youth leadership and civic engagement. A swearing-in ceremony honored Student Safety Patrols and Student Government representatives, led by Mayor Michael J. Ryan. Assistant Deputy Mayor Jacqueline Guzman also led a “How Local Government Works!” school tour, visiting eleven campuses to discuss public service and community leadership. With support from Sunrise Police and Fire-Rescue, the events inspired students to see themselves as future leaders and reinforced the city’s commitment to civic education and community connection.

Tamarac
Tamarac marked Florida City Week with interactive and educational programs, including a mock City Commission meeting hosted by the Teen Council and a proclamation presentation at J.P. Taravella High School. A “Your City at Work” social media series spotlighted essential departments, fostering public awareness and civic pride. The week celebrated collaboration, education, and the people who keep Tamarac thriving.

Welaka
The Town of Welaka commemorated Florida City Week with community tours and educational outreach. Residents visited the wastewater treatment facility to learn about upcoming infrastructure improvements, met the new police chief during an informal chat, and attended a children’s program with Smokey Bear to promote fire safety. These events highlighted Welaka’s focus on transparency, education, and community engagement.

Westlake
Westlake celebrated Florida City Week by emphasizing collaboration and civic participation. City staff shared insights on planning, records management, and advisory board meetings that give residents a voice. City leaders also joined peers at the Palm Beach County League of Cities luncheon to discuss regional priorities. The week reinforced that good government thrives on teamwork, transparency, and resident involvement.

Weston
Weston highlighted #FLCityWeek in its weekly Newsday Tuesday e-newsletter, recognizing the services and staff that sustain the community. Through this outreach, the city underscored the importance of communication, engagement, and local pride in maintaining Weston’s high quality of life.

Winter Park
Winter Park celebrated Florida City Week with outreach to its youngest residents. City staff visited the Community Center’s after-school program to distribute stickers and talk with children about what makes Winter Park special. The event encouraged curiosity about municipal government and helped foster a sense of community pride among the city’s future leaders.
