The Hernando County Commission voted 5-0 to spend $50,000 in tourist tax money on a July 4 celebration marking the nation’s 250th birthday. The event, formally titled “Hernando County’s Salute to America 250,” will run from 5 to 10 p.m. at the Sand Hill Scout Reservation and could draw as many as 25,000 people, Commissioner Ryan Amsler said.
Plans call for a combined fireworks and drone show, historical reenactments, a car show, a family activity zone, live entertainment, food trucks and vendors. The event grew from an idea pitched by several community members and formalized in a letter from Blake Bell and D. Despite public opposition, the event will take place at the Sand Hill Scout area.
The intersection at the entrance to the Sand Hill Scout Reservation has been recently improved, with a traffic signal now in full operation. The chosen site is near wooded areas, which raised concerns among residents about the safety of the fireworks display.
The Hernando County Commission’s decision was made on April 6, 2026. County Commissioner Ryan Amsler spoke during the meeting.
Originally reported by Suncoast News – Brooksville
Sources: Suncoast News – Brooksville
