Military Month Appreciation Celebration
Dates: Now – Thursday, May 31
Venue: Fantasy of Flight – Polk City
-May marks National Military Appreciation Month, and Fantasy of Flight honors the brave individuals of our armed forces by extending free admission to all U.S active-duty, retired and reserve military.

Lakeland Flying Tigers
Dates: Now – September 1
Venue: Joker Marchant Stadium – Lakeland
-The Lakeland Flying Tigers have returned to Lakeland for the 2012 season.
-This week’s home games are:
May 17 vs. St. Lucie Mets, 6:30 PM
May 18 vs. St. Lucie Mets, 7:11 PM
May 19 vs. St. Lucie Mets, 6:00 PM
May 20 vs. St. Lucie Mets, 1:00 PM

A Tribute to Johnny Cash
Date: Friday, May 18
Venue: Polk Theatre – Lakeland
-The Polk Theatre is bringing back this original production starring outstanding area artists for one more performance.
-The musicians play multiple instruments, and have voices that will have you humming the music for days after hearing the unique arrangements of Cash songs never presented anywhere before.

Always, Patsy Cline
Dates: Friday, May 18 – Saturday, May 20
Venue: Lakeland Community Theatre
-The show is based on a true story about Cline’s friendship with a fan from Houston named Louise Seger, who befriended the star in a Texas honky-tonk in l961, and continued a correspondence with Cline until her death.
- The musical play, complete with down-home country humor, true emotion and even some audience participation, includes many of Patsy’ unforgettable hits.

Tales of a 4^th Grade Nothing
Dates: Friday, May 18 – Sunday, May 20
Venue: Theatre Winter Haven
-A Theatre Winter Haven Academy Production based on the popular stories of Judy Blume.

Armed Forces Day Carillon Concerts at Bok Tower Gardens
Date: Saturday, May 19
Venue: Bok Tower Gardens – Lake Wales
- Special carillon concerts to honor brave men and women of our Armed Forces who have given their lives to preserve our freedom.

Classic Games Night
Date: Saturday, May 19
Venue: Polk County Historical Museum – Bartow
-Classic Games Night features classic board & card games and classic movies with a twist at the museum.
-Guests can play games provided by the museum or bring their own family favorites to share with others.

Death is a Cabernet, Ol’ Chum
Date: Saturday, May 19
Venue: Ritz on Central – Winter Haven
-Winter Haven’s Ritz Theatre hosts a murder mystery dinner.

Live at the Gardens: Summer Music Series
Date: Saturday, May 19
Venue: Bok Tower Gardens – Lake Wales
-The 11th annual Live at the Gardens Summer Music Series returns once again to our Visitor Center with monthly concerts May – September.
-Concert tickets include all-day admission to the Gardens and an optional dinner will be served at the Blue Palmetto Café before each performance.

Operation Tiger Trot
Date: Saturday, May 19
Venue: Lakeland Flying Tigers Stadium
-This 5K Race and 1 Mile Fun Walk is an Armed Forces Day Celebration and the kick off to the entire day’s events that include a cadet games competition, Armed Forces Day Celebration, baseball game and fireworks.

Ironman 70.3 Florida
Date: Sunday, May 20
Venue: Lake Eva Park – Haines City
-The ninth annual Ironman 70.3 Florida triathlon moves from Orlando to Haines City this year.
-The one-loop bike route goes through Polk County and offers athletes the chance to enjoy views of citrus groves and cattle farms as they ride along the quiet country roads.
-The run course includes three loops around Lake Eva and finishes in a grassy park near the lake.
-The IronKids Florida triathlon will take place Saturday, May 19 at 7:00 a.m.

Upcoming Events:

Carillon Classic 5k Run/Walk – May 26 (Bok Tower Gardens-Lake Wales)

LEGOLAND Florida Water Park Grand Opening – May 26 (LEGOLAND® Florida-Winter Haven)

Legends & Legacies- Reflections of Vietnam – June 8-9 (Fantasy of Flight-Polk City)

Florida’s Sunshine State Games: Polk County Festival – June 15-17 & 23-24

Red, Brick & Boom – July 4 (LEGOLAND® Florida-Winter Haven)

Polk NatureFest – October 4-7 (locations across Polk County)

Brick-or-Treat – October- Saturdays & Sundays (LEGOLAND® Florida-Winter Haven)

Legends & Legacies- Letters Home: Love, Courage & Survival – October 12-13 (Fantasy of Flight-Polk City)

Go LEGOLAND – It’s Your Birthday – October 15 (LEGOLAND® Florida-Winter Haven)

Boktoberfest – October 20 (Bok Tower Gardens-Lake Wales)

Annual Juried Art Show
Dates: Monday, May 7 – Friday, May 18
Venue: Florida Southern College – Lakeland
-Lakeland Art Guild’s 41st Annual Juried Art Show takes place at the Melvin Gallery at FSC.

