Altamonte Springs considers ending Red Hot & Boom due to rising costs
ALTAMONTE SPRINGS, Fla. —
Altamonte Springs city leaders are proposing to end the decades-old Red Hot & Boom Fourth of July celebration, citing rising costs and logistical challenges in the city manager’s proposed 2027 budget.
The event, which began 29 years ago, was originally created to promote the Uptown Altamonte commercial center and attract visitors to the city. City officials now say its purpose has been achieved.
Jonathan Peters, a lifelong Altamonte Springs resident, shared his thoughts on the event’s significance.
“It is a staple,” Peters said. “It’s tradition for as long as I can remember.”
City Commissioner Bob O’Malley explained that while the event initially benefited local businesses, its growth has created challenges.
“It was great for the local businesses when we first started the event, but now it’s gotten so large that it harms them, too,” O’Malley said. “Just the traffic alone makes it difficult for people to visit restaurants.”
He also said the vast majority of people attending do not live in Altamonte Springs.
“Over 200,000 people attended, but there’s only 46,000 people that live in the city of Altamonte,” he said.
The city manager’s proposed 2027 budget does not include funding for the event, citing its $950,000 cost, driven by inflation, tariffs, insurance, staffing, and security. Months of planning and a significant law enforcement presence also contribute to the expense.
“Because of a tight budget, we have to make difficult decisions, and we have to focus on the things that our citizens want,” O’Malley said.
He added, “Inflation impacts everybody, and local governments as well. And local governments have to tighten their belts and make difficult decisions.”
Peters expressed disappointment at the potential end of the event.
“It would be a shame if they got rid of it,” he said.
O’Malley suggested that other cities, such as Orlando, might be better suited to host large-scale fireworks events.
The city commission is scheduled to vote on the 2027 budget on Sept. 3.
>> Video below: Red Hot & Boom kicks off Fourth of July celebration in Altamonte Springs