Saturday is insane. There are major annual festivals in Eustis, Leesburg, Mount Dora and Tavares.
Hmm, if only there were an intercultural Lake and Sumter collective that could encourage collaboration and dialogue among municipalities to create bigger events enhanced by multi-city partnerships and prevent too many great events from being heaped onto one … single … date? Something to ponder.
Brainstorming aside, it would be worth it to hit all four events. Trust me. GeorgeFest is a double whammy because not only is Eustis’ weeklong celebration of George Washington’s birthday in its 134th year, it’s also the nation’s 250th anniversary, marking another patriotic event and milestone.
Leesburg is bringing patriotic fun, blues and barbecue to its historic downtown. Mount Dora is ground zero for Scottish harp dancers, bag pipers and other Celtic fun at its annual Highlands Festival, and the EcoExpo in Tavares promises much more than educational insights with interactive activities, family fun and wildlife demonstrations planned.
What else is happening? Two strawberry fests have been postponed. Read more below:
Stellar Stage presents romantic dramedy at Grand Oaks
Everyone loves a second-chance success story. It’s in this spirit that Stellar Stage Multimedia Productions’ nonprofit dinner theater is presenting “The Do-Over Diner,” an original, interactive one-act comedy/drama play written and directed by Luanne “Annie” Hunt.
“The story is set inside a 1950s small-town diner where cinnamon rolls are always on the menu and second chances are served daily,” Hunt says in the play’s press release. Blending gentle humor with emotional honesty, “The Do-Over Diner” tells the story of Kate, a widowed diner owner reopening her doors after loss, and Tom, a handyman who wanders in for a repair and finds something he didn’t expect. The play stars Donna Gayner and Marcel Hogue.
Showtimes are 5 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, Feb. 20 and 21, and Feb. 27 and 28, at the Grand Oaks Resort, 3000 Marion County Road, Weirsdale. Tickets are $60 and $68 (plus tax and fees) and include a buffet-style meal. Details: stellarstageshows.com.
Free ‘Mufasa’ movie at Leesburg stadium
Take the kids to see a free movie Feb. 20 as part of the Home Run Flicks series in Leesburg. The screening is part of a family movie night series with free films on the big screen at Pat Thomas Stadium, home of the Leesburg Lightning, located at 240 Ball Park Road, Leesburg. The next movie is “Mufasa: The Lion King.” Movie starts at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 20. Proceeds go to Leesburg Arts Center. Bring blankets & chairs. Details: facebook.com/leesburgspecialevents
Honoring the Fallen 5K in Clermont
Join local law enforcement between 5:30 and 7 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 21, as the Clermont Police Department hosts the Honoring the Fallen 5K, a walk/run dedicated to remembering and honoring fallen law enforcement officers at 790 W. Minneola Ave., Clermont. The Lake County Sheriff’s Office will be participating as a team (All Linked Up) in honor of Master Deputy Bradley Link. Details: https://runsignup.com/Race/FL/Clermont/HonoringtheFallen5K#HonorTheFallen5K
EcoExpo 2026 brings fun and awareness to Hickory Point
The Lake County Conservation Council presents EcoExpo 2026, a free, community-centered event celebrating conservation, education and environmental stewardship on Saturday, Feb. 21, at Hickory Point Park in Tavares.
The annual event will bring together 40-plus exhibitors, including local conservation organizations, educators, agencies, and nature-based partners actively working to protect lands, waters, wildlife and public health.