Lakeland Flying Tigers
Dates: Now – September 1
Venue: Joker Marchant Stadium
-The Lakeland Flying Tigers have returned to Lakeland for the 2012 season.
-This week’s home games are:
May 8 vs. Palm Beach Cardinals, 6:30 PM
May 9 vs. Palm Beach Cardinals, 10:30 AM
May 10 vs. Palm Beach Cardinals, 6:30 PM
May 11 vs. Palm Beach Cardinals, 7:11 PM

Benefit for Bailee
Dates: Friday, May 11 – Sunday, May 13
Venue: Triple Canopy Ranch – Lake Wales
-Sky Powersports and Triple Canopy Ranch are holding an ATV weekend fundraiser to help with Bailee Kent’s medical expenses.
-The three-day event will feature live entertainment from several artists, a corn-hole tournament,  activities, bonfires, raffles, prizes, and an auction along with swamp buggy rides, monster truck rides and ATV Demo rides.
-All proceeds will be donated to Bailee Kent, 18 year old Webber student who recently suffered a massive stroke.

Legends & Legacies: D-Day Invasion of Normandy
Dates: Friday, May 11 – Saturday, May 12
Venue: Fantasy of Flight – Polk City
-This event features D-Day heroes in an open-forum/question-and-answer session as well as meet/greet and autograph signings.

National Public Gardens Day at Bok Tower Gardens
Date: Friday, May 11
Venue: Bok Tower Gardens – Lake Wales
-This national event is sponsored by the American Public Gardens Association and designed to raise awareness about the role America’s public gardens play in promoting environmental stewardship and awareness, plant and water conservation and education in communities nationwide.
-Present a current membership card to any public garden at the entrance gate to receive free admission to the Gardens.

The Real Thing
Dates: Friday, May 11 – Saturday, May 12
Venue: Lakeland Community Theatre
-Lakeland Community Theatre brings Tom Stoppard’s The Real Thing, Winner of the 1984 Tony Award for Best Play, to the stage.

Mayfaire by-the-Lake
Dates: Saturday, May 12 – Sunday, May 13
Venue: Lakeland
-The 41st annual Polk Museum of Art MIDFLORIDA Mayfaire by-the-Lake 2012.
-Mayfaire is a free community weekend that features children’s art activities, musical performances and food, all centered around beautiful, award-winning art.

Mayfaire Saturday Night
Date: Saturday, May 12
Venue: Lake Mirror Promenade – Lakeland
-A free street party at the Lake Mirror Promenade featuring live music and fireworks.

The Firebird
Date: Saturday, May 12
Venue: Polk Theatre – Lakeland
-A spin on the classic Firebird story by Artistic Director Carol Erkes and Associate Director Ferdinand De Jesus, along with new contemporary works by guest choreographers including Earl Mosely.

Mother’s Day Carillon Concerts
Date: Sunday, May 13
Venue: Bok Tower Gardens – Lake Wales
-Bok Tower Gardens celebrates Mother’s Day with Carillon concerts and free admission for all mothers.

Upcoming Events:

Ironman 70.3 Florida – May 19-May 20 (Lake Eva Park-Haines City)

Carillon Classic 5k Run/Walk – May 26 (Bok Tower Gardens-Lake Wales)

Legends & Legacies- Reflections of Vietnam – June 8-9 (Fantasy of Flight-Polk City)

Florida’s Sunshine State Games: Polk County Festival – June 15-17 & 23-24

Red, Brick & Boom – July 4 (LEGOLAND® Florida – Winter Haven)

Polk NatureFest – October 4-7 (locations across Polk County)

Brick-or-Treat – October- Saturdays & Sundays (LEGOLAND® Florida – Winter Haven)

Legends & Legacies- Letters Home: Love, Courage & Survival – October 12-13 (Fantasy of Flight-Polk City)

Go LEGOLAND – It’s Your Birthday – October 15 (LEGOLAND® Florida – Winter Haven)

This semi-annual flea market is one of the Top 10 in the country and was the biggest show to date. Vendors from all over set up shop at this event, and shoppers strolled the streets of Lakeland browsing through the vintage clothing, fabulous furniture, hand-made jewelry, original art, shabby chic decor, and antiques that were on display.

