Check the list below to ensure you don’t miss any upcoming concerts:

June 23
The Friends of Jazz concert will include celebrity impersonators, comedy and fun. Unwritten in part by Camp Rosalie, the vocal jazz group has been entertaining audiences for 10 years. The rhythm section will feature Greg Taillon, Randy Morris and Ron Hart, with vocalists Bob Fowler and Heather Charles. The optional prepaid dinner will be beef bourguignon or couscous vegetable loaf with salad, rolls, iced tea, soda or coffee, and dessert.

July 14
The Porchdogs will perform spicy hot, accordion-driven Louisiana Cajun and Zydeco music that is often sung in Cajun or Creole French. Back by popular demand, the band has been playing rootsy good-time music at Orlando’s theme parks as well as festivals and fairs throughout the state for the past 20 years. The optional prepaid dinner will be chicken parmesan or eggplant parmesan with salad, rolls, iced tea, soda or coffee, and dessert.

August 11
Vintage Hearts with Ramblin’ Rose will perform a mix of old country, blues, rock-a-billy, jazz, bluegrass and gospel music, a blend of American roots called “Americana.” Led by guitarist Eddy “Rockin’ Rattlesnake” and his wife Renee Riddle on fiddle, the duo will be joined by her family bluegrass band, Ramblin‘ Rose, led by matriarch Loretta Woodson on guitar, her daughters Kathy DeVane on banjo and Riddle on fiddle, and granddaughter Kristen Jenkins on bass guitar. The concert will be underwritten in part by Allen & Company. The optional prepaid dinner will be three cheese and meat lasagna or fried eggplant lasagna with salad, rolls, iced tea, soda or coffee, and dessert.

September 22
Juniper will perform a blend of traditional Celtic, Appalachian folk and original alternative folk compositions. Acclaimed musicians and recording artists Frances Pisacane and Jasmine Hart weave a tight musical tapestry from the sounds which have endured and entertained for over five centuries. Underwritten in part by Terri Lobb Catering, the concert will feature haunting melodies and lush harmonies with fiery rhythms and compelling vocals that transport audiences back to an ancient time with jigs, reels and airs. The optional prepaid dinner will be baked salmon or grilled eggplant and mushroom skewers with salad, rolls, iced tea, soda or coffee, and dessert.

 The summer concerts take place inside the Visitor Center with cabaret-style seating. An optional prepaid dinner of prime rib au jus or ratatouille tart tatin with salad, rolls, iced tea, soda or coffee and dessert will be served at the Blue Palmetto Café at 5:45 p.m. Early reservations are encouraged, and concert season passes are available.

Call 863-734-1222 for tickets and information.

Memorial Day Carillon Concerts
Date: Monday, May 28
Venue: Bok Tower Gardens – Lake Wales
-A musical salute of gratitude to our nation’s veterans and current members of America’s armed forces .

Cigar Bash
Date: Thursday, May 31
Venue: Low Ball Louie’s– Lake Wales
-An evening of cigar tastings and discounts with Michael McKinney of J.C. Newman Cigar Company.
-The featured cigars will be Brickhouse and Factory Throwouts.

First Friday
Date: Friday, June 1
Venue: Downtown Lakeland
-First Friday is one of the most popular recurring events in Lakeland and features FREE family friendly entertainment, activities, live music, art receptions & a car show in Downtown Lakeland.
-The City of Lakeland is partnering with the FDOT for this month’s theme, “Taking it to the Streets” to kick-off a month of activities focused on alternative forms of transportation.

Movies in the Park
Date: Friday, June 1
Venue: Lake Eva Park – Haines City
-A free community event at Lake Eva Park held the First and Third Friday of every month from June through August.

Lakeland Raiders vs. Western PA Sting
Date: Saturday, June 2
Venue: The Lakeland Center
-Kick-off for all home games will be 7:15pm at the Jenkins Arena at The Lakeland Center.

Reoccurring Events:

Military Month Appreciation Celebration – Through May 31 (Fantasy of Flight-Polk City)

Expressions of Bok Tower Gardens Art Exhibit – Through May 31 (Bok Tower Gardens-Lake Wales)

Driven to Abstraction, Tony Eitharong and Carol Frye – Through May 31 (Lake Wales Arts Center)

Sketches & Steel – Through June 23 (Polk Museum of Art-Lakeland)

Polk Museum of Art: 3-D – Through August 18 (Polk Museum of Art-Lakeland)

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)

What exactly is the Ultimate Fishing Town? The World Fishing Network has opened a contest for voters to select their pick for the town they feel is most passionate about fishing and a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, and Lakeland, Lake Wales and Winter Haven are among the nominees.

Aside from the “Ultimate Fishing Town” title and honors, the town receiving the most votes will earn $25,000 to be donated to a cause benefiting local anglers. In addition to the contribution, the World Fishing Network will produce a television feature about the region, which will be broadcast on-air and online throughout the year. Second and third place winners will also receive community donations with $5,000 being awarded to second place and $2,500 to third.

