Daryl A. Ward, PhD Executive Director Polk Arts & Cultural Alliance director@polkarts.org
CONTRIBUTING EDITOR
Jordan Weiland editor@polkarts.org
ADVERTISING admin@polkarts.org
CONTRIBUTORS
Polk Arts & Cultural Alliance Supporters
MEMBERSHIP
Daryl A. Ward, PhD director@polkarts.org
CONTACT
Polk Arts & Cultural Alliance 450 Martin L King Jr Ave Lakeland, FL 33815 director@polkarts.org (863) 578-8891
Art•i•facts Magazine is published by the Polk Arts & Cultural Alliance, in support of the arts and cultural community of Polk County. Submit promotional material and news for consideration by email to admin@polkarts.org. Visit PolkArts.org/art-i-facts to learn more.
Letters to the editor are welcome on subjects relating to the content of the magazine. Opinions expressed in this publication are those of the organziations, writers, or other news sources, and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the magazine, publisher, editor, or the Polk Arts & Cultural Alliance. Art•i•facts Magazine assumes no responsibility for unsolicited submissions or errors.
Front Cover: Artist paints at Bok Tower Gardens as part of the 2nd Annual Plein Air Symposium with the Lake Wales Arts Council. Photo by Jordan Weiland.
Polk County’s Designated Local Arts Agency
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
MICHELL GITHENS
President
MELISSA TYRONE
Treasurer
CHRISTY APISA
Secretary
DIRECTORS
STEPHANIE BERNAL
KEMP BRINSON
HOLLY CORDERO
BETH CUMMINGS
NATE DUNHAM
MERISSA GREEN
ERIC MARSHALL
SARA ROBERTS MCCARLEY
STACY WALSH
CHELSEA YOUNG
EX-OFFICIO
DR. MARTHA SANTIAGO County Commissioner
FRED HEID Superintendent of Polk County Schools
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
DARYL WARD, PhD
REGISTRATION CH69767. "A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE (800-435-7352) WITHIN THE STATE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE."
When you renew your tag this year, support the arts in Polk County by choosing a Florida State of the Arts license plate. Arts tag patrons may claim a $20 tax deduction for their charitable donation. Learn more at www.polktaxes. com and www.polkarts.org
Message from the Executive Director
As you peruse this issue, I’m certain you are in the midst of a busy holiday season. It’s my hope, therefore, that you can take some respite from the tumult and have an arts and cultural experience over the next couple of months. Between holiday musical concerts, theatrical productions, and traditional dance concerts, there are many ways to support local artists while also enjoying the holidays with some personal festivities. In fact, many of our Supporting Sponsors have special events set for December through February and you can find many of them promoted in this very magazine. And speaking of Supporting Sponsors, I want to welcome our newest supporter, Notta Gallery. Located in downtown Lakeland (just off Munn Park), Notta Gallery seeks to not only offer arts experiences for the greater Polk community, but they also serve as one of our only dedicated private art galleries. They currently feature local artists and will be expanding their offerings soon to include artists from outside our area. Be sure and check them out and support small business owners by buying local art!
That’s a great reminder to consider visiting our numerous local arts organizations for your holiday gifts. Why not check out the new gift shop at the Depot Arts District as well as gift shops at The AGB Museum of Art or Bok Tower Gardens? These venues have specially curated selections that offer unique gifts for friends and family. Additionally, groups like Theatre Winter Haven, Lakeland Community Theatre, and the Lakeland Symphony Orchestra all offer ticket packages that make wonderful holiday presents – it’s always a winning move to give arts and cultural experiences as gifts!
I want to wrap up this column by offering a heartfelt thanks to all who attended our Hall of Fame Gala just a few months ago. We inducted five new members into the Polk Arts & Culture Hall of Fame and celebrated six individuals/ organizations with our Annual Award recognition. I must give a special
thanks to the City of Bartow for their support of this event as well as a hardy thank-you to the Bartow Art Guild for their assistance with the Best of Polk art show. That exhibit debuted at the Gala and then moved to the Pamplin Gallery in the Bartow Library. We continue to be grateful to be able to celebrate Polk’s arts and cultural scene with our annual gala and we’re already planning for next year’s event!
Again, please make time to take in the holiday arts and cultural offerings and enjoy this special time of the year. We’ll see you in 2026!
Congratulations to our Best of Polk Show, Best of Show award winner, "Bestie Beastie: Florida Gargoyle” by Carol Zeman.
Daryl Ward, PhD
NOV 28 THROUGH JAN 4
Join us for beautiful blooms, melodic music, awe-inspiring architecture, historic home tours, and more! Experience a day like none other in the beauty of Bok Tower Gardens this season.
DREAM WE AVER: TALES FROM THE TREES
NOW THROUGH JAN 31, 2026
RUNA: HARK! AN IR ISH CHRISTMAS CONCERT ON THE OVAL LAWN
SATURDAY, NOV 29 · 6PM
SILVER BELLS BIG BAND P RESENTS A SOULFUL NIGHT ATOP IRON MOUNTAIN
SATURDAY, DEC 6 · 6PM
BREAKFAST WITH SANTA
SATURDAY & SUNDAY, DEC 13-14
WINTER FAIRY FES T & THE NUTCRACKER
SATURDAY & SUNDAY, DEC 13-14
YULETIDE: A STARLIGHT CELEBRATION WITH THE BYRNE BROS. SATURDAY, DEC 20 · 6PM
CAROLS & CARILLON WITH DR. REED & FRIENDS SUNDAY, DEC 21 · 4PM
PEACE INTO THE NEW YEAR CONCERT WITH PAISLEY CRAZE SATURDAY, JAN 3 · 6PM
AGB MUSEUM OF ART AT FLORIDA SOUTHERN COLLEGE
Shrouded in Mystery: Photographs by Stephen Althouse Through April 2026. Pennsylvania-based artist Stephen Althouse’s large-scale black-and-white photographs captivate viewers in the most unexpected ways; inherently two-dimensional but centered on assemblages of everyday human-built objects, his photographs are paradoxically more sculptural than photographic — and more spiritually moving than purely documentary.
Darkroom Alchemy: The Art of Jerry Uelsmann Through Jan 25, 2026.
Imaginations: The Adventures of "boxboy Jr." and the Art of Alex Lanier Through Apr 19, 2026.
Surreal Scenarios: The Art of Susanne Schuenke Through Mar 15, 2026.
The Medici Dynasty: Renaissance in Florence Dec 13, 2025 - Apr 12, 2026.
Continuing Exhibitions: Warhol Condensed: From Marilyn to Soup and Back Again, We're So Glad You're Here: New Additions to the AGB, Surface, Service and Splendor: Decorating History in Clay, American Art Since the 1960s, and The Von Wagner Code, and Spirits: African and Oceanic Art from the Dr. Alan and Linda Rich Collection.
The AGB Museum of Art at Florida Southern College is located at 800 E. Palmetto St. in Lakeland. Admission is free. Hours: Tue-Sat, 10am-4pm; Sun, 1-5pm; closed Mon and major holidays. 863-6887743, agbmuseum.org
BARTOW ART GUILD
The In-Between, Tony Guinn Jan 3–24, 2026. Tony’s evocative photography captures the quiet tension between motion and stillness, where the seen dissolves into the felt. Through blurred light and softened edges, The
In-Between invites viewers to linger, slow down, and rediscover presence. Opening reception and Meet the Artist Jan 12 from 6–8 pm.