If you missed out on this shabby chic, vintage affair, check out some of our photos we took while perusing for ourselves:

Military Appreciation Month Celebration
Dates: Tuesday, May 1–Thursday, May 31
Venue: Fantasy of Flight – Polk City
-May marks National Military Appreciation Month and Fantasy of Flight is pleased to honor the brave individuals of our armed forces by extending free admission to all U.S active-duty, retired and reserve military.

ISO “Magic at the Symphony”
Date: Tuesday, May 1
Venue: The Lakeland Center
-Magic at the Symphony is a symphony performance in the Youkey Theater at The Lakeland Center Featuring Illusionist Lyn Dilles.

Earth Day Celebration
Date: Thursday, May 3
Venue: Bok Tower Gardens – Lake Wales
-Students will participate in hands-on activities by environmental exhibitors from across Central Florida.
-The topics will include: protecting wildlife, Florida’s ancient islands, forestry, water conservation, gardening, and more.

Central Park Stroll
Date: Thursday, May 3
Venue: Downtown Winter Haven
-The Central Park Stroll is a celebration of the 12th Annual Florida Outdoor Sculpture Competition, a joint project of Polk Museum of Art and the City of Winter Haven.

First Friday
Date: Friday, May 4
Venue: Munn Park – Lakeland
-First Friday is one of the most popular reoccurring events in Downtown Lakeland held on the first Friday of every month.
-May’s theme is Public Works Night and is presented with the City of Lakeland’s Public Works Department.
-There will be lots of displays, demonstrations, giveaways, entertainment and music throughout Downtown.

Annual Juried Art Show
Date: Friday, May 4
Venue: Florida Southern College – Lakeland
-Lakeland Art Guild’s 41st Annual Juried Art Show takes place at the Melvin Gallery at FSC.
-The show opens on Friday, May 4, 2012 at 6:30 pm. and extends between May 4 and May 29.

Harrison School for the Arts Spring Dance Concert
Dates: Friday, May 4 – Saturday, May 5
Venue: Harrison Theatre – Lakeland
-The performance’s choreography will showcase new works by Harrison faculty, Susan Olson and Shelley Bourgeois, in ballet and modern dance.

Laughs by the Lake
Date: Friday, May 4
Venue: Lakeland Community Theatre
-An unscripted, unrehearsed, improvisation comedy routine by The Improv Addicts at the Lakeland Community Theatre.

Concert Under the Stars
Date: Saturday, May 5
Venue: Bok Tower Gardens – Lake Wales
-Spend an enchanted moonlit evening on the Great Lawn with acoustic jazz performances by Solas and opening act by Frank Vignola Quintet.
-Concert Under the Stars features a casual atmosphere, a beer garden, and fun for the whole family.

Upcoming Events:

Legends & Legacies- D-Day Invasion of Normandy – May 11-12 (Fantasy of Flight-Polk City)

Ironman 70.3 Florida – May 19-May 20 (Lake Eva Park-Haines City)

Carillon Classic 5k Run/Walk – May 26 (Bok Tower Gardens-Lake Wales)

Legends & Legacies- Reflections of Vietnam – June 8-9 (Fantasy of Flight-Polk City)

Florida’s Sunshine State Games: Polk County Festival – June 15-17 & 23-24

Red, Brick & Boom – July 4 (LEGOLAND® Florida – Winter Haven)

Polk NatureFest – October 4-7 (locations across Polk County)

Brick-or-Treat – October- Saturdays & Sundays (LEGOLAND® Florida – Winter Haven)

Legends & Legacies- Letters Home: Love, Courage & Survival – October 12-13 (Fantasy of Flight-Polk City)

Go LEGOLAND – It’s Your Birthday – October 15 (LEGOLAND® Florida – Winter Haven)

Everyone’s favorite Bok Tower Gardens’ outdoor gathering returns on Saturday, May 5!

 The 22^nd Annual Concert Under the Stars offers guests an enchanted moonlit evening on the Great Lawn of this historic attraction. Make it a date night or gather the family to hear live music and watch the sun set over the tower as it is sure to be an enjoyable time. Concert Under the Stars features a casual atmosphere, a beer garden, acoustic jazz and giveaways throughout the evening.