EcoExpo will also feature a kid-friendly Critter Corner, where families can get an up-close look at a variety of Florida wildlife and learn how to protect their habitats. Hands-on STEM projects for kids will also be featured. Grown-ups can enjoy rides in a new line of EV Rivian vehicles. Takes place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 27341 State Road 19, Tavares. Email [email protected]
Great Scots! Mount Dora Highland Fest offers Celtic fun
The 13th annual Mount Dora Scottish Highland Festival returns to downtown Mount Dora, Feb. 20-22, celebrating Celtic culture featuring bagpipers, athletics and traditional dancing. The weekend kicks off on Friday, Feb. 20, with a lively “Night for the Celt” Cèilidh at the Mount Dora Music Hall (520 N. Baker St.), followed by the main festivities from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 21, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 22, at Donnelly Park (530 N. Donnelly St.) and Elizabeth Evans Park (100 N. Donnelly St.). Tickets are available at mountdorascot.com
Weeklong Georgefest celebrates Washington’s birthday in Eustis
The city of Eustis has announced that the theme of the 124th annual Georgefest celebration will be “Camp Georgefest,” with concerts, live shows, carnival rides, food, games, and a variety of returning favorites and new additions. The oldest continuous annual festival in Lake County returns Feb. 21-28 at historic downtown Eustis and Ferran Park.
The eight-day, family-friendly event celebrates George Washington’s birthday with daily activities designed to bring the community together. According to the city, “the event draws thousands of local attendees and an increasing number of out-of-state visitors each year. It is recognized as the longest continuously running celebration of George Washington’s Birthday in the nation.”
Georgefest kicks off this Saturday with its “Prime Time Carnival” from noon to 11 p.m. downtown, and at 4 p.m with live entertainment and country music headliner Will Moseley at the McClelland Bandshell in Ferran Park. Mosely hails from southern Georgia and performs tunes that blend nostalgia with down-to-earth Southern charm. A fishing tournament invades Lake Eustis at 5 a.m. and all day this Sunday. There’s much more. See the event schedule at eustis.org/Residents/Georgefest#section-3
Patriotism and ‘cue at Blues-BQ in Leesburg
Enjoy two quintessential American experiences: blues music and barbecue, and 250 years of America from 5 to 9 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 21, at Blues-BQ Festival in downtown Leesburg.
Sheba Queen of the Mississippi headlines the festival. Says the event’s organizers, “Sheba has spent most of her life studying, living and breathing this genre. The blues isn’t just something she sings, it’s something she feels. And when she takes the stage as our opener, you’ll feel it too.”
Dale Bandy &The Blue Cans and Damon Fowler also perform. Food from Willy Buck’s Backyard Grill, Hurt’s BBQ , Grandma’s BBQ, Brothers N Arms BBQ and Shaws Ooh Wee feed hungry festgoers. Navigate to 500 W Main St. Details on the Facebook event page or call 352-728-9885.
Sak brings top-notch improv to Lake County
Prepare to laugh at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 21, when the improvsters of Orlando’s SAK Comedy Lab bring spontaneous, audience-interactive comedy to the Clermont Performing Arts Center. The troupe was voted “Best Comedy” in the Orlando Weekly Reader’s Poll. Current and past SAK performers have gone on to write or appear on the Disney Channel, Showtime, HBO, Warner Brothers, Broadway and more, including Aaron Shure, writer and executive producer of “Everybody Loves Raymond” and “The Office”; Wayne Brady of “Let’s Make a Deal” and “Whose Line is it Anyway?,” and SAK founder Clare Sera and Karey Kirkpatrick, writers of the Warner Brothers animated musical, “Smallfoot.” Tix: tix.com
Blue Öyster Cult to fear the reaper at The Tracy
Classic rock megagroup Blue Öyster Cult plays hits like “Don’t Fear the Reaper” and “Burnin’ for You” at The Tracy Performing Arts Center at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 21, at 2210 Dr. Randy McDaniel Way, Middleton. No word yet if there will be “more cowbell.” For tickets and details, call 352-753-6600.
Italian club hosts ‘Carnevale Masquerade Party’
Latin cultures know that this week is Carnevale time, and the Italian Club of Central Florida is celebrating the big event this Saturday, Feb 21, from 6 to 11 p.m. Cocktail hour is from 6 to 7 p.m., with alcohol available for purchase. A dinner buffet will be served at 7, catered by Dough Boyz of Oviedo and prepared by Chef Mario.
On the buffet menu: Antipasto salad, pasta Bolognese, Chicken Parmigiano, Chicken Scappariello, sausage and peppers. Water and soft drinks included. Costs $40 for members, $45 for non-members. Live music by Italian Connection, so we should expect a Tarantella to happen. Because Carnevale is celebrated with masks and costumes per the Venetian tradition. Guests are welcome to wear both, and a prize for best-dressed will be awarded. Takes place at the Elks Club Orlando, 12 N. Primrose Drive. Call 407-509-4802.
