If you like to watch sports and movies, this is no doubt a big weekend for you.
From the release of Christopher Nolan’s anticipated epic summer movie, “The Odyssey,” to Sunday’s World Cup final game. There are plenty of places to experience historical watching July 17-19.
IRL, you can catch the Leesburg Lightning’s free home game Saturday night or the premiere of the big Elvis-inspired stage musical at IceHouse Theatre.
What else is happening? See below:
Tavares Lakefront Cars, Food Trucks & Market
If you are a fan of classic rides and beautiful lake views, head down to America’s Seaplane City for the family-friendly Tavares Lakefront Cars, Food Trucks & Market. You can check out an impressive display of classic, antique, and exotic vehicles (plus amphibious ones!) while enjoying live music, 10 different food trucks, and a waterfront market featuring local artisans. Admission is free. Takes place from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Friday, July 17, at Wooton Park, 100 E. Ruby St., Tavares. Details: tavaresfl.gov
Where to see this summer’s big epic movie
Maybe you miss those ancient-period epic movie matinees on syndicated channels starring Charlton Heston or Victor Mature. That feeling is back with less schlock and appropriation.
You may have first encountered the time-honored adventure, “The Odyssey,” in middle school, through the resplendent oration of a zealous English teacher, who taught us the hero’s journey of Odysseus, interpreting Homer’s nearly 3,000-year-old verse filled with battles, mythical beasts and longing for a place called home.
Later, you may have come across the story in loosely adapted films, ranging from “O Brother, Where Art Thou?” to “The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie.”
Oscar-winning filmmaker Christopher Nolan (“The Dark Knight,” “Oppenheimer,” “Dunkirk” and “Interstellar”) saw an elementary school play that stayed with him since the age of 5 and led to his mammoth undertaking, “The Odyssey” (in theaters Friday, July 17).
Where can you see it? There are currently no theaters in Lake or Sumter County equipped to screen the 70mm version of Christopher Nolan’s “The Odyssey.” But it can be seen locally at Old Mill Playhouse in The Villages, AMC Lake Square 12, and the Epic Theatres at Mount Dora and Clermont.
To see the film in true 70mm or IMAX 70mm, you will need to travel to nearby Central Florida locations in neighboring Orange or Volusia County, including Enzian Theater in Maitland, which is screening standard 70mm prints of the epic Greek classic. Regal Waterford Lakes & IMAX in Orlando is screening IMAX 70mm.
Art studio grand opening in Howey-in-the-Hills
Celebrate the launch of a new community art space at Studio Agnew’s Grand Opening. Hosted by artist, designer, and children’s book author Lindsay Agnew, the free open house invites locals of all experience levels to enjoy light refreshments, live art demonstrations and interactive art stations.
Attendees can tour the new studio, browse original artwork and handmade creations and check out the upcoming class schedule for creators and would-be creators of all ages and abilities. Also, look for a Daily Commercial interview with the multitalented Agnew in the coming days.
The weekend-long afternoon celebration takes place from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, July 17, and 1-5 p.m. Saturday & Sunday, July 17-19, at Studio Agnew, 107 E. Central Ave., Howey-in-the-Hills. Admission is free. Details: studioagnew.com. Check out our interview with owner/artist Lindsay Agnew, coming soon on dailycommercial.com.
Leesburg Lightning vs. Orlando Snappers
Get ready for an action-packed evening of Florida Collegiate Summer League baseball. The Leesburg Lightning return to Historic Pat Thomas Stadium this Saturday, July 18, for a highly anticipated home matchup against the Orlando Snappers.
As the playoffs-bound Lightning look to close out a stellar regular summer season, head there to watch an All-American sport, grab some classic ballpark concessions, and cheer on elite collegiate talent under the stadium lights.
Best of all, general admission to regular-season home games is completely free, making it an unbeatable, budget-friendly weekend outing in Lake County. First pitch is at 7 p.m., so arrive early to grab a great seat in the bleachers. The stadium is located off Lake Harris next to Venetian Gardens at 240 Ball Park Road, Leesburg. Details: leesburglightning.com
Summer Yard Sale in Mount Dora
Some items just aren’t worth the retail markup. If you have a shopping list and want to save, head to Renninger’s Spring Yard Sale. Likewise, you can clean out your unwanted items and sell them in this show. Free admission, free selling and free parking, and it’s pet-friendly. Renninger’s Florida Twin Markets is located at 20651 U.S. 441Mount Dora. Details: 352-383-8393.
‘All Shook Up’ at IceHouse Theatre
A fun-lovin’ musical comedy featuring the songs of Elvis Presley will shake things up this summer at the Sonnentag Theatre at the IceHouse. “All Shook Up” tells the story of a magical jukebox, a leather-jacketed stranger, and the rock ‘n’ roll impact they have on a loveless town. Performances run from Friday, July 17, through Sunday, Aug. 9.
The cast, according to director Darlin Barry: Will Booker plays Chad, “a charismatic, motorcycle-riding roustabout”; Aspen Thompson is Natalie Haller, “a tomboyish mechanic who is instantly smitten”; Sam Spare is the shy nerd, Dennis, “who carries a torch for Natalie and a dream of attending dental school.”