The voting has already begun, so don’t wait to participate and help your community win! Cast your votes at World Fishing Network or click: Lakeland, Lake Wales or Winter Haven. The contest opened on Tuesday, May 1 and will close Thursday, May 31. The three winning cities will be announced around June 6.
Vote up to a maximum of four times per day per email address, with one vote every six hours.

Voting is limited to one vote cast during each of the following blocks:

Voting Block One 12:01 a.m. to 6:00 a.m.
Voting Block Two 6:01 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. ET
Voting Block Three 12:01 p.m. ET to 6:00 p.m. ET
Voting Block Four 6:01 p.m.ET to 12:00 a.m. ET

You can also earn up to eight additional votes by referring friends, adding local business listings or sharing your vote on Facebook or Twitter.

Don’t wait to help your county win! Recognized as the Largemouth Bass Capital of the World, it seems only fitting for Polk County to be the home of the “Ultimate Fishing Town”.

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.

Over 2,300 competitors from across the county, state, nation and even world will make their way to Haines City this weekend for the start of Ironman 70.3 Florida. Here, these triathletes will test their athletic abilities, stamina and competitive drive on the 1.2 mile swim, 56 mile bike and 13.1 mile run.

Area residents will be able to take in the experience as the triathletes make their way through the course that includes a one-loop swim around Lake Eva, a bike route along one of Florida’s scenic highways and a three-loop run around Lake Eva. Among the triathletes will be seven-time Tour de France Champion Lance Armstrong whose foundation recently partnered with Ironman in an effort to raise more than $1 million for those affected by cancer.

Previously held at Disney, this year’s Ironman event has relocated to Lake Eva Park in Haines City, just 30 minutes outside of Orlando, and will be held annually at this great setting through 2016.

Beginning at noon on Friday, May 18, the Ironman Village and the Lake Eva Park Bandshell will serve as the hub of all activities for the weekend. The Official Ironman Store will also open, and the public will be able to hear live music until 10:00 p.m.

Also part of the weekend will be the IronKids Florida event, which takes place the morning of Saturday, May 19. Young triathletes ages 6-15 will assemble at the starting line for a 7:00 a.m. start to a shortened version of the adult course.

The Ironman 70.3 Florida race officially begins Sunday at 6:30 a.m. As with previous days, live performances are scheduled throughout the day. The event wraps up Sunday evening and will conclude with an awards ceremony at 4:00 p.m.

Spectator Schedule of Events:

Friday 5/18
Noon – Ironman Village & Official Ironman Store Opens
Noon – 4 p.m. – Live Performance – Eli
6 – 10 p.m. – Live Performance – Spit Fire
7 p.m. – Ironman Village & Official Ironman Store Closes

 Saturday 5/19
7 a.m. – IronKids Race Starts
9 a.m. – Ironman Village & Official Ironman Store Opens
Noon – 1 p.m. – Live performance – Joey Foley and the Midnight Clogging Express
5 p.m. – Ironman Village & Official Ironman Store Closes
5-9 p.m. – Live Performance – Un4giv’n

 Sunday 5/20
6:30 a.m. – Ironman 70.3 Florida Race Starts
7 a.m. – Ironman Village & Official Ironman Store Opens
9 – 10 a.m. – Live performance – Jeff “Bull” Ferguson
10 a.m. – 2 p.m. – Live Performance – Steel Horse
3 p.m. – Ironman Village & Official Ironman Store Closes
4 p.m. – Awards Ceremony

Ironman Visitor Information

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)

Located next to the Winter Haven Public Library, Richard’s offers guests a hometown feel in a tranquil setting. Flavorful origins and blends along with fresh scents and aromas are some of the things you can experience, here, while gazing out at the scenery of the sculptures and fountains of Central Park.

This local coffee shop has its own flair and a flavor to suit your every mood, taste or craving. Don’t believe us? Test it out for yourself while choosing from the many origins, blends and flavors. Prefer a tangy aroma and a smooth rich flavor? Select the Costa Rica Reserve SHB origin. Desiring a smokier taste? The Guatemala Antigua SHB origin may be just what you’re looking for. What about a craving for chocolate? Then the Java “Dutch Estate” is a must-try. Feel free to add your own twist by mixing in flavors to create an entirely new taste suited just to your liking.

While coffee is the obvious specialty, it isn’t the only thing you will find here. Tasty pastries, sweets, sandwiches, salads and specialty beverages such as espresso, frozen coolers, teas, smoothies and ciders are also on the menu at Richard’s.

Guests who stop into the coffee shop will have access to free WiFi along with Richard’s loyalty program, saving both time and money. If you don’t have the time to stay awhile, but still need a coffee fix, just call ahead to create your own flavor or take advantage of the café’s online ordering.

With café hours seven days a week, this fine coffee shop makes a great place to break up your monotonous schedule and getaway from life for a bit.

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)