12 things to do on St. Patrick’s Day weekend plus a look ahead

It’s another big event weekend in Sumter and Lake counties. The Leesburg Art Festival, just one year shy of a half-century, is taking over the Towne Square. St. Patrick’s Day events are happening from Friday through Tuesday. Oh, and Paul Anka will be doing it his way in The Villages. See what else is happening:

Time-honored ‘Willfest’ is worth the drive

A local history and music lovers favorite, the Will McLean Folk Music Festival features 80 musical groups across four covered stages March 13-14. Expect original and traditional songs in Americana, blues, Celtic, bluegrass, country and modern folk, plus workshops, jam areas, a young musicians program, kids’ corner, Saturday night contra dance, and food and craft vendors in a woodsy setting.

The annual family-friendly event, also known as “Willfest,” is named after a legendary folk singer who was born in Chipley and died at age 70 in 1990. McLean sang about Osceola and other Florida tales. His ashes were scattered into the Ocklawaha River at Gore’s Landing, where a marker honors him. Learn more at willmclean.com/will-mclean-foundation/about-will-mclean

Camping is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Bring chairs. The event is held rain or shine at the Florida Sand Music Ranch, 85 Myers Road, Brooksville. Admission is $35 on Friday, $45 on Saturday and $25 on Sunday. Details: willmclean.com/festival

Shamrockin’ Fest relocated to Eustis

The 13th annual Shamrockin’ BBQ & Beer Festival is getting Lake County’s Irish up again, with a new location in downtown Eustis 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. Visit shamrockinfest.com for more information.

Paul Anka to headline The Tracy

If you’re too young to know who Paul Anka is, take note: The Canadian singer and songwriter rose to fame as a teen idol in the late 1950s with hits like “Diana” (1957), “Lonely Boy” (1959), and “Put Your Head on My Shoulder.” He wrote Frank Sinatra’s “My Way” and sang a great version of the tune himself. He also penned Tom Jones’ “She’s a Lady,” and composed “The Tonight Show” theme. See him live Friday, March 13, at the Tracy Performing Arts Center in The Villages. Details: thetracy.com/paul-anka

Party to electrify Lake Sumter Landing

The Villages’ Electric Light Party lights up Lake-Sumter Landing on Friday, March 13, 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.

A St. Pat’s party for women in Mount Dora

“Luck be a lady” this St. Patrick’s Day weekend in Mount Dora. Lady Luck Ladies Night, at Stairway 2 Donnelly transforms the restaurant at 440 N. Donnelly St., Mount Dora, into an Irish-style ladies-only Brigadoon from 5 to 9 p.m. on Friday, March 13. The event features a buffet and fun, pampering activities.

For a $25 entry fee, women can indulge in themed eats while exploring a variety of pop-up services, including psychic readings, fairy hair applications and holistic aesthetician services such as hydro facials. Mini tattoos will also be available alongside booths featuring handcrafted candles and more.

A portion of the proceeds will go to Habitat for Humanity Women’s Build. Said the restaurant in their Facebook invite, “Attendees are encouraged to dress in their St. Paddy’s best — think shimmering gold, vibrant green or crisp white — while enjoying festive drink specials that will be flowing all night long. It’s the perfect opportunity to grab your friends, sip on a themed cocktail, and celebrate the luck of the Irish for a great cause.” Visit the event’s Facebook page for details.

Leesburg Art Festival takes over Towne Square

The 49th annual Rotary Leesburg Art Festival is scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, March 14-15, in downtown Leesburg at the Towne Square by City Hall, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days. The two-day event features an estimated 75 artists, a literary fair, live music and local food. Details: leesburgarts.com/art-festival

St. Patrick’s parties March 13-17 at McCracken’s

In case you were confused about the Shamrockin’ Fest moving to Eustis, McCracken’s is still celebrating St. Patrick’s Day at their pub and restaurant with the gonzo effort you’d expect from 11 a.m. through closing time at 719 W. Main St., Leesburg on Saturday, March 14. Festivities continue through St. Pat’s Day with another big bash on Tuesday, March 17.

The owners emailed us with some of the details: “We’re throwing a big party on Saturday, March 14, from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. We’ll have live music (country/Irish) from 5 to 8 p.m., sponsored by The non-profit Combat Veterans to Careers. We’ll serve corned beef and cabbage and other traditional Irish fare. We’re also hosting a fundraiser for our friends at CVC. Join us for drink specials, raffle prizes and giveaways!

On Tuesday, March 17, actual St. Pat’s, stop in for live music (Irish folk) from 5 to 8 p.m., also sponsored by CVC, with surprise bagpipers throughout the day, drink specials, prizes and traditional Irish cuisine.”

