Are you ready for the thaw?
You know, we are. Get outside and enjoy Eustis’ First Friday, the MLF Invitational in Leesburg, or celebrate Black History Month at Tavares’ African American Heritage Celebration at Wooton Park.
Or, opt for a concert or play for a stellar date night.
Here’s what’s happening this weekend and some big events to look forward to through April:
Fishing Invitational kicks off in Leesburg
Major League Fishing (MLF) has released the 2026 Tackle Warehouse Invitationals schedule, and Leesburg’s Lake Harris will host the first event of the season.
The event takes place Feb. 6-8, and will be presented by Discover Lake County, gathering professional anglers competing over three days for a top award of up to $115,000 and points to qualify for the no-entry-fee Tackle Warehouse Invitationals Championship and qualification into the Bass Pro Tour.
Youth of all ages can take part in a fishing derby (gear and bait provided, weather permitting), inflatables and a casting contest. The first 50 kids ages 14 and under will receive a free rod and reel each day.
Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit anglers will be on hand both days to meet and greet fans, sign autographs and take selfies.Every day of competition will stream live on MLFNOW! at MajorLeagueFishing.com and through the MLF app, MyOutdoorTV (MOTV) and Rumble. All six invitationals and the championship will also be televised nationally. Details: majorleaguefishing.com/circuits/invitationals
‘Spiritual, emotional’ Parrish Monk exhibit opens in Tavares
Head to Lake County Museum of Art for an opening reception for Parrish Monk’s “This is What it Feels Like: Life Re-imagined” exhibition from 5 to 7 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 6. Monk’s art uses mixed media to investigate social issues, cultural identity and collective memory. He makes use of everyday materials and tells stories, many that are forgotten, overlooked or erased. According to LCMA, Monk’s work “can be spiritual, emotional, or purely aesthetic, but also philosophical — asking questions rather than offering answers. LCMA is located at 213 W. Ruby St., Tavares. Details: lakeartmuseum.com.
First Friday Eustis doubles as pre-GeorgeFest
Join the city of Eustis for the Georgefest Pre-Party First Friday on Friday, Feb. 6, from 6-9 p.m. in Downtown Eustis. The pre-fest First Friday will feature live music by Esh X Schief, food trucks and craft vendors. Details: Eustis.org
‘Orient Express’ stops at Tropic
Book a ride on Agatha Christie’s “Murder on the Orient Express” mystery classic, presented by Melon Patch Players, Friday, Feb. 6, at 7 p.m. and Saturday, Feb. 8, at 2 and 7 p.m. at the Tropic Theater, 122 W. Main St., Leesburg. Details: melonpatchplayers.org
Celebrate Black History Month at Wooton Park
Commemorate Black History Month in Tavares, when the city hosts its annual African American Heritage Celebration from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 7, at 100 E. Ruby Street. The fest pays tribute to “Living Legends,” honoring influential local citizens, alongside live gospel and jazz performances and a pop-up museum displaying Lake County artifacts.
Later, enjoy an After Hours Concert: Willie Green and Soul Therapy Band at 6:30 p.m. at the Tavares Public Library. The concert kicks off African American History Month with a “Legacy of the Black Cowboy” theme. Details: 352-742-6370 or visit the official city website at tavares.org
‘The Music Man’ debuts at revamped Sharon
The Villages offers two performances of the musical “The Music Man” at 1 and 7 p.m. this Saturday, Feb. 7, at the recently remodeled Sharon L. Morse Performing Arts Center in Spanish Springs. Tickets at tickets.thevillages.com
Frankie Avalon to headline the Tracy this Saturday
Attention, beauty school dropouts, gals named “Sherry” and everyone else who loves the 20th-century Four Seasons lead singer and silky crooner, Frankie Avalon. The artist also known for his “Grease” and various “Love Boat” stints is still alive and will perform live at The Tracy Performing Arts Center at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 7, at 2210 Dr. Randy McDaniel Way, Middleton. Tickets start at $55, and doors open at 6:15 p.m.. Details: 352-753-6600 or email tickets@thetracy.com
The Jane Austen Festival returns to Mount Dora
Literature lovers, hustle your bustles to The Jane Austen Festival in Mount Dora from Friday, Feb. 13, to Sunday, Feb. 15, to celebrate Jane Austen, known for “Sense and Sensibility,” “Pride & Prejudice,” “Emma” (the book that spawned “Clueless” and other modern chick flicks). Austen is celebrated for her well-crafted storytelling and acerbic takedowns of the haughty gentry of England. Each year, she is celebrated in Mount Dora with free tea-time gatherings, workshops and more. This year, the Jane Austen Fest features a free fashion show, workshops, ball and other Regency-era-focused events throughout Donnelly Park, Gilbert Park and at the Mount Dora Music Hall. Details: 352-735-7183 or visit janeaustenfest.com
Bay Street Players’ ‘Lear’ to end run in Eustis
William Shakespeare’s “King Lear” is one of his most famous tragedies, timeless in its scope, exploring power, corruption, and how power-hunger corrupts family, long before the HBO series “Succession.” The crew at Bay Street Players say that “nowhere in his canon does he create a richer or more complex set of characters.” The play follows King Lear and when he divides his kingdom among his three daughters, setting in motion a wave of violence that sends lear into madness. Runs Jan. 29-Feb. 8. The play is at the historic State Theatre, 109 N. Bay St., Eustis. Tickets and BOGO deals available at eustisstatetheatre.org
Celebrate at Sunsational Farms for its fifth annual Big Orange Day — a vibrant, family-friendly event. Explore over 90 vendor booths showcasing unique treasures, handcrafted goods and services from talented small businesses across Central Florida.