Bok Tower jazzes it up this year with acoustic jazz performances by the American Irish band Solas and an opening act by guitar virtuoso Frank Vignola and Quintet.

Visitors can enter giveaways during the evening, including a private tour for six of the Singing Tower, dinner for eight at the Pinewood Estate and $100 to spend at the Tower & Garden Gift Shop. The popular picnic contest will return, and drawing on the theme of the night, prizes will be awarded for Jazziest, Most Original and Best Irish.

Be sure to bring a lawn chair or blanket along with flashlights. Guests can also bring picnics and drinks or can partake in pre-ordered meals from the Blue Palmetto Café.  Food and refreshments, including beer and wine, will also be available for sale.

Tickets for this concert event are $25 per person. Children (ages 5-12) cost $10, while those under the age of five are admitted free.

For Concert Under the Stars’ ticket giveaways, follow Visit Central Florida on Facebook and Twitter, and be on the lookout over the next week!

Southeastern University Choral Concert
Date: Monday, April 23
Venue: First Presbyterian Church – Lakeland
-This Southeastern University Choral Concert will take place Monday, April 23 at First Presbyterian Church in Lakeland.

ISO “Tea and Symphony”
Date: Tuesday, April 24
Venue: The Lakeland Center
-The Tuesday before each Masterworks concert, enjoy wine, tea and refreshments while learning about the upcoming Imperial Symphony Orchestra concert.
-This will be at Lake Hunter Room in The Lakeland Center.

Driven to Abstraction, Tony Eitharong & Carol Frye
Dates: Thursday, April 26 – Thursday
Venue: Lake Wales Arts Center
-This is an exhibition held at the Lake Wales Arts Center.
-The opening reception is scheduled for April 26, from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Rumors
Dates: Thursday, April 26 – Sunday, April 29
Venue: Theatre Winter Haven
-This is a Comedy by Neil Simon, America’s best known multi-award winning playwright, at Theatre Winter Haven.

String Ensemble Concert
Date: Thursday, April 26
Venue: Harrison Arts Center – Lakeland
-This string orchestra concert will take place at Harrison Arts Center.

Lakeland Derby
Date: Friday, April 27
Venue: Lake Mirror – Lakeland
-The Lakeland Derby is an annual “Derby Style” event staged on beautiful Lake Mirror in Downtown Lakeland.
-The Derby features ten beautifully hand-crafted swan paddleboats in a thrilling race to the finish line along with exciting new additions including corn hole, a bounce house, balloon artist and small fishing ponds for the little ones.
-Fred’s Southern Kitchen is offering a dinner for only $5, and you can also enjoy wine, beer and strawberry shortcake.
-The proceeds will support Lakeland Volunteers in Medicine, a vital local charity.

Lakeland Raiders vs. Rome Rampage
Date: Friday, April 27
Venue: The Lakeland Center
-The Raiders’ 2012 season consists of seven home games at The Lakeland Center.
-Kick-off for all home games will be 7:15pm.
-Single Game Ticket Prices:
Club Level: $25 Adult, $18 Child
Side Line: $18 Adult, $9 Child
Red Zone: $12 Adult, $7 Child

Motion Picture Art Film Festival
Dates: Friday, April 27 – Saturday, April 28
Venue: Harrison Arts Center – Lakeland
-Harrison School for the Arts presents a Motion Picture Arts Film Festival Friday through Saturday.
-The event takes place at 7:30pm on both evenings.

Polk Museum of Art: Curator Tour
Date: Friday, April 27
Venue: Polk Museum of Art – Lakeland
-Enjoy a special tour of the “Sketches & Steel” exhibition with Adam Justice, PMoA’s Curator of Art.

Roundhousen’s Roast
Date: Friday, April 27
Venue: Polk Theatre – Lakeland
-This film was produced and directed by Southeastern students and faculty and includes many students in its cast.
-Roundhousen’s Roast follows in the line of murder mystery comedies such as Clue and Murder by Death.

STARPOWER National Talent Competition
Dates: Friday, April 27 – Sunday, April 29
Venue: The Lakeland Center
-STARPOWER is a National Talent Competition held at The Lakeland Center’s Youkey Theatre.

The Odd Couple
Dates: Friday, April 27 – Sunday, April 29
Venue: Lakeland Community Theatre
-Lakeland Community Theatre presents The Odd Couple, a 1965 Broadway comedy by Neil Simon, followed by a successful film and television series as well as other derivative works and spinoffs.