Visit the McCracken’s Facebook event page for details.

Celtic Festival at Lake Sumter Landing

The Celtic Festival at The Villages, featuring traditional bagpipers, Irish dance, music from the Byrne Brothers and others, along with a beer garden, at Lake Sumter Landing Market Square on March 13-14. Loads of vendors and surprises help you have a craic this weekend. For more information, visit thevillagesentertainment.com.

Irish Fest Saturday and Sunday in Clermont

Celebrate St. Patty’s in South Lake County at the 8th Annual Irish Fest in Clermont on both Saturday and Sunday, March 14-15. Headquarters for the fest is Suncreek Brewery, 790 W Minneola Ave. On Saturday, the festivities run from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday’s hours are from noon to 7.

Suncreek Brewery presents the fest in partnership with Michael’s Ali Coal Fired Pizza & Cafe and Clermont Main Street. Expect a lively atmosphere filled with live music that includes, of course, traditional Irish music and performances, as well as a variety of Irish-inspired food and plenty of Irish beer. Details: suncreekbrewery.com

Leesburg Carnival at Lake Square Mall

The Leesburg Carnival invites families and fun-lovers for old-fashioned fun through March 15 at the Lake Square Mall, 10401 U.S. 441, Leesburg. Expect an array of high-energy attractions and family-friendly entertainment. Featured rides include the circular-spinning Superman 360, the high-speed Music Express, the Sea Dragon pendulum, and the gravity-defying Starship 3000. Visitors can choose between individual tickets or unlimited ride wristbands. It is important to note that unaccompanied minors are not permitted, and specific height requirements apply to all attractions. Visit dreamlandamusements.com/upcoming-events-amusement-carnival/leesburg-carnival for more information.

Fair held over in Sumter County

The annual Sumter County Fair entertains with carnival rides, agricultural exhibits and more through March 15 at the Sumter County Fairgrounds, 7620 State Road 471, Bushnell. Details: facebook.com/sumtercountyfair

‘Kim’s Convenience’ to conclude run in The Villages

“Kim’s Convenience” was a stage play before it became a hit Netflix television series, written by Ins Choi. The play with the tagline “humor and heart on every aisle” premiered at the 2011 Toronto Fringe Festival, where it won the Patron’s Pick Award. Inspired by the experiences of Korean immigrants in Canada, the story served as the direct basis for a popular CBC sitcom, with some actors, such as Paul Sun-Hyung Lee and Jean Yoon, reprising their roles.

Locally produced by Significant Productions with an all-professional cast, the comedic and heartwarming play can be seen at The Studio Theatre Tierra Del Sol, 806 San Marino Drive, The Villages, through March 14. Yong Suk Yoo directs. Tickets are $40. More details at thesharonstudio.com/10-kims-convenience.html

A look ahead …

Mount Dora hosts St. Patrick’s Day Block Party

Join Mount Dora for the St. Patrick’s Day Block Party on Tuesday, March 17, from 6 to 9 p.m. at Sunset Park. The free community event will feature “live music, festive fun, and plenty of Irish spirit,” according to city’s event organizers. Mel Taylor from WJRR 101.1 emcees with live entertainment from K.C. Kelley and Welcome to Mockville. Admission is free. Details: https://ci.mount-dora.fl.us/1637/St-Patricks-Day-Block-Party

Villages St. Patrick’s Day Festival in Spanish Springs

The Villages’ Saint Patrick’s Day Festival is another free community bash on the actual saint’s day of Tuesday, March 17, from 4 to 9 p.m. at Spanish Springs Square. A diverse entertainment lineup will help you get your craic on, including, once again, award-winning family band the Byrne Brothers, who perform traditional Irish music and dancing, and the Sounds of Scotland pipe and drum band. Retail and food vendors will be on hand, or enjoy the signature “Drunken Leprechaun” cocktail, a mix of whiskey, melon liqueur and orange juice. Details: thevillagesentertainment.com/special-events/st-patricks-day-festival

‘Guys & Dolls’ revived at IceHouse Theatre

Set in a mythical Manhattan of the 1950s, the Tony-winning “Guys and Dolls” is charming, funny and sassy with a brassy score, such as the aforementioned “Luck Be a Lady”; “Sit Down, You’re Rockin’ the Boat,” and “I’ve Never Been in Love Before,” Take Back Your Mink, along with other classic numbers. The show runs from March 20 through April 12.

The cast includes Britton Hollingsworth as Sky Masterson, Christie Duffer as Sarah Brown, Kevin Kriegel as Nathan Detroit, and many other local and regional performers. Darlin Barry directs. The theater is located at 1110 N Unser St., Mount Dora. Details: 352-383-4616 or icehousetheatre.com.