Sawdust & Kilowatts, Connie Combs
Feb 7-28, 2026. Connie’s mixed media works fuse the warmth of wood with the spark of electricity through Lichtenberg burning, creating vivid, lightning-etched compositions inspired by emotion, travel, and nature. Opening reception and Meet the Artist Feb 9 from 6–8 pm.
Saturdays, 10am-4pm. Free. Bartow Art Guild's Art Center is located at 1242 E. Main St in Bartow. bartowartguild.org
BOK TOWER GARDENS
Visitor Center
View a brief orientation film and permanent exhibits that provide insight and perspective on Edward W. Bok’s life and influence, the Singing Tower and the Gardens.
Holidays at Bok Tower Gardens
Let Your Heart Take Flight this holiday season at Bok Tower Gardens, where the beauty of the season comes alive in every corner.
General admission $20, children $10 (ages 6-17), children 5 and under are free, Dogs $10. Members receive unlimited admission. The Gardens are closed on Christmas. Hours: 8am-6pm daily. Additional fees may apply for special events, concerts, program, and tours, some of which may occur during the evening. Bok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales. 863-676-1408, boktowergardens.org.
CITY OF LAKELAND, ARTS & REC!
Home Sweet Home
Through Jan 18, 2026. Artwork exhibited to express an idea or narrative exploring the expression "Home Sweet Home".
Hosted and organized in partnership with Art Crawl, Inc., Arts & Rec provides exposure to art in Lakeland's recreation facilities, and in City Hall, through rotating art exhibitions featuring local artists. lakelandgov.net/ArtsandRec
DAVENPORT HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM
Gill Gillespie Paintings
Opening reception Jan 15, 2:30pm. Admission is free. The museum is located at 5 S. Allapaha Avenue in Davenport. Hours: Wed, 10am-4pm, Thu-Fri, 10am-3pm, Sat, 10am-2pm. Closed Sun-Tue. 863-2587800, davenporthistory.org
FLORIDA CHILDREN'S MUSEUM
Storyland: A Trip Through Childhood Favorites
Through Jan 11, 2026. Immerse yourself in the pages of The Tale of Peter Rabbit, Chicka Chicka Boom Boom, and more at Florida Children’s Museum! This bilingual exhibit strengthens pre-reading skills with colorful characters and activities. Designed for children birth through age 8.
January: Be A Builder
Learn to build solid structures, relationships, muscles, and more all month long.
February: Our Colorful World
Daily admission is $15 per person, or free with a museum membership. Located at Bonnet Springs Park, 600 Bonnet Springs Blvd in Lakeland. Hours: Mon-Sat, 10am5pm; Sun, 10am-3pm. 863-687-3869, explorefcm.org
FLORIDA WILDFLOWER STUDIOS; GRAY GALLERY
Holiday Flamingos Through Dec 31, 2025.
Eating Out in Florida
Jan 12 - Feb 27, 2026. The Patricia Maxcy Wilson Awards presentation will be held on Feb 27.
The Gray Gallery is located at 12 E. Wall St. in Frostproof. 863-206-9691, 863-8558525, floridawildflowerstudios com
ACCESS MORE. SEE MORE. SAVE MORE.
Membership is an annual gift that supports our exhibitions, educational programming, and helps to keep us FREE for the community. From exclusive first looks at upcoming exhibitions, discounts on educational opportunities, reciprocal benefits, and more, there’s so much to enjoy with an AGB membership!
Become a member today by visiting agbmuseum.org/join
FROSTPROOF HISTORICAL MUSEUM
View Frostproof's permanent collection of historic photographs, artifacts, and memorabilia. Museum hours: Tue-Wed 9am-1pm, Sat 1-4pm. 863-635-7865, frostproofmuseum.com
LAKELAND ARTS ASSOCIATION
Catawampus Fine Art Show
Through Jan 14, 2026. RP Funding Center, 701 W. Lime St. in Lakeland.
Tis the Season
Through Feb 21, 2026. LAA art show at LDDA offices. Lakeland Downtown Development Authority, 117 N. Kentucky Avenue in Lakeland. lakelandartsassociation.com
LAKE WALES ARTS COUNCIL
Sacred Currents: Spirituality in African Art
Through Dec 12, 2025. Discover the powerful spiritual heart of African art in an immersive exhibition at the Lake Wales Arts Council. Journey through captivating masks, sculptures, and textiles.
Size Matters: A Membership Exhibition
Jan 13 - May 16, 2026. An exclusive and intriguing exploration of scale in artistic expression. This show features a diverse range of works by our member artists, from delicate miniatures to expansive, room-commanding creations.
The gallery is located at 1099 State Road 60 E. in Lake Wales and is open Tue-Sat 10am-3pm. 863-676-8426, lakewalesartscouncil.org
LAKE WALES HISTORY MUSEUM
Permanent Exhibits & Train Cars
Self-guided historical exhibits of artifacts, images, and documents about the natural history of the Lake Wales Ridge.
The museum, located at 325 S. Scenic Hwy in Lake Wales, is open Tue-Fri, 10am3pm and admission is free. Last entry at 4:30pm. Closed on major holidays. 863676-1759, lakewaleshistory.org.
LAKE WALES LIBRARY GALLERY
The Lake Wales Library's Artist Gallery features a different artist every month. The gallery is open during regular library hours. The library is located at 290 Cypress Garden Ln. in Lake Wales. 863678-4004, cityoflakewales.com/Library
MELVIN GALLERY & BURKS GALLERY AT FLORIDA SOUTHERN COLLEGE
View works of established and visiting artists throughout the year as well as showcases of student work. Admission is free. The galleries are typically open weekdays from 9am-4:30pm when school is in session. 863-680-4743, flsouthern.edu/ffa
MULBERRY CULTURAL CENTER
Merry and Bright
11th Annual Student Juried Art Show. Reception Dec 4, 2025, 5pm.
Surface Tension
Jan 22 - Mar 6, 2026. An Exhibition of Art Beyond the Canvas
Located at 103 Canal St. in Mulberry, the Mulberry Cultural Center is normally open on Tue-Sat from 9am-5pm. Learn more: cyoung@cityofmulberryfl.com; or 863-3546570. mulberryculturalcenter.org
POLK COUNTY HISTORY CENTER
Annual Festival of Wreaths
Through Dec 11, 2025. A community tradition that combines creativity, celebration and charity.
The museum collection includes natural and cultural objects related to Polk County and the greater Central Florida area that represent our history from pre-Columbian to present day eras.
Admission is free. The History Center is located at 100 E. Main St in Bartow, and is open from 9am-5pm, Tue-Sat. 863-5344386, polkhistorycenter.org
POLK STATE COLLEGE
Capturing Cultures
Through Jan 30, 2026. Lakeland Art Gallery. The Lakeland Art Gallery is located on the Lakeland Campus, 3425 Winter Lake Rd.
Admission is free. Gallery Hours are MonThu, 10am-2pm. 863-297-1050, polk.edu
RIDGE ART ASSOCIATION
Miniature Art Exhibit
Through Dec 21, 2025. Through the ages miniature art has been considered an art form with often extremely detailed work, exquisite in color with a strength of composition which can more than compete with larger paintings.
