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
-The Lakeland Flying Tigers have returned to Lakeland for the 2012 season.
-This week’s home games are:
May 25 vs. Tampa Yankees, 7:11 PM ; 7-11 Fridays, Metro PCS Family 4-Pack
May 26 vs. Tampa Yankees, 6:00 PM; Firework Extravaganza, Kids Club Day, Spirit Night
May 27 vs. Tampa Yankees, 1:00 PM; Sunday Family Fun Day, Geico Employee Day

Annual Juried Art Show
Dates: Monday, May 21 – Friday, May 25
Venue: Florida Southern College – Lakeland
-Lakeland Art Guild’s 41st Annual Juried Art Show takes place at the Melvin Gallery, Florida Southern College on Lake Hollingsworth Drive, Lakeland.
-Viewing hours are Monday-Friday, 10am to 4pm.

Historic Lake Mirror Tours
Date: Tuesday, May 22
Venue: Downtown Lakeland
-This is a free historic walking tour through Downtown Lakeland.
-Tours are scheduled on the fourth Tuesday of the month at 6:30pm.
-Call the Lake Mirror rental office to reserve a spot, limited to 25 people.

A-C-T Carillon Classic 5k Run/Walk
Date: Saturday, May 26
Venue: Bok Tower Gardens – Lake Wales
-This inaugural event will be hosted by the Dick Pope/Polk County Chapter of the Florida Public Relations Association, in which proceeds will benefit its educational and professional initiatives, as well as the George W. Harris, Jr. Runaway and Youth Crisis Shelter.
-Participants will enjoy a gorgeous route (with carillon music from the tower), a tech t-shirt and post-race refreshments along with the opportunity to enjoy the gardens after the race for free.

Highland City Community Market
Date: Saturday, May 26
Venue: Highland City
-Your local community market that features hand-crafted items and fresh produce.
-The market will be open on the fourth Saturday of every month from 8:00 a.m.- 2:00 p.m. at the First Baptist Church of Highland City.

LEGOLAND® Florida Water Park Grand Opening
Date: Saturday, May 26
Venue: LEGOLAND Florida – Winter Haven
-LEGOLAND® Florida Water Park will feature a wave pool, Build-A-Raft lazy river, tube slides, body slides and an interactive water-play structure – DUPLO® Safari.
-Admission to the water park is included with an all-new LEGOLAND Premium Pass, which offers 12 months admission to LEGOLAND Florida and seasonal access to the LEGOLAND Water Park.

All White Memorial Weekend Comedy Jam
Date: Sunday, May 27
Venue: Polk Theatre – Lakeland
-IV The Soul, LLC presents The All White Memorial Day Comedy Jam the countries funniest comedians: Shawty Shawty, Marvin Dixon, Vanessa Fraction, Ray Lipowski and Justin Goldsmith.

Upcoming Events:

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

Live at the Gardens: Summer Music Series – June 23, July 14, August 11, September 22 (Bok Tower Gardens-Lake Wales)

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)

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)

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)

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)

Detroit Tigers Spring Training
Dates: Now – April 3
Games start at 1:05 p.m.
Venue: Joker Marchant Stadium- Lakeland
-Spring Training for the Detroit Tigers has begun!  Check the schedule for daily home games.
This week’s home games:
Monday, March 26- Miami Marlins
Thursday, March 29- Washington Nationals at 6:05 p.m.
 Sunday, April 1- Houston Astros

Historic Lake Morton Tours
Dates: Tuesday, March 27; 6:30pm
Venue: Lake Morton – Lakeland
-The story starts during the horse and buggy days when people hitched their horses up at Munn Park to visit downtown.
-Learn how the Loggia came about and even how to say Loggia.
-Scheduled on the fourth Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. (March, November, & December), 7:30pm (April & October) or 8:30pm (May, June, July, August & September).

