The City of Niceville is returning to Florida City Government Week this year after a long absence, offering residents seven days of activities designed to strengthen community engagement and showcase local government operations.
- The annual statewide celebration runs Oct. 20-26 and highlights the communities, history and contributions of Florida cities. Niceville has planned events each day, from employee spotlights to historical tours and a citywide cleanup.
“The decision to resume participation in Florida City Government Week after many years of absence was driven by a desire to strengthen community engagement and transparency,” City Manager David Deitch said. “City leaders recognized it as a high-impact opportunity to build trust, encourage civic participation, showcase recent initiatives, and to prioritize resident empowerment.”
Schedule of events
The week kicks off Monday with employee highlights on the city’s social media platforms, featuring six city workers.
Tuesday’s event includes a library story time at 10:30 a.m. at the Niceville Library, where children will hear a reading of “The City That Talks” and receive an activity and coloring book.
Wednesday offers a City Department Passport program, allowing residents to explore city departments at the City Complex by collecting stamps at highlighted locations. Those who collect five or more stamps will receive a goodie bag. The program runs in two sessions: 8-10 a.m. and 2-4 p.m.
Thursday combines the annual Fall Festival at Niceville Children’s Park at 5 p.m. with Niceville History Night at the Community Center from 5-7 p.m., featuring local historian Elisa Mitchiner.
Friday’s History & Heron Hunt sends participants searching for five historical markers and three heron locations throughout the city. The first three people to photograph each historical marker and share them in person or on social media while tagging the city will be recognized.
- Historical markers include the Boggy Mill Company site, Old Maritime City, the 1934 Niceville Fire location, the CCC Worker Statue at Turkey Creek and Old Niceville High School at Edge Elementary School, which is celebrating its 100-year anniversary.
Saturday features a citywide cleanup starting at 8 a.m. at City Hall in partnership with Keep Okaloosa Beautiful. Supplies will be provided.
The week concludes Sunday with a community prayer for the city, with local churches invited to participate.
Deitch said the events are designed to be informative, engaging and relevant for all residents.
“This week is all about our residents,” he said. “The events are designed to be informative, engaging, and relevant — whether you’re curious about how decisions are made or simply want to learn more about your community. It’s a great opportunity to discover something new about Niceville and get more connected with your local government.”