Admission is free. Ridge Art Gallery is in the Advent Health Field House at 210 Cypress Gardens Blvd SW in Winter Haven. Gallery hours are 1-4pm, Tue-Fri, and one hour prior to theatre performances. 863-291-5661, ridgeart.org
Quiet Waters by Tony Guinn on exhibit at Bartow Art Guild's Momentum Gallery
Depot Arts District
IGNITING LAKELAND’S CREATIVE SPIRIT WITH A GRAND OPENING
Lakeland’s artistic landscape took a bold step forward on Saturday, November 1, with the launch of the Depot Arts District, a new creative campus that promises to be a cornerstone for local artists and art lovers alike. The district’s debut event, Depot Walk, welcomed hundreds of visitors to explore the newly transformed space, meet resident artists, and experience the energy of a community built around creativity and collaboration.
Located at 955 E. Memorial Blvd. in Lakeland, the Depot Arts District is housed in a revitalized industrial building that now pulses with artistic life. The space offers 35 affordable artist studios, three expansive galleries, and multiple workshop rooms designed to host classes, community events, and collaborative projects.
The Depot is home to a diverse mix of creatives, including glass and ceramic artists, painters, tattoo artists, musicians, and even a creative wellness studio. This variety not only reflects the richness of Lakeland’s artistic community but also ensures that visitors can experience a wide range of artistic expressions under one roof. Many of the artists will use their studios not only to create their own work but also to offer classes and workshops, making the Depot a place of both inspiration and education.
More than just a place to make art, the Depot is a vision for sustainable creative growth. The campus includes a garden space for outdoor events, a retail shop featuring artistmade goods, and a re-use art supply store that encourages environmentally conscious creation. Plans are also underway to launch children’s art education programs, ensuring that the next generation of artists has a place to learn, grow, and thrive.
The opening event gave the public a first look at the studios and galleries, where painters, sculptors, photographers, and mixed-media artists showcased their work. Visitors had the chance to engage directly with the artists, gaining insight into their creative processes and the inspiration behind their pieces.
“The Depot is about building a community where artists can afford to create, collaborate, and share their work with the public,” said Sherry Ross President of the Lakeland Arts Association, the organization behind the project. “We want this to be a place where art is accessible, where people feel welcome, and where creativity is nurtured.”
With its blend of affordability, accessibility, and artistic ambition, the Depot Arts District is poised to become a cultural anchor in Lakeland and an artistic destination for greater central Florida. Whether you're an artist looking for studio space, a collector seeking local talent, or a community member eager to support the arts, the Depot offers something for everyone.
To learn more about the Depot Arts District or inquire about studio availability, visit lakelandartsassociation.com/depot-artsdistrict-studio-spaces.
Photos by Jordan Weiland
Recurring Events
AGB MUSEUM OF ART AT FLORIDA SOUTHERN COLLEGE
AGB Thursdays
Every Thursday, open until 8pm.
Docent-Led Tours
1st and 3rd Saturdays, 1-2pm.
The AGB Museum of Art at Florida Southern College is located at 800 E. Palmetto St. in Lakeland. 863-688-7743, agbmuseum.org
BARTOW ART GUILD
Gallery Hours
Saturdays, 10am-4pm. Free & familyfriendly. Bartow Art Guild's Art Center is located at 1242 E. Main St in Bartow. bartowartguild.org.
BARTOW PUBLIC LIBRARY
Novels After Noon
1st Wednesdays, 3pm. This group reads a book each month, then meets to review.
Novels At Night
3rd Thursdays, 6:30pm. Pick a book inspired by the monthly theme, bring your book and talk about it.
Let's Get Crafting
1st Thursdays, 6-7:30pm. On even months you can come make a craft at the library, and on odd months you can take a free craft kit home and make it there.
Yarn Over Broadway
Mondays, 6-7:30pm. Bring your own yarn projects or help us make blanket squares to donate to Warm Up America.
Teen Anime Club
2nd and 4th Saturdays, 1-3pm. Watch and discuss anime! Ages 13+.
Bartow Public Library is located at 2150 S. Broadway Ave. Library hours are MonThu, 9am-6pm; Fri- Sat, 9am-5pm. 863534-0131, pclc.ent.sirsi.net/client/en_US/bartow DAVENPORT
& DAVENPORT ARTS & CULTURAL ALLIANCE
Portrait/Still Life Studio
Thursdays, 12-2:30pm. Free opportunity to paint or draw with other adult artists, age 18+. Variety of still lifes each week. First Thursday of the month paint or draw from a live model (clothed). Peter Rust Civic Center in Davenport. Contact Bonnie Liss, 863-207-0407 to learn more.
Plein Air Group
3rd Saturdays, 9am-12pm. Meets at a unique Polk County location monthly for landscape painting.
Jan 17: Lake Play, Davenport Feb 21: Florida Southern College, Lakeland Mar 21: Bartow Air Base, Bartow
Free. Contact Bonnie Liss, 863-207-0407 or gefiltebliss@gmail.com to sign up or learn more.
Facebook: @EastPolkCountyPleinAir
THE EMPORIUM PIERCING, TATTOO & ART COLLECTIVE
Dixieland Night Market
2nd Fridays, 6-11pm. A monthly art focused market, located in Lakeland's Historic Dixieland Neighborhood and hosted by Emporium Piercing, Tattoo & Art Collective. The market partners with music and live entertainment venues Union Hall, Pink Piano and TA Slammers to showcase local artists, artisans, unique food options and more. Free. Located at 1023 S. Florida Ave in Lakeland. instagram.com/ DixielandNightMarket.
The Emporium Piercing, Tattoo & Art Collective is at 4035 S. Florida Ave., Ste 6 in Lakeland. emporiumgalleries.square.site
FLORIDA WILDFLOWER STUDIOS
Members' Open Studio
Wednesdays. Adults: 9am-3pm. Youth ages 10-17: 3-5pm. Bring your own supplies and something to work on. Members are welcome to use FWS paints
and brushes.
Monthly Sew Powerful
Community of sewists who are sewing purses for young ladies in Zambia. 9:30am - 3:30pm. All materials supplied. Check Facebook for dates or contact 954-5588632 or frostproofs.sewing.circle@gmail. com
Art Classes
View a variety of art classes available from jewelry making to oil painting at floridawildflowerstudios.com.
An annual membership is $35 per individual or $50 per family. Classes and workshops are available throughout the fall. The studios are at 12 E. Wall St. in Frostproof. 863-206-9691, 863-855-8525, floridawildflowerstudios.com
HAINES CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY
Creative Circle Needlework Group
Mondays & Thursdays, 10am-12pm. Bring a current project, and explore new ideas.
Pigments of Your Imagination Tuesdays, 10am-12pm. Coloring group for adults.
Writer's Guild Wednesdays, 4-5pm. Ages 18+.
Literati Book Club 3rd Thursdays, 2-3pm.
Family Movie Time Fridays, 10:30am.
Haines City Library is located at 111 N. 6th St. Hours are: Mon-Fri 10am-6pm, Sat 10am-3pm. 863-421-3633, hainescity.com/171/Library
LAKELAND ARTS ASSOCIATION
Depot Arts District
1st Saturdays, 6-9pm. Join the Lakeland Arts Association each month for an evening filled with creativity and community at the Depot Arts District. Wander through the working studios and catch local artists in action. Then, step into the galleries to experience
MUSIC | DANCE | THEATRE
CALL (863) 680-4296 OR VISIT FLSOUTHERN.EDU/FFA TO PURCHASE YOUR TICKETS
2025 - 2026 SEASON
SPRING SCHEDULE
January 22
Reflections Chamber Ensemble: A Concert Honoring MLK
January 27
Jazz Faculty Highlights Vol. 6
The Music of Cedar Walton
February 11
Celebration of Black Jazz Composers Vol. 5
February 13-15; 19-22
Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Carousel
February 18
Studio Orchestra Vol. 5
February 24
FSC Chamber Singers
March 14
Video Games Live TM
March 19
An Evening of Art and Song
March 27-29
FSC | Dance: Past. Present. Pulse.