2012 SUN ‘n FUN International Fly-In & Expo
Date: Tuesday, March 27 – Sunday, April 1
Venue: Florida Air Museum at SUN ‘n FUN – Lakeland
-Offering over 250 open forums, hands-on-workshops, seminars, evening programs and industry dinners, plus four expo hangars and outside exhibits with over 500 aviation exhibitors, acres with over 4700 aircraft of all types & classes from vintage to war birds
-Also features a signature daily air show with the world premiere aerobatic stars and demonstration flights by military precision jet teams

SUN ‘n FUN 2012 Evening Programs
Dates: Tuesday, March 27 – Saturday, March 31
Venue: Florida Air Museum at SUN ‘n FUN – Lakeland
- Evening Programs are held in the Florida Air Museum’s AOPA Pavilion each night of the event.
Tuesday, March 27- Celebration of the Centennial of Marine Aviation
Wednesday, March 28- Commemoration of the 40th Anniversary of Apollo 17 and the Apollo “Lunar” Program-
Thursday, March 29- Aaron Tippin: “Red, White & Loud” Concert
Friday, March 30- Night Airshow & Fireworks-
Saturday, March 31- Comedy & Music of the WWII Era: A Nostalgic night of wonderful music, laughs, and romantic memories!

The Taming of the Shrew
Dates: Tuesday, March 27 – Sunday, April 1
Venue: Polk State College – Winter Haven
- This is a theater performance by Polk State College’s Fine Arts Department.
-The Taming of the Shrew is a comedy by William Shakespeare, believed to have been written between 1590 and 1591.

Kevin Costner & Modern West Live in Concert
Dates: Wednesday, March 28; 8:00pm–10:00pm
Venue: The Lakeland Center
-Kevin Costner and his band, Modern West, perform live in concert at The Lakeland Center.
-Michael Ray will open the show.

Jack Hartmann’s Hop 2 It Music
Date: Thursday, March 29; 10:30am–11:30am
Venue: Polk Theatre – Lakeland
- Jack Hartmann M.A., BMI, is a nationally recognized children’s singer, songwriter, author, keynote presenter and workshop leader.
-This is an educational children’s music concert at Polk Theatre.

Patti Page & Connie Stevens
Date: Thursday, March 29
Venue:  The Lakeland Center
-These legendary ladies will perform in concert at The Lakeland Center with two different showings on Thursday.

Race for the Kids 2012 US Title Series Boat Races
Date: Thursday, March 29 – Sunday, April 1
Venue: Boys & Girls Club of Winter Haven
-Presented by the Race for the Kids Foundation, there will be over 80 teams from all over the U.S. competing in these hydroplane boat races; multiple classes running.
-This race benefits the Citrus Center Boys & Girls Clubs (Winter Haven, Lake Wales & Haines City).

SUN n’ FUN Splash In at Fantasy of Flight
Dates: Thursday, March 29; 10am–5pm
Venue: Fantasy of Flight – Polk City
-Fantasy of Flight hosts the Splash-In on sparkling Lake Agnes as part of the 38th Annual SUN ‘n FUN Fly-In.
-Visitors will witness a variety of seaplanes and amphibious aircraft perform water landings and takeoffs as part of the competition.

Jerry Finnegan’s Sister
Date: Friday, March 30 – Saturday, Mar. 31; 7:30pm– 9:30pm
                & Sunday, April 1; 2:00pm–4:00pm
Venue: Lake Wales Little Theatre
-A theater Performance at Lake Wales Little Theatre.

Polk Museum of Art: Sketches & Steel
Date: Friday, March 30 – Saturday, June 23
Venue: Polk Museum of Art – Lakeland
-This exhibition will focus on both sides of Paley’s creative process: the plan and the end product.
-His sculptures will be on view alongside the initial sketches Paley produced to create the sculptures.
-A reception to celebrate the exhibition will take place at 7:00 p.m. and will feature a lecture by the artist.

Seinfeld LIVE!
Date: Friday, March 30; 7:00pm–9:00pm
Venue: The Lakeland Center
-Due to popular demand, America’s premiere comedian is hitting the road in a return to his first love – stand-up comedy.
-Popular comedian, Jerry Seinfeld, performs at The Lakeland Center.

