Fourth of July

Every Fourth of July, fireworks fill the night sky with brilliant colors. But behind every red, blue, green, and white burst is a little chemistry — and a surprising connection to naturally occurring minerals, including one mined right here in Florida.

The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office received 152 fireworks-related calls on July 4 compared to 64 last year. Deputies were dispatched to 22 of those calls, up from 16 in 2025.

She nailed more than 38 dogs to again join 18-time men’s champion Joey Chestnut on the winner’s stand on a sweltering day in Coney Island. Sudo's husband, Nick Wehry, finished fourth behind Chestnut.

There were no recorded weather observations in Florida on July 4, 1776, but historical climate records can give historians a sense on what was going on.

The United States is about to turn 250. For many Florida families, it means food, fun and fireworks. For others, it can be time to reflect on history — where we were and where we are going.

From festivals to a hot dog eating contest, here are some events you can go to this weekend.

With Florida's peak heat hitting Friday, a Tampa delivery driver shares how working in triple digit temps impacts his life.

From celebratory concerts to jazz and psychedelic jams, here are some music events you can check out this holiday weekend.

Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson on Tuesday urged caution with fireworks and asked people to follow local burn regulations.

If you've ever gone to the beach to light off fireworks on the Fourth of July, you maybe responsible for the death of a baby bird.

City commissioners voted to return the display back to its original location despite it being under repair. The move to Safety Harbor City Park raised concerns over neighboring bird nesting.

The 39-year-old downed 33 dogs and buns Friday, which was good enough for the woman's Mustard Belt. As expected, Joey Chestnut won the men's division by consuming 70½ weiners.