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Thank you to our 2023 PigFest Volunteers

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2019 Back-to-School Events and Supply Drives

It may be hard to believe, but the end of summer is nearing. Celebrate the end of the break and prepare for the new school year with our guide of 2019 back-to-school bashes and donation drives in Polk County.
 

 

Upcoming Dates

Tax-free holiday: August 2-6
Student orientation: Thursday, August 8
First day of school for students: Monday, August 12
 

Bashes

Back to School First Friday
When: Friday, August 2, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Where: Downtown Lakeland
What: Join the Downtown Lakeland Partnership and MidFlorida Credit Union as well as community vendors in celebrating the start of a new school year with school-themed activities. First Friday features free family-friendly entertainment, activities, live music, art receptions, a car show, and the opportunity to check out a great, locally-owned restaurant or retail establishment on the first Friday of each month.
Contact: info@downtownlakelandfl.com
 
Taco Bus Backpack Giveaway
When: Friday, August 2, 7 p.m.-10 p.m.
Where: Taco Bus Lakeland, 126 S. Kentucky Blvd., Lakeland
What: Join Taco Bus between 7-10 p.m. for 99 cent tacos and a backpack giveaway! They have over 350+ backpacks in all colors. 1 is available per child who must be present to receive it.
Contact: 863-816-5407
 
2nd Annual Backpack Giveaway
When: Saturday, August 3, 9-11 a.m.
Where: Larry R Jackson Library, 1700 N Florida Ave., Lakeland
What: Class of the Millennium Presents this giveaway event. Kids must be present to recieve a backpack, and first come, first served while supplies lasts.
 
Back to School Bash
When: Saturday, August 3, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Where: Wilfred Smith Resource Center, 135 Avenue Y N.E., Winter Haven
What: Join Polk County Parks & Recreation for this free family event featuring free school supplies for children entering kindergarten through fifth grade (first come, first served). Families will also enjoy music, arts & crafts, prizes, educational exhibitors and children activities. Parent and child must be present to receive school supplies.
Contact: 863-298-7898
 
Back to School Bash and Barbecue
When: Saturday, August 3, 12-4 p.m.
Where: Imperial Lakes Keller Williams Office, 5950 Imperial Lakes Boulevard, Mulberry
What: This is a community event offering prizes, raffles, games and plates of barbeque for a $3 donation to help those in need of school supplies and Polk County Schools.
Contact: 863-934-6134
 
Back to School Supplies Giveaway
When: Saturday, August 3, 12-4 p.m.
Where: Frostproof Care Center, 17 South Scenic Hwy
What: Frostproof students may stop into the Frostproof Care Center for free school supplies while supplies last, first come first served.
Contact: 863-635-5555
 
Blast Off Bartow Back to School Bash
When: Saturday, August 3, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Where: Carver Recreation Center, 520 South Idlewood Avenue, Bartow
What: Student attendees Pre-K to 12th grade will be able to leave with free school supplies and information for the upcoming school year. There will be vendors offering food, free haircuts, backpacks, free health screenings, books, free clothes, shoes and more. Please register ahead of time as supplies will be first come, first served.
 
Blast Off Bartow Back to School Fiesta
When: Saturday, August 3, 6-8 p.m.
Where: Lake Alfred Public Library, 245 N. Seminole Avenue, Lake Alfred
What: Celebrate with the Lake Alfred Public Library at the Back to School Fiesta, free for all ages. Enjoy face-painting, refreshments, cookie-decorating, music, games, backpack raffle, and a school supply giveaway.
Contact: 863-291-5378
 
End of Summer Back to School Block Party
When: Saturday, August 3, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Where: Ultimate Dance Center lot, 2980 Lakeland Highlands Road, Lakeland
What: Celebrate the end of summer and kick off another fresh school year with Ultimate Dance Center and M&M Backyard Adventures for a free day of fun with food and drink specials by Jade Fox, China 1 and Buddha’s Pub plus shaved ice and ice cream from Tikiz of Polk County and Tampa. They’ll be moonbounces, giant Legos, dancing, a live DJ, games, and more. OPEN to the public.
Contact: 863-644-5275
 
Lake Eva Back to School Bash
When: Saturday, August 3, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Where: Lake Eva Banquet Hall, 799 Johns Ave., Haines City
What: This free community event is a great opportunity for parents and their children to receive needed school supplies. The bash will include: free backpacks, haircuts and food as well as access to the water park and entertainment. Register in advance online at www.uicpolk.org/events.
Contact: 863-438-2758
 
Mulberry’s Back to School Bash
When: Saturday, August 3, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Where: Mulberry High School Gym, 1 Panther Place, Mulberry
What: For students who attend Kingsford or Purcell Elementary; This event features free hot dogs, games, snacks and a backpack with school supplies to the first 500 pre-registrants of Kingsford or Purchell Elementary.
Contact: lholstein@cityofmulberry.com
 
Summer Palooza
When: Saturday, August 3, 10-2 p.m.
Where: RP Funding Center-Jenkins Arena, Lakeland
What: New Beginnings High School is hosting the annual Summer Palooza event so that families and children will have the necessary resources to go back to school. New Beginnings’ Summer Palooza will provide necessities along with guest speakers, entertainment, vendors, door prizes and more.
Contact: Shawna Butler, 863-298-5666
 
Back to School Jam
When: Sunday, August 4, 5-8 p.m.
Where: Winter Haven High School
What: Join WiLD 94.1 at this free community event for students of any school featuring food trucks, giveaways, haircuts, performances, and more.
 
Boost Mobile Back to School Event
When: Sunday, August 4, 12-4 p.m.
Where: Boost Mobile, 6840 S Florida Ave, Lakeland
What:Score a new backpack and school supplies for your student at a participating Boost Mobile location during the back-to-school event. There will be music, games and fun for the whole family.
 
Fresh Back to School Event
When: Sunday, August 4, 1-5 p.m.
Where: Kathleen High School, 1100 Red Devil Way, Lakeland
What: PUSH’D and For the C.U.L.T.U.R.E presents this back-to-school event with food & drinks, activities, a DJ, and a backpack giveaway.
Contact: fortheculture.iou@gmail.com
 
Rock the Block Back to School Bash
When: Friday, August 9-Sunday, August 11, 4-7:30 p.m.
Where: Harvest Church Lakeland, 2120 Airport Rd., Lakeland
What: Bring the entire family to this community event featuring giveaways, food, bounce houses and more.
500 backpacks will be given out 4 p.m.
Family Fun and games 4-6 p.m.
Family Kidz Xplosion 6-7:30 p.m.
Giveaways 7:30 p.m.
 
Back to School Community Expo
When: Saturday, August 10, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Where: Florida Technical College Lakeland Campus, 4715 Florida Avenue S. #4, Lakeland
What: Learn about Florida Technical College’s programs while enjoying live music from Hot 101.5, exhibitors, campus tours, free food, family activities and free backpacks with school supplies kits, while supplies lasts To participate, you must register in person on campus.
 
Back to School Supply Giveaway
When: Saturday, August 10 12-2 p.m.
Where: DUTCH Seafood Takeout, 817 north mass., Lakeland
What: Who’s Who in Business and Dutch Seafood present this event featuring gift card raffles, face painting, a bounce house and seafood special. To donate items for the supply event, drop off items Dutch Seafood or Crystal’s World of Dance (801 N Massachusetts).
Contact: pcwwb.fl@gmail.com, 8636405832
 
Rent King Back 2 School Bash
When: Saturday, August 10, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: Rent King, 2610 US Hwy 92 E, Lakeland, Florida 33801
What: Get back-to-school ready with Rent King where you’ll find back to school deals of the summer, backpack and gift card giveaways, and free food & drinks and activities for the kids.
Contact: 863-802-1928; rentking009@hotmail.com
 
Belk Back-to-School Charity Sale
When: Saturday, August 24, 6 a.m.-9 p.m.
Where: Belk, 1400 Town Center Dr., Lakeland
What: The Belk Charity Sale is a private sale dedicated to supporting local nonprofits. The Learning Resource Center, as well as other participating charities and schools, will have the opportunity to raise money by selling $5 tickets, and keeping 100% of ticket proceeds. Ticket holders will receive 20% – 70% off of Belk purchases storewide, including special savings on rarely-discounted brands plus $5 off their purchase. The presale takes place August 12-23. Stop into the Learning Resource Center (1628 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland) to pick up your tickets today!
 

Donation Drives

Stuff the Bus
Stuff the Bus is Central Florida’s largest back-to-school campaign. In addition to the traditional school supplies that are needed such as pens, pencils, wide rule paper, folders with prongs, crayons, markers, backpacks, glue and erasers, you may also donate copy paper, facial tissue, index cards, highlighters, hand sanitizer, zip lock bags, and pencil boxes.
 