Bark in the Park
Date: Saturday, March 31; 2:00pm–8:00pm
Venue: Downtown Winter Haven
-This fun, furry event will transform Downtown Winter Haven into a Pooch’s Paradise, complete with “doggie” vendors, live music, great food & drinks and lots more.

Mustangs & Mustangs
Date: Saturday, March 31; 10:00am–4:00pm
Venue: Fantasy of Flight – Polk City
-Fantasy of Flight and the Imperial Mustang Club of Polk County team up for this 15th annual event, the only Mustang event in Florida that features both beautifully restored P-51 Mustang war birds from World War II and Ford Mustang automobiles.

The Log & Timber Home Show
Date: Saturday, March 31 – Sunday, April 1
Venue: The Lakeland Center
-See traditional log and timber homes and more at The Lakeland Center.
-Everything you need to plan, design, build and decorate your dream home.

Saturday Night Rodeo at Westgate River Ranch Resort
Date: Saturday, March 30; 7:30pm–9:30 pm
Venue: Westgate River Ranch Resort – Lake Wales
-Cowpokes and bronco busters descend upon Westgate River Ranch every Saturday night at 7:30 p.m. for an evening of fun for the whole family at the 1,200-seat rodeo arena.
- Features trick riding, bull riding, calf roping, barrel racing, rodeo clown antics and a patriotic tribute to our armed forces

Glorious
Date: Sunday, April 1; 3:00pm–5:00pm
Venue: Lakeland
-The Lakeland Choral Society will perform the “Gloria,” together with other noteworthy choral works, with brass and organ in the sanctuary of First Presbyterian Church, Lakeland.

Polk County Bridal Exhibit & Marketplace
Date: Sunday, April 1; 1:00pm–5:00pm
Venue: The Lakeland Center
-PC Bridal Exhibit Presents “Celebrations”, a Bridal Show featuring vendors and more.

Upcoming Events:

Legends & Legacies- Unspoken Valor: The Bomber Crews of World War II – April 13-14, 2012 (Fantasy of Flight-Polk City)

Winter Haven Hospital Foundation Citrus Classic 5K – April 14 (LEGOLAND® Florida -Winter Haven)

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

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

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

Detroit Tigers Spring Training
Dates: Now-April 3
Games start at 1:05 p.m.
Venue: Joker Marchant Stadium- Lakeland
-Spring Training for the Detroit Tigers has begun!  Check the schedule for daily home games at Joker Marchant Stadium.
This week’s home games:
Tuesday, March 20- Atlanta Braves
Wednesday, March 21- Minnesota Twins
 Saturday, March 24- New York Yankees
 Sunday, March 25- Philadelphia Phillies

Gardena Garden Club 2012 Spring Pilgrimage
Date: Wednesday, March 21; 10:30 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
Venue: Lake Eloise- Winter Haven
- A Garden and Home Tour on Lake Eloise in Winter Haven
- This is the primary fund-raising event for the Gardenia Garden Club to fund the beautification of Winter Haven Hospital and the Junior Gardeners program.
-The event is open to the public.

Young Frankenstein
Date: Wednesday, March 21; 7:30pm
Venue: The Lakeland Center
-The classic Mel Brooks movie is ALIVE…and headed to the Lakeland Center as a musical.
- This new production is winner of the 2008 Outer Critics Circle Award and the Broadway.com Audience Award for BEST MUSICAL!

Jerry Finnegan’s Sister
Dates: Friday, March 23- Saturday, March 24
Venue: Lake Wales Little Theatre
- Theater Performance at Lake Wales Little Theatre

Star Systems
Dates: Friday, March 23- Sunday, March 25
Venue: The Lakeland Center
- 2012 Regional Dance Competition at The Lakeland Center
-This National Talent Competition is open to the public.

WWE RAW presents Road to Wrestlemania Tour
Dates: Friday, March 23; 7:30pm-9:30pm
Venue: The Lakeland Center
-WWE Returns to Lakeland for the first time in five Years.
- Scheduled to to Appear: John Cena; CM Punk; The Miz; Kane; The Divas & more!