April 3-5; 9-12
The Servant of Two Masters by Carlo Goldoni
April 10 & 12
Opera Kaleidoscope: Mozart’s The Impresario
April 15
Jazz Program Highlights Vol. 3
April 21
FSC Chamber Singers and Concert Choir
April 23
Symphony Band
FINE ART + UNIQUE FINDS
A place for art. a place for people.
Featuring the works of over 20 local artists from across Central Florida, we know you’ll find something that speaks to your creative spirit at Notta Gallery. See you there, Lakeland.
WED 10AM - 5PM
THU-SAT 10AM - 8PM SUN 12PM - 4PM come on in.
rotating exhibitions that showcase the incredible talent of Polk County artists. lakelandartsassociation.com
Monthly Meeting/Artpreneur Speaker Series
1st Thursdays, 6:30-8pm. Socializing followed by a short business meeting & guest speaker at 7pm. Depot Arts District at 955 E. Memorial Blvd. in Lakeland
LAKELAND MUSIC CLUB
Monthly Membership Meeting
2nd Tuesdays, 10am social with refreshments, 10:30am business meeting and entertainment. Free. Guests welcome. United Women’s Clubhouse, 1515 Williamsburg Square in Lakeland. lakelandmc.com
LAKE ALFRED PUBLIC LIBRARY
Afternoon Craft
Tuesdays, 4-4:30pm. For a parent with a child of age 5 & up.
Crafting Hour
Thursdays, 11am. Ages 12+. Bring your own craft and artist mediums will be supplied.
Honeybee Storytime
Mondays, 10-11am. Help get young minds excited about books, crafts, and music!
Lake Alfred Library is located at 245 N Seminole Ave. Library hours are Mon-Fri 9am-6pm, Sat 9am-3pm. 863-291-5378, mylakealfred.com/193/Public-Library
LAKE WALES HISTORY
Unbound Society Book Club
Wednesdays, 12-1:30pm. Explore compelling non-fiction works that challenge and enlighten.
The Lake Wales History Museum is located at 325 S Scenic Hwy in Lake Wales. Admission is free. The museum is open from 9am-5pm Tue-Fri. 863-6761759, lakewaleshistory.org
LAKE WALES PUBLIC LIBRARY
Coloring for Grown-Ups Mondays, 11:30am-1pm.
Needlework Arts Group Fridays, 9:30am.
Night Owls Book Discussion
4th Tuesdays, 6pm.
Chatty Crafters Fridays, 1-4pm.
Shelf Indulgence Young Adult Book Club
Last Saturday of the month, 2pm. Ages 18-30.
Papercraft Pals
3rd Saturdays, 1pm. All supplies provided.
Lake Wales Public Library is located at 290 Cypress Gardens Ln. in Lake Wales. Library hours are Mon, Tue & Thu 9am6:30pm; Wed & Fri 9am-5:30pm, Sat 9am3pm. 863-678-4004, lakewalesfl.gov/309/Library
POLK COUNTY HISTORY CENTER
Genealogy Speaker Series
Last Saturdays, 10am. This speaker series welcomes speakers to discuss tips and tricks related to genealogical research. Presenters appear virtually, and guests can join at the History Center. For Zoom details, contact 863-534-4604.
History Center hours are Tue-Sat from 9am-5pm, and is located at 100 E. Main St. in Bartow. 863-534-4386, polkhistorycenter.org
MULBERRY PUBLIC LIBRARY
Film Club
1st Wednesdays, 1pm. The library hosts Film Club at the GEM Theater at 118 NW 1st Ave. in Mulberry.
Cozy Mystery Book Club
4th Mondays, 1pm. For fans of cozy mysteries.
Titles with Tea
1st Fridays, 10am. An adult book club
discusses their current reads. Mulberry Public Library is located at 905 NE 5th St. Hours: Mon-Wed 9am-6pm, Thu 9am-7pm, Fri 9am-5pm, Sat 10am-3pm. 863-425-3246, cityofmulberryfl.org/public-library
LAKELAND PUBLIC LIBRARY
Knit One, Crochet Too! Wednesdays, 5:30-7pm. Knitting/Crochet club for adults, 18+. Bring a current project at the Larry Jackson branch. Some knowledge of knitting and/or crocheting recommended.
Crafty Creations
2nd Wednesdays, 5pm. A monthly guided creative experience.
Made @ the Library
3rd Thursdays, 5:30-7pm. An in-person, adult craft program at the Larry Jackson Branch. Registration is required.
Take & Make:
Adult Craft Kits To Go
3rd Week. Get crafty in the comfort of your own home! The Lakeland Libraries are offering take-and-make craft kits for adults at all of our branch locations. Each month features a different project that includes instructions and supplies.
The library's monthly programs are free unless otherwise noted. To view or register for these programs, visit lakelandpl.libcal.com/.
RITZ THEATRE
Live and Loud
1st Fridays, 6pm. Each month a variety of bands will perform at The Ritz Theatre in Downtown Winter Haven. Artists and creatives from the local scene break boundaries, own the stage, and make some serious noise. $5. Produced by Destroyer Media and Punk Kid Productions.
Ritz Theatre is located at 263 W. Central Ave. in Winter Haven. centralfloridatix.com
DEC 20, 2025 | 7:00 PM
DEC 21, 2025 | 2:00 PM
Tickets $30. Students free.
Kids Tax Art
TURNING TAX BILLS INTO CANVASES
A fresh initiative in Polk County is blending public service with artistic expression: the launch of Kids Tax Art, a new program from the Tax Collector’s Office that transforms the back of your property tax bill envelope into a
showcase for student creativity.
Lakeland High School senior Hope Hallock is the inaugural artist featured in this innovative effort. Her piece, Between Bite and Bait, will be printed on envelopes mailed to thousands of Polk County residents this fall. The artwork, a striking blend of concept and craft, was selected from a pool of submissions by high school art students across the county last spring.
Thanks to the generous support of Southern Homes of Polk County, Hope receives a $2,500 scholarship to further her education. Her art teacher, Mrs. Jones, is also honored with a $500 award. Remarkably, this entire program is funded privately—at no cost to the Tax Collector’s Office or taxpayers.
The Kids Tax Art initiative is more
than a contest; it’s a celebration of young talent and a reminder that even the most mundane parts of civic life—like a tax bill—can be reimagined as a platform for beauty and personal expression.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to Southern Homes (mysouthernhome. com), Polk County Public Schools, the Department of Fine Arts, Lakeland High School, and Harrison School for the Arts for hosting the launch event. Special appreciation to School Board Members Dr. William Allen and Lisa Miller for joining the celebration and supporting the arts in education.
With programs like Kids Tax Art, Polk County continues to prove that creativity belongs everywhere—even in your mailbox.