– Lakeland: Now at the Learning Resource Center (1628 S. Florida Ave.)
– Lakeland: Wednesday, August 7, 7-9 a.m. with Emerge Lakeland at the RP Funding Center (404 W. Lime St.)- Volunteer to organize supply donations
– Lakeland: August 7, 7-8:30 a.m. at Hall Communications (404 West Lime St.)
– Bartow: Now at the Bartow Chamber (510 N. Broadway Ave. in Bartow)
 
 

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PigFest 2018 Event Info

The 22nd Annual Lakeland PigFest is almost here!

PIGFEST 2018


The festival will open to the public on Friday, January 26, 2018 from 5-10 p.m. and Saturday, January 27, 2018 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. at SUN ‘n FUN in Lakeland.
 
Unlike in years past, there will be no fee for parking. Instead, there will be a $2.00 admission fee per person. Children 12 and under will be admitted for free. Once inside, stop by a Pig Bucks tent and exchange your cash for Pig Bucks. Purchasing food from competition teams, will support their efforts as well as local charities like LRC.
 
The competition will heat up with the Kingsford Professional BBQ (sanctioned by the Kansas City Barbecue Society), Publix Super Markets Backyard and Badcock Kids-Q events. There will also be plenty of entertainment featuring kids’ games, simulator racecars and live music.
 
LRC Belk Charity Sale 2017
 
Visit LakelandPigFest.org for more information.
Photo: LakelandPigFest.org
 

PIGFEST COMMUNITY


What attendees may not realize is that PigFest takes hundreds of volunteers and thousands of volunteer hours to help carry out the event, and local nonprofits, such as the Learning Resource Center, partner to provide the needed amount of volunteers. PigFest then gives every dollar raised back to the community!
 
By granting the Learning Resource Center opportunities and funds based on service hours, PigFest has helped provide academic assistance and highly-qualified tutors to help students succeed and has also enabled LRC to meet the needs of students, parents and the community by aiding in the expenses of daily operation. The effect this annual barbeque festival has had on LRC reaches every aspect of the organization. Those who received any service from LRC in 2017 were impacted by its support.
 

VOLUNTEER AT PIGFEST


If you are interested in assisting at the event, please click: VOLUNTEER AT PIGFEST.
LRC will provide volunteers for shifts taking place in the judging, team breakfast, VIP party and golf cart shuttle areas on Wednesday, January 24-Saturday, January 27, 2018. To view the available shifts and to register, please click the above link.
 
We look forward to seeing you there! Whether you’re a competitor, attendee or volunteer, it’s sure be a fun weekend.
 
 

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2017 Fall & Halloween Festivities in Polk County

Look no further for fall fun! Search our list of Polk County’s 2017 Halloween happenings and autumn festivities now through early November.
 
Fall Festivities in Polk
Freepik.com
 
*Please contact event organizations, not LRC, for more information on events.
 

Recurring & Multi-Date Events:

 

Friday, September 22-Sunday, November 12

Harvest Holler Corn Maze
Location: 950 Tavares Road, Polk City 33868
Time: Begins Sept. 22, 4-8 p.m. Fridays; 12-8 p.m. Saturdays; 12-5 p.m. Sundays
Details: Admission includes an interactive corn maze, hayride, hay fort, corn cribs, tire swings, cow train, corn hole and pumpkin patch. The cost is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and $8 youth (4-12 years). Kids 3 and under are free.
 

Friday, September 29-Saturday, November 4

The Shallow Grave
Location: 701 42nd St NW, Winter Haven
Time: Begins Sept. 29, 7:30 p.m.-10:30 p.m., Fridays & Saturdays
Details: The Shallow Grave is a highly detailed spine-tingling scare-fest that brings the Central Florida area something they have been missing. An intimate in your face, fear filled environment with custom themes and movie quality sets to put you in the midst of terror unlike anything you have experienced before. The cost is $27-$43.
 

Saturday, October 7-Sunday, October 29

Pumpkin Safari
Location: Safari Wilderness Ranch, 10850 Moore Road, Lakeland
Time: Begins Oct. 7, 1-5 p.m. Saturdays & Sundays
Details: These special fall safaris include 45-minute customized vehicle tours, led by an experienced tour guides; guided walking tours of the small mammal house; visits to a free-flight aviary and petting zoo barn; one pumpkin for each visitor, which can be carved at the ranch and given to the animals for enrichment or taken home to decorate; and stops at craft and enrichment stations. Cost: $39 for one, $75 for 2, $145 for four
 

Sunday, October 8-Sunday, October 15

Polk Theatre’s Fall Movie Classics
Location: Polk Theatre, 121 Florida Ave S, Lakeland
Time: 4:30 p.m.
Details: Oct. 8 Jaws; Oct. 15 An American Werewolf in London. See events below for information on Hocus Pocus, Rocky Horror Picture Show & The Shining (Dinner & a Movie).
 

Thursday, October 12-Sunday, October 15

Lakeland Family Fair
Location: Victory Church, 1401 Griffin Rd, Lakeland
Time: Times vary (see below)
Details: Over 40 attractions including: 20+ rides, games and super food courts. Cost: $20 for unlimited rides, individual ride tickets also available.
Oct 12 (Thurs) – 5-10pm; Oct 13 (Fri) – 5-11pm; Oct 14 (Sat)- 2-11pm; Oct 15 (Sun)- 12- 9pm
 

Saturday, October 14-Tuesday, October 31

Brick-or-Treat
Location: LEGOLAND Florida Resort, Winter Haven
Time: Begins Oct. 14, 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Saturdays & Sundays & Halloween Tuesday
Details: The Halloween party #BuiltForKids returns to LEGOLAND® Florida Resort on weekends in October, featuring a LEGO® lineup of spooky, kooky, brick-tacular activities and extended park hours. Brick or Treat Presented by Shutterfly is included with park admission – no extra ticket required!
 

Friday, October 20-Sunday, October 22

Lake Mirror Classic Auto Festival
Location: Lake Mirror Promenade, Lakeland
Time: Vary over the weekend
Details: The annual event in Downtown Lakeland attracts over 40,000 spectators and draws top car collectors from across the southeast featuring a display of more than 650 show vehicles. Find the schedule at lakelandautoshow.com/schedule.
 

Friday, October 20-Saturday, October 28

Polk County Sheriff’s Haunted Jail Tour
Location: PCSO jail, 455 N. Broadway Avenue, Bartow
Time: 6-11 p.m.
Details: The Polk County Sheriff’s Office is hosting their annual Haunted Jail Tour to benefit the United Way of Central Florida. For the little ones who are too young, there will be a separate room with treats and games. Food and drink will be on sale. The tour costs $6, with proceeds going to United Way. Visitors will be taken through areas that include the morgue, infirmary, incinerator and jail.
 

Friday, October 20-Sunday, October 29

Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street
Location: Lakeland Community Theatre, 121 S Lake Ave, Lakeland
Time: Begins Oct. 20, Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays; 7:30-10 p.m. Fridays & Saturdays; 2-4:30 p.m. Sundays
Details: The brilliant tale of obsession and revenge, Sweeney Todd combines melodrama, murder – and “the worst pies in London” –with a sumptuous score by the incomparable Stephen Sondheim. Rated Mature. The cost is $22 for adults, $20 for seniors (55 & up) and $15 for children (17 & under).
 

Friday, October 20-Tuesday, October 31

Buckingham Terror Haunted House
Location: 2600 Buckingham Ave., Lakeland
Time: October 20-21, 27-28, 7:30 p.m.-11 p.m.; October 22-26, 29-31, 7:30 p.m.- 9 p.m.
Details: Buckingham Terror is a Haunted House that gives teens an avenue to express their creativity through the planning, building and implementation of a full working haunted house. Cost: $8 for 13 & up; $5 for 12 & under. Not intended for children under 10 or the faint of heart.
 

Begins Friday, October 20

Zombie Farm Paintball Hayride
Location: Smith Family Ranch, 13444 Moore Road, Lakeland
Time: Beginning Oct. 20, 7-10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays
Details: Zombie Farm Paintball is a 20 minute hayride, in the dark, that takes you through Zombie Farm’s infectious zones. There have been reports of the living dead lurking in the night, especially around swampy areas. The ranch will supply you with a paintball gun for your protection against these creatures. Admission includes live zombies to shoot at, use of a paintball gun, 200 rounds of ammo and a narrated hayride. The cost is $30 per person.
 

