While it may be raining and hot during the day, Lake and Sumter has plenty of nighttime and indoor entertainment to help you retreat from the heat, and some free outdoor New Orleans-jazzy fun in the Villages later in the day when it gets a little milder and fresh-air friendly.
Plus biker arm wrestling, if you think you can muster the strength.
Bring the pup to Eustis First Friday
Head to downtown Eustis on Friday, Aug. 7, for the monthly First Friday dog-themed street party, where you can celebrate the dog days of August in the most literal fashion: It’s a “dog-friendly cooldown,” the city says. The event will feature a free dog photobooth, free pup cups (while supplies last), and free face painting (dog designs only). The band Superstatic will rock the crowd, and a cool-off zone will be set up to help furbabies beat the heat. More live entertainment includes the Soccer Collies Interactive Shows at 6:15, 7 and 8 p.m., and circus-style dog shows will take place at 6:30, 7:30 and 8:15 p.m.
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 East Magnolia Avenue and North Eustis Street. Admission is free. Details: Eustis.org
‘All Shook Up’ at IceHouse Theatre
It’s your last chance to see a fun-lovin’ musical comedy featuring the songs of Elvis Presley 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. 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 352-383-4616.
‘Stuart Little’ at Hideaway Performing Arts Center
Premiering this weekend, E.B. White’s classic tale comes to life in the stage production of “Stuart Little.” Adapted by Joseph Robinette — who also penned the acclaimed stage version of “Charlotte’s Web” — the enduring story-theatre presentation captures all the charm, wisdom and joy of the original novel. Expect a highly creative ensemble taking on multiple human and animal roles.
Andrew Cylc plays Stuart Little. Co-stars include Alan Daines, Valerie Meyer, Kylie Quinlan, Joshua Dykes, Allison Dion and Sofia Carroll, who will kick off the new Hideaway Family Series with an optimistic message about facing life’s challenges with determination, which continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. The first show takes place at 7 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 7, at the Hideaway Performing Arts Center, 431 Plaza Drive, Eustis, and the run continues on select dates through Aug. 16. Tickets are $20, but a family 4-pack of tickets costs only $55. Details: lakecountyfl.gov
Motorcycles and arm-wrestling in Wildwood
The rumble of engines and the test of raw physical strength will converge this Saturday, Aug. 8, as the annual Bikes and Biceps Arm Wrestling Tournament takes over Lucky U Cycles in Wildwood. The high-energy event is scheduled to run from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., bringing together motorcycle enthusiasts and competitive pullers from across the region.
Organized in partnership with the Florida Arm-wrestling Association, the competition offers official sanctioning for athletes looking to prove their power on the table. Spectators can expect a vibrant atmosphere filled with custom bikes, live entertainment and intense head-to-head matchups throughout the day. Competitors looking to enter the tournament can register onsite, with registration fees set at $40 per hand. Lucky U Cycles is located at 9049 N. U.S. 301, Wildwood. Details: 352-330-4545 or online at luckyucycles.com.
Bourbon Street Brass Band in The Villages
On Saturday, Aug. 8, from 6 to 10 p.m., you can head to Lake Sumter Landing Market Square for festive socializing and live jazz with the Bourbon Street Brass Band. The outdoor pavilion hosts a free community concert featuring authentic, high-energy New Orleans-style jazz and brass-driven dance music. Admission is free; attendees should bring lawn chairs. Information: thevillages.com.
Mike Palma Comedy & Magic Show with Seafood Boil
Get ready for an evening of mind-bending magic, side-splitting laughs, and delicious food during the Comedy Ventriloquist and Magic Show featuring Mike Palma. Originally from New York and now a Central Florida staple, Palma brings more than 20 years of entertainment experience to the stage. Expect a fast-paced, amusing performance featuring his lifelike characters and illusions, paired with a classic seafood boil. Presented by the AMVETS Post 2006 Ladies Auxiliary to benefit their scholarship fund, the dinner runs from 5 to 7 p.m., with the show starting right at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 8, at AMVETS Post 2006, 500 N. Canal St., Leesburg. Tickets are $25. Details: facebook.com
‘What’s It About Trees?’ at Trout Lake Nature Center
Learn about the vital role of native forests during “What’s It About Trees? Discover Why Florida’s Forests Matter.” Led by Executive Director Eileen Tramontana, the presentation explores how local trees clean our air, protect water and support wildlife, while also identifying invasive species that threaten local habitats. Takes place from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 8, at the Trout Lake Nature Center, 520 East County Road 44, Eustis. Admission is $5 per vehicle (free for TLNC Annual Passholders). Details: troutlakenaturecenter.com
Second Saturday Sounds at Ferran Park
Groove to the music at Second Saturday Sounds, featuring a live performance by The Ultimate Santana Tribute. Bring a lawn chair or blanket to enjoy this free outdoor concert by the lake. The music plays from 6 to 8 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 8, at Ferran Park in Eustis. Details: lakecountyfl.gov
50th annual Dolly Awards at the State Theatre
Celebrate the talent of the previous season at the 50th Annual Dolly Awards. Named in honor of the cast and crew of the Bay Street Players’ inaugural 1974 production of “Hello, Dolly!” the evening features a cocktail reception, awards ceremony, live performances, a silent auction and a preview of the theater’s 51st season. Lead acting nominees include Tad Kincade, Nico Querino, Jacob Dietrich, Lee Kelly, Taylor Pannett, Jordan Shepherd, Gail Bartell and Cheyenne Dever. The celebration begins with a cocktail reception at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 9, at the historic State Theatre, 109 N. Bay St., Eustis. The event is free and open to the public, but capacity is limited. Details and required RSVPs (due by Aug. 1): Email philadelphia@baystreetplayers.org or visit Dolly Awards.
