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)

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)

Detroit Tigers Spring Training
Date: April 2
Venue: Joker Marchant Stadium – Lakeland
-The Tigers take on the Toronto Blue Jays at 1:05 p.m. in their last home game of 2012 Spring Training.

Rodgers & Hammerstein’s South Pacific
Date: Monday, April 2
Venue: The Lakeland Center
-A musical based on the 2008 Tony Award winning Lincoln Center Theater production, directed by Bartlett Sher.
-Group discounts are available.

2012 State Science Fair & Engineering Fair of Florida
Dates: Tuesday, April 3 – Thursday, April 5
Venue: The Lakeland Center
-A three-day display of science project exhibits prepared by aspiring scientists and engineers in grades 6-12.
-Nearly 950 Finalists will display their projects and illustrate their research in competition for awards.

Moonlight Carillon Concert at Bok Tower Gardens
Date: Tuesday, April 3
Venue: Bok Tower Gardens – Lake Wales
-Enjoy an hour-long carillon concert under the light of a full moon with the scent of citrus blossoms in the air.

Lakeland Flying Tigers Exhibition Game
Date: Tuesday, April 4
Venue: Joker Marchant Stadium – Lakeland
-The Tigers kickoff their 2012 season at Joker Marchant in an exhibition game against Southeastern University Fire.
-The first pitch is scheduled for 6:00 p.m., and gates open at 5:00 p.m.

Night Hike at Bok Tower Gardens
Date: Thursday, April 5
Venue: Bok Tower Gardens – Lake Wales
-Unravel the mysteries of nighttime sights and sounds in the Gardens after the sun goes down.

First Friday
Date: Friday, April 6
Venue: Downtown Lakeland
-Every month people gather to Downtown Lakeland for an evening of FREE family-friendly entertainment, activities, live music, art receptions, car shows and the chance to check out locally-owned restaurants or retail establishments.
-April’s theme: Get the Message Media Night- Area students try their hands at casting the marketing spell through videos and radio ads promoting Downtown Lakeland.

Cruisin’ Winter Haven
Date: Saturday, April 7
Venue: Central Park – Winter Haven
-Free monthly car show and cruise event featuring family activities, entertainment and vendors.

Easter Egg Hunt
Date: Saturday, April 7
Venue: Larry Parrish Baseball Complex – Haines City
-The Easter Bunny will be present for pictures at this free egg hunt full of prizes and candy.

Lakeland Flying Tigers Home-Opener
Date: Saturday, April 7
Venue: Joker Marchant Stadium – Lakeland
-The Flying Tigers open their FSL season against the Tampa Yankees at 6 p.m.
-Gates will open at 4:30 p.m., and the first 1,500 fans receive a 2012 magnetic schedule.
-Publix will sponsor an Easter egg hunt after the game that will feature the Easter Bunny.
-A firework show will follow if weather permits.

85^th Easter Sunrise Service at Bok Tower Gardens
Date: Sunday, April 8
Venue: Bok Tower Gardens – Lake Wales
-Easter morning worshippers will be offered free admission from 6 to 8 a.m. to experience the majesty of the sun rising.

Easter Sunday Carillon Concerts at Bok Tower Gardens
Date: Sunday, April 8
Venue: Bok Tower Gardens – Lake Wales
-Enjoy the sacred day while listening to beloved music performed on the 60-bell Singing Tower carillon.

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)

Carillon Classic 5k Run/Walk – May 26 (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)

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)

Sept 19-23, 10:30am-12:00pm
Daily Sessions at Explorations V Children’s Museum

Magical Monday, Sept 19           Where the Wild Things Are       Literacy
Terrific Tuesday, Sept 20           Fall Leaf Match                              School Readiness
Wacky Wednesday, Sept 21       Cracker Toppers                           Cup Cooking”
Thrilling Thursday, Sept 22       Traffic Sign Shapes                      Science/Math
Fun Friday, Sept 23                      Sunflower Garden                        Creative Activities

All sessions are included with admission, which is $7 per person. Senior Citizens age 65 and over and military are $3.50. Children under two are free. Additional information can be obtained by calling 863.687.3869 or via email to info@explorationsv.com.  Visit us on the web at www.explorationsv.com.

Sept 20, 5:45-7:00pm
Tea & Symphony: Magic of the Flute
The Lake Hunter Room at The Lakeland Center

The first event of the Imperial Symphony Orchestra’s 2011-2012 Season. Enjoy light hors d’oeuvres, tea or a glass of wine with other music lovers and learn about the life and music of the composers featured on the upcoming Masterworks Concert on the following Tuesday (Sept 27). These fascinating lecture/demonstrations are facilitated by Music Director Mark Thielen. Admission is $15 at the door. Phone: 863.688.3743.

Sept 21, 7:00pm and 9:00pm
RAW TV: Live Shows in Bolin Studio

Southeastern University’s RAW TV, is a live, student-produced, television talk show that targets young adults. The mission of RAW TV, whose acronym stands for “Real And Willing,” is to openly discuss relevant issues and topics with its guests. In September 2007, the show began appearing nationwide on National Religious Broadcasters (NRB) Network via satellite television. Learn more about RAW TV on the Southeastern University website or by phone 863.667.5119.

This exciting evening will feature Elton John and Leon Russell performing a night full of hits, and will also include selections from The Union, Elton and Leon‘s highly anticipated album available October 19 in the U.S. on Decca Records. Produced by Oscar and multiple-Grammy winning producer T Bone Burnett, The Union is a unique collaboration of two of the most talented artists in the music business. Recorded live in the studio with Elton and Leon, the album features a variety of musical genres from R&B, soul, gospel, country, pop and rock.

Elton John’s band includes Davey Johnstone on guitar, Bob Birch on bass, John Mahon on percussion,Nigel Olsson on drums, and Kim Bullard on keyboards. Leon Russell’s band comprises Jack Wessel on bass, Chris Simmons on guitar, Brandon Holder on drums and Beau Charron on guitar and steel guitar.

This show will definitely sell out fast, so be sure to get your tickets when they go on sale and catch one of the biggest music legends of all time in this great setting at The Lakeland Center.

The rodeo will also take to the streets of downtown Lakeland once again with a parade that will feature cowboys, cowgirls, horses, cattle and decorated floats parading through the streets of downtown Lakeland starting at the corner of Bay Street and Tennessee Avenue continuing south on Tennessee to Lemon Street, turning right (west), crossing South Florida Avenue and arriving at rodeo headquarters, The Lakeland Center. Sheriff Grady Judd will be the Grand Marshall. Parade attendees are invited to The Lakeland Center Box Office immediately following the parade for a free Rootin’ Tootin’ Root Beer Festival with refreshments and family fun from 11am-1pm. Ticket purchasers will receive a special Buy One/Get One Free ticket discount from 11am-1pm. The Box Office will be open for ticket purchases from 10:00am-1:00pm.

To find out more about all the rodeo weekend happenings or to get tickets, check out The Lakeland Center website.