Since I arrived a little early, I decided to grab lunch at Fantasy of Flight’s restaurant, The Compass Rose (open daily from 11am-3pm). I went for the turkey wrap, but you can also enjoy burgers, salads, chili dogs, and more – all made to order. My food was affordable (under $10), arrived quickly, and was served by a very friendly waitress. The ingredients were fresh, and I was impressed with the quality of the side salad (no iceberg lettuce!).

At 2pm, our guide, Daisy Mae, took our “boarding passes” as we stepped onto the old-fashioned trolley car. From there, she  took us on a trip back in time, pointing out examples of “Florida cracker” architecture before taking us into some groves. There may not be fruit on the branches, but the lines of neatly hedged orange trees are a sight all their own. Even as a Florida native, I learned a few things myself. Did you know that orange trees used to stand 40 feet tall? The workers would balance on a wooden ladder while filling their bags with up to 90 pounds of oranges! Trivia like that gives you a whole new appreciation for your morning glass of O.J. 

The trip continued through open fields and cow pastures (look out for the  baby calves!) before reaching the private grove on Fantasy of Flight’s property. This is a great opportunity to get some fresh air and enjoy a gentle breeze while taking in some beautiful scenery! After offering us a sample of a juicy Florida orange, she escorted us out of the trolley to talk about more about agriculture. Remember, there is more to Florida than just oranges. We grow strawberries, blueberries, and even peaches! Bring your camera, you’ll have a chance to take a photo with an old ladder and orange sack.

Our journey concluded in a beautiful piece of Florida wetland, one of our most important and treasured ecosystems. Daisy Mae stopped the trolley and allowed us to listen to the natural sounds of “real Florida” – you won’t hear “It’s a Small World” here!  Keep your eyes open, you might spot birds, butterflies, snakes, or even a bald eagle! 

Afterwards, I stopped by the Fantasy of Flight gift shop, where you can buy aviation related merchandise (clothing, mugs, etc.), citrus themed gifts and other goodies (local honey, jams, etc.). How about some orange flavored bubblegum for the orange lover in your life? If you’re missing those orange blossoms, why not buy some orange blossom perfume?

Fine print:

Cost: $10 for adults and $5 for children 6-12

Tour length: Approximately one hour

Tour times: Currently departs at 10:30am and 2:00pm. Tours are expected to be offered year round, but departure times may change, so please call ahead. Walk-ups are accepted, but reservations are recommended.

Notes: You do not have to purchase Fantasy of Flight admission to take the Orlampa Express tour or have lunch at The Compass Rose. Just take I-4 to exit #44. Open daily with free parking. For reservations and more information, call 863-984-3500.

National Military Appreciation Month at Fantasy of Flight
May 1-31

May marks National Military Appreciation Month and Fantasy of Flight is pleased to honor the brave individuals of our armed forces with free admission to all U.S active-duty, retired and reserve military.
To qualify for free general admission, guests must present a valid ID.

Legends & Legacies

Fantasy of Flight also hosts their Legends & Legacies Symposium Series year-round which honors American heroes whose personal contributions became part of our country’s rich history and helped shape our society. This series provides the audience with the rare opportunity to hear personal struggles, challenges and accomplishments first-hand.

Upcoming dates: June 8-9: Reflections of Vietnam
                                   October 12-13: Letters Home: Love, Courage & Survival

Armed Forces Day Carillon Concerts at Bok Tower Gardens
Saturday, May 19

Bok Tower Gardens will honor the brave men and women of our Armed Forces with special carillon concerts on Saturday, May 19 and free admission to all branches of the military (active, retired and disabled veterans) with valid ID.

Armed Forces Day at Joker Marchant Stadium
Saturday, May 19

Operation Tiger Trot:

-The annual Tiger Trot 5k & Fun Walk will take place at Joker Marchant Stadium Saturday. Registration will begin at 7 a.m., and the race will start at 8 a.m.
-Participants will receive a run shirt, dog tags, yellow ribbon and participation certification – “I SUPPORT OUR SOLDIERS,” and prizes include gift certificates, awards, and trophies for 15 age divisions.
-Trophies will be awarded to the Overall Male/Female, Masters Male/Female as well as age group winners. There will also be special military team awards.
-The Tiger Trot benefits the Detroit Tigers Foundation of Florida, Polk County ROTC programs and The Ledger’s Newspaper in Education Program.

Baseball:

The Lakeland Flying Tigers will honor current and retired members of the military for their service to the country with free admission to the game where they take on the St. Lucie Mets at 6:00 p.m. Gates open at 4:30 p.m.

Following the game will be a patriotic fireworks extravaganza (weather permitting).

Pre-game:

Prior to the game, Roy Powers and the Last Exit Blues Band will perform in the concourse.

The Tigers will also host the North Lakeland Little League’s team party before and during the game where each team will parade onto the field prior to the game.

Memorial Day:

All White Memorial Day Weekend Comedy Jam at Polk Theatre:
Sunday, May 27

IV the Soul presents the 1st Annual All White Memorial Day Comedy Jam featuring Marvin Dixon, Shawty Shawty, Ray Lipowski, Vanessa Fraction, & Goldiee on Sunday, May 27 at Polk Theatre.

Tickets are on sale for $25 General Admission.