Whimsy Markets’ annual Big Orange Day
Want to have some fun with or without the kids? Head to Umatilla’s giant orange at Sunsational Farms, 40509 Roger Giles Road, this Saturday, Feb. 7, from 11 to 4 p.m. Whimsy Markets’ annual Big Orange Day features vendors, carnival games and bounce houses and food trucks. Details on Facebook event page.
Annual ‘Kids Fun Run’ in Eustis
Kids hoof it in an annual race at Eustis’ Ferran Park at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 7. The 1-mile race for children is held at 250 Ferran Park Drive, Eustis. Early bird tickets are available for $15, or $20 on race day. Details: 352-589-4040.
IceHouse’s ‘The Cottage’ ends madcap run in Mount Dora
Garnering rave reviews, IceHouse ushers in 2026 with laughs by way of a witty comedy, “The Cottage,” by Sandy Rustin. The production runs Thursday, Jan. 16, through Sunday, Feb. 8, at the Sonnentag Theatre, 1100 N. Unser St., Mount Dora. The play’s plot involves a crazy love quadrangle with the misunderstandings and tropes of a daytime drama, starring Christie Duffer, Jackie Prutsman, Christopher Fahmie, John Gracey, Aspen Thompson and Britton Hollingsworth. Tickets are $27 for adults with group rates and other discounts. “The Cottage” is rated “PG-15” for “grown-up humor and situations.” More details at icehousetheatre.com
A look ahead …
The Villages Electric Party postponed until March 13
The Villages’ Electric Light Party has been moved from this Friday, 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.
Lady Lake Farmers Market gets sweet on us for Valentine’s week
Get a gift for your special person at the Lady Lake Farmers and Crafts Sweetheart Market on Tuesday, Feb. 10, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Rolling Acres Sports Complex, 250 Rolling Acres Road. Vendors feature handcrafted, homemade and homegrown items. The market will also feature live music by Mike and Kathy (Gallenberger). The pair are known in the area, showcasing their guitar skills and performing a diverse range of songs. The first 100 attendees get a free gift. Details: market@ladylake.org
TedX Eustis explores new ideas in Lake County
TEDxEustis, a conference that has already produced more than 120 speakers and videos seen by more than 12 million viewers across multiple platforms, returns to the State Theater on Saturday, Feb. 13. The conference brings together innovators and storytellers to share “ideas worth spreading” presented by experts in their fields, including for 2026, a financial planner who advocates deleting your budgeting app, a renowned local surgeon who went back to school later in life to learn robotic surgery techniques, a teenager who has three questions to stop bullying before it begins, and more. Tickets are just $75 and include not only the full day of talks, but lunch at Rosa El Mezcal, and discovery sessions at various locations in downtown Eustis. Details: tedxeustis.com
Mount Dora African American History Festival
The Mount Dora African American History Festival commemorates greatness and heritage from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 14, at Cauley Lott Park, 1717 Highland St., Mount Dora. The long-running festival features a parade, live entertainment, and a wide array of food and craft vendors celebrating African American culture in the heart of Mount Dora. Details: 352-735-7183.
Music events to continue at Tavares Library
Tavares Library celebrates greatness with free concerts by accomplished musicians. On Thursday, Feb 12, classical guitarist Peter Fletcher performs at 12:30 p.m. On Wednesday, Feb. 17, Montverde Troubadours perform at 4:30 p.m., and on Thursday, Feb. 26, violinist Ilana Zaks-Nederlander blends classical mastery with innovative projects. The library is located at 314 N. New Hampshire Ave. Details: 352-742-6204.
