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25 Years Later: How Central Florida Is Remembering 9/11

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Every year on September 11, Americans pause to remember one of the darkest days in modern U.S. history. Twenty-four years ago today, the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, left an indelible mark on the nation — claiming nearly 3,000 lives, reshaping national security, and forever changing our nation. Across the country, communities come together to reflect, honor the fallen, and stand in solidarity.

In Central Florida, from Orlando to Clermont to smaller towns like Edgewater and Apopka, residents hold meaningful ceremonies that blend solemn remembrance with deep gratitude for first responders and military service members. These events serve not only as memorials but also as reminders of resilience, community, and unity.

A Brief History

On the morning of September 11, 2001, 19 al-Qaeda terrorists hijacked four commercial airplanes. Two planes crashed into the World Trade Center towers in New York City, a third struck the Pentagon near Washington, D.C., and a fourth—United Flight 93—crashed into a field in Pennsylvania after passengers fought back.

The attacks resulted in the deaths of nearly 3,000 people, including first responders who heroically rushed into danger to save lives. The events triggered long-lasting global impacts, including the War on Terror, new national security policies, and a wave of remembrance efforts across the United States.

In 2009, September 11 was federally recognized as Patriot Day, and later also as the National Day of Service and Remembrance. Across the U.S., ceremonies are held to reflect on the tragedy and honor those lost.

How Central Florida Honors 9/11

Each year, cities and counties across Central Florida host tributes to the victims and heroes of 9/11. Below are some of the key ceremonies planned for Friday, September 11, 2026:

Clermont

  • Time: 10 a.m.
  • Location: Clermont Arts and Recreation Center, 3700 S. U.S. Highway 27, Clermont
  • Details: The City of Clermont, along with the Clermont Fire Department and Clermont Police Department, will host a 25th anniversary memorial ceremony. The event will remember the nearly 3,000 people who lost their lives and honor the courage and sacrifice of first responders. The ceremony is free and open to the public.

Orlando – Fire Department Candlelight Ceremony

  • Time: 7 p.m.
  • Location: Orlando Fire Station 1, 78 W. Central Blvd., Orlando
  • Details: The Orlando Fire Department will hold its annual September 11 Remembrance and Candlelight Ceremony. The 2026 ceremony will commemorate the 404 first responders who died as a result of the attacks and honor those who have died in the years since from exposure to toxic chemicals and debris. Firefighters will light 404 candles, including 343 red candles for firefighters, 60 blue candles for law enforcement officers, and one white candle for FDNY Chaplain Father Mychal Judge. Twenty-five fire hats will also be displayed to mark the 25 years since the attacks.

Orlando – Orlando VA Healthcare System

  • Time: 11 a.m.
  • Location: Orlando VA Medical Center, first-floor canteen lobby, 13800 Veterans Way, Orlando
  • Details: The Orlando VA Healthcare System will host a 25th anniversary 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony honoring those who lost their lives, recognizing first responders, and remembering the veterans and service members who answered the nation’s call in the years that followed. The ceremony is free, and attendees are encouraged to RSVP.

Orlando – Patriot Day Remembrance Breakfast

  • Time: 8–9:30 a.m.
  • Location: DoubleTree by Hilton Orlando Theme Park Resort, 10100 International Drive, Orlando
  • Details: The Central Florida Hotel & Lodging Association will host its annual Patriot Day Remembrance Breakfast, honoring local law enforcement, fire rescue, EMS, and hospitality security personnel for exceptional service. The 2026 event will feature former NYPD Detective Milton Rosario as the speaker. Registration is currently closed, though the organization is encouraging the community to consider donating a seat for a local first responder.

Apopka

  • Time: 8:30 a.m.
  • Location: In front of Apopka City Hall, 120 E. Main St., Apopka
  • Details: The Apopka Fire and Police Departments will host the city’s annual 9/11 Memorial Service to remember those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001.

Winter Haven

  • Time: 4:30–7 p.m.
  • Location: South Central Park, Winter Haven
  • Details: Winter Haven’s Honoring Our Heroes – Remembering the Day will include displays from agencies across Polk County beginning at 4:30 p.m. The annual Freedom Walk will begin at 5:30 p.m., followed by a remembrance ceremony at 6 p.m. The event honors those who made the ultimate sacrifice and the first responders who continue to serve their communities.

Sanford

  • Time: 10:15 a.m.
  • Location: Veterans Memorial Park, 110 W. Seminole Blvd. Sanford
  • Details: The City of Sanford, in partnership with Seminole County and local law enforcement and fire agencies, will host a 25th anniversary Patriot Day Remembrance Ceremony. A moment of silence will take place at 10:28 a.m., marking the time associated with the collapse of the World Trade Center towers. The ceremony will also recognize Sanford native Mannie Leroy Clark, who was killed while working in the North Tower on September 11, 2001. The event is free and open to the public.

Inverness

  • Time: 8:30 a.m.
  • Location: Depot Pavilion at Liberty Park, 300 N. Apopka Ave., Inverness
  • Details: The City of Inverness will commemorate the 25th anniversary of September 11 with a 9/11 ceremony and exhibit. A memorial exhibit will also be available at the Valerie Theatre that day.

Twenty-five years after September 11, 2001, communities across Central Florida continue to come together to remember the nearly 3,000 people who lost their lives, honor the first responders and service members who answered the call, and reflect on the lasting impact of that day.

Whether attending a formal ceremony, participating in a remembrance walk, or simply observing a moment of silence, these local events offer Central Floridians an opportunity to pause, remember, and honor those who were affected by 9/11.

Ava McDonnell
Ava McDonnell is the Editorial Manager & Digital Content Creator for Central Florida Lifestyle Magazine. She graduated from the University of Central Florida with English BA in 2026. She also has experience in editing using AP Style and SEO guidelines. Originally from Clermont and now in Tampa, Ava loves all things local. Ava has always had a passion for learning about people's lives and sharing accurate stories with the world. She is dedicated to getting the job done right while making content interesting for readers. Aside from writing, you can find her indulging in the great outdoors with the people she loves. Whether it is hiking, taking photographs, or trying new activities, she is up for almost anything.
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Written by Ava McDonnell

Ava McDonnell is the Editorial Manager & Digital Content Creator for Central Florida Lifestyle Magazine. She graduated from the University of Central Florida with English BA in 2026. She also has experience in editing using AP Style and SEO guidelines.

Originally from Clermont and now in Tampa, Ava loves all things local. Ava has always had a passion for learning about people's lives and sharing accurate stories with the world. She is dedicated to getting the job done right while making content interesting for readers.

Aside from writing, you can find her indulging in the great outdoors with the people she loves. Whether it is hiking, taking photographs, or trying new activities, she is up for almost anything.

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