Archbold’s event page: https://www.archbold-station.org/events/fire-fest-2025/
Explore the role of fire in Florida’s ecosystems at the Lake Wales Ridge Fire Fest, a day of learning, demonstrations, and community engagement. The festival is free with the $6 park entrance fee and features educational presentations in the CCC Museum, including Fire 101, Burning for Wildlife, Fire History & Culture, and Burning for Ranchlands. Attendees can ask questions and connect with experts from Archbold, Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission, The Nature Conservancy, Florida Forest Service, Highlands Hammock State Park, and Common Ground Ecology, among other conservation partners.
The main stage program includes a live storytelling panel, Ask a Burn Boss, and a forestry briefing on prescribed burn logistics and safety. The highlight of the day is a live prescribed burn demonstration with expert interpretation, showcasing fire’s ecological benefits and crew coordination. Festival partners include local and statewide conservation organizations, fire and forestry services, and research institutions. Attendees are encouraged to bring folding chairs and spend the day discovering how fire supports wildlife, ranchlands, and healthy Florida landscapes.
Fire Fest Schedule:
Here's what's happening throughout the day at Fire Fest!
10:00 AM — Gates Open!
Grab a map, say hi to our team, and explore interactive exhibits, booths, and local food trucks serving up great eats all day. Check out real fire equipment displays, including a helicopter, fire trucks, and other gear, and chat with the crews who use them to protect Florida's landscapes.
10:30 AM – 12:30 PM — Presentations
Join us for a morning of talks and conversations led by fire scientists, land managers, and conservation experts.
1:00 PM — Main Stage: Panel & Live Podcast Recording
Hear from the pros! Our panelists share real-world stories from the field — plus, enjoy a special live podcast taping.
1:00 PM — Burn Crew Gears Up
Watch behind-the-scenes prep as our prescribed burn team gets ready for ignition.
2:00 PM — Public Briefing & Walk to the Burn Site
Learn what’s about to happen and how prescribed fire benefits Florida’s ecosystems.
2:30 PM — Prescribed Burn Demonstration! 🔥
See fire in action! Our MC and volunteers will provide live commentary and Q&A throughout the burn.
~5:00 PM — Mop-Up & Wrap-Up
Stick around to see how the crew ensures the burn site is safe and secure before closing out the day.