Grand opening of Friendly Grounds Cafe in Clermont
Central Florida Dreamplex presents the official launch of the Friendly Grounds Café at The Friendship Place, a new vocational training café staffed by adults with special needs and disabilities through real-world job skills and inclusive employment opportunities. The café will officially open with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 11, on National Latte Day, at 2400 S. U.S. 27, Clermont. Those interested in attending should RSVP at cfldreamplex.com/friendly-grounds-grand-opening.
Mardi Gras at Lake Sumter Landing
The Mardi Gras Festival celebrates Fat Tuesday from 4 to 9 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 13, 2026, with a pet march just before things kick off at 3 p.m. Expect live music and festive food at Lake Sumter Landing Market Square, 1020 Lake Sumter Landing, The Villages. Details: 352-753-1917.
Royal tours showcase Sumter Black history
In Sumter County, the historic Royal community offers guided heritage tours on Saturdays throughout February, typically beginning at 10 a.m. These tours usually convene at the Royal Community Center, located at 9501 County Road 235, Wildwood. Participants can explore the unique 40-acre land tracts settled by former enslaved people and learn about the community’s successful efforts to preserve its agricultural roots. Call the Young Performing Artists Inc. at 352-748-0260 or email youngartists@aol.com to confirm specific Saturday availability and RSVP.
Chinese New Year celebrated in Groveland
Usher in the Chinese New Year in Groveland at the city’s February Second Friday Block Party. Never mind that it’s on Friday, the 13th. Leave that medieval superstition at the door and opt for a far more ancient tradition that goes back more than three millennia. Instead, celebrate the Year of the Horse from 5 to 9 p.m. on Feb. 13 at Lake David Park with a fashion show, live music, food trucks, vendors, and festive performances. Admission is free. The park is located at 450 S. Lake Ave., Groveland. Details: groveland-fl.gov
Lakeridge Winery ‘Winefest’ in Clermont
Winefest 2026 at Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards is a three-day celebration, inviting wine lovers to Clermont’s grape hub from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Feb. 13, and Saturday, Feb. 14, and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 15. The event offers arts and crafts, food, and live performances by artists like the Mike Quick Band and Billy Buchanan. A food court will feature blackened mahi with mango salsa, teriyaki beef, and parmesan truffle fries. The venue also hosts free concerts noon to 4 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Lakeridge is located at 19239 U.S. 27, Clermont. Details: 352-394-8627.
‘Here Come the Mummies’ to funk up the ancients
Here Come the Mummies, an 18-and-older-only show, brings high-energy funk performance and musicians dressed in Egyptian burial bandages to The Tracy Performing Arts Center at 6 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 15, at 2210 Dr. Randy McDaniel Way, Middleton. Details: 352-753-6600.
Celebrate Black History in Leesburg
Leesburg’s first Black-owned art gallery Artist with a Purpose, will be featured in the Harlem Fine Arts Show in New York during Black History Month (more about that coming soon). At 1 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 16, the Leesburg Public Library will host a special Black History Month presentation, “Lincoln as Story-Teller,” at 100 E. Main St., Leesburg. Orisirisi African Folklore puts on an interactive performance featuring drumming, dance, and song at the Leesburg Library on Feb. 20. Find out more at lakecountyfl.gov/calendar
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 Info@LCConservationCouncil.org
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
Free ‘Mufasa’ movie at Leesburg baseball 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
Strawberry Festival brings fun to Brown’s Adventure Farm
Enjoy some sweet and juicy fun at Brown’s Adventure Farm from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Feb. 21-22. 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
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.
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
‘Camp 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,” imparting a spirit of adventure 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.” Details: www.eustisgeorgefest.org
Red, White, & Blues-BQ in downtown 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 the Red, White & Blues-BQ festival in downtown Leesburg. Dale Bandy &The Blue Cans and Sheba Queen of the Mississippi perform. Food from Hurt’s BBQ , Grandma’s BBQ and Shaws Ooh Wee.
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.
MARCH
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
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.
‘Meet Florida Meat’ provides 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 farm@longandscottfarms.com
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
Headliners announced at Leesburg Bikefest 2026
Leesburg Bikefest runs from Friday, April 24, to Sunday, April 26. This world-renowned event features doznes 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.
This article originally appeared on Daily Commercial: 13 things to do in Lake and Sumter this weekend plus a big look ahead
Reporting by Julie Garisto, Leesburg Daily Commercial / Daily Commercial
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
