The Bloomingdale Neighborhood Association will host its annual community clean-up day Saturday, Feb. 7, continuing a long-standing effort to help residents clear clutter, recycle responsibly and give back — all in one stop.

 

The event will take place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Hillsborough County Parks & Recreation facility, 1626 Nature’s Way Blvd. Residents can take advantage of roll-off dumpsters, on-site document shredding, electronics recycling and a donation drop-off benefiting Lighthouse Ministries.

 

There is no fee to participate in the clean-up, and all Bloomingdale residents are welcome. Donations are encouraged to help offset event costs and allow the association to continue offering this service to the community.

 

The BNA says the event reflects its ongoing commitment to keeping Bloomingdale clean, connected and community-focused.

Additional details are available at www.bloomingdale.life or through the Bloomingdale Neighborhood Association on social media.

 

While most people only see the bright lights, colorful floats, and smiling faces during Brandon’s Christmas Parade, much of the work happens long before the first float rolls down the street. Behind the scenes, volunteers, club members, and parade organizers spend hours preparing to ensure the night runs smoothly. From fixing decorations to lining up performers, everything must be carefully planned before Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025, arrives.

 

Early in the afternoon, volunteers begin unloading decorations, blocking off streets, and making sure everyone arrives on time. Band members warm up their instruments one final time. Everyone is focused, but there is also excitement in the air. “My favorite part of the Brandon Parade of Lights is watching our entire community come together—families lining the streets, kids’ faces lighting up, and everyone feeling that spark of holiday magic,” said Danielle Stevens, a member of the Brandon Parade Committee. “After months of planning, I’m thrilled that the big day is finally here. It’s an honor to be part of the committee and to help bring such a joyful tradition to life.”

 

Behind the scenes is also where friendships grow. Even though everyone is nervous, there is a strong sense of teamwork. No one wants to be the reason something goes wrong, so people step in whenever help is needed.

 

By the time the parade begins, most people in the crowd have no idea how much preparation went into making it look effortless. They see the lights, hear the music, and enjoy the holiday spirit. But for those working behind the scenes, the parade is more than just a show. It is the result of teamwork, patience, and shared excitement coming together to create one special night for Brandon, Florida.

 

The Bloomingdale Neighborhood Association is bringing back Bloomingdale Tastes & Treasures on Saturday, Jan. 24, following the strong turnout and community buzz from its last food truck rally.

The event will run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Campo Family YMCA parking lot, 3414 Culbreath Road, and will feature a variety of food trucks, local craft vendors and space for neighbors to shop, eat and connect.

 

BNA leader Suzy Watts says the return of the rally reflects direct feedback from residents. After the success of the previous event, the association heard loud and clear that the community wanted more — more vendors, more options and more opportunities to gather locally.

 

“This event is about listening to our neighbors and building experiences they actually want to be part of,” Watts said. “We’re proud to keep growing these events alongside our community.”

 

Bloomingdale Tastes & Treasures is open to the public, and residents are encouraged to come out, support local businesses and enjoy an afternoon close to home. Additional information is available at bloomingdale.life and on the Bloomingdale Neighborhood Association’s Facebook page.