Begins Saturday, October 21

CornFusion Crop Maze & Fall Festival
Location: Smith Family Ranch, 13444 Moore Road, Lakeland
Time: Begins Oct. 21, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturdays & Sundays
Details: Join the Smith Family Ranch for a fun-filled day at CornFusion Fall Festival where you will find 20 acres of fun for all ages including a pumpkin patch, corn box, corn cannon, country store, cow train, miniature mazes, pony rides, and farm animals. Cost: $10 for adults, $9 for 4-15 yrs, Free for 3 & under and military, law enforcement, firefighters, EMS
 

Friday, October 27-Saturday, October 28

Rocky Horror Picture Show
Location: Polk Theatre, Lakeland
Time: Part begins at 9pm; Movie at midnight
Details: Let’s do the TIME WARP again…The Polk Theatre continues its tradition of showing the ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW and will feature the Original Lipstick Players as the Shadow Cast under the direction of Ferdinand DeJesus. Tickets are on sale online and in the office (9-5). $15 Prop bags will be available at the Door $5.
 

Saturday, October 27-Sunday, October 29

Pioneer Days Festival
Location: Lake Wailes, Lake Wales
Time: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday; 11:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Sunday
Details: There will be live entertainment on stage both days. Living history re-enactments, artisan and tradesmen demonstrations, pony rides, children’s activities, a Historic Architecture Carriage Tour, and an Antique Car Parade will showcase the weekend’s festivities.
 

Friday, November 3-Sunday, November 5

St. Joseph’s Annual Fall Carnival
Location: St. Joseph, 210 West Lemon Street, Lakeland
Time: Friday, 5-11 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
Details: Check out St. Joseph’s annual fall carnival for fun! The cost of a day pass is $15 pre-sale or $20 at the gate.
 
Fall Events in Polk
Freepik.com
 

Single Date-Events:

Friday, October 6

Downtown Lakeland’s First Friday
Location: Munn Park in Downtown Lakeland
Time: 6-9 p.m.
Details: This monthly event offers guests an evening of free family-friendly entertainment, activities, live music, art receptions, a car show, and the opportunity to visit a great, locally-owned restaurant or retail establishment. Each month, First Friday has a different theme, and special activities are provided to complement the theme. October’s theme will be “Celebrating Us, #LoveLakeland”.
 
Halloween Boo-gie Night Party
Location: Medulla Resource Center, 1049 Parker Road, Lakeland
Time: 6-9 p.m.
Details: Dance the night away at Polk County Parks & Recreation’s Halloween dance party. This free family event will feature a DJ, face-painting, a trick or treat village, coloring contests and a costume contest.
 

Saturday, October 7

Horror Fest
Location: Munn Park, Lakeland
Time: 4-9 p.m.
Details: Join us for the 3rd Annual Horror Fest in Downtown Lakeland for free family activities, vendors and the main stage event, sure to entertain all ages.
 

Thursday, October 12

Zombie Food Truck Rally
Location: Munn Park, Lakeland
Time: 6-9 p.m.
Details: Crawl on over to the October Downtown Lakeland Food Truck Rally and ZOMBIE bar crawl! Attendees are welcome to dressed in their best zombie garb to win prizes, and the bar crawl will begin at the conclusion of the food truck rally from 9pm-11pm.
 

Friday, October 13

Aqua Boo
Location: Gandy Pool, 404 Imperial Blvd., Lakeland
Time: 7-9 p.m.
Details: Join for a family fun evening at the pool featuring games, nachos and a kid-friendly movie. Normal pool entry of $4 or pass applies
Halloween Trick-or-Treat Party
Location: Wilfred Smith Resource Center, Winter Haven
Time: 6-8 p.m.
Details: Polk County Parks and Recreation presents this free Halloween party featuring music, light refreshments, arts & crafts, coloring contests and costume contests.
 
Main Street Winter Haven Oktoberfest
Location: Central Park, Winter Haven
Time: 6-9 p.m.
Details: Join Main Street Winter Haven for the 11th Annual Oktoberfest sponsored by Victor Smith Law Group, P.A. and featuring beer, brats and live music. A Tasting Ticket is $25.
 
Pumpkinfest
Location: Winter Haven City Library, 325 Avenue A NW
Time: 5:30-9 p.m.
Details: Main Street Winter Haven, Inc will be hosting Oktoberfest for adults, while the City of Winter Haven will be hosting Pumpkinfest for children in kindergarten – 5th grade. Drop off your child or children while you attend Oktoberfest; they will enjoy games, decorating pumpkins and dinner. Cost: $10/child
 

Wednesday, October 18

Pep Homecoming Parade & Festival
Location: MILK Park on Lake Silver, Winter Haven
Time: 6-9 p.m.
Details: Join the Public Education Partnership of Winter Haven, area schools and local organizations at the PEP Homecoming Parade & Festival. In addition to the parade and festival, there will be a performance by the Cypress Gardens Water Ski Team and a firework display.
 

Friday, October 20

Fall Festival of Fun
Location: Winter Haven Recreational & Cultural Center
Time: 6-8 p.m.
Details: Bring your family out to Winter Haven Recreational & Cultural Center for a night of games, candy, refreshments, prizes, and more. Ages 6 – 13. This event is free.
 
Joggin’ for the Noggin 5K
Location: Polk State College – Lakeland, 3425 Winter Lake Rd
Time: 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Details: The 6th Annual Joggin’ for the Noggin! 5K to benefit Polk State College Foundation promises to be a fun and SCARY, Halloween themed race. Run, jog or walk this 3.1 race that includes gravel road, grass and a trek on the Fort Fraser Trail. The One Mile Walkin’ while Talkin’ is an option for those who want to support Polk students, but aren’t race enthusiasts. The run and walk will feature zombies on the trail to put pep in steps. This is a family-friendly event and will include a children’s fun run, adult and children’s costume contest, Zumba, face painting, music, and more.
 
The Story of An Undead World: A Rock Opera
Location: LKLD LIVE (STUDIO B, 202 N Mass Ave., Lakeland)
Time: 8-10 p.m.
Details: Born from the mind of Matthew Davis and Joshua McNair comes The Story of an Undead World. A musical with a heavy brutal experience that is like no other. Tickets available $5 advance.
 

Saturday, October 21

FallFest 2017
Location: Polk State College, 999 Avenue H NE, Winter Haven
Time: 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Details: Thousands trek to the campus each third Saturday in October to enjoy the event that features a craft show, the Kids Zone, music, police and EMS demonstrations, the Pumpkin Patch, food, Haunted House and more.
 
Fall Craft Fair & Sale
Location: Presbyterian Church in the Highlands, Lakeland
Time: 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m.
Details: The 30th Annual Fall Craft Sale at Presbyterian Church in the Highlands will host 50 artisans, a baked good sale with sweets of all kinds, jams, and refreshments, concessions, and Lakeland’s Finest Pumpkin Patch. Proceeds benefit local charities.
 
Florida Dance Theatre Presents Dracula
Location: Branscomb Auditorium, Florida Southern College
Time: 6 p.m.
Details: Join Florida Dance Theatre as they unearth a deadly foe at their first full-length ballet of the season, “Dracula”. This sensational selection has just the right amount of spooky, scary, and fun to make it entertaining for all. Cost is: $75
 
Haunted Halloween Hayride & Happenings
Location: Loyce E. Harpe Park, 500 W. Carter Road, Mulberry
Time: 5 – 10 p.m.
Details: Polk County Parks & Recreation’s 21st Annual Haunted Halloween Hayride & Happenings event offers a fun and safe alternative to traditional “trick or treating” while offering attractions such as a hayride to a haunted walking trail, carnival games, live entertainment, a trick or treat village, costume contest and pie -eating contest. Advance tickets on sale Oct. 2 – Oct. 20 and include a hayride wristband.
 
Hocus Pocus at the Polk Theatre
Location: Polk Theatre, 121 Florida Avenue S, Lakeland
Time: 11:30 a.m.-1:05 p.m.
Details: Join the Polk Theatre for a showing of the 1993 Halloween film, Hocus Pocus. Rated PG. The cost is $5.
 
Rootstock Plant & Garden Festival
Location: Bok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales
Time: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Details: Bok Tower Gardens’ signature fall plant sale debuts ROOTSTOCK featuring dozens of plant vendors, local musical artists, healthy cuisine and a spectacular display of seasonal foliage. This festival marks the start of Florida’s gardening season, and admission is free both days. Cost: $10
 

Thursday, October 26

75th Annual Crickette Club Parade & Carnival
Location: Downtown Bartow & Mosaic Park, Bartow
Time: 4-8 p.m.
Details: Bartow’s favorite family tradition is better than ever featuring rides for tots and teens, expanded food selections including food trucks, new games, costume contest for store-bought and homemade, Crickette Club’s famous cake walk, drawing for $500, $300, and $100 Visa cards, Bingo and more. All proceeds benefit the Bartow area Girl Scouts and the Bartow Community. Parade is free with the Carnival to follow at Mosaic Park.
 
