6 fun things to do this weekend in Lake County and beyond
Considering our post-holiday fatigue, it's impressive that there's anything going on the first weekend of January.
That said, if you still have some energy or had a lackluster New Year's Eve, carpe diem at one of several culturally enriching and just plain fun events happening this weekend in Lake County.
From street festivals to fine art to a live-in-the-flesh historical reenactment plus live music and a death-defying performance, there are some noteworthy reasons to get out and fully appreciate your Florida winter weekend.
FRIDAY
'An adventurous approach to surface and form' in Leesburg
Jeffrey Russell Ryerson creates art in different mediums, mixes them up, blends textures, imagery, patterns objects and more in his multifaceted works. The veteran of the Tampa Bay art scene now lives in Lake County and will be featured in the Leesburg Center for the Arts' first exhibition of the year from Jan. 5 through Jan. 10.
“Ryerson’s artworks are rich in both color and texture, but not at the expense of either," said Richard Colvin, director of the Leesburg Center for the Arts. "Recently I’ve noticed an increase in expressive lines; almost a web of variable density calligraphy.”
The artist's works have appeared in prominent museums, galleries and other venues across the U.S., and he has contributed to many philanthropic enterprises. A free opening reception featuring 36 Ryerson originals will celebrate the solo show this Friday from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at 429 W. Magnolia St. in downtown Leesburg. Details: leesburgarts.com.
Celebrate 2024 at the Fire and Ice First Friday in Eustis
I would refrain from saying they're inspired by George R.R. Martin's "Song of Fire and Ice" or a beloved Pat Benatar tune, but downtown Eustis will come alive with elemental style during the town's first First Friday event of the year, themed "Fire & Ice."
The festivities on Friday, Jan. 5, from 6 to 9 p.m., will feature an ice sculptor, who does business as IcePro Orlando, from 6 to 7:45 p.m. at the intersection of Magnolia Avenue and Grove Street. Spectators are encouraged to watch as he creates an incredible Eustis-themed sculpture out of a block of ice.
Dave Capp Project featuring France Neil will play tunes on the Eustis Street stage while food and retail vendors keep the crowd otherwise occupied. In keeping with the theme, a fire performer, Amora Fire, will also twirl hot batons at 6:15, 7:15 and 8:15 p.m. in the center of town. Details: 352-483-5491.
SATURDAY
Leesburg's Saturday Morning Market is back
Lake County is abuzz about the Leesburg Saturday Morning Market starting up again this Saturday, Jan. 6, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Downtown Leesburg Business Association presents the street bazaar, which will take place weekly through the winter and spring at North Fifth Street and Market Street. Expect artisan foods, homegrown and handmade products. Vendors are still being accepted. Fill out and submit Facebook event page application.
Relive the massacre of a U.S. war hero
Experience a U.S. battle reenactment and central Florida tradition as U.S. Army Major Francis L. Dade’s fatal Battle of 1835 surges forth once again on the very same battlefield that it took place 188 years ago. This weekend, Jan. 6-7, more than 100 soldiers and Seminoles will come to life again in the dramatized battle that began the Second Seminole War. Seminole and civilian camps will be reconstructed for the event, and attendees can browse a period vendor trade fair, enjoy historic arts and crafts demonstrations and a full-scale cannon firing along with 19th century-inspired games and activities for children.
According to historian W.S. Steele, the Dade massacre was the second greatest defeat the U.S. Army suffered at the hands of indigenous Americans.
Organizers recommend bringing chairs. Event begins 9 a.m.; battle is at 2. Bleacher seating is limited. $5 per person; Children 5 and younger admitted free. Parking is $3 per vehicleTakes place at Dade Battlefield Historic State Park, 7200 Battlefield Parkway, Bushnell. Details: 352-793-4781 or facebook.com/Dade.Battlefield.
SUNDAY
No-nonsense Americana from Jordan Foley
In case you missed this in our 2024 preview, you can experience the tunes and storytelling of Jordan Foley, a folk-Americana singer-songwriter based in Orlando, right here in Lake County this weekend.
Fans say he packs a punch with his growling voice and heavy-hand acoustic rhythm. 2 p.m. Hear for your self on Sunday, Jan. 7, Dirty South Saloon, 1850 U.S. 441, Leesburg. See Dirty South Saloon's Facebook page for event updates.
Enjoy some grilled fish with eclectic sonic flavors
Described as eclectic, timeless and deft at combining elements of folk and soul, David Oliver Willis will add to the Floridian ambiance of the Lake Eustis Waterfront Grille this Sunday at 2:30 p.m. The restaurant is located at 350 Lakeshore Drive, Eustis.
Florida born and raised, Willis says his influences are as far flung as Nina Simone, Michael Kiwanuka, Gillian Welch and Gary Clark Jr. That's a nice mix if you ask any music aficionado. Learn more about the artist at davidoliverwillismusic.com. Restaurant details: 352-602-7446.
A LOOK AHEAD ...
Free presentation on preserving your family's past
The hardest part of being a family historian is finding a way to share and preserving that history for another family member who might not be interested right now, says Connie Lizak of Pastfinders. The genealogist will share how she has preserved articles that represent her family history, including letters, photos, her great-grandmother Koser's quilt, the family Bible, Aunt Ethel's, stories, a Hitchcock chair and more.
The talk can be accessed on Zoom and at Cooper Memorial Library, 2525 Oakley Seaver Drive, Clermont on Thursday, Jan. 11, at 5 p.m. Details: Pastfinders.org.
This article originally appeared on Daily Commercial: Weekend plans? Check here for 6 cool things to do in & around Lake Co.