Eagle Lake BBQ Festival
Date: Saturday, April 28
Venue: Gazebo Park (off Hwy 17) – Eagle Lake
-Enjoy the best local barbeque at this pro-team /backyard BBQ competition along with all-day live music, children’s activities and free parking and admission.
-The Festival proceeds will benefit Lake Region High School Athletics.

Fancy Flea Vintage Vintage Home and Garden Market
Date: Saturday, April 28
Venue: Downtown Lakeland
-Rated as one of the Top 10 Flea Markets in America, Fancy Flea is a semi-annual event located in Downtown Lakeland featuring furniture, vintage clothing, hand-made jewelry, original art and more.

Florida Southern College Graduation
Date: Saturday, April 28
Venue: The Lakeland Center
-Florida Southern College’s graduation ceremony will be in the George Jenkins Arena at The Lakeland Center.
-The ceremony is free and open to the public.

Healthy Kids Day
Date: Saturday, April 28
Venue: YMCA Winter Haven
-Join YMCA Winter Haven for fun activities relating to health and education as they encourage kids and parents to commit to keeping the body and mind active this summer.

Historic Walking Tour
Date: Saturday, April 28
Venue: Downtown Lakeland
-Realtor Jim Malless and architect John White will lead you on entertaining and informative treks into Downtown Lakeland’s distant and recent past.
-Reservations are required, and tours are limited to 30 people.

Lakeland Love Comedy
Date: Saturday, April 28
Venue: Polk Theatre – Lakeland
-A romantic comedy described as The Office meets Raising Arizona meets Paul Blart (Mall Cop).
-This feature-length film was shot in many locations around Lakeland with film dialogue that was entirely improvised.

Over 55 Show Band
Dates: Saturday, April 28 – Sunday, April 29
Venue: Fine Arts Theatre, Polk State College – Winter Haven
-The Over 55 Show Band performs at Polk State College in the Winter Haven Fine Arts Theatre on Saturday and Sunday.

Platform Art Party #19
Date: Saturday, April 28
Venue: Downtown Lakeland
-A progressive art party of visual art, short film, fashion, sound and performance with a focus on our agricultural heritage.
-A public art piece funded by Platform Art will be unveiled during the event, which is a celebration of Earth Month and Polk County’s rich agricultural heritage.
-The primary venue is under the St. Joseph’s Catholic Church Pavilion.

Webster University Graduation
Date: Saturday, April 28
Venue: The Lakeland Center
-This college graduation will take place in Sikes West at The Lakeland Center
-It’s free and open to Public. 

Upcoming Events:

Legends & Legacies- D-Day Invasion of Normandy – May 11-12 (Fantasy of Flight-Polk City)

Ironman 70.3 Florida – May 19-May 20 (Lake Eva Park-Haines City)

Carillon Classic 5k Run/Walk – May 26 (Bok Tower Gardens-Lake Wales)

Legends & Legacies- Reflections of Vietnam – June 8-9 (Fantasy of Flight-Polk City)

Florida’s Sunshine State Games: Polk County Festival – June 15-17 & 23-24

Red, Brick & Boom – July 4 (LEGOLAND® Florida – Winter Haven)

Polk NatureFest – October 4-7 (locations across Polk County)

Brick-or-Treat – October- Saturdays & Sundays (LEGOLAND® Florida – Winter Haven)

Legends & Legacies- Letters Home: Love, Courage & Survival – October 12-13 (Fantasy of Flight-Polk City)

Go LEGOLAND – It’s Your Birthday – October 15 (LEGOLAND® Florida – Winter Haven)

Polk County’s 19th Platform Art party will be held on April 28, 2012 from 7:00 – 11:00 p.m. in downtown Lakeland. Next weekend’s progressive art party will feature visual art, short film, fashion, sound and performance with a focus on agricultural heritage. Tickets will be $15.00 in advance, $20.00 the day of the event, and $10.00 for students with a valid id at the door.

For an even more exciting twist there will be a public art piece funded by Platform Art that will be unveiled during the event, which is a celebration of Earth Month and Polk County’s agricultural heritage. Art Party #19: Art in AgriCulture will be an event no one will want to miss!

Runway Fashion Show
Date: Wednesday, April 18; 6:30–8:30pm
Venue: Polk Museum of Art – Lakeland
-Polk Museum of Art proudly presents its annual spring fashion show where Neiman Marcus Tampa Bay will provide the fashions.