Safe Haven Halloween
Location: Freedom Park, Polk City
Time: 5-8:30 p.m.
Details: Join in the annual spooky fun for the entire family featuring free popcorn and candy, delicious food, a cupcake walk for tiny tots, carnival games and prizes, tug-o-war, three legged races, potato-sack races, and costume contests.
 

Friday, October 27

Halloween Spooktacular
Location: Wabash Community Center, 1230 Southern Ave., Lakeland
Time: 6-8 p.m.
Details: This Polk County Parks & Rec event is free and will feature costume and coloring contests, trick or treating, and more.
 
Hold On, I know This! Halloween Edition
Location: Lkld Live (Studio B, 202N Massachusetts Ave, Lakeland)
Time: 7:30-9 p.m.
Details: Nick Allred & Benedict Heaps return to host a special Halloween themed installment of the funniest quiz show in town. Tickets $10 adv / $15 day of show
 
Spooktoberfest
Location: Eloise Resource Center, 710 Snively Ave., Eloise
Time: 6-8 p.m.
Details: This Polk County Parks & Rec event is free and will feature costume and coloring contests, trick or treating, and more.
 
The Nightmare Before Christmas – Movie on the Lawn
Location: 100 E Main St, Bartow
Time: 6:45 p.m.
Details: Bring your blanket or chairs to Main Street Bartow for an outdoor showing of The Nightmare Before Christmas on the lawn. Restaurants open for carry out or bring a picnic dinner. Movie begins at dusk. The cost is free.
 

Saturday, October 28

20th Annual Lakeland Hispanic Festival
Location: Lake Mirror Promenade, Lakeland
Time: 12-8 p.m.
Details: Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month during the 20th Annual Hispanic Festival of Lakeland featuring traditional and contemporary Latin American culture with live performances, authentic cuisine and children’s activities. Cost: adults $5.00, children 12 and under free
 
Evil Never Dies – Murder Mystery Dinner
Location: Ramon Theater, 15 E Wall St, Frostproof
Time: 6 p.m.
Details: Enjoy a dinner at the theater while trying to solve this fall-themed murder mystery. Tickets cost $40.
 
Ghouls Day Out
Location: MLK Jr. Park, Winter Haven
Time: 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Details: The City of Winter Haven presents this free event including a kid’s game area, music, a Halloween costume contest, food vendors and a trick-or-treat village.
 
Halloween Festival
Location: Lewis Matthews Complex, 400 E. Palm Street, Davenport
Time: 6-8 p.m.
Details: Enjoy free hot dogs and drinks, trunk or treat, costume contests, Touch a Truck, and games & activities.
 
Halloween Water Ski Show
Location: Lake Silver, Winter Haven
Time: 7 p.m.
Details: Enjoy this special ‘Spooktacular’ Ski Show on Lake Silver by the Cypress Gardens Water Ski Team. There will be a costume contest before the show at 7 p.m. for ages 0-16. Free.
 
Harvest Festival
Location: Spence Field, 1100 NE 1st Street, Mulberry
Time: 4 p.m.-7 p.m.
Details: Enjoy a night of fun featuring vendors, pony rides, hay rides, candy, trunk-or-treat, games, a hay bale maze and a Bluegrass band!
 
Lakeside Village Halloween Bash
Location: Lakeside Village, Lakeland
Time: 5-8 p.m.
Details: The event will feature three costume contests for kids in different age groups, a DJ hosting games with kid-friendly music, face painting, a photo booth, a strolling magician and fun prizes! There also will be trick or treating throughout the village. The event is free.
 
Monster Mash Costume Party
Location: Lkld Live (Studio B, 202 N Mass Ave., Lakeland)
Time: 7-11 p.m.
Details: Grab to ticket to this special Halloween fundraiser for the opportunity to perform on the LkldLive stage. There will be a lip sync battle and karaoke all night with prizes for best costumes throughout the evening. The best way to pre-party for your Saturday night Halloween extravaganza! Tickets $5 adv / $10 day of event
 
Munn Park Extravaganza
Location: Munn Park, Lakeland
Time: 8 a.m.-3 p.m.
Details: The 33rd Annual “Munn Park Extravaganza”, presented by the Garden Club of Lakeland Inc. will offer over 50 vendors featuring a variety of plants, flowers, trees, and garden-related art for sale. A new plant introduction will be presented by Bill Koen from the City of Lakeland Parks and Recreation.
 

Sunday, October 29

Fall Festival
Location: Lake Eva Park, Haines City
Time: 3 p.m.- 6 p.m.
Details: NorthRidge Church present this annual fall festival featuring your same favorite free elements and a few extras such as inflatables, food, games, train rides, Ident-A-Kid, Fire Department exhibits, by the Polk County Sherriff’s Office SWAT and Rescue teams, and candy.
 
Fall Festival
Location: Scott Lake Baptist Church, 5811 Scott Lake Rd, Lakeland
Time: 4-6 p.m.
Details: This fall festival is a Halloween alternative for families that want to make one stop for all the fun, food, and candy they desire for Halloween. Scott Lake Baptist will have plenty of candy, car show, inflatables, dodgeball, gaga ball, hot dogs, snow cones, popcorn, and more. Free event.
 
Family Fall Festival
Location: Beymer Church, 700 Lake Howard Dr. NW, Winter Haven
Time: 3-5 p.m.
Details: Stop by for free food, games, candy, a chili cook-off and more.
 
Harvest Party – Fall Festival
Location: Kathleen Baptist Church, 3939 2nd St. NW, Lakeland
Time: 5-7 p.m.
Details: You and your family are invited. There will be food, games, candy, bounce houses, horses, and much more.
 
Trunk or Treat 2017
Location: First United Methodist Church of Lakeland, 72 Lake Morton Dr., Lakeland
Time: 4-7 p.m.
Details: This fall has been tough for our community and many families have experienced disruption and trauma. Take a break from the stresses of storm recovery, and take a photo in the pumpkin patch or at one of our photo booths and enjoy dinner, games and candy in a safe environment. Family-friendly costumes for children are welcome. Adults, please refrain from costumes with masks.
 
Trunk or Treat
Location: Highland Park Church, 4777 Lakeland Highlands Rd, Lakeland
Time: 6-7 p.m.
Details: Bring your family and friends to Trunk or Treat with us at Highland Park Church. Enjoy a little time out with your family at this free, safe, and fun community event. Kona Ice will be here to help keep you cool.
 

Tuesday, October 31

6th Annual Fall Festival
Location: 124 S. Kentucky Ave., Lakeland
Time: 6-9 p.m.
Details: The 6th Annual Fall Festival Celebration presented by Just Cares, Inc. is a free, community event. The goal is to fill the streets in Downtown Lakeland with families looking for an alternative to Halloween by providing a safe environment where they can have fun and spend quality time as a family.
 
Boo! Bash
Location: Explorations V, Lakeland
Time: 10 a.m.-1 p.m.; 4-6 p.m.
Details: Celebrate safely during a fun-filled morning of Halloween games, food and activities for the youngest crowd. Join in by wearing kid-friendly costumes. Included with admission/membership.
 
Dinner & a Movie – The Shining
Location: Polk Theatre, Lakeland
Time: 6 p.m.-9 p.m.
Details: Enjoy dinner featuring a menu of ribs, chicken, Johnny Cakes, beans, redrum & Jack Daniels cupcakes, popcorn and a drink and then enjoy the featured film, The Shining. Tickets are $22 for dinner & a movie or $5 for the movie only.
 
Halloween Flashlight Egg Hunt
Location: Simpson Park Community Center, 1725 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave., Lakeland
Time: 7:30-9 p.m.
Details: Join the Parks & Recreation Department for a fun, free, safe event at the Simpson Park Community Center on Halloween. There will be fun group activities inside and then an egg hunt outside for Halloween treats. BYOF (Bring Your Own Flashlight)
 
Mall-O-Ween
Location: Eagle Ridge Mall, Lake Wales
Time: 5-8 p.m.
Details: Bring your ghouls and goblins to Eagle Ridge Mall for a SPOOKtacular evening of free family fun, music, games, prizes and sweet treats! Get your photo taken to enter the costume contest. Five finalists from each age group (0-5, 5-13 and 14+), and shoppers will vote for their favorites from November 2-9th in the food court. 1st-3rd Place gift card prizes will be given in each age group (1st: $100, 2nd: $50, 3d: $25).
 
Trunk or Treat Annual Fall Festival
Location: Trinity Christian Center, 4416 E County Road 540A, Lakeland
Time: 6-8 p.m.
Details: This free event will feature food, games, bounce houses, a photo booth, face painting, balloon animal and candy.
 

Saturday, November 4

Belk Charity Day Sale
Location: Belk at Lakeside Village
Time: 6-10 a.m. (and later)
Details: Purchase your $5 Charity Sale ticket to support the Learning Resource Center or other local organizations and schools. Get $5 off your first purchase and save on rarely discounted brands! The first 100 customers to arrive on Saturday, Nov. 4 will receive a free gift card. The pre-sale dates are Oct. 23 – Nov. 3. Pick up your ticket at the Learning Resource Center or other participating organizations.
 
