13 things to do this weekend in Lake County
This weekend offers culture and good times, inviting us to enjoy live reggae music, the visual arts and delicious foods of the Caribbean. There's definitely fun stuff for all ages and backgrounds, from the old-fashioned Georgefest in Eustis to the inaugural Haitian culture festival in Leesburg to food trucks, berry picking and live music all throughout Lake County.
CONTINUING THROUGH SATURDAY
Artist with a Purpose show concludes soon at LCMA
Someone put my Leesburg in my Tavares! ... While we usually see the work of Semeion Richardson and her cohorts at Artist with a Purpose in downtown Leesburg, the creative artists are showing their works in Lake's county seat through Feb. 24.
The Artist with a Purpose exhibition imparts how art can be therapeutic and validating art can be, especially when people are facing mental health issues. In this spirit, the AWAP artists express themselves and what they've overcome and witnessed on their respective journeys with personalized, unique style and, above all, honesty. The exhibition is up Friday, Feb. 23, and Saturday, Feb. 24, at the Lake County Museum of Art from noon to 4 p.m. through at 213 W. Ruby St., Tavares. Details: lakeartmuseum.com.
Enjoy old-fashioned Americana at Eustis' Georgefest
The city of Eustis takes over its town square to celebrate the community's longtime annual festival Feb. 17-24. It's the 122nd annual Georgefest, the longest-running festival honoring our nation's first president, George Washington.
Amusements and recreation options galore include carnival rides and games, a bass tournament, the Running of the Georges Race, a dog jog, old-fashioned parade, contests, vendors and live entertainment.
Headliners include Tracy Byrd, who became a household name on the country music scene in 1993 when his song "Holdin' Heaven," off his self-titled debut album, hit #1 on the Billboard Country Charts.
If you dig the authentic vibes, poetic storytelling and the neo-soul of Leon Bridges, you'll enjoy Thunderstorm Artis, who's gotten buzz for his oaring vocals and dextrous, layered guitar sound. Drake White grew up singing in his church’s youth choir in Alabama before becoming one of country music’s most spirited innovators.
Fireworks end the fest with a bang Saturday at 9 p.m. For more scheduled events, check out the fest's event schedule at eustis.org/Residents/Georgefest, or visit facebook.com/CityofEustis/events for more details.
FRIDAY
Students in the art program at Leesburg High School have created works inspired by African-American blues musicians, who are not only trailblazers in their genre but inspirations behind rock 'n' roll and country music styles. See the work of the talented young bunch at a public reception on Feb. 23 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. or pop into the Leesburg Center for the Arts, 429 W. Magnolia St., Leesburg, through March 30. Details: leesburgarts.com/cfagallery.
SATURDAY
Free community festival celebrates new Wekiva Parkway
The Central Florida Expressway Authority says that "the Wekiva Parkway (S.R. 429) connects to Interstate 4 and State Road 417, completing the beltway around Central Florida, while helping to protect the natural resources surrounding the Wekiva River."
In conjunction with the project, the CFX Authority will open a 10-mile, multi-use trail along portions of the parkway in east Lake and Seminole counties, marking the occasion with a community celebration from 8 a.m. to noon on Feb. 24. Activities include trail tours, bike ride, booths and games, nature exhibits, music and a tree planting ceremony. The event takes place at the Neighborhood Lakes Scenic Trailhead, 26656 County Road 46A, Sorrento. Details: wekivaparkway.com.
Get irie at reggae fest in Groveland
Turn that frown upside down at the One Love Reggae Music Festival this Saturday, where island jams and good vibes go together like chicken and jerk sauce. The Bennett Law Center and the city of Groveland are co-presenting the second annual event from 2 to 8 p.m. in Lake David Park (located at State Road 50 and North Lake Avenue).
Headliners include Everton Blender and the Blend Dem Band. A seminal artist that ReverbNation describes as "one of the few Jamaican singers to truly bridge the gap between the roots and dancehall reggae styles," Everton is known for his 1996 song "Ghetto People," sampled without his prior knowledge by French Montana in the 2022 single "Higher." The singer has said in interviews that received no royalties but appreciates the attention it has brought him. Marion Hall, praised for her powerhouse vocals, and other noteworthy acts join the fun. Details: guenet@ggrmarketingpr.com.
2nd time's the charm: Blues N Q rescheduled in Leesburg
The city of Leesburg grills up a sizzling good time at Blues N Q on Saturday, Feb. 24, from noon to 4 p.m. at the Towne Square, rescheduled from last weekend's soggy Saturday afternoon slot. Along with mouthwatering barbecue meats and other items for purchase, you can enjoy live music from country and blues rockers Mud Rooster; the jazzy, soulful and Motown-inspired Rusty Trumpet Band; and guitarist, singer-songwriter David Julia.