A look ahead …
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. 14 | Andy Gross at Clermont Performing Arts Center
Andy Gross, a multi-talented entertainer, combines stand-up comedy, magic and ventriloquism. Known for his viral videos and television appearances, Gross has been compared to comedy legends Don Rickles and Robin Williams for his quick-witted ad-libs. This hilarious, mind-bending performance takes place at 7 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 14, at the Clermont Performing Arts Center, 3700 S. U.S. 27, Clermont. Details: clermontperformingarts.com
Aug. 15-16 | 37th Florida Highwaymen Art Show & Sale
Experience the legacy of Florida’s iconic painters at the 37th Annual Florida Highwaymen Art Show & Sale. Presented by Heron Cay Bed & Breakfast Inn and Kelvin Hair, with local support from the Mount Dora Center for the Arts, the exhibition features works by second-generation and legacy artists. Featured creators include Stephanie Black Denmark (daughter of Al Black), Kelvin Hair (son of Alfred Hair), Michael Love, Roy McLendon Jr., Richard Edwards, Johnny Stovall and Jimmy Stovall Lynes Jr. The event runs from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 15, and Sunday, Aug. 16, at the Donnelly Building at Donnelly Park, 530 N. Donnelly St., Mount Dora. Admission is free. Details: mountdoraart.com
Aug. 15 | ‘Reel Requests Live!’ by Bay Street Players
Experience the magic of classic radio request shows with a cinematic twist. Reel Requests Live! is a high-energy concert-comedy event celebrating the greatest movie songs of all time. Presented by acclaimed vocalist Ashley Wilcox and Request Line Live!, this immersive theatrical show features live performances of beloved movie hits, hilarious call-ins from iconic movie characters, fake movie trailers, and plenty of audience interaction. The performance begins at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 15, at Eustis’ historic State Theatre. Tickets are $30 and up. Details: eustisstatetheatre.org/shows/reel-requests-live
Aug. 15 | Third Saturday Concert & Potluck at TLNC
Gather over food and live acoustic music during the Third Saturday Concert & Potluck. Presented by Lake Eustis Folk, the event features acclaimed acoustic duo Six Strings & a Fiddle, who blend rich harmonies and masterful musicianship across country, folk, Americana and gospel. Attendees are encouraged to bring a covered dish to share for the community dinner before the show. Potluck begins at 7 p.m., followed by the concert from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., on Saturday, Aug. 15, at the Trout Lake Nature Center in Eustis. A suggested donation of $7 is requested at the door.
Aug. 21–23 | Harvest Festival at Lakeridge Winery
Celebrate the arrival of harvest season with grape-stomping competitions, continuous live music and scenic vineyard views. Lakeridge Winery’s signature three-day Annual Harvest Festival at Lakeridge Winery features local food trucks, outdoor bars pouring wine, beer and soft drinks, and a bustling vendor marketplace. Bring your lawn chairs and picnic blankets to enjoy performances by local bands on the outdoor stage. The festival runs Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Aug. 21-23, at Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards, 19239 U.S. 27 N, Clermont. Admission is $10; includes a wine tasting ticket and a grape stomp ticket. Kids get in for free. Details: Lakeridgewinery.com
Through Aug. 29 | Dino exhibit in Mount Dora
Step back in time at the W.T. Bland Public Library with a free prehistoric exhibit on display through Monday, Aug. 31. Visitors of all ages can explore a 20-foot-long Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton, a fully skinned juvenile T. rex, an in-flight pterosaur, a simulated fossil dig panel and a giant dinosaur egg photo opportunity. In conjunction with the exhibit, paleontologist Jimmy Waldron will host a special “All About T-rex” presentation at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 29. Designed for ages 8 and up, the engaging program dives into how the massive carnivore hunted and lived, and attendees will receive door prize tickets for newly published dinosaur books. The exhibit is free and open to the public during regular library hours with no reservations required. Details: DWABA.org
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
Through Sept. 20 | Cirque du Soleil discount for Florida residents
Experience the magic of Drawn to Life presented by Cirque du Soleil and Disney at Walt Disney World Resort for a special discounted rate this summer. Florida residents can enjoy up to 25 percent off adult ticket prices. The offer is available for purchase now through Sept. 20. Performances take place at Disney Springs West Side. Details and tickets: cirquedusoleil.com/drawn-to-life
Aug. 29 | Sketch comedy at Mount Dora Music Hall
Get ready for an evening of live, adults-only humor as Rauce Padgett and Joel Warren of Real Radio 104.1 bring their 14 Sketch Comedy Show to the Mount Dora Music Hall. Known for their quick wit and unforgettable characters, the duo promises an energetic night of laughs and surprises. The 18-and-older event kicks off with a happy hour social at 6:30 p.m., followed by the show at 8 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 29, at the Community Building, 520 N. Baker St., Mount Dora. General admission tickets are $20 and VIP tickets are $40. Details and tickets: tix.com.