Fall-O-Ween-Fest
Location: East Park Complex, Dundee
Time: 10 a.m.- 2p.m.
Details: Bring the family out for fall festivities.
 
Kathleen Area Historical Society’s Fall Bazaar
Location: Heritage Park, Kathleen, 8950 N Campbell Rd. Lakeland
Time: 8 a.m.-2 p.m.
Details: Enjoy this Kathleen tradition where you’ll find cane grinding/syrup making, a pioneer life exhibit, rummage sale, children’s activities, live music, food and more. Vendors and other nonprofit organizations will be in attendance. Admission is free.
 

Saturday, November 11

Lakeland LuLaPalooza
Location: R.P. Funding Center, Lakeland
Time: 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Details: Come out to this amazing LuLaRoe shopping opportunity featuring 30 consultants and more than 20,000 pieces of inventory.
 
Red Ribbon Half Marathon, 5K and Kids Fun Run
Where: Lake Mirror Promenade, Lakeland
Time: 6:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
Details: The Red Ribbon Half Marathon, 5K & Kids Fun Run, presented by Title Sponsor Publix Super Markets, Inc., is a family event where adults can compete in the Half Marathon or 5K, and children can participate in the Kids Fun Run. We invite the community to join in the exciting 2017 Red Ribbon events on Saturday, November 11th that include a special tribute to our area’s Veterans.
 
The Big Event
Location: Frances Ford Langford Promenade at Lake Mirror Amphitheatre, Lakeland
Time: 4-10 p.m.
Details: The BIG Event Lakeland is a free music fest featuring local businesses, makers and delicious food. The event kicks off with the Red Ribbon Run Corporate Award and the Watson Clinic Poster Contest Award, immediately followed by a special Salute to Veterans by Green Construction. Then, enjoy non-stop entertainment.
 
 
Related Posts:
2016 Fall Festivals & Events
2015 Fall Festivals & Events
 
 

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2017 Back-to-School Bashes, Events and Donation Drives

It’s almost school time again!
Find 2017 back-to-school bashes, health fairs and donation drives in Polk County below.
 
Back to School Freepik
Graphic: Freepik
 

Upcoming Dates

Student orientation: Tuesday, August 8
First day of school for students: Thursday, August 10
 
Tax-free holiday: August 4-6
 

Bashes

Back 2 School Bash
When: Saturday, July 22, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Where: Oakland Gymnasium, 915 Ave. E, Haines City
What: Stop by this back-to-school event featuring speakers and a guest appearance by Smart Mouth’s Jason Alexander as well as free haircuts, backpacks and food.
Contact: Unity in the Community Central Florida, Dr. Charles Anderson, 863-438-2758, canderson@trinityicc.com
 
Back to School Bash
When: Saturday, July 29, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Where: Wilfred Smith Resource Center, 135 Avenue Y N.E., Winter Haven
What: Join Polk County Parks & Recreation for this free family event featuring free school supplies for children entering kindergarten through the fifth grade (first come, first served). Families will also enjoy music, educational exhibitors and children activities.
Contact: 863-298-7898, borisrodriguez@polk-county.net
 
Life Church Backpack Outreach
When: Saturday, July 29, 9 a.m.-11 p.m.
Where: 581 Berkley Rd. Auburndale, FL 33823
What: Auburndale’s Life Church will hold a giving for over 700 free school backpacks filled with school supplies for needy families.
Contact: Dawn Simmons, 863-967-5433
 
Summer Palooza
When: Saturday, July 29, 8 a.m.-1 p.m.
Where: Simpson Park, 1725 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave., Lakeland
What: To introduce New Beginnings High School to the Lakeland community, the school is hosting Summer Palooza so that families and children will have the necessary resources to go back to school. New Beginnings’ Summer Palooza will provide necessities along with educational guest speakers, a warm meal, and entertainment throughout the morning.
Contact: Alicia Brown, 863-298-5666
 
Back to School First Friday
When: Friday, August 4, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Where: Downtown Lakeland
What: Join the Downtown Lakeland Partnership, MidFlorida & Southeastern University as well as community vendors in celebrating the start of a new school year with school-themed activities. First Friday features free family-friendly entertainment, activities, live music, art receptions, a car show, and the opportunity to check out a great, locally-owned restaurant or retail establishment on the first Friday of each month.
Contact: info@downtownlakelandfl.com
 
Back to School Bash- Clothing Kids in Our Community
When: Saturday, August 5, 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Where: Auburndale Community Gym, 405 Bennett Street, Auburndale
What: Stop by for free basic back-to-school haircuts, a one-week food supply giveaway, a dunk tank, games, bounce houses and more!
 
Back to School Block Party
When: Saturday, August 5, 5-7 p.m.
Where: Spence Park, NE 1st St., Mulberry
What: This event is sponsored by Mulberry’s local churches and hosted by the City of Mulberry. Enjoy free food, a basketball tournament, a corn hole tournament, live music, inflatables and more. Backpacks will be distributed at 4pm for those who have pre-registered at the Mulberry Community Center. Stick around for the night swim happening at the Mulberry Community Pool directly after.
Contact: 863-393-8166
 
IMB Back to School – Color Your Life
When: Saturday, August 5, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Where: Iglesia Manatialde Benndicion, 704 McLeod Ave., Haines City
What: This event will feature face painting, crafts, games, music, a girls beauty workshop, snacks, free backpacks (first come, first serve and must be present), special guest Marilita and more.
Contact: 863-422-3106
 
Lake Alfred Library Back to School Bash
When: Saturday, August 5, 6-8 p.m.
Where: Lake Alfred Public Library, 245 Seminole Drive, Lake Alfred
What: Get ready for school with the Lake Alfred Library. Win some school supplies, have dinner and get raffle tickets.
Contact: 863-291-5378
 
New Horizon’s Back to School Bash
When: Saturday, August 5, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Where: New Horizons Church Baptist Church, 11930 US Hwy 98 N, Lakeland
What: Stop by to meet local law enforcement, the Fire Marshal, FHP, etc. as well as to enjoy music, bounce houses, food, games and receive free school supplies.
Contact: 863-858-5865
 
Rock the Block Back to School Bash
When: Saturday, August 5, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Where: RP Funding Center: George Jenkins Arena, 701 Lime Street, Lakeland
What: Bring the entire family to this free community event featuring giveaways, free backpacks, free haircuts, a health fair, hot dogs, cotton candy, bounce houses and more.
Contact: Harvest Assembly of God: 863-682-7000. The Lakeland Center: 863-834-8100
 
City of Winter Haven’s Back to School Bash
When: Saturday, August 12, 12-3 p.m.
Where: Winter Haven Recreation and Culture Center Pool, 801 Ave. T NE, Winter Haven
What: School is in session, and we are making a big splash about it. Join the City of Winter Haven for a free family event for school-age children (6-17) for a day of games, food, music and bounce houses at the Winter Haven Recreation and Culture Center Pool.
Contact: 863-291-5656, specialevents@mywinterhaven.com
 
Free Back to School Bash
When: Saturday, August 19, 12-3 p.m.
Where: Eagle Ridge Mall, 451 Eagle Ridge Dr., Lake Wales
What: Join the Eagle Ridge Mall for free family fun and great giveaways, including school supplies and gift cards.
Contact: 863-676-2300
 

Health Fairs

Back To School Health Fair
When: Saturday, July 29, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Where: Heart of Florida Regional Medical Center, 40100 US Highway 27, Davenport
What: Good health is the best back-to-school supply your child can have. Don’t miss this free Back-to-School Health Fair combining health and safety education with fun for the whole family including:
– Safety presentations by police and EMS
– Health presentations by local pediatricians and physicians
– Back-to-school screenings and discounts
– Fun Zone with free crafts, face painting and activities
– Free school supplies
– Teddy Bear Clinic
– Drawings for tickets to special events, while supplies last
Contact: 866-997-DOCS
 

Donation Drives

 
Back to School Clothing Drive
When: Saturday, August 5, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: Top Buttons Upscale Boutique, 236 N. Kentucky Ave., Lakeland
What:All donated clothes will benefit the girls we serve in our Wearing Confidence Program. Clothes can be dropped off either at the Top Buttons Boutique or Viva Vitality.
Some items we would suggest for girls ages 11-18 are:

  • Solid color crew neck shirts
  • White/navy/red polo shirts
  • Khaki/navy pants, skirts, and shorts
  • Denim pants and shorts
  • Belts
  • Solid color zip-up hoodies
  • New white socks
  • Sneakers or close-toed shoes

Contact: 863-450-4060
 
Stuff the Bus
Stuff the Bus is Central Florida’s largest back-to-school campaign. In addition to the traditional school supplies that are needed such as pens, pencils, wide rule paper, folders with prongs, crayons, markers, backpacks, glue and erasers, you may also donate copy paper, facial tissue, index cards, highlighters, hand sanitizer, zip lock bags, and pencil boxes.
 