Melon Patch Players to ‘Ride the Cyclone’

Melon Patch Players Artistic Director Dustin Lavine describes “Ride the Cyclone” as a “hilarious and outlandish story,” centering on the (after) lives of six teenagers from a Canadian chamber choir; lives cut short “in a freak accident aboard a roller coaster.” Runs March 20 through April 4. Details: melonpatchplayers.org/#cyclone

African Children’s Choir to perform in Groveland

The African Children’s Choir performs at 7 p.m. on Friday, March 20 at Hope International Church, 13806 State Rd 33, Groveland. Said the group’s representatives: “We have 17 children in the Ugandan choir, ages 8 to 10. Local families host the group in their homes, where they share and learn about new customs, food and culture.” Details: 352-429-4722.

Blooms & Brews in Leesburg on March 21

Join Leesburg for the third annual Blooms & Brews on Saturday, March 21. From noon “until supplies last” at Leesburg Towne Square and continues until supplies last. This event is free and first-come, first-served and is open to guests ages 21 and up.

Instructions: “Check in at Towne Square to receive your official stroll map, then explore participating local businesses throughout downtown. Each stop will provide a beautiful flower along with a featured beer sample or specialty drink. By the end of your stroll, you will have a handcrafted bouquet in one hand and have enjoyed refreshing samples along the way.” See event page on Facebook for details.

‘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 Regatta to set sail on Lake 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.

‘Whose Line is it Anyway’ stars to headline The Tracy

Colin Mochrie and Brad Sherwood:”Asking for Trouble” stars two titans of improv comedy, especially Mochrie, who comes across as low-key and polite but can get zany and oh-so-clever onstage. His and Sherwood’s touring show is a completely improvised performance that relies heavily on audience suggestions and participation to create a unique, unscripted evening of comedy. They’re both know for their longstanding stints on “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” See the dynamic comedy duo live at The Tracy Performing Arts Center at shows scheduled for March 22 and 23, which were rescheduled from January dates. Details thetracy.com (Look for an interview with Mochrie soon at dailycommercial.com)

Pig on the Pond brings springtime fun to Clermont

Join Clermont for a fun-filled day at Waterfront Park from Friday, March 27, through Sunday, March 29, during the city’s annual Pig on the Pond Community Festival, which raises funds for local students’ scholarships with proceeds from barbecue vendors and others. Expect live music and a variety of entertainment. Waterfront Park is at 100 Third St., Clermont. Details: eventbrite.com

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 has a wide array of events planned in downtown Eustis all day on 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 such as mini-arts classes in Shibori and Origami, a dedicated kids’ zone, an interactive gaming area and a cosplay contest are just some of the events planned.

“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

‘Food Wars’ invade Wooton Park

The 2026 Taste of Tavares Food Wars features samplings, entertainment and a business expo from 6 to 9 p.m. on April 2 at Wooton Park along the shore of Lake Dora in Tavares. The event features 500 samples, sponsorship and samplings with live entertainment (to be announced) and a centerpiece contest. Attendees cast ballots for their favorites in boxes at the vendor’s booths. Food trucks and a bounce house are also planned. Early bird pricing is $45. First responder discount: $5. Cost at the event is $50. For more information, call the Tavares Chamber at 352-343-2531.

Leesburg to fry up fun again at Mote Morris House

The 8th Annual Leesburg Fish Fry 2026 will bring all ages together for a time-honored tradition to the downtown community from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 2, at the historic Mote-Morris House, 195 W Magnolia St.

Says the Leesburg Area Chamber of Commerce: “It’s not just about the food — this event is all about community, great company, and Southern hospitality at its best. Kick back with live music, share laughs with friends, and soak in the festive atmosphere. Come hungry, bring your crew, and let’s fry up some fun!” Tickets cost $35 in advance, $40 at the event. (Kids’ tickets are only available at the door or by calling the chamber.) Visit zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/fish-fry-16

Lake County Fair returns to Eustis

The 105th annual Lake County Fair returns to Eustis April 10-19 at 2101 County Road 452. Expect the usual: rides, livestock auctions, entertainment and food. Hours are 5 to 10 p.m. on weekdays and from 1 to 10 p.m. on weekends. Details: lakecofair.com

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.

Leesburg Bikefest 2026 rocks historic downtown

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 the Towne Hall Square, 501 W. Meadow St.

Motorcycle-themed shows include the Wall of Death thrill show and performances by the Bloxx Crew Stunt Team. Other highlights include the Full Throttle Magazine Bike Show, pro wrestling matches from Monster Wrestling Orlando, and the Tattoo Saloon at the Tropic Theater, where proceeds go to the Leesburg Center for the Arts. 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.