Showtimes vary, with evening performances at 7:30 or 8 p.m. and weekend matinees at 2 p.m. Individual tickets are $28 for adults, $15 for college students with ID, and $10 for youth ages 5 to 17. The theater is located at 1100 N. Unser St., Mount Dora. Details and tickets: icehousetheatre.com or call 352-383-4616.
Project Kid Connect Backpack and Supply Giveaway
Make sure the kids are ready for the classroom at the annual Project Kid Connect, sponsored by Lake County Sheriff’s Charities. This impactful program provides underprivileged local children with free backpacks loaded with essential school supplies, including notebooks, pencils, folders, and more. The morning also features free food and drinks, family-friendly activities, and even a Dunk-A-Deputy booth!
Children must be present and enrolled as Lake County students to receive a backpack, and supplies are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. The event runs 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, July 18, at the Lake County Sheriff’s Office South Lake District Office, 15855 State Road 50, Clermont. Admission is free. Details: SheriffsCharities.com
Picnic in the Park in Wildwood
A fun, budget-friendly option for families in Sumter County, Picnic in the Park happens courtesy of the city of Wildwood, complete with story time, crafts and snacks for the kids. Families just need to bring their lunch, picnic blankets, and chairs. Takes place from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, July 18, at Wildwood Community Center, 6500 Powell Road, Wildwood. Details: wildwood-fl.gov
Naturalist Series: Florida Landscaping 101
For locals looking to spruce up their yards, the Trout Lake Nature Center is hosting a fast-track class led by Lake County Master Gardener Linda Knight. The session will cover practical, science-based strategies for creating beautiful, low-maintenance landscapes that thrive in Florida’s environment. Takes place from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Saturday, July 18, at Trout Lake Nature Center, Eustis. Details: troutlakenaturecenter.com
Enjoy a multicultural fiesta at Lake Square Mall
Celebrate Lake and Sumter’s Hispanic and Caribbean cultures at the Festival of the Americas inside Lake Square Mall. The event features representations from multiple countries, highlighting a variety of international traditions through cultural displays, music and activities. The fiesta takes place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, July 18, at Lake Square Mall, 10401 U.S. 441, Leesburg. Admission is free and open to the public. Details: lakesquaremall.com
Where to watch the World Cup final game this Sunday
Argentina won the gold trophy last year, led by the amazing Lionel Messi, and may win the gold trophy again. When you ask fans why they love Argentina even when they keep winning, they mention the heart and spirit of the team, and, of course, Messi’s slicing kicks have helped. Whether he’s helping out a teammate with a corner kick or scoring himself, his pitch play is a work of art.
Spain hasn’t won the Cup since 2010 and is heading to the big game after vanquishing favored France, thanks in large part to the talents of Lamine Yamal and Pedro Porro. The team has made the most of tactical fluidity and world-class youth integration. According to PedTalksFootball, head coach Luis de la Fuente has steered the team with possession-dominating, world-class play.
Here’s where you can watch the World Cup Final with a cheering crowd on July 19 at 3 p.m. Also, there’ll be a third-place match between England and France on Saturday, July 18, at 5 p.m.
Magical Meat Boutique, 3725 W. Old US 441, Mount Dora, has two big screens and more inside the pub. If you want AC, reserve in advance. A little farther out, but worth it: Head to D&J’s hangar at Orlando Apopka Airport for a World Cup Final Watch Party. Expect a big screen, cold drinks and grilled food all day. “Bring a chair. Bring your appetite. Bring a dish from your country if you’re feeling proud. Everyone’s welcome,” D&J said. RSVP: https://dandjaviation.typeform.com
Mullets Sports Bar & Liquor Store, new in downtown Clermont, located at 732 W Montrose St., was specifically designed to be an interactive, ultimate game-day hangout. They have a cigar patio and multiple screens dedicated to broadcasting major sporting events.
Victory Sports Grill, in The Villages’ Middleton, is going all out for the final game. They’re featuring “Signature World Cup Wings” and international classics like Guinness to enjoy during the matches. You can also watch the World Cup action at the festively colorful El Ranchito Cuban and Mexican Restaurant, 911 W. North Blvd., in Leesburg, with Margaritas or 2-for-1 sangria specials, or enjoy a stogie while watching the game at Holy Sh’mokes, 1521 Buenos Aires Blvd., The Villages, which will also show the big game.
Christmas in July at Community UMC
Travel the world without leaving Lake County! The Family Life Center of Community United Methodist Church is hosting a Christmas in July celebration packed with international crafts, games, dinner, and fun for all ages. The event runs from 6 to 8 p.m. on Sunday, July 19, at Community United Methodist Church, 309 College Ave., Fruitland Park. Admission is free and open to the community. Details: CommunityUMC.church or call 352-787-1829.