– Lakeland: Through Sunday, July 30 at Victory Church (1401 Griffin Rd.)
– Lakeland: LkldTV Through end of July their office
– Lakeland: Through August 2 at the Wednesday, Lakeland Chamber (35 Lake Morton Drive)
– Lakeland: August 2, 7-8:30 a.m., Hall Communications (404 West Lime Street)
– Bartow: Through Friday, August 18 at the Bartow Chamber
 
 

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2016 Fall Festivals & Halloween Events in Polk County

Look no further for fall fun! Search our list of Polk County’s 2016 Halloween happenings and autumn festivities taking place now through early November.
fall pumpkins pixabay LRCPixabay.com

Recurring & Multi-Date Events:

If you’re looking for 2017 events, please click here.

Through Sunday, October 9

The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940
Where: Florida Southern College, Loca Lee Buckner Theatre
Time: Sept. 29- Oct. 2 & Oct. 6-9, 7:30 p.m. (Sundays at 2:30 p.m.)
Details: Written by John Bishop and directed by Mary T. Albright, this raucous comedy is drawn from prominent murder mystery films of the 1940s. The plot centers on the creative team responsible for a recent Broadway flop in which three chorus girls were murdered by the mysterious “Stage Door Slasher.” Called to assemble at the estate of a potential wealthy backer for their new show, they encounter a mansion replete with sliding panels, secret passageways, and a mysterious maid, all of which figure prominently in the ensuing mayhem when the infamous “slasher” reappears and strikes again.
 

Thursday, October 6-Saturday, October 8

Cracker Storytelling Festival
Where: Homeland Heritage Park, 249 Church Avenue, Bartow
Time: 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
Details: This annual literacy and multicultural event will feature thrilling stories from ten talented storytellers from around the state of Florida.
 

Friday, October 14-Sunday, October 16

Lake Mirror Classic Auto Festival
Where: Lake Mirror Promenade, Lakeland
Time: See details below
Details: The annual event in Downtown Lakeland attracts over 40,000 spectators and draws top car collectors from across the southeast featuring a display of more than 650 show vehicles. Friday 6 p.m.- Hot Rod Rendezvous and outdoor concert; Saturday, 10 a.m.- Car show & free community events; Sunday, 8 a.m.- Road Tour (pre-registration required).
 

Saturday, October 15-Sunday, October 16

Rootstock Plant & Garden Festival
Where: Bok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales
Time: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Details: Bok Tower Gardens’ signature fall plant sale debuts ROOTSTOCK featuring dozens of plant vendors, local musical artists, healthy cuisine and a spectacular display of seasonal foliage. This festival marks the start of Florida’s gardening season, and admission is free both days.
 

Saturday, October 22-Sunday, October 23

Florida Dance Theatre Presents Dracula
Where: Branscomb Auditorium, Florida Southern College
Time: 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, 2:30 p.m. on Sunday
Details: Join Florida Dance Theatre as they unearth a deadly foe at their first full-length ballet of the season, “Dracula”. This sensational selection has just the right amount of spooky, scary, and fun to make it entertaining for all. The ​cost is: $35 for premiere seats, $20 for general adult and $15 for child admission.
 

Friday, October 28-Saturday, October 29

Polk County Sheriff’s Haunted Jail Tour
Where: PCSO jail, 455 N. Broadway Avenue, Bartow
Time: 6-11 p.m.
Details: The Polk County Sheriff’s Office is hosting their annual Haunted Jail Tour to benefit the United Way of Central Florida. PCSO volunteers will present the Zombie Apocalypse. Saturday will be family night, with treats and games for kids. The tour will be $5, with proceeds going to United Way. Visitors will be taken through areas that include the morgue, infirmary, incinerator and jail.
 
Rocky Horror Picture Show
Where: Polk Theatre, Lakeland
Time: Part begins at 9pm; Movie at midnight
Details: Let’s do the TIME WARP again…The Polk Theatre continues its tradition of showing the ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW and will feature the Original Lipstick Players as the Shadow Cast under the direction of Ferdinand DeJesus. Tickets are on sale online and in the office (9-5). $15 Prop bags will be available at the Door $5.
 

Saturday, October 29-Sunday, October 30

Pioneer Days Festival
Where: Lake Wailes, Lake Wales
Time: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday; 11:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Sunday
Details: There will be live entertainment on stage both days. Living history re-enactments, artisan and tradesmen demonstrations, pony rides, children’s activities, a Historic Architecture Carriage Tour, and an Antique Car Parade will showcase the weekend’s festivities.
 

Through Saturday, October 29

Zombie Farm Paintball Hayride
Where: Smith Family Ranch, 13444 Moore Road, Lakeland
Time: Begings Sept. 30, 7-10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays
Details: Zombie Farm Paintball is a 20 minute hayride, in the dark, that takes you through Zombie Farm’s infectious zones. There have been reports of the living dead lurking in the night, especially around swampy areas. The ranch will supply you with a paintball gun for your protection against these creatures. Admission includes live zombies to shoot at, use of a paintball gun, 200 rounds of ammo and a narrated hayride. The cost is $30 per person.
 

Through Sunday, October 30

CornFusion Crop Maze & Fall Festival
Where: Smith Family Ranch, 13444 Moore Road, Lakeland
Time: Begins Oct. 1, 3-6 p.m. Fridays, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturdays, 12-6 p.m. Sundays
Details: Join the Smith Family Ranch for a fun-filled day at CornFusion Crop Maze & Fall Festival. where you will find about 20 acres of fun for all ages including a pumpkin patch, 8-acre Egyptian Wheat maze, corn box, corn cannon, country store, cow train, miniature mazes, pony rides, and farm animals.
 
Mel Brook’s Young Frankenstein
Where: Lakeland Community Theatre, 121 S Lake Ave, Lakeland
Time: Begins Oct. 14, Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays; 7:30-10 p.m. Fridays & Saturdays; 2-4:30 p.m. Sundays
Details: The electrifying adaptation of the monstrously funny film will leave you in stitches. From the creators of the record-breaking Broadway sensation The Producers comes this monster new musical comedy. The cost is $22 for adults, $20 for seniors (55 & up) and $15 for children (17 & under).
 
Pumpkin Safari
Where: Safari Wilderness Ranch, 10850 Moore Road, Lakeland
Time: Begins Oct. 8, 1-6 p.m. Saturdays & Sundays
Details: These special fall safaris include 45-minute customized vehicle tours, led by an experienced tour guides; guided walking tours of the small mammal house; visits to a free-flight aviary and petting zoo barn; one pumpkin for each visitor, which can be carved at the ranch and given to the animals for enrichment or taken home to decorate; and stops at craft and enrichment stations.The cost is $75 or see Groupon for up to 52 percent off.
 

Through Monday, October 31

Brick-or-Treat
Where: LEGOLAND Florida, Winter Haven
Time: Begins Oct. 1, 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Saturdays & Sundays & Halloween Monday
Details: Presented by Shutterfly, this event returns with more spooky, kooky Halloween fun for kids. Expanded in 2016, the friendly-not-frightening event features trick-or-treating along the Brick or Treat Trail, larger-than-life LEGO® models, LEGO build activities, the world’s largest LEGO jack-o-lantern, a scavenger hunt with prizes, and an exclusive, Halloween-themed fireworks show in Pirates’ Cove. Brick-or-Treat takes place on weekends in October.
 

Friday, November 4-Sunday, November 6

St. Joseph’s Annual Fall Carnival
Where: St. Joseph, 210 West Lemon Street, Lakeland
Time: Friday, 5-11 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
Details: Check out St. Joseph’s annual fall carnival for fun! The cost of a day pass is $15 pre-sale or $20 at the gate. The weekend pass is $30 pre-sale or $40 after Nov. 1.
 

Through Saturday, November 5

The Shallow Grave
Where: 701 42nd St NW, Winter Haven
Time: Begins Sept. 30, 7:30 p.m.-11:30 p.m., Fridays & Saturdays
Details: The Shallow Grave is a highly detailed spine tingling scare-fest that brings the Central Florida area something they have been missing. An intimate in your face, fear filled environment with custom themes and movie quality sets to put you in the midst of terror unlike anything you have experienced before. The cost is $27-$43.
 

