New Port Richey Kicks Off Summer with Touch-a -Truck and Hurricane Expo

May 19, 2026 michele525 CITY NEWS, DIVERSIONS | THINGS TO DO, LIBRARY EVENTS 0

2025 Summer Kick Off and Hurricane Expo (4) — Photo of the 2025 Summer Kick Off Event courtesy of the City of New Port Richey

Media Release | May 18, 2026
New Port Richey Public Library

New Port Richey, May 18, 2026 — The City of New Port Richey is welcoming summer with
the return of the NPR Summer Kickoff, a family-friendly event hosted by the New Port Richey
Public Library. Combining hands-on fun, community resources, and hurricane preparedness
education, the event offers something for all ages ahead of the 2026 summer season.
The Summer Kickoff gives families an opportunity to get an up-close look at firetrucks, police
vehicles, and other large service vehicles while meeting the people who help keep the
community running. Guests can also enjoy food trucks, face painting, hands-on activities,
giveaways, and more throughout the day.

The event also marks the official launch of the Library’s Summer Challenge, encouraging readers of all ages to stay engaged and explore new stories all summer long. This year’s theme,
Book Your Journey celebrates the connection between reading and travel. Participants can set
personalized reading goals, earn badges for reaching milestones, and complete travel-inspired
activities, and unlock prizes throughout the challenge.

The Hurricane Expo will include important storm preparedness information, safety resources,
and local vendors dedicated to helping residents protect their homes and families during
hurricane season. Following the devastating impacts of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, the event
continues to serve as an important opportunity for residents to prepare, learn, and connect with
valuable community resources.

Don’t miss this year’s special guest! Tampa Bay 28 – WFTS Meteorologist Greg Dee will be on
site to share hurricane safety tips, preparedness guidance, and expert insight into Florida’s severe
weather season. Known throughout the Tampa Bay area for his in-depth weather coverage and
community outreach, Dee brings years of experience helping local residents navigate our state’s
unpredictable weather.

“With Touch-a-Truck and the Hurricane Expo coming together once again, this event continues
to grow into a fun and valuable day for our community,” said Andi Figart, Director of the New
Port Richey Public Library. “It’s a chance for families to celebrate the start of summer while also
learning how to stay safe and prepared during hurricane season.”

Photo courtesy of the New Port Richey Public Library

This free event will take place on Saturday, May 30th, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the parking lot
behind City Hall and the Library (5919 Main St, New Port Richey, FL 34652). Parking will be
limited, and attendees are encouraged to park in the City Parking Garage (6218 US-19, New Port
Richey, FL 34652) and take advantage of the DART (Downtown Area Roundabout Trolley),
which provides free, handicap-accessible transportation.

For more information about the Touch-a-Truck event or Summer Library Challenge, please
Contact Matthew Ortman, New Port Richey Public Library Marketing and Outreach Coordinator,
at (727) 853-1275 or ortmanm@cityofnewportrichey.org.

All inquiries about the Hurricane Expo can be directed to Erik Jay, New Port Richey Code
Enforcement Supervisor, at (727) 232-8928 or jaye@cityofnewportrichey.org.

About the New Port Richey Public Library:
Since 1920, the New Port Richey Public Library has served as a hub for learning, creativity, and
connection in the community. From in-person programs to online resources, the library is
committed to enriching lives through access to knowledge and opportunity. To learn more, visit
www.nprlibrary.org.

About the City of New Port Richey:
With a strong local government, an attractive historical downtown, and a unique riverfront
landscape, New Port Richey is one of Florida’s best walkable, waterfront, historic hometowns.
For more information, visit www.citynpr.org