Buckler’s Arts & Craft Show
Date: Saturday, March 24
Venue: The Lakeland Center
- For over 20 years Buckler Promotions has held exceptional indoor craft shows and extravaganzas throughout Florida.
- There will be hundreds of award winning exhibitors and thousands of enthusiastic craft loving shoppers.

Family Fit Fest
Date: Saturday, March 24; 9:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m.
Venue: Downtown Winter Haven
-The Junior League of Greater Winter Haven presents the 4th Annual Family Fit Fest, a day of fun for families with activities focusing on fitness, nutrition and overall health awareness.
-This is a FREE event that caters to children of all ages.

It Was a Very Good Year
Date: Saturday, March 24
Venue: Theatre Winter Haven
- A never before seen musical journey about the life and times of the late Frank Sinatra starring Tony Sands as “The Voice”, singing all his best loved songs.

LEGO® Friends Weekend
Dates: Saturday, March 24 – Sunday, March 25
Venue:  LEGOLAND® Florida- Winter Haven
- LEGO® Friends Weekend is a daytime party for girls that includes a LEGO® Friends building event, entertainment, games, activities and much more.

Nature Faire for Kids
Date: Saturday, March 24; 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Venue: Nature Center on Lake Ned – Winter Haven
- Lake Region Audubon Society hosts the annual Nature Faire for Kids including crafts, games, prizes, a fossil hunt, nature exhibits, animals and food.

Purple Day- Walk for Epilepsy
Date: Saturday, March 24
Venue: Lake Hollingsworth – Lakeland
-Celebrate PURPLE DAY, and walk with people from all over the world for epilepsy awareness.
-The walk is held to increase awareness and support for epilepsy in West Central Florida, and The Epilepsy Services Foundation benefits from this event.

Saturday Night Rodeo at Westgate River Ranch Resort
Date: Saturday, March 24; 7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
Venue: Westgate River Ranch Resort-Lake Wales
-Cowpokes and bronco busters descend upon Westgate River Ranch every Saturday night at 7:30 p.m. for an evening of fun for the whole family at the 1,200-seat rodeo arena.
- Features trick riding, bull riding, calf roping, barrel racing, rodeo clown antics and a patriotic tribute to our armed forces

Presents: Live at Gardens Concert Series with Braun & Wolf
Date: Sunday, March 25; 5:00pm-7:00pm
Venue: Bok Tower Gardens
-Performing on the historic Steinway in the intimate setting at Pinewood Estate, pianist Gary Wolf and violinist-violist Matitiahu Braun return after playing to a standing ovation at Pinewood.
-Reservations required, limited seating

Upcoming Events:

SUN ‘n FUN –March 27-April 1 (Lakeland)

SUN ‘n FUN Splash-In at Fantasy of Flight–March 29 (Fantasy of Flight-Polk City)

Legends & Legacies- Unspoken Valor: The Bomber Crews of World War II –April 13-14, 2012 (Fantasy of Flight-Polk City)

Winter Haven Hospital Foundation Citrus Classic 5K –April 14 ( LEGOLAND® Florida-Winter Haven)

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

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

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

Enter the Spring Training Getaway to Sunny Central Florida for your chance to win:

• Two round trip airline tickets on Delta Airlines flying out of Detroit Metro Airport
• Seven night stay at the Hampton Inn Lakeside Village in Lakeland, FL
• Two tickets to the Tigers BBQ event February 28th
• Two box seat tickets to the Detroit Tigers vs. Florida Southern College game on March 2nd at Joker Merchant Stadium
• Two box seat tickets to the Detroit Tigers vs. Atlanta Braves game on March 4th at Joker Merchant Stadium
• $50 in gift certificates to Harry’s Seafood Bar and Grill in Lakeland, FL
• Two tickets to LEGOLAND® Florida
• Two tickets to Bok Tower Gardens
• Two tickets to Fantasy of Flight

For more information about Central Florida Vacations, check out www.visitcentralflorida.org.