Tax Collector Joe G. Tedder, Hope Hallock, Austin Evans of My Southern Homes, Caroline Masters Sharpe and School Board Members Dr. William Allen and Lisa Miller
Hall of Fame Gala
PHOTOS FROM OUR 3RD ANNUAL EVENT
The Polk Arts & Cultural Alliance hosted its annual Hall of Fame Gala and Awards Ceremony at the Bartow Civic Center on October 14, celebrating the vibrant arts and cultural community of Polk County. The evening brought together artists, educators, philanthropists, and civic leaders for a night of recognition, reflection, and celebration.
Arts & Cultural Organization of the Year: Bok Tower Gardens
Philanthropic Organization of the Year: Six/Ten LLC
Arts & Culture Volunteer of the Year: Tom Johnson, Theatre Winter Haven
Arts and Cultural Educator of the Year: Simoni Bonadies, Rochelle School of the Arts
Art for Good Award: Polk Plays, Florida Children’s Museum
Rising Star Award: Tiffany Van Wieren, Watson Clinic Foundation’s Arts In Medicine Program
Hall of Fame Inductees: Carol Krajacic Erkes, John & Terry Frost, Mimi Hardman, Joe Mitchell and Alan Reynolds
Thank you to the co-presenting sponsors, CORE Wealth Advisors and Orlando Health | Watson Clinic – Lakeland Highlands Hospital.
Photos by Scott Audette
16-week and 8-week classes start January 7
12-week classes start February 5
8-week classes start March 5
DECEMBER
Dec 2. Ultimate Tribute to the King
4pm, 6:30pm. Dwight Icenhower is recognized by Elvis Presley Enterprises as one of the top tribute artists in the world today. $35. Performed at the Ritz Theatre in Winter Haven. theatrewinterhaven.com
Dec 3. Evening Sound Bath with Crystal Singing Bowls
5:30pm. Let the soundwaves transport you to a place of relaxation and peace. Bok Tower Gardens. Members $25, Nonmembers $40. boktowergardens.org
Dec 5. Downtown Holiday Market
9am-2pm. Florida Wildflower Studios in Frostproof. floridawildflowerstudio.com
Dec 5 & 6. Winter Dance Concert
7pm. Harrison School for the Arts in Lakeland. $11.44. harrisonarts.com/tickets
Dec 5 & 6. SEU School of Music's Christmas Concert
7pm. The School of Music at Southeastern University presents its annual Christmas concert at Bush Chapel in Lakeland. $2030. music.seu.edu
Dec 5 & 6. Orange Blossom Revue
A weekend of American roots music in Lake Wales. orangeblossomrevue.com
Dec 6. A Charlie Brown
Christmas by Polk State Music Department
3pm. With Zachary Bartholomew. Polk State Winter Haven Fine Arts Theatre. General Public, $18. Students, free. polk.edu
Dec 6. Silver Bells Big Band presents A Soulful Night Atop
Iron Mountain. 6pm. Get ready to swing into the season as the Silver Bells Big Band brings their smooth style and soulful sound to the Oval Lawn. Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales. Members, free. Non-members, $20. boktowergardens.org
Dec 9. Lakeland Music Club Presents Jonah Terrell
10am. Live free performance of Jonah Terrell, Piano, LMC 2024 Scholarship winner. United Women's Clubhouse, 1515 Williamsburg Square in Lakeland. lakelandmc.com
Dec 12. Lake Wales Live: Make it Magical Holiday Jazz Concert
5pm. Celebrate the enchantment of downtown Lake Wales with a scintillating holiday jazz concert. Free. Market Plaza, 226 E. Park Ave in Lake Wales. lakewalesartscouncil.org
Dec 12. The Medici Dynasty: Renaissance in Florence opening reception featuring guest lecturer Rocky Ruggiero 6pm. Members free. Non-members $10. AGB Museum of Art at Florida Southern College in Lakeland. 863-688-7743, agbmuseum.org
Dec 12 & 13. Music of the Season 7pm. Harrison School for the Arts. $18.91. harrisonarts.com
Explore the color wheel, try your hand with different artistic tools, and get handson with textures! Register at explorefcm. org/event/ablearts/2025-11-14/
Dec 13. Jingle and Mingle
Performances at 11am, 12pm and 1pm. A celebration of music, cookies and community featuring performances from local choirs and musicians. Polk History Center in Bartow. Free. polkhistorycenter.org
Dec 13 & 14. The Nutcracker 3pm. Geert D’hollander presents Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker. Experience The Nutcracker Like Never Before. Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales. Members, free. Non-members, $20. boktowergardens.org.
Dec 14. Holiday Jazz, Chain O'Lakes Big Band Concert Series
2pm. Polk State College Winter Haven Fine Arts Theatre. Donations accepted. polk.edu
Dec 14. Great Joy: A Christmas Gospel Concert
4pm. Hurst Chapel AME Church in Winter Haven. drjowensacademyoffineartsinc.org
Dec 14. Lakeland Choral Society Winter Concert
Dec 6. Holidays on Central 10am - 4pm. Central Park in Winter Haven. Free. Over 100 vendors, music and entertainment. Hosted by Destroyer Media. facebook.com/havenlkld
Dec 13. Art Out Loud: Student Exhibition Reception
Art Out Loud features artworks by students grades 6-8 from Polk County School District middle schools. AGB Museum of Art at Florida Southern College in Lakeland. Free. agbmuseum.org
Dec 13. Able Arts at Florida Children's Museum
This special visual arts workshop is curated just for students with disabilities.
4:30pm. Come listen to the sounds of winter and Christmas with the Lakeland Choral Society's winter concert. First Presbyterian Church, Lakeland. Tickets $10 cash/$11 card. $5 Students. lakelandchoralsociety.org
Dec 16. Divas of Soul: Tribute to Whitney Houston & Donna Summer
6:30pm. Experience the powerhouse voice and dazzling stage presence of Latraia Savage. $35. Performed at the Ritz Theatre in Winter Haven theatrewinterhaven.com
Lakeland Music Club Scholarship Opportunity
AUDITIONS
MARCH 2026
The Lakeland Music Club scholarship auditions are scheduled for Saturday, March 14, 2026. Open to high school graduating seniors, this scholarship is for students that will be attending college and studying applied music. This scholarship is also open to college students who are entering their sophomore, junior or senior year and studying applied music at their college. Graduating college seniors are not eligible to audition. All participants must have a 3.0 or above grade point average.
There is a first, second, and third place awarded in each division. Registration information will be available before January 1, 2026 at lakelandmc.com/ scholarships/.