Renninger’s Antique & Collector’s Extravaganza
Renninger’s Antique & Collector’s Extravaganza is a huge three-day event held from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Feb. 20, to Sunday, Feb. 22, with more than 800 vendors hawking antiques and vintage collectibles. Takes place at 20651 U.S. 441, Mount Dora. Admission ranges from $4 to $10. Details: 352-383-8393.
A look ahead …
‘Slow Stitch Soiree’ threads togetherness and fun
Head to Gary Lee Sligh Fabric Arts on Wednesdays from 5 to 8 p.m. for socializing and stitching with others. “Snacks and adult beverages are optional. Lots of fun required.” Sligh’s shop is located at 1012 W. Main St., Leesburg. Email [email protected]
Brazilian band brings unique sound to The Villages
The Villages Blues Society presents The Blues Beatles Band. Who are they? We know they’re from Brazil and they play bluesy Beatles songs. Their sound had been described as “intimately appeasing but at the same time powerful and infectious,” and “a magical music gumbo” that “soaks up the musical ingredients of days long gone with all the spice of today.” 6-8:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 26, at the Eisenhower Recreation Center, 3560 Buena Vista Blvd., The Villages. Details: thevillagesblues.com
Men of Distinction Black Heritage Gala
Take part in an elegant evening of celebration, recognition, and community impact at the 28th annual Black-Tie Gala, hosted by Men of Distinction – Leesburg Black Heritage at 7 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 27, at The Venetian Center, 1 Dozier Circle, Leesburg. Honorees include Delores Evans, Semeion Richardson, Demetryana O’Neal, Pernell Mitchell, Robert and Soreatta Brown, the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commemoration Committee and Lynn Bradshaw-Dudley.
According to the gala’s organizers, “guests will enjoy an evening of elegance, inspiration, and celebration, along with a special silent auction. Tickets are $35 per person. Dress to impress to celebrate legacy, leadership and the continued advancement of the Leesburg area Black community. Call 352-365-1709.
Lake & Sumter strawberry fests rescheduled
The recent freeze has forced the postponement of two major farm festivals:
Enjoy some sweet and juicy fun at Brown’s Adventure Farm from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Feb. 28 and March. The Oxford farm’s “Strawberry Festival — A Berry Sweet Weekend on the Farm.” Admission includes live music and entertainment, Legacy of the Wild West shows (three shows daily), candy cannon blasts, free face painting (select times), more than 30 attractions and activities, strawberry photo opportunities and festival backdrops, big giveaways (twice daily), and a strawberry pie eating contest with prizes. Tickets are $17.95 online or $21.95 at the gate. The farm is located at 13940 N. U.S. 301, Oxford. Details: brownsadventurefarm.com
Amber Brooke Farms‘ anticipated Strawberry Festival in Eustis will run on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., from Feb. 28 through March 15. Attendees can still expect a range of activities as always, including food trucks, live music, and special offerings like a petting zoo featuring animals such as Zebu cows, donkeys, alpacas, lambs, and goats. The festival will also host strawberry-themed crafts and offer a U-pick service with strawberries available at a 20 percent discount. A happy hour from 2 to 3 p.m. offers 50 percent off alcoholic drinks.
There will be photo opportunities throughout the farm, and visitors can also enjoy a new strawberry-themed menu. For those who enjoy a bit of competition, there will be a chance to participate in the “Perfect Berry” contest, where the goal is to pick the perfect strawberry in 45 seconds to win four free tickets. Other daily activities include several rounds of Foam Daddy and Candy Cannon sessions.