Through Sunday, November 13

Harvest Holler Corn Maze
Where: 950 Tavares Road, Polk City 33868
Time: Begins Sept. 23, 4-8 p.m. Fridays; 12-8 p.m. Saturdays; 12-5 p.m. Sundays
Details: Admission includes an interactive corn maze, hayride, hay fort, corn cribs, tire swings, cow train, corn hole and pumpkin patch. The cost is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and $8 youth (4-12 years). Kids 3 and under are free.
 
fall pumpkins Pixabay LRC Pixabay.com
 

Single Date-Events:

Thursday, October 6

Pep Homecoming Parade & Festival
Where: MILK Park on Lake Silver, Winter Haven
Time: 6-9 p.m.
Details: Join the Public Education Partnership of Winter Haven, area schools and local organizations at the PEP Homecoming Parade & Festival. In addition to the parade and festival, there will be a performance by the Cypress Gardens Water Ski Team and a firework display.
Rescheduled to Monday, October 10 due to Hurricane Matthew.
 

Friday, October 7

Downtown Lakeland’s First Friday
Where: Munn Park in Downtown Lakeland
Time: 6-9 p.m.
Details: This monthly event offers guests an evening of free family-friendly entertainment, activities, live music, art receptions, a car show, and the opportunity to visit a great, locally-owned restaurant or retail establishment. Each month, First Friday has a different theme, and special activities are provided to complement the theme. October’s theme will be “Friday Night Live, a celebration of the arts”.
 
Dinner & A Movie: Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho
Where: Polk Theatre, Lakeland
Time: 6:30-9:30 p.m.
Details: Join the Polk Theatre for a special Halloween installment of the Dinner & A Movie series as they present the Hitchcock classic Psycho accompanied with devilishly fine food. Dinner will be served at 6:30 p.m. with the movie starting at 7.30 p.m. Guests are able to attend just the movie for $5.
 
Halloween Boo-gie Night Party
Where: Medulla Resource Center, 1049 Parker Road, Lakeland
Time: 6-9 p.m.
Details: Dance the night away at Polk County Parks & Recreation’s Halloween dance party. This free family event will feature a DJ, face-painting, a trick or treat village, coloring contests and a costume contest.
 

Saturday, October 8

Polk County Master Gardeners Fall Plant Sale
Where: Lakeland Nursery, 4620 US Hwy 98 S, Lakeland
Time: 9 a.m.- 1p.m.
Details: Florida-friendly plants will be available for purchase including butterfly and hummingbird plants, Florida natives, ornamentals for sun and shade, Florida Sun Peach Trees, blueberry bushes and bromeliads. Master gardeners will be on hand to answer questions.
 

Friday, October 14

Halloween Trick-or-Treat Party
Where: Wilfred Smith Resource Center, Winter Haven
Time: 5-7 p.m.
Details: Polk County Parks and Recreation presents this free Halloween party featuring music, light refreshments, arts & crafts, coloring contests and costume contests.
 
Kids Pumpkinfest
Where: Winter Haven Public Library,
Time: 5:30-9 p.m.
Details: Drop off your children while you attend Oktoberfest! Kids will enjoy games, decorating pumpkins, and pizza. $10 per child, kindergarten – 5th grade
 
Main Street Winter Haven Oktoberfest
Where: Central Park, Winter Haven
Time: 6-9 p.m.
Details: Join Main Street Winter Haven for the 10th Annual Oktoberfest featuring beer, brats and live music. A Tasting Ticket includes: bratwurst or BBQ dinner and tasting of over 20 beers for $25.
 

Saturday, October 15

FallFest 2016
Where: Polk State College, 999 Avenue H NE, Winter Haven
Time: 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Details: Thousands trek to the campus each third Saturday in October to enjoy the event that features a craft show, the Kids Zone, music, police and EMS demonstrations, the Pumpkin Patch, food, the Haunted House and…more.
 
Lakeland Zombiefest
Where: Sun ‘n Fun Fly In Inc., 4175 Medulla Rd, Lakeland
Time: 2 p.m.-12 a.m.
Details: Terminal V will include local bands and entertainers along with how-to and discussion panels. There will be scheduled costume contests and cosplayers. Zombiefest always has an eclectic variety of vendors serving food and sharing their merchandise. The cost is $5. Kids 10 & under are free. The cost of parking is $5.
 

Friday, October 21

Dracula’s Masquerade Ball
Where: Lake Mirror Promenade, 111 Massachusetts Avenue, Lakeland
Time: 7:30-11:30 p.m.
Details: Join Florida Dance Theatre for Dracula’s Masquerade Ball on Friday, October 21, 2016. This is one event you sure don’t want to miss. Come enjoy an evening of fine food, music and dancing and revel in the ambiance of the Loggia as it is transformed into Dracula’s Masquerade Ball.
 

Saturday, October 22

32nd Annual “Munn Park Extravaganza
Where: Munn Park, Lakeland
Time: 8 a.m.-3 p.m.
Details: The 32nd Annual “Munn Park Extravaganza”, presented by the Garden Club of Lakeland Inc. will offer over 40 vendors featuring a variety of plants, flowers, trees, and garden-related art for sale. A new plant introduction will be presented by Bill Koen from the City of Lakeland Parks and Recreation.
 
Haunted Halloween Hayride & Happenings
Where: Loyce E. Harpe Park, 500 W. Carter Road, Mulberry
Time: 5 – 10 p.m.
Details: Polk County Parks & Recreation’s 20th Annual Haunted Halloween Hayride & Happenings event offers a fun and safe alternative to traditional “trick or treating” while offering attractions such as a hayride to a haunted walking trail, carnival games, live entertainment, a trick or treat village, costume contest and pie -eating contest.
 
Kids’ Night Out
Where: WonderHere, 111 South Florida Avenue, Lakeland
Time: 6-9 p.m.
Details: Let your children (ages 4-12) enjoy some fun while YOU enjoy a much deserved night out…or in! $20 per child, dinner included.
 

Sunday, October 23

Hocus Pocus
Where: Polk Theatre, 121 Florida Avenue S, Lakeland
Time: 2-3:45 p.m.
Details: Join the Polk Theatre for a showing of the 1993 Halloween film, Hocus Pocus. Rated PG. The cost is $5.
 
A Nightmare on Elm Street
Where: Polk Theatre, 121 Florida Avenue S, Lakeland
Time: 5-6:45 p.m.
Details: Join the Polk Theatre for a showing of Wes Craven’s A Nightmare on Elm Street. This 1984 film is rated R. The cost is $5.
 

Tuesday, October 25

Halloween Harvest – “Ghost Busters”
Where: Auburndale Downtown City Park
Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Details: The Auburndale Chamber of Commerce presents this annual event featuring Trick-or-Treating, a costume contest, entertainment, flash mob dancing, food vendors, crafts and more. There will also be a Spook-tacular Haunted House with the Auburndale Fire Department (assisted by The Shallow Grave).
 

Thursday, October 27

74th Annual Crickette Club Parade & Carnival
Where: Downtown Bartow & Mosaic Park, Bartow
Time: 4-8 p.m.
Details: Bartow’s favorite family tradition is better than ever featuring rides for tots and teens, expanded food selections including food trucks, new games, costume contest for store-bought and homemade, Crickette Club’s famous cake walk, drawing for $500, $300, and $100 Visa cards, Bingo and more. All proceeds benefit the Bartow area Girl Scouts and the Bartow Community. Parade is free with the Carnival to follow at Mosaic Park.
 
Safe Haven Halloween
Where: Freedom Park, Polk City
Time: 5:30-8 p.m.
Details: Join in the annual spooky fun for the entire family featuring free popcorn and candy, delicious food, a cupcake walk for tiny tots, carnival games and prizes, tug-o-war, three legged races, potato-sack races, and costume contests.
 

Friday, October 28

Boo! Bash
Where: Explorations V, Lakeland
Time: 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Details: Celebrate safely during a fun-filled morning of Halloween games, food and activities for the youngest crowd. Join in by wearing kid-friendly costumes. Included with admission/membership.
 
Halloween Spooktacular
Where: Wabash Community Center, 1230 Southern Ave., Lakeland
Time: 6-8 p.m.
Details: This Polk County Parks & Rec event is free and will feature costume and coloring contests, trick or treating, and more.
 
Spooktoberfest
Where: Eloise Resource Center, 710 Snively Ave., Eloise
Time: 6-8 p.m.
Details: This Polk County Parks & Rec event is free and will feature costume and coloring contests, trick or treating, and more.
 

Saturday, October 29

Annual Dundee Fall Fest
Where: Dundee Community Center, 603 Lake Marie Blvd, Dundee
Time: 6 p.m.
Details: Bring the family out for games, hayrides, food and candy.
 
Ghouls’ Night Out
Where: Downtown Winter Haven
Time: 10 a.m.- 2p.m.
Details: The City of Winter Haven will be hosting Ghouls’ Night out which includes candy from area businesses, a hayride, food vendors, a DJ, and lots of fun activities for people of all ages.
 