Dec 17. FWS Annual Holiday Christmas Party
11am - 2pm. Bring your favorite beverage and a dish to pass. Games, songs and door prizes! Florida Wildflower Studios in Frostproof. floridawildflowerstudios.com
Dec 18. Musical Performance
featuring Julian Pernett Castilla and Friends
5:30pm. AGB Museum of Art at Florida Southern College in Lakeland. Free. agbmuseum.org
Dec 19. Florida Philharmonia Orchestra Christmas Concert
7:30pm. Free performance at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 4450 Harden Blvd. in Lakeland. floridaphilharmonia.org
Dec 20. Yuletide: A Starlight Celebration
6pm. With The Byrne Bros. Celebrate magic of the Winter Solstice weekend with an enchanting evening of music, light, and tradition. Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales. Members, free. Non-members, $20. Boktowergardens.org
7pm. The Lakeland Symphony Orchestra invites you to ring in the season with holiday classics. Guest conductor Rob Lambert. $30. Branscomb Auditorium in Lakeland. lkldymphony.org
Dec 21. Carols and Carillon with Dr. Reed and Friends
4pm. Celebrate the season with Dr. Jonathan Reed, Geert D’hollander, and friends for a magical holiday concert at The Singing Tower. Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales. Members, free. Nonmembers, $20. boktowergardens.org
JANUARY
Jan 3. Week-End Art with Jenny Grenke
Stained glass/resin window art demonstration with hand on sampling. Members, $25. Non-Members, $30. Florida Wildflower Studios in Frostproof. floridawildflowerstudios.com
Jan 4. Peace into the New Year Concert with Paisley Craze
6pm. Kick off the new year in style with Paisley Craze, a fan-favorite five-piece band bringing the iconic sounds of the 1960's to life! Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales. Members, free. Non-members, $20. boktowergardens.org
Jan 6. Magesty of Rock: Tribute to Journey & Styx
6:30pm. Majesty of Rock is the ultimate tribute to Journey, faithfully reproducing the band’s golden years when Steve Perry ruled the stage. $35. Performed at the Ritz Theatre in Winter Haven. theatrewinterhaven.com
Jan 8. Chords Unlimited: A Barbershop Harmony Spectacular
Jan 9. Gallery Perspective: Darkroom Alchemy: The Art of Jerry Uelsmann featuring guest lecturer Sarah Brewington Baarns
12pm. Free Admission, AGB Museum of Art at Florida Southern College in Lakeland. 863-688-7743, agbmuseum.org
Jan 10. Day of Caring at The Florida Children's Museum
10am-3pm. Celebrate the 4th Annual MLK Day of Caring! Enjoy free museum admission for the whole family, live performances, community resource partners & giveaways, and more! Florida Children's Museum, Lakeland. Free. explorefcm.org
Jan 13. Lakeland Music Club
Presents Paloma Sagal
10am. Paloma Sagal, cello from Southeastern University. Live free performance at the United Women's Clubhouse, 1515 Williamsburg Square in Lakeland. lakelandmc.com
Jan 13. Creative Writing Event
Blackbox Theatre at Harrison School for the Arts in Lakeland. harrisonarts.com/tickets
Jan 14. MLK Evening with the Artist featuring Alex Lanier
12pm. Free Admission, AGB Museum of Art at Florida Southern College in Lakeland. 863-688-7743, agbmuseum.org
Jan 15. Access Art: Art Connects ALZ
2pm. Participants will create and discuss art with specially trained educator and artist, Tinia Polk Kenemuth at the AGB Museum of Art at Florida Southern College in Lakeland. Free. agbmuseum.org
Jan 15. Winter Short-Film Festival
Film Theatre at Harrison School for the Arts in Lakeland. harrisonarts.com/tickets
Jan 16. The Art of Alex Lanier opening reception featuring Alex Lanier in conversation with Daryl Ward 6pm. Members, free. Non-Members $10. AGB Museum of Art at Florida Southern College in Lakeland. 863-688-7743, agbmuseum.org
Jan 17. Art Lab featuring artist Alex Lanier
10:30am. Members, free. Non-Members $5. AGB Museum of Art at Florida Southern College in Lakeland. 863-6887743, agbmuseum.org
Jan 17 & 18. Central Florida Comic Con
RP Funding Center in Lakeland. rpfundingcenter.com
Jan 20. Almighty Queen
6:30pm. A full-scale rock spectacle that brings the magic of Queen to life with electrifying performances, precise musicianship, and dynamic stage presence. Historic Ritz Theatre in Winter Haven. $35. theatrewinterhaven.com
Jan 23. Piano Spark: SEU Faculty Concert
7pm. Buena Vida Auditorium at Southeastern University in Lakeland. Free. music.seu.edu
Jan 24. Starry, Starry Night: A Celebration of Art & Science 5pm. Join Bok Tower Gardens for a magical evening under the stars! Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales. Members, free. Non-members, $20. boktowergardens.org
Jan 27. Jazz Faculty Highligts Volume 6: Music of Cedar Walton
7pm. Anne MacGregor Jenkins Recital Hall at Florida Southern College in Lakeland. Free. flsouthern.edu
Jan 31. 1924: The Gershwins' Magical Year with Charles Troy
12pm. Historian Charles Troy presents a unique multimedia program, 1924: The Gershwins’ Magical Year, in the Visitor Center Theater. Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales. Members, free. Nonmembers, $20. boktowergardens.org
Jan 31. Music on the Terrace with Jazzfire
1:30pm. The Dedication Day Celebration continues on the Cafe Terrace with live jazz by Victoria D’lissovoy and Jazz Fire, filling the air with the rhythms of a golden era. Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales. Members, free. Non-members, $20. boktowergardens.org
Calendar of Events
Jan 31. Weekend Workshop: The Graphic Clay Surface 9am. An inspiring two-day workshop, "The Graphic Clay Surface," led by the acclaimed studio potter, illustrator, and teacher, Diana Fayt. Members, $220. Non-Members, $275. lakewalesartscouncil.org
Jan 31. Grand Citrus Social 11am - 8pm. Citrus-themed vendors, live entertainment, history and agricultural exhibits, a traditional blue ribbon art show, a reverse mimosa bar, kid zone, and more! Central Park in Winter Haven.