Gel Blasters and an archery range can be enjoyed with separate admission fees. The Bubble Barn, Ball Zone, Jump Pads, Spider Webs, Corn Hole, Slide Hill, and Cow Train will also be available for families to enjoy. Those interested in exploring more can join the Sunflower Express, participate in Family Tug-O-War, play in the Playgrounds and Tire Sand Pit, complete with diggers, or partake in the Duck Race. Tickets for the festival can be purchased online for $17.95 or at the gate for $19.95. Tickets and details at amberbrookefarms.com/annual-strawberry-festival/
MARCH
Help Leesburg in Bloom plant a pollinator garden
Join Leesburg in Bloom at 8 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 28, for a hands-on community volunteer morning to install a brand-new pollinator garden at the Leesburg Public Library. The garden will support butterflies, bees and other vital pollinators while creating a beautiful, educational space for our community to enjoy.
Volunteers will help seed pre-designated areas with Florida native wildflower mixes. Once all plants and seeds are in the ground, we will spread pine straw throughout the entire garden area, helping retain moisture, suppress weeds, and give the space a clean, finished look. Email [email protected]
2026 Moonlight Tour at historic Leesburg cemetery
Take a tour of a centuries-old cemetery and learn about local lore by attending twilight tours led by longtime Leesburg residents. Visit historic burial sites of famous and infamous residents dating back to 1867 from 5 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, March 3. Admission is free to the 2026 Moonlight Tour at Lone Oak Cemetery, which also features an ice cream social. Details: LoneOakleesburg.com
Leesburg Garden Party & Market
Enjoy a morning out in downtown Leesburg, browsing a curated garden market featuring plant and garden vendors, a bingo brunch, boutique shopping, gourmet goodies and fresh-baked sourdough breads. Takes place at Gary Lee Sligh’s historic home and makers’ collective at 1012 W. Main St., Leesburg. Email [email protected]
Taste of Lake is back at Leesburg’s Venetian Center
Eight years of tantalizing taste buds, the Taste of Lake is back at Leesburg’s Venetian Center at 6 p.m. on March 6. The event offers a smorgasbord of local favorites and emerging food establishments serving samples of appetizers, entrees, desserts and beverages. Attendees vote for favorites, too. If you’re feeling claustrophobic in the crowd, there’s a garden patio area to offer some fresh air, and you can try a variety of local beers, wines, ales and ciders. Live entertainment, local business info and socializing are all a big part of the event, too. $40 in advance general admission, $50 at the event. Military, first responders and teachers pay $35 in advance, $40 at the event. The Venetian Center is located at 1 Dozier Circle. Tickets available at zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/8th-annual-taste-of-lake
Taste of Italy festival debuts in Groveland
Italians in Lake County? Si! Based on census data, more than 23,000 Italian Americans live in Lake. That’s more than enough to fill Groveland’s Downtown Festival Park from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, March 7, at 117 N. Main Ave. The Italian Club of Central Florida is hosting its annual Taste of Italy festival for the first time in Groveland, bringing la dolce vita with live entertainment, Italian food (of course), artists and crafters, and a variety of merchandise to browse. All proceeds go to Lupus Foundation and New Beginnings. Call 407-509-4802.
Indian restaurant meetup in Clermont
Foodies can enjoy a night of authentic Indian food, conversation and socializing at Guru Indian Restaurant on at 6 p.m. on Thursday, March 12, for a meet-up dinner party. “No pressure, no cliques — just a fun, relaxed night to connect with group members and enjoy something different. The restaurant is located at 2400 S U.S. 27, Suite 101, Clermont. Call 352-241-9884 for information.
St. Patrick’s Day rocks at Shamrockin’ Fest in Leesburg
The 13th annual Shamrockin’ BBQ & Beer Festival is getting Lake County’s Irish up again, returning to downtown Leesburg on March 13-14. The fun begins Friday, March 13, at 5 p.m. on the Shamrockin’ Stage, with music from the Black Thorn Brigade. Vendors and food trucks keep festgoers busy, along with the Shamrockin’ Chili Cook-Off and Whiskey Business tastings.
Following an Irish parade, the street party continues on Main Street until 11 p.m., with free live entertainment on multiple stages. On Saturday, the festival reopens at 11 a.m. with more live shows, including pub-style sing-alongs with Scuttered the Bruce and traditional music from the Nae Breeks South Pipe Band. A major highlight is the Florida BBQ Association-sanctioned competition, where visitors can sample and vote for their favorite entries from over 25 top Southern teams. Visit shamrockinfest.com for more information.