Rumors
Dates: Thursday, April 19 – Sunday, April 22
Venue: Theatre Winter Haven
-This is a Comedy by Neil Simon, America’s best known multi-award winning playwright, at Theatre Winter Haven.

Green Celebration
Date: Friday, April 20; 6–9:30pm
Venue: Lake Mirror Promenade – Lakeland
-Celebrate Earth Day with a free Green Celebration featuring a concert and showcase at Lake Mirror Promenade.

Jazz Victoria Ensemble
Date: Friday, April 20; 7:30–9:30pm
Venue: Lake Wales Arts Center
-Victoria is well-known to local audiences and will assemble a few of her talented friends for an evening of jazz.
-Victoria has had a major career as a jazz pianist and vocalist, having performed at Birdland, Lincoln Center and the Ritz-Carlton New York.

The Hallelujah Girls
Dates: Friday, April 20 – Sunday, April 22
Venue: Haines City Theater
-A comedy written by the authors of “The Dixie Swim Club”, Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope, and Jamie Wooten.

The Odd Couple
Dates: Friday, April 20 – Sunday, April 22
Venue: Lakeland Community Theatre
-Lakeland Community Theatre presents The Odd Couple, a 1965 Broadway comedy by Neil Simon, followed by a successful film and television series as well as other derivative works and spin offs.

Broadway at the Ritz
Date: Saturday, April 21; 6:30pm–10:30pm
Venue: Ritz on Central – Winter Haven
-This fundraiser for Theatre Winter Haven features music of Andrew Lloyd Webber and other Broadway composers with The Brass Heart Band.

Child of the Sun Urban Triathlon
Date: Saturday, April 21; 7:30am–12:30pm
Venue: Lakeland
-The Child of the Sun Urban Triathlon offers a swim, urban bike loop, and urban run through downtown Lakeland, and is sponsored by the Lakeland Rotary Club.
-The race is 100% for charity and includes many added benefits like free athlete photos, free pre and post-race stretching, free post-race massages, and more.

Child of the Sun Jazz Festival
Date: Saturday, April 21; 4pm–10pm
Venue: Lake Mirror Amphitheatre – Lakeland
-This is Lakeland’s signature jazz music festival benefitting local charities and featuring legendary jazz musicians, music and an array of food.
-The Jazz Festival is sponsored by sponsored by the Lakeland Rotary Club and partnered with Child of the Sun Urban Triathlon.

Children’s Festival & Picnic in the Park with Explorations V
Date: Saturday, April 21; 10–3pm
Venue: Explorations V Children’s Museum – Lakeland
-A spring celebration, held in support of the nationally recognized “Week of the Young Child.”
-The festival draws attention to the importance of enhancing education through playful, interactive learning adventures using the Museum’s exhibits and will include hands-on activities throughout nearby Munn Park.

Creative Studies: Inspired by Nature
Date: Saturday, April 21; 5–7:30pm
Venue: Polk Museum of Art – Lakeland
-This is an art nature presentation at Polk Museum of Art.
-Learn about the wonders of wilderness from two highly regarded Lakeland conservationists, Andy Quinn and Reinier Munguia.

Good Ol’ Days Festival
Date: Saturday, April 21; 10–2pm
Venue: Homeland Heritage Park – Homeland
-Polk County Parks & Recreation presents the Good Ol’ Days Festival which is great for all ages and designed to provide a look at Homeland Heritage Park and Polk County’s past.

Kids’ Day Celebration
Date: Saturday, April 21; 10am-4:30pm
Venue: Mulberry Phosphate Museum
-A day for the kids at Mulberry Phosphate Museum featuring activity stations, story time, games, prizes and more.

Lotela Gold 50’s and 60’s Show Band
Date: Saturday, April 21; 7pm–9pm
Venue: Ramon Theater – Frostproof
-Lotela Gold is a Show Band featuring 50’s & 60’s tunes that you love to remember, such as “Earth Angel”, “Hang on Sloopy”, “This Magic Moment”, “Midnight Hour” and so many more.
-A portion of the proceeds will benefit Frostproof High School Project Graduation.

Original Lakeland Gun Show
Dates: Saturday, April 21 – Sunday, April 22; 9am– 4pm
Venue: The Lakeland Center
-See hundreds of displays of guns, ammo, gun parts, reloading supplies, books, knives, knife sharpening, coins, camouflage and related items at discount prices.
-Over 600 vendors will participate.
-The Original Lakeland Gun Show is presented by the Lakeland Rifle and Pistol Club.