FEBRUARY
Feb 3 & 4. Shen Yun
7:30pm. Exquisite beauty from the heavens, profound wisdom from dynasties past, timeless legends and ethnic traditions all spring to life through classical Chinese dance, enchanting live orchestral music, authentic costumes, and patented interactive stage and backdrop integration. RP Funding Center in Lakeland. $109-224. rpfundingcenter.com
Feb 3. Altar Eagles: Tribute to The Eagles
6:30pm. For over 15 years, the Alter Eagles have been astonishing audiences across the United States with their inspiring tribute to the number one selling band of all time in North America. $35. Performed at the Ritz Theatre in Winter Haven. theatrewinterhaven.com
Feb 6 & 7. Winter Theatre Show Black Box Theatre at Harrison School for the Arts in Lakeland. harrisonarts.com/tickets
Feb 7. Piano Spark: Yael Weiss 5pm. The School of Music at Southeastern University is proud to present the final concert of their Piano Spark series. This concert will feature the amazingly talented Yael Weiss. Free. First Presbyterian Church in Lakeland. music.seu.edu
Feb 10. Lakeland Music Club presents Soft Jazz Trio
10am. Life free performance from Southeastern University at the United Women's Clubhouse, 1515 Williamsburg Square in Lakeland. lakelandmc.com
Feb 10. Sister Cities Art & Writing Exhibit
Harrison School for the Arts in Lakeland. harrisonarts.com/tickets
Feb 10. Spring Choral Concert
6pm. Art Gallery at Harrison School for the Arts in Lakeland. harrisonarts.com/tickets
Feb 10. Muriel Anderson Live at the Tower
7pm. Join Bok Tower Gardens on Tuesday, Feb 10, for an unforgettable evening as world-renowned guitarist Muriel Anderson performs live beneath the Sundial at the Singing Tower. Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales. Members, free. Nonmembers, $20. boktowergardens.org
Feb 12. Gallery Concert Series
6pm. The AGB Museum of Art at Florida Southern College invites the public for the Gallery Concert Series, a special set of ensemble performances, live in the galleries and inspired by the current exhibitions. AGB Museum of Art in Lakeland. lkldsymphony.org
Feb 13 & 14. Lake Wales
Mardi Gras
Friday, 5-10pm. Saturday, Noon-10pm. Lake Wailes Park. Bring the whole family to enjoy live performances by Polk County's finest musicians, and one-ofa-kind vendors. Don’t miss the dazzling fireworks, glowing 5K run, and of course, the spectacular parade. Free. lwmardigras.com
Feb 17. Bad Moon Rising Tribute to the Creedence Clearwater Revival
6:30pm. Bad Moon Rising, a Classic Tributes Live band, invites you to take a trip down the Mississippi delta. $35. Performed at the Ritz Theatre in Winter Haven. theatrewinterhaven.com
Feb 18. Studio Orchestra
Volume 5
7pm. Branscomb Auditorium at Florida Southern College in Lakeland. $10. flsouthern.edu/ffa
Feb 20. Contemporary Band's Spring Outdoor Show
7pm. The School of Music at Southeastern University Spring Contemporary Band Outdoor Show at Kelly Gardens at SEU in Lakeland. Free. music.seu.edu
Feb 20-22. Art Escapes by Lakeland Arts Association
“Through the Looking Glass” with Tiffany Goff Smith Camp Margaritaville, 361 Denton Ave. in Auburndale. Enjoy three days of mixed-media instruction and great food in a community of artists. $700. lakelandartsassociation.com/art-escapes
Feb 21. Lunar New Year at Florida Children's Museum
Celebrate the year of the horse with live performances, samples of authentic cuisine, and arts & crafts facilitated by Chinese-American families in our community. explorefcm.org
Feb 21. BeatleBeat Live
6pm. Step back in time with the timeless music of The Beatles as BeatleBeat takes the stage at Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales. Members, free. Non-members, $20. boktowergardens.org
Calendar of Events
Feb 25. SEU Spring Symphony Orchestra
7pm. The School of Music at Southeastern University presents the Spring Symphony Orchestra at Bush Chapel at Southeastern University in Lakeland. Free. music.seu.edu
Feb 28 - Mar 1. Lake Wales Arts Festival
Sat, 10am-5pm. Sun, 10am-4pm. The 55th Annual Lake Wales Arts Festival on the shores of Lake Wailes. Showcasing 60+ fine artists and artisans, artist demonstrations, children’s activities, food vendors and more. Free. lakewalesartscouncil.org
Additional events listed at polkarts.org
Feb 14 & 15. L.B. Brown Heritage Festival
10am - 5pm Sat, 10am - 4pm Sun. L.B. Brown House Museum in Bartow. lbbrown.com
Feb 24. FSC Chamber Singers
7pm. Branscomb Auditorium at Florida Southern College in Lakeland. $10. flsouthern.edu/ffa
Artist Liz Johnson at Bartow Chalk Walk
Mardi Gras Musical Performers
FLORIDA SOUTHERN COLLEGE
Legally Blonde the Musical Dec 4-7. $10-20.
Elle Woods appears to have it all. Her life is turned upside down when her boyfriend Warner dumps her so he can attend Harvard Law. Determined to get him back, Elle ingeniously charms her way into the prestigious law school. While there, she struggles with peers, professors and her ex. With the support of some new friends, though, Elle quickly realizes her potential and sets out to prove herself to the world.
Rogers & Hammerstein's Carousel
Feb 13-22. $10-20.
Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Carousel tells the story of a tumultuous relationship between carousel barker Billy Bigelow and millworker Julie Jordan. The story explores themes of love, domestic violence, redemption, and the power of second chances.
Florida Southern College is located in Lakeland. flsouthern.edu/ffa
HAINES CITY THEATRE
Bah, Humbug! Scrooge's Christmas Carol Dec 18-21. Adults $15, Students $10. HCT Youth Production.
Singin' in the Rain Feb 27 - Mar 22. Adults $25, Students $21.
Haines City Theatre is located at 303 Ledwith Ave. in Haines City. hainescitytheare.com
LAKELAND COMMUNITY THEATRE
Theatre for Youth: Disney's Dare to Dream Jr.
Dec 12-14. Adults $15, Children $12. Disney’s Dare to Dream JR. follows a group of trainees on their first day at a fictional Walt Disney Imagineering Studio. As they set out to discover their dreams, they explore the power of dreams to unite, inspire, and make anything possible.
Mainstage: Puffs (Two Act Edition)
Jan 16-25. Adults $30, Seniors $28, Children $24.
PUFFS, or Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic. For seven years a certain boy wizard went to a certain Wizard School and conquered evil. This is the story of the Puffs... who just happened to be there too. A tale for anyone who has never been destined to save the world.
Mainstage: Jesus Christ Superstar
Feb 13 - Mar 1. Adults $30, Seniors $28, Children $24.
A thrilling rock opera based on the last week of Jesus’ life, Jesus Christ Superstar has wowed audiences for over 50 years.
Lakeland Community Theatre is located at 121 South Lake Ave in Lakeland. lakelandcommunitytheatre.com
LAKE WALES LITTLE THEATRE
Unnecessary Farce
Jan 30 - Feb 8. Adults $22, Students $18. Two cops, three crooks, and eight doors go in a cheap motel room. An embezzling mayor is supposed to meet with his female accountant, while in the room next-door, two undercover cops wait to catch the meeting on videotape. But there's some confusion as to who's in which room, who's being videotaped, who's taken the money, who's hired a hit man, and why the accountant keeps taking off her clothes.
Lake Wales Little Theatre is located at 411 N 3rd St. in Lake Wales. Box office hours are Wednesdays from 10am-2pm, and an hour before showtime. lwlt.org
MULBERRY'S GEM THEATRE
Moon Over Buffalo
Feb 20 - Mar 1. Presented by the Missing Piece Theatre. $15-25.
Mulberry's Gem Theatre is located at 110 Northwest 1st Ave. in Mulberry. gemtheatremulberry.org
THEATRE WINTER HAVEN
Annie
Through Dec 21. $39.
Based on the popular comic strip by Harold Gray, Annie has become a worldwide phenomenon and was the winner of seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical.
Plaid Tidings
Dec 4-21. $39. (Second Stage)
Forever Plaid: Plaid Tidings is a brand new show that offers the best of Forever Plaid, tied up in a nifty package with a big Christmas bow on top! Filled with Christmas standards that have all been "Plaid-erized," the boys are back to do their Christmas Special.
Shout! The Mod Musical
Jan 8-25. $39. (Second Stage)
With its irresistible blend of hipswiveling hits, eye-popping fashions and outrageous dance moves, SHOUT! The Mod Musical takes audiences back to the music, style and freedom of the 1960s.
The Wizard of Oz
Jan 15 - Feb 15. $39.
Follow the yellow brick road in this delightful stage adaptation of L. Frank Baum’s beloved tale, featuring the iconic musical score from the MGM film. The timeless tale, in which young Dorothy Gale travels from Kansas over the rainbow to the magical Land of Oz, continues to thrill audiences worldwide.
Theatre Winter Haven is located at 210 Cypress Gardens Blvd. in Winter Haven. theatrewinterhaven.com
ARTS Winter Wonders
OF THE
LAKE WALES CHORALE HOLIDAY CONCERT
Holy Spirit Catholic Church. 6pm-8pm.
An evening of radiant music and festive cheer with the Chorale and chamber orchestra.
jan 09
LAKE WALES LIVE
Market Plaza, Downtown Lake Wales
5 p.m. - 9 p.m.