Sept. 10 | Wedding fair at The Venue
Planning your special day? Clermont’s newest event space, The Venue, is hosting the Premier Wedding Expo for engaged couples and their families. Meet face-to-face with top local vendors — including photographers, florists, DJs, cake designers and travel planners — while enjoying complimentary appetizers, door prizes and a chance to win $500 off an event booking. The free expo runs from 4 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 10, at The Venue, 2400 S. U.S. 27 (Bldg. 1-101 Unit A), Clermont. Advance registration is encouraged. Details and tickets: Eventbrite or thevenueclermont.com
Sept. 18 | ‘Assisted Living: The Musical’ at Grand Oaks Resort
The national touring hit comedy “Assisted Living: The Musical” debuts its monthly residency at The Grand Stage at Grand Oaks Resort. Performed by its authors, Rick Compton and Betsy Bennett, the hilarious show takes audiences to Pelican Roost, the “party school of senior living communities,” featuring 18 quirky characters and songs like “Help! I’ve Fallen (For You), and I Can’t Get Up.” The wickedly funny performance is accompanied by a three-course buffet dinner prepared by Grand Oaks’ acclaimed kitchens. The debut event begins at 5 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 18, at the Grand Oaks Resort. Details and tickets: thegrandoaks.com or call 352-750-5500.
Sept. 19 | The Laugh Reunion at Eustis’ Hideaway
The Laugh Reunion celebrates 11 years of the House of Laughter: Clean Comedy for All Ages, and the promoters say it will be an evening of clean comedy, games, a 50/50 raffle, and great memories. Bring your family and invite your friends for a fun-filled night of community and entertainment. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and the laughs begin at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 19, at the Hideaway Performing Arts Center, 431 Plaza Drive, Eustis. Details and tickets: Hideaway Performing Arts Center or Eventbrite.
Oct. 8 | Jungle Fest 2026 at Trout Lake Nature Center
Support the future of Central Florida’s environmental education while enjoying an evening of fun at Jungle Fest 2026. Hosted by the Trout Lake Nature Center, the event will feature a silent auction filled with rare finds, collectibles, original artwork, themed baskets, and outdoor adventures. Proceeds benefit Phase III of the center’s Building Fund, which will help expand its Education Complex. The organization is currently seeking community support through silent auction donations and business sponsorships. The event runs from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 8, at the Trout Lake Nature Center, 520 E. County Road 44, Eustis. Tickets are $99 through Sept. 15, and $119 beginning Sept. 16 (checks can also be mailed to the center to avoid online transaction fees). Details and tickets: Event Registration. For auction donations or sponsorships, call 352-357-7536 or email TLNC.info@gmail.com
Nov. 14 | Third annual Flapjack 5K and Pancake-Palooza
Sprint, walk, jog, or stroll through downtown Leesburg for the 3rd Annual Flapjack 5K, where unlimited pancakes are waiting at the finish line. Hosted by the City of Leesburg, the event invites runners, walkers, families, and syrup enthusiasts to enjoy a fun morning of fitness. Following the race, the celebration continues at the Pancake-Palooza brunch fest featuring local food trucks, live entertainment, and more. Early bird registration discounts are available through Aug. 30. The 5K kicks off at 8 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 14, starting at the Leesburg Towne Square, 501 W. Main St., Leesburg. Details: leesburgflorida.gov
Through Nov. 30 & on Dec. 19 | Wreaths Across America
See the wreaths and honor veterans at noon on Saturday, Dec. 19, 2026, at Lone Oak Cemetery, 306 Thomas Ave., Leesburg. Before that, help honor local veterans by sponsoring a wreath that will be placed on a veteran’s grave. Wreaths are $17 each, and the deadline to place an order is Monday, Nov. 30. To place a local order, call Tracy Metcalf by phone at 352-326-9085 or by email at Loneoakcemetery@Outlook.com. Checks should be made payable to “Wreaths Across America” ($17 per wreath) and mailed to P.O. Box 490804, Leesburg, FL 34749-0804. You can also order from wreathsacrossamerica.org. Use Location ID FLLNOC and Group ID FL0298P. Click “Sponsor Wreaths,” select quantity, and complete the payment form. If you choose to order online, call Loan Oak to provide the name of the veteran the wreath is for and to let Metcalf know if you will be placing the wreath yourself.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: 9 things to do this weekend in Lake and Sumter 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
