Embrace the Blaze: The 2025 Fire Festival Melding Science and Excitement!

Engaging games, equipment displays, and demonstrations are set to offer something for everyone at this year’s Prescribed Fire Fest on Saturday, Jan. 25. Observe directly how experts strategically employ fire to manage land and safeguard it from wildfires.

Children can collect their Prescribed Fire Fest passport, explore various demonstration stations and exhibits, get their passport stamped, and achieve the title of Junior Wildland Fire Fighter for the day.

Here is a summary of the scheduled events:

Sandboxes are not only for children! Experience a bird’s eye view of how prescribed fire operates during a demonstration in a miniature tabletop sandbox. Demonstrations at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., and noon.

Kids can engage in various games to challenge their wildland firefighting abilities using a fire hose. Throughout the day, concluding at 12:30 p.m.

What distinguishes a brush truck from a standard firetruck? Come, observe, and learn about all the essential tools used for a prescribed fire. Handle hand tools, and try on the protective coat, helmet, and gloves utilized by wildland firefighters. Throughout the day, ending at 12:30 p.m.

Explore exhibits from partner agencies and glean insights about animals and conservation. Watch as the Florida Forest Service helicopter lands. Throughout the day.

Secure a spot early for one of three guided hikes on Singing Bluffs Trail. Discover the significance of prescribed fires while roaming one of the County’s beloved hiking trails. This also contributes toward Hiking Spree. Ensure to reserve a spot promptly. Hikes occur at 9:30, 10:30, and 11:30 a.m.

At 1 p.m., gather to witness a prescribed fire demonstration. Observe a highly skilled team of wildland fire experts carrying out each phase of a prescribed fire, including checking weather conditions and igniting a test fire. You’ll understand how the team operates collectively. This demonstration is contingent upon weather circumstances.

Prescribed Fire Fest will take place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 25 at Edward Medard Conservation Park, 6140 Turkey Creek Rd. in Plant City. The festival is free, although a $2 park entry fee is required.