Central Florida Bridal Showcase
Date: Sunday, April 22; 1–5pm
Venue: Lake Eva Banquet Hall – Haines City
-The 2012 Central Florida Bridal Showcase is a bridal fashion show by Robyn Lynne and will include a drawing for a bridal gown, a grand prize drawing and door prizes.

Upcoming Events:

Legends & Legacies- D-Day Invasion of Normandy – May 11-12 (Fantasy of Flight-Polk City)

Ironman 70.3 Florida – May 19-May 20 (Lake Eva Park-Haines City)

Carillon Classic 5k Run/Walk – May 26 (Bok Tower Gardens-Lake Wales)

Legends & Legacies- Reflections of Vietnam – June 8-9 (Fantasy of Flight-Polk City)

Florida’s Sunshine State Games: Polk County Festival – June 15-17 & 23-24

Red, Brick & Boom – July 4 (LEGOLAND® Florida – Winter Haven)

Polk NatureFest – October 4-7 (locations across Polk County)

Brick-or-Treat – October- Saturdays & Sundays (LEGOLAND® Florida – Winter Haven)

Legends & Legacies- Letters Home: Love, Courage & Survival – October 12-13 (Fantasy of Flight-Polk City)

Go LEGOLAND – It’s Your Birthday – October 15 (LEGOLAND® Florida – Winter Haven)

Apr 18: Spring Fashion Show 2012
Polk Museum of Art annual spring fashion show at 6:30 pm. Fashions provided by Neiman Marcus Tampa Bay. Tickets are $50 for PMoA and Junior League members and $65 for non-members. Seating is limited. 800 E Palmetto St, Lakeland, FL. www.polkmuseumofart.org or phone (863) 688-7743.

Apr 20-22: “The Hallelujah Girls”
Haines City Community Theatre presents “The Hallelujah Girls” by Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope, and Jamie Wooten.  Friday – Saturday at 8pm and Sunday, April 15 at 2:30pm. Clay Cut Center, 801 Ledwith Ave, Haines City. (863) 421-1893 or www.hainescitytheatre.com.

Apr 19-22: Neil Simon’s “Rumors”
Theatre Winter Haven presents Neil Simon’s “Rumors” April 12-29.  Box Office 863-294-7469 or learn more at www.theatrewinterhaven.com.    April 12 – 29, 2012  Thursdays – Saturdays at 7:30 pm, Sundays at 2:30 pm  with Sunday (4/22) at 7:30 pm & Saturday (4/28) at 2:30pm.  Chain O’ Lakes Complex, 210 Cypress Gardens Blvd, Winter Haven. (863) 294-7469 or www.theatrewinterhaven.com.

Apr 20-29: “The Odd Couple”
Lakeland Community Theatre presents Neil Simon’s classic comedy about theworld’s most mismatched couple.    Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30pm, Sundays at 2pm, April 20-29.  Tickets: $20 adults, $15 students, $10 children. Lake Mirror Theatre, 121 S Lake Ave, Lakeland. Information: (863) 603-7529 orwww.lakelandcommunitytheatre.com.

Apr 20: Jazz Victoria Ensembles
Singer and pianist Victoria de Lissovoy performs with friends bassist Doug Matthews, guitarist Dave Smith, David Mackenzie reeds, drummer Tom Carabasi, and featured musician percussionist Avalon Griffin. Tickets $20 for members, $25 for nonmembers, $5 for students/children. Updike Hall, Lake Wales Arts Center, 1099 SR 60E, Lake Wales. (863) 676-8426 or www.lakewalesartscouncil.org.

Apr 21: Children’s Festival and Picnic in the Park
Explorations V Children’s Museum  in downtown Lakeland, hosts its annual Children’s Festival and Picnic in the Park on Saturday, April 21 from 10am – 3pm. The festival includes art, science, music and the debut of the new Raceways exhibit.  109 N Kentucky Ave, Lakeland.  (863) 687-3869 or www.explorationsv.com.

Apr 21: Lotela Gold 50′s & 60′s Show Band
Lotela Gold 50’s & 60’s Show Band  Performing live at the Ramon Theater  15 E. Wall Street, Frostproof. Listen to favorites such as “Earth Angel” – Hang on Sloopy” – Midnight Hour” and many more from your memories of the past. Ramon Theater, 15 E Wall St, Frostproof. www.ramontheater.com or (863) 494-0577 or (863) 635-7222.