A look ahead …
July 25-Aug. 2 | Mount Dora Area Restaurant Week
The first-ever Mount Dora Area Restaurant Week invites residents and visitors to explore the local dining scene from Saturday, July 25 through Sunday, Aug. 2. Participating restaurants across Mount Dora, Eustis and Tavares will offer special menus in addition to their regular offerings, giving diners a chance to try featured dishes, revisit favorite spots, and discover something new. The event comes as Mount Dora continues to receive national recognition for its dining scene. Lunches are capped at $30 per person and dinners at $50 per person. Details: MountDora.com.
July 25 | Groveland Back 2 School Backpack Bash
Join parents, officials and local organizations for the annual Groveland Back 2 School Backpack Bash to help students start the year off right! Families can enjoy a fun-filled morning featuring a Kids Zone, free ice cream and local vendors. Students in grades K-8 will receive free backpacks and school supplies (while supplies last; children must be present to receive a backpack). The event kicks off at 10 a.m. on Saturday, July 25, at the Nathaniel Community Gymnasium at Hope International Church, 13806 State Road 33, Groveland. Admission is free. Details: Groveland-FL.gov
Aug. 1 | Clermont Summer Family Food Fest
Get ready to chow down and chill with your crew at this ultimate summer family food fete in the heart of downtown. The Clermont Summer Family Food Fest features a fleet of food trucks, live entertainment, local vendors, sweet treats and games for all ages. The festival runs from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. at Historic Downtown Clermont, 670 W. Montrose St. Admission is free. Details: ClermontDowntown.com
Aug. 1 | Florida Blue back to school event
Join Florida Blue in Clermont for Florida Blue: Mission Ready, a space-themed free school-supply giveaway, cosmic activities for the kids and resources to help students reach for the stars. Everyone is welcome. You do not need to be a Florida Blue member to participate, and there is no cost to attend. Takes place Saturday, Aug. 1, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Clermont Center, 2601 S. U.S. 27, Clermont. Details: 352-242-6800. RSVP at https://appointments.floridablue.com/fbevents/s/event-details?eventId=a2Wan0000015CJJEA2
Aug. 7 | Eustis First Friday
Get the weekend started early at the Eustis First Friday Street Party on Friday, Aug. 7. Held on the first Friday of every month, this family-friendly block party takes over Historic Downtown Eustis with a wide variety of food, local vendors, and live music. The party runs from 6 to 9 p.m. at the intersection of East Magnolia Avenue and North Eustis Street. Admission is free. Details: Eustis.org
Aug. 1 | Road Trip Summer Concert in Montverde
Does your heart yearn for the open road? Lake Community Arts understands this feeling all too well and performs tunes you will relate to in their Road Trip Summer Concert at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 1, at Woodlands Lutheran Church in Montverde.
“This exciting evening will take audiences on a musical journey across highways, backroads, and unexpected destinations through songs that celebrate adventure, travel, and the joy of hitting the open road,” the group posted on social media. “Featuring the talented voices of Lake Community Choir, this concert is packed with energy, fun, and music the whole family will enjoy.” Woodlands Lutheran Church is located at 15333 County Rd 455, Montverde. Tickets at LakeCommunityArts.org/tickets
Aug. 10 | Mount Dora Back-to-School Bash, Vol. 5
Peachy Enterprises, along with local community partners, presents its fifth annual Back-to-School Bash at the Mount Dora High School Cafeteria. Families are invited out for an afternoon of fun activities, helpful resources from local schools, and free backpacks filled with school supplies and personal hygiene items (while supplies last). Includes free food, free haircuts for children 17 and younger, and a live DJ. The bash takes place from 3:30 to 7 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 10, at Mount Dora High School, 700 N. Highland St. Pre-registration is encouraged. Details: Email PeachyBTSBash@gmail.com
Aug. 14 | Barron Ryan performs in The Villages
Enjoy an evening of genre-blending music with piano virtuoso Barron Ryan at The Sharon L. Morse Performing Arts Center. Having grown up in a home filled with the sounds of amazing artists ranging from Chopin to Michael Jackson, Ryan masterfully combines a wide array of musical influences into a captivating live performance. No wonder his tagline is “classic meets cool.” The concert takes place at 7 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 14, in The Villages. Details and tickets: TheSharon.com
Aug. 21 | Dokken at Mount Dora Music Hall
Get ready to rock out with ’80s hard rock legends Dokken as they return to Central Florida for an explosive night at the Mount Dora Music Hall. Opening the night is special guest Hairborn, a tribute band celebrating the biggest anthems of ’80s hair metal. It’s the perfect lead-in to a night of head-banging and singing along in a rare, intimate venue. Doors open at 7 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 21, at the Community Building, 520 N. Baker St., Mount Dora. Details and tickets: https://www.mountdora.gov.Did we forget anything? This list will be updated throughout the summer. Email us your event at news@dailycommercial.com
This article originally appeared on Daily Commercial: 12 things to do in Lake & Sumter this weekend plus a look ahead
Reporting by Julie Garisto, Leesburg Daily Commercial / Daily Commercial
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Julie Garisto, Leesburg Daily Commercial | USA TODAY Network