The Villages Electric Party postponed until March 13
The Villages’ Electric Light Party has been moved from Feb. 6 to Friday, March 13. Taking place from 4 to 10 p.m., the “high-energy glow” fest features live music from Blonde Ambition on the main stage, a dedicated “Glow Lounge,” and free airbrush face painting at Lake Sumter Landing. Attendees are encouraged to dress in neon and light-up gear. Limited items will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis. Takes place at Lake Sumter Landing Market Square, 1020 Lake Sumter Landing, The Villages. Details: 352-753-1917.
‘Meet Florida Meat’: beefy sendoff at Great Scott Farms
Meet Florida Meat (formerly Meet the Meat) is scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, March 21-22 with more than 20 Florida farmers and ranchers selling farm-direct products that are 100% born, fed, and processed in the state. The festival is one of the last at Great Scott Farms, 26216 County Road 448A, Mount Dora, before the farm relocates elsewhere. Email [email protected]
Mount Dora Spring Festival of Arts & Crafts returns
The Mount Dora Spring Festival of Arts and Crafts is consistently ranked as one of the top craft festivals in America by Sunshine Artist Magazine. It’s a free two-day celebration featuring more than 250 curated exhibitors showcasing an eclectic mix of original fine art and handmade crafts, including jewelry, pottery, textiles, and woodwork. Visitors can stroll through the vibrant streets from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days, Saturday and Sunday, March 21-22, to browse artists and vendors while enjoying festival food, beer, wine and cocktails. Details: MountDoraSpringfest.com
72nd annual Sailboat Regatta in Mount Dora
The 72nd annual Sailboat Regatta sets sail on Saturday, March 21, and Sunday, March 22, with events at the lakefront parks of Mount Dora. The historic regatta is one of the oldest in the state. For contact details or race registration info, call 352-735-7183.
Lake County’s first-ever Japanese culture festival
Immerse yourself and your family in all things Japanese at the Japan Festival Eustis, an extensive cultural celebration presented by the Arching Oaks Art and Culture Center and the city of Eustis. The inaugural event is scheduled for Saturday, March 28. Visitors can expect a packed schedule featuring Taiko drum performances, traditional Japanese dance, and Koto harp music, along with martial arts demonstrations such as Kyudo (archery) and Kendo. Hands-on experiences can be enjoyed through mini-arts classes in Shibori and Origami, a dedicated kids’ zone, an interactive gaming area, and a cosplay contest. “With authentic food vendors and a large-scale Shodo calligraphy demonstration, the festival serves as a bridge for cultural exchange and community connection in Central Florida,” organizers say. Details: archingoaks.org/festival-event-info-page.html
APRIL
Leesburg Bikefest 2026
Leesburg Bikefest runs from Friday, April 24, to Sunday, April 26. This world-renowned event features dozens of concerts, bike shows and pro wrestling in historic downtown Leesburg, with the main stage, headlined by Lita Ford, Everclear and Sister Hazel, at 501 W. Meadow St. Details: leesburgbikefest.com
The Mount Dora Blueberry Festival returns
The Mount Dora Blueberry Festival is scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, April 25-26. The event features local blueberry vendors, crafts, and live entertainment at Donnelly Park, 530 N. Donnelly St., Mount Dora. Details: 352-735-7183.
Spring Craft Market 2026 at Oxford farm venue
The Brown’s Spring Craft Market 2026 offers a day of shopping and community fun with free parking and admission at Brown’s Adventure Farm, 13940 U.S. 301, Oxford. Starting at 10 a.m. and running until 3 p.m. Saturday, April 11, you can wander through a massive selection of more than 150 vendors offering everything from handmade jewelry and wreaths to garden decor, beauty products, and homemade baked goods. On-site food trucks will feed hungry attendees. To stay updated on specific vendor and food truck profiles, be sure to follow their Facebook event page or visit brownsadventurefarm.com.
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