Apr 21: Creative Studies “Inspired by Nature”
5:00 – 7:30pm.  Presenter: Reinier Munguia and Andy Quinn.  Have you ever felt a sense of renewal and ecstasy through an experience in nature?  Polk Museum of Art, 800 E Palmetto St, Lakeland 33801. (863) 688-7743 or www.polkmuseumofart.org.

Apr 21: “A Gathering of Angels”
Theatre Winter Haven’s largest fundraiser of the year.  Dinner, drinks, dancing and more at Winter Haven’s historic Ritz Theatre as we celebrate TWH. 6:00-11:30pm.  Contact Theatre Winter Haven Box Office 863-294-7469 or www.theaterwinterhaven.com. Ritz Theatre, 263 W Central Ave, Winter Haven.

Apr 21: Family Fun Workshop – Paper Sculpture
Family Fun Workshop – Paper Sculpture at the Burton Memorial Library in Plant City. FREE.  A program of Polk Museum of Art.  April 21, 10:30am-Noon at the Burton Memorial Library, 302 W McLendon Street, Plant City, FL, United States, 33563. www.polkmuseumofart.org or (863) 688-5423.

Apr 21: “Free to Be Me” Student Art Receptions
Student Art Receptions: Free to Be Me: 3rd to 5th Grade Exhibition. FREE.  Saturday, April 21, 11am & 1pm. Polk Museum of Art, 800 E Palmetto St, Lakeland, FL. Information: (863) 688-5423 orwww.polkmuseumofart.org.

Ongoing Exhibitions:

Through April 20: Fine Arts Show at Arts on the Park, Lakeland. 863-680-2787 or visitwww.artsonthepark.org.

Through April 22: Annual Student Art Show. Lake Wales Arts Center. www.lakewalesartscouncil.org or 863-676-8426.

Through April 27: Dimensions V – “Florida’s Abundance.” Bartow Art Guild Exhibit at the Polk County Historical Museum. www.bartowartguild.com.

Through April 29: Polk County 5th Grade Kids Tag Art Exhibit. Frostproof Art League & Gallery, Frostproof. Visit www.polktaxes.com.

Through April 29: Exhibit: Student Art Competition. M-F, 10am-2pm. Winter Haven Fine Arts Gallery. Polk State College. Free. 863-297-1050.

Through April 29: Exhibit: Faculty Art Show.  M-F, 10am-2pm. LTB 1108, Lakeland. Polk State College. Free. 863-297-1050.

Through April 30: Aviation Exhibition: A Juried Competition at Winter Haven Airport. Ridge Art Association. 863-291-5661.

Through April 30: Student Art Show. Frostproof Art League & Gallery, Frostproof. 863-635-7271.

Through May 2: Art From Found Objects: Assemblages, Collages & Montages. Free. Ridge Art Assoc. & Gallery, Winter Haven. www.ridgeart.org or 863-291-5661.

Through May 26: “Polk in the War Between the States.” Polk County Historical Museum, Bartow. Free. 863-534-4386. or www.polkcountymuseum.org.

Through May 26: From the Flat Files, a look at the previously unframed pieces of the Permanent Collection.  Polk Museum of Art, Lakeland. 863-688-7743 or PolkMuseumofArt.org.

Through May 31: New Vision – A Fine Art Show. Lake Wales Arts Center. www.lakewalesartscouncil.orgor 863-676-8426.

Through June 23: Sketches & Steel, the sculpture of Albert Paley.  Polk Museum of Art, Lakeland. 863-688-7743 or PolkMuseumofArt.org.

Through June: Native American Exhibit. M-F, 9am-5pm. Sat, 10am-4pm. Historic Lake Wales Society Depot Museum. 863-676-5160.

A pre-event party will be hosted on Friday April 20, 2012, 6:00 p.m. at the home of Zack and Nikki Morgan on Lake Eloise. Individual tickets will cost $25.00 and events proceeds will allow the Ridge Art Association to continue their efforts to complete the move to their new downtown Winter Haven location. The Ridge Art Association is the area’s oldest art organization and provides exhibits and programs, and contributes to the growth of our local cultural community. Come out and help to keep the arts and cultural community alive here in Polk County. is a great way to relax and help out an important part of the local community.

Chain of Lakes Golf Splash

Note: The Golf Splash has been rescheduled for Saturday, August 25.