Halloween Water Ski Show
Where: Lake Silver, Winter Haven
Time: 8 p.m.
Details: Enjoy this special ‘Spooktacular’ Ski Show on Lake Silver by the Cypress Gardens Water Ski Team. There will be a costume contest before the show at 7 p.m. for ages 0-16. Free.
 
Lakeland Library’s Annual Food Drive
Where: Lakeland Public Library front lawn, 100 Lake Morton Drive, Lakeland
Time: 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Details: Bring in your non-perishable items and the participate in fall festivities that include games, face-painting and snacks at this family-friendly event. The event is free and open to the public, but please remember your food donation.
 
The Mulberry Library’s 2nd Annual Harvest Festival
Where: Spence Field, 1100 NE 1st Street, Mulberry
Time: 5 p.m.-8 p.m.
Details: Enjoy a night of fun featuring vendors, pony rides, hay rides, candy, trunk-or-treat, games, a hay bale maze and a live Bluegrass band!
 

Sunday, October 30

Fall Festival
Where: Lake Eva Park, Haines City
Time: 1 p.m.- 4 p.m.
Details: NorthRidge Church present this annual fall festival featuring your same favorite free elements and a few extras such as inflatables, food, games, train rides, Ident-A-Kid, Fire Department exhibits, by the Polk County Sherriff’s Office SWAT and Rescue teams, and candy.
 
Halloween Movie
Where: Polk Theatre, 121 Florida Avenue S, Lakeland
Time: 5:30-7 p.m.
Details: Join the Polk Theatre for a showing of the 1978 Halloween movie classic, Halloween featuring Jamie Lee Curtis. Rated R. The cost is $5.
 
The Exorcist Movie
Where: Polk Theatre, 121 Florida Avenue S, Lakeland
Time: 8-10:15 p.m.
Details: Join the Polk Theatre for a showing of the 1973 Halloween movie film, The Exorcist. Rated R. The cost is $5.
 

Monday, October 31

Safe Place to Trick or Treat
Where: Lewis Matthews Complex/Gene Carroll Field, Davenport
Time: 6-8 p.m.
Details: Enjoy free hot dogs and drinks, cotton candy, popcorn, a haunted house, maze, costume contest and activities.
 
Just Cares, Inc. 5th Annual Fall Festival
Where: 124 S Kentucky Ave, Lakeland
Time: 6-9 p.m.
Details: Join this safe environment for families that is an alternative to Halloween featuring a petting zoo, games & activities, bounce house, performances, music, candy and more.
 

Saturday, November 5

Auburndale’s Autumn Arts & Crafts Bazaar
Where: Auburndale Downtown City Park
Time: 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Details: The City of Auburndale presents their annual arts and crafts show. Stop by to find arts and craft vendors with items in painting, needlepoint, ceramics, photography, stained glass, wearable art, jewelry, wood-crafting and more.
 
Belk Charity Day Sale
Where: Belk at Lakeside Village
Time: 6-10 a.m.
Details: Purchase your $5 Charity Sale ticket to support the Learning Resource Center or other local organizations and schools. Get $5 off your first purchase with our thanks for supporting our southern communities. Save on rarely discounted brands! Free gift card to the first 100 customers. The pre-sale dates are Oct. 25 – Nov. 4.
 
Gobble, Gobble, Death & Trouble
Where: Ramon Theater, 15 E Wall St, Frostproof
Time: 6 p.m.
Details: Enjoy a dinner at the theater while trying to solve this fall-themed murder mystery. Tickets cost $40.
 
Kathleen Area Historical Society’s Fall Festival
Where: Heritage Park, Kathleen, 8950 N Campbell Rd. Lakeland
Time: 8 a.m.-2 p.m.
Details: Enjoy this Kathleen tradition where you’ll find cane grinding/syrup making, a pioneer life exhibit, rummage sale, children’s activities, live music, food and more. Vendors and other nonprofit organizations will be in attendance. Admission is free.
 
 
Related Posts:
2015 Fall Festival & Events
 
 

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For the Love…of Learning 2016 was a success!

The 2016 Oscar-themed fundraising event took place at the exquisite home of Richard and Mary Ellen Krakowski in Lakeland’s Grasslands Saturday evening. The cocktail-chic affair not only served as a way to raise scholarship funds for deserving LRC students, but also served as the center’s 40th Anniversary celebration.
 
Over the course of the evening, guests were able to view and bid on an array of items showcased throughout the house while enjoying savory hors d’ouvres from Terrie Lobb Catering, libations by Head Over Heels Bar and live entertainment from The Sofa Kings. Jennifer Leigh of New Channel 8 hosted the affair as the Mistress of Ceremonies and introduced LRC star students Jaylen Arnold and Jaylaycia Lewis. LRC also recognized past and present board members with medals in celebration of the nonprofit’s 40 year-history and named GiveWell Community Foundation the For the Love…of Learning 2016 Honoree.
 
While LRC is still working on the numbers, it appears the organization is well on its way to surpassing 2015’s fundraiser earnings of more than $21,000 in scholarship funds that assisted more than 25 deserving students.
 
LRC is grateful for all of the generosity and support that went into making the event a success and is elated for the ability to continue assisting deserving students in this way that the community has helped make possible.
 
 
 
Related Posts:

 

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Celebrate 40 & Raise Scholarships for Students with LRC on Saturday

Celebrate the Learning Resource Center of Polk County, Inc.’s 40th Anniversary while helping children and families in the community at the annual For the Love…of Learning benefit this Saturday from 7-10 p.m.
Screen shot 2016-02-18 at 5.18.58 PM
 
The Oscar-themed event, aimed at raising scholarship funds for deserving LRC students, will take place at the exquisite home of Richard and Mary Ellen Krakowski in Lakeland’s Grasslands and will feature entertainment from The Sofa Kings, Hors d’oeuvres by Terrie Lobb Catering , host Jennifer Leigh of News Channel 8, libations by Head Over Heels Bar, and a world-class silent auction.
Screen shot 2016-02-18 at 5.19.09 PM
 
Attendees will find an eclectic mix of auction items showcased throughout the evening. Items, trips, packages and services such as a one-week getaway to North Carolina, Chef’s Table for Two at the Terrace Grille, Lone Palm Golf Club foursome, Disney Park Hopper passes, and Payne Air Conditioning & Heating preventative maintenances will be up for bid.
 
Other highlights will include a look at LRC’s 40-year history, recognition of past and present board members, and the 2016 Honoree presentation honoring GiveWell Community Foundation. Florida Southern College, Polk County Public Schools, United Way of Central Florida, Publix Super Markets, Inc., and Junior League of Greater Lakeland make up past years’ honorees.
 
Guests can purchase tickets to the benefit on LRCLoveofLearning.com for $65.00. Other ways to support the cause include becoming a sponsor, bestowing a scholarship, donating a silent auction item or contributing to the LRC Endowment Fund within the GiveWell Community Foundation.
 
Those interested in sponsorships and donations should contact LRC Executive Director Dr. Pam Craven by email, PamelaC@LRCPolk.com, or phone, 863-688-9477.
 
 
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PigFest Offers Triple Volunteer Hours

LRC has the unprecedented opportunity to log over 200 volunteer hours during this year’s signature Bar-B-Q weekend.
pigfestlogo
 
LRC’s assignments include the VIP Sponsors’ Party on Thursday, January 27, and the team breakfasts on Friday, January 28 and Saturday, January 29. This year, however, LRC is also assigned to operate the 8-passenger golf carts which help shuttle people, equipment, and supplies on all three days. Two golf carts will run from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Thursday. LRC drivers will also operate 5 golf carts every hour from 7 a.m.-10 p.m. on Friday and 7 a.m.-6 p.m. on Saturday.
 
PigFest proceeds will be divided between the participating non-profits based on the number of hours worked.
 
If you are interested in volunteering with LRC at PigFest, please email RebeccaT@LRCPolk.com.
 

About PigFest

 
The 20th annual event opens to the public on Friday, January 29 from 5-10 p.m. and continues through Saturday, January 30 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. at Tigertown in Lakeland. Over 150 competition barbecue teams will participate. Stop by for savory cuisine, lively entertainment, and a whole lot of fun!
 
pigfest flyer
 

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Address:

1628 Florida Ave S.
Lakeland, FL 33803

Phone:

(863) 688-9477

Office Hours:

Monday – Thursday: 7:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Friday: 7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Saturday – Sunday: Closed

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© Copyright – Learning Resource Center | Site Designed by: MaximizeDigital.com

Address:

1628 Florida Ave S.
Lakeland, FL 33803

Phone:

(863) 688-9477

Office Hours:

Monday – Thursday: 7:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Friday: 7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Saturday – Sunday: Closed

Stay Connected

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© Copyright – Learning Resource Center | Site Designed by: MaximizeDigital.com