The Great Chicago Brewery and Tap Room will give out samples of its house IPA, and proceeds from its sales will go to The Warehouse Social Club of the MFPSA - MFPSA - Military, Fire, Police Support Association. Set your GPS for 510 W. Main St., Leesburg. Details: leesburgflorida.gov.
Food truck night pulls back into Clermont
Bring your big appetite to Clermont's Family Food Truck Night at its historic Citrus Tower, a landmark built in 1956 and considered one of the state’s most popular roadside attractions of that era, at 141 N. U.S. 27. The event on Friday, Feb. 23, takes place from 5 to 9 p.m., featuring live music, classic cars, kid zone and crafters. Participating vendors include Customized Donuts, Nutmeg Island Taste, Killer Potatoes, Eric's Steaks and Queen's Cup fresh juices. Rides to the top of the Citrus Tower available for a $7-$11 a person. Details: eventsbysg.com.
Gather 'round the campfire for a Trout Lake sing-along
In the mood for some guitar strums and stories over a campfire? Every third Saturday of the month, Lake Eustis Folk hosts the The Third Saturday Folk Concert at the Trout Lake Nature Center, a night of live music and a potluck dinner that begins at 7 p.m. Music begins at 7:30 p.m. Admission is $7 a person. Attendees are welcome to bring a beverage of choice and any food you prefer. Hot chocolate and coffee will be provided. Also, don't forget a lawn chair or a musical instrument (if you play). Trout Lake Center is at 520 E. County Road 44, Eustis. Visit facebook.com/troutlakenaturecenter/events for more details.
Eclectic gospel performances
Gorgeous Riley Productions hosts "Gifted: Bringing Gospel To The Stage," a free evening of "soul-stirring, faith-filled" gospel performances in Leesburg. The eclectic night includes spoken word, singing, rap and dance performances. Takes place at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 24, at 2005 Johns Ave., Leesburg. Details: gifted@grileyproductions.com.
SUNDAY
'Experience the Culture of Haiti' in Leesburg
A first for Lake County — enjoy Haitian cultural music and dance, kids activities, food and more. The event's featured artists include organizer/founder Belina Wright plus Guerline Pierre, Club Kreyol Dance Troupe, host Semeion Richardson/Artist with a Purpose, Dafeney Josue and emerging artist Jefferson Marc-Eugene. Food by Lou's Kitchen, Spurzile's Gourmet and Chinola Catering Service keep the crowd fed.
Wright, a Florida native of Haitian descent, created the event to unite cultures. The self-taught artist left full-time work as a teacher to experience the artistic life full time. She has integrated her Haitian Heritage in many of her paintings. Wright's Haiti festival takes place at 411 W. Main St., Leesburg from 4 to 8 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 25. Admission is free. Details: artistwap.com.
SATURDAY & SUNDAY
Weekends at the Winery's free outdoor concerts
Bring lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy free live music at the Lakeridge Winery this Saturday and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. Allie Sawicki performs Saturday, and Christina Vukel takes the stage on Sunday. No coolers or outside food and beverages allowed. Admission and parking are free. Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards is at 19239 U.S. 27 N, Clermont. Visit lakeridgewinery.com for details on its wines and other goods.
Grown-up and kid fun at local farms
In Eustis, Amber Brooke Farms hosts its annual Strawberry Festival Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 17-18 and 24-25, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Expect a strawberry pie-eating contest, growing classes, berry picking, strawberry stomping and 40-plus farm-fun activities, including a slide hill, wagon ride, jump pillows, ball zone, playgrounds and more. Of course, strawberries will be available for purchase. Amber Brooke Farms is located at 36111 N. County Road 44A, Eustis. Admission to the Strawberry Festival is $15 and are available at amberbrookefarms.com. Activities like archery range and gel blasters are available for an extra fee.
Bring the kids for amusements and stock up on blooming sunflowers, strawberries or a medley of fresh vegetables at Southern Hill Farms in Clermont. It's free to enter the farm's seasonal u-pick events, but pets are not permitted.
Live music and food trucks, including the Southern Hill Farms food trucks serving lunch and visiting food trucks Willy T’s Crab Shack and Twisted Plates serve up the grub. Or, enjoy blueberry lemonade, farm-made cocktails and seasonal craft beer.
An unlimited play wristband costs $22 (plus tax) for children 42 inches and taller, $18 (plus tax) for younger. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Feb. 24 & 25, at 16651 Schofield Road, Clermont. Entry ends at 5:30 p.m. Details: southernhillfarms.com.
Email us info about Lake County-area events at least two weeks in advance at news@dailycommercial.com.
This article originally appeared on Daily Commercial: Plans this weekend? Georgefest, first Haiti fest & more in Lake