Memorial Day Concerts at Bok Tower Gardens:
Monday, May 28

Bok Tower will host a musical salute of gratitude on Monday, May 28 with the Armed Forces Day Carillon Concerts. All branches of the military (active, retired and disabled veterans) will receive free admission with valid ID.

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)

For all runners, walkers and those just looking to get into shape, the Carillon Classic 5k Run & Walk on May 26 is your opportunity to run a course that’s never been ran before! Held at the beautiful and historical Bok Tower Gardens, the Carillon Classic is an experience like no other. With a tranquil setting on 157-acres of garden woodland and home to the magnificent bell tower housing one of the world’s greatest carillons, Bok Tower makes an ideal location for a picturesque 5k.

Runners and walkers will trek the natural rolling hills of the course and navigate through the gardens while carillon music, the tower and gorgeous views serve as the backdrop.

Participants will receive a dri-fit t-shirt and post-race refreshments, and the top three winners from standard age divisions will receive a trophy. Following the race, all participants and spectators are invited to enjoy the gardens for the day free-of-charge making it a great way to spend Memorial weekend with the family.

This inaugural event will be hosted by the Dick Pope/Polk County Chapter of the Florida Public Relations Association, and proceeds will benefit its educational and professional initiatives, as well as the George W. Harris, Jr. Runaway and Youth Crisis Shelter.

The Carillon Classic will take place rain or shine on Saturday, May 26, and the entry fee is $25 for adults and $15 for students (1st-12th Grade) who are registered by Friday, May 11. Registering after May 11 will incur an additional $5 charge. Race day registration will begin at 6:30 a.m., while the 5k Run & Walk gun time is scheduled for 7:30 a.m.

For more information, please contact Danny Kushmer, FPRA Chapter President, at 863-559-8062 or by email. You can also contact Cindy Rodriguez or Jim DeGennaro .

Register online

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)

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)

History Detective Wanted
Date: Tuesday, April 10
Venue: Polk County Historical Museum – Bartow
-The Polk County Historical Museum will host this program discussing Polk County’s role in the Civil War.

Rumors
Dates: Tuesday, April 12 – Saturday, April 14
Venue: Theatre Winter Haven
-A Comedy by Neil Simon at Theatre Winter Haven.

Bach Festival
Date: Friday, April 13
Venue: St. Joseph’s Catholic Church – Lakeland
-The Bach Festival Chamber Singers and Orchestra will perform Bach favorites at the 37^th Annual Concert.

Chain of Lakes Chamber Golf Challenge
Date: Friday, April 13
Venue: Cypresswood Golf & Country Club – Winter Haven
-This 21st annual golf tournament will be will be played as a four-person scramble.
-There will be multiple contests including a longest-drive, closest-to-the pin on four sponsored holes, putting, ball drop and the chest of cheers!

Legends & Legacies: Unspoken Valor
Dates: Friday, April 13 – Saturday, April 14
Venue: Fantasy of Flight – Polk City
-Hear stories from original crewmembers and see a rare display of Fantasy of Flight’s bomber planes.
-This event features an open-forum/question-and-answer session as well as meet/greet and autograph signing.

Senior Studio Show
Dates: Friday, April 13 – Wednesday, April 25
Venue: Florida Southern College – Lakeland
-The Senior Studio Show will be at the Melvin Gallery at Florida Southern College.
-A reception for the exhibit will be held on April 13 at 7:00 p.m.
-The John R. Reuter award for the outstanding studio artist will be announced at the opening reception.

Star Quest International
Dates: Friday, April 13 – Sunday, April 15
Venue: The Lakeland Center
-This regional dance competition is entering its 18^th season in Lakeland.

The Hallelujah Girls
Dates: Friday, April 13 – Saturday, April 14
Venue: Haines City Community Theater
-A comedy written by the authors of “The Dixie Swim Club”, Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope, and Jamie Wooten.

Wingin’ It! 2012
Dates: Friday, April 13 – Saturday, April 14
Venue: Winter Haven Municipal Airport
-Wingin’ It! 2012 is a fly-in event and will include wing and wing sauce competition, live music and the best brews.

Bach Festival
Date: Friday, April 14
Venue: First Presbyterian Church– Lake Wales
-The Bach Festival Chamber Singers and Orchestra will perform Bach favorites at the 37^th Annual Concert.

Cars, Crafts & Bikes
Date: Saturday, April 14
Venue: The Monarch School – Lakeland
-The Monarch School is hosting a community car, craft and bike show.
-There will be food, games, activities, health and community vendors, prizes and raffles, as well as a yard sale, and baked goods.

Tap2You Dance Competition
Date: Saturday, April 14
Venue: Polk Theatre – Lakeland
-Tap2You was created as a way to educate people about tap dancing and is a new kind of dance competition.

Bartow Adult Concert Band
Date: Sunday, April 15
Venue: Bartow Civic Center
-Now in its 20th season, the band performs one free concert a month at the Bartow Civic Center between November and April.
-The band performs a wide variety of music, including marches, classics, Latin-influenced pieces, jazz and Broadway show tunes.

ISO “Cookie Concert”
Date: Sunday, April 15
Venue: The Lakeland Center
-This annual FREE children’s concert is sponsored by Publix Super Markets Charities.
-Pre-concert activities begin at 2:00pm including an instrument petting zoo.

Upcoming Events:

Legends & Legacies- D-Day Invasion of Normandy – May 11-12, 2012 (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)

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)