MAKE IT MAGICAL HOLIDAY JAZZ CONCERT
O SOM DO
Lively Brazilian Bossa Nova Jazz.
SIZE
MATTERS: A MEMBERSHIP EXHIBITION
Explore the captivating impact of dimension in “Size Matters,” at this members-only exhibition.
WEEKEND WORKSHOP: THE GRAPHIC CLAY SURFACE WITH DIANA FAYT
$250 per person (20% off for members)
A weekend workshop with renowned potter Diana Fayt!
LAKE WALES STUDENT ART SHOW
Lake Wales Public Library
55TH
ANNUAL LAKE WALES ARTS FESTIVAL
Experience this 55-year-old tradition of celebrating and exhibiting quality works of art by 60+ fine artists and artisans and attracting thousands of art lovers each year.
Great Joy
A Gospel Christmas Celebration from the J. Owens Academy of Fine Arts
As the holiday season approaches, the J. Owens Academy of Fine Arts is preparing to usher in the spirit of Christmas with a vibrant and soul-stirring gospel concert titled Great Joy. This festive musical event, arranged by Micheal McElroy, Joseph Joubert, and Buryl Red, promises to uplift hearts and celebrate the season through a blend of traditional carols and contemporary gospel rhythms. The concert will feature performances by the Owens Academy Young Artists, the Sankofa Singers, and a lineup of local guest artists. The Young Artists, ranging from 2nd grade through high school sophomores, represent a diverse group of students from across Polk County—including homeschoolers, charter school students, and attendees of Harrison School for the Arts. These talented youth will showcase their seasonal repertoire through piano, violin, and vocal performances.
Adding to the evening’s richness, guest artist Constance Poitier of Daytona Beach will present classic Christmas spirituals, bringing her signature warmth and depth to the program. The Sankofa Singers will lead the concert with a variety of vocal soloists, weaving together harmonies that reflect both tradition and innovation.
Great Joy is free and open to the public, with donations welcomed to support the Academy’s ongoing operations and student scholarships. The concert will take place at 4:00 PM on Sunday, December 14, 2025, at Hurst Chapel AME Church, located at 875 Avenue O NE in Winter Haven, Florida.
For more information, please contact Dr. Jessie Davis Owens at Melodicjess@aol.com or 863-6045415.
Celebrate the season with music, community, and—above all—great joy.
Photos provided by Dr. Jesse Owens
Architectural
& Heritage Tours
WALKING TOUR OF HISTORIC DOWNTOWN DAVENPORT
Self-Guided or Docent Led
The tour begins in the downtown area of Davenport, continues to six locations in the city's government center, and finishes with residential areas before returning to City Hall. To schedule a docent-led tour, please call 863-604-5894.
HISTORIC L.B. BROWN HOUSE MUSEUM
The Historic L.B. Brown House, built in 1892 by Lawrence Bernard Brown, a former slave, is a two-story home on 18 tree logs that are over 115 years old in Bartow. Restoration of the main house was completed in 2001. Call 863-3303122 to schedule a tour. lbbrown.com
LAKE WALES ARCHITECTURAL & HERITAGE TOUR
Step back in time and explore the rich history of Lake Wales' downtown with a guided walking tour. This twohour journey will immerse you in the architectural wonders and fascinating stories of Lake Wales' vibrant commercial district. Most of the buildings you'll see have stood proudly over a century, offering a glimpse into the past.
Pick up a Lake Wales tour map at lakewaleshistory.org/historic-architecture.
FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT AT FLORIDA
SOUTHERN COLLEGE
In-Depth Tour
Take an extended dive into Frank Lloyd Wright's only college campus.
Usonian House Tour
Take a guided tour of the recently completed Usonian Faculty House.
Basic Tour
The Basic Campus Tour is a 90-minute guided tour led by an experienced docent.
Behind the Scenes Tour
Join an expert tour guide for an extensive tour of Frank Lloyd Wright's Child of the Sun campus. This tour delves deep into the history and design of Wright's structures. This tour includes additional locations like the interior of the only planetarium designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.
Florida Southern College is home to the largest collection of Frank Lloyd Wright's structures for one client in the world. Tours featuring the architecture go out daily. To learn more visit flsouthern.edu/ frank-lloyd-wright.
FROSTPROOF
HERITAGE TRAIL: DOWNTOWN TOUR
This tour features 51 buildings, six of which were designed by well-known Tampa architect M. Leo Elliot. Pick up a copy of the tour guide at the Frostproof Historical Museum or online at polkarts. org/2021/01/frostproof-heritage-trail. For more information, please contact Bea Reifeis at 863-635-2523.
LAKELAND DOWNTOWN PUBLIC ART TRAIL
The Lakeland Downtown Public Art Trail provides a GPS-enabled map for visitors to navigate downtown and discover all the public art on City of Lakeland property. Trail users will find everything from permanent collection pieces created by renowned sculptors Albert Paley and J. Seward Johnson to the annually rotating sculptures in the Florida Outdoor Sculpture Competition. Map: lakelandgov.net/arttrail
GENE LEEDY LIFETIME WORKS TOUR
A founding father of the "Sarasota School" of Architecture, Gene Leedy chose to make Winter Haven his home in 1954. Winter Haven boasts more Gene Leedy buildings than any other location. The Tour celebrates his architecture, and his influence on the Winter Haven community. The most advantageous way to see and appreciate the best of Leedy's commercial and residential structures is via an automobile with the accompanying self-guided audio tour. The audio tour is available at geneleedy.com.
POLK HISTORY & HERITAGE TRAIL AND CITRUS LABEL TOUR
Polk County History & Heritage Tour
A great place to begin your journey is at the Polk County History Center. Stops include historic homes, vintage hotels, museums and more. From Frank Lloyd Wright to Civil War battles, there are many stories to uncover.
Citrus Label Tour
To honor Polk's historic tradition as epicenter for the citrus industry, the Citrus Label Tour was created. This driving tour is a series of historic crate label signs that enhance Polk's Heritage Trail. A map of the trail and tour is available at the Polk County History Center, or at polk-county. net/history-center/history-and-heritagetrail.
POLK HISTORY CENTER
History Center Architectural Tours
3rd Saturdays, 11am. Take an architectural tour of the History Center and discover the neoclassical architectural elements that define this iconic Polk County landmark. Learn about the construction of buildings and hear stories behind the Old Polk County Courthouse.
Aug. 14, Visual Art Exhibit: AP Celebration*- 6 p.m.
2025-2026 PERFORMANCE CALENDAR
All events take place in the Harrison Theatre and start at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Events, dates, and venues subject to change. Visit www.harrisonarts.com/tickets to purchase tickets.
Feb. 10, Sister Cities Art & Writing Exhibit*- 6 p.m.
Sept. 18, Visual Art Exhibit: Faculty-Student Sale*- 6 p.m.
Sept. 18, Faculty-Student Showcase
Sept. 30, Choral Invitational Concert
Oct. 9, Visual Art Exhibit*- 6 p.m.
Oct. 9, Creative Writing Event***
Oct. 16-19, Kiss Me, Kate (2 p.m. on Oct. 19)
Oct. 30, Fall Piano Concert
Nov. 6, Fall Orchestra Concert
Nov. 13, Fall Jazz Concert
HARRISON AD
Nov. 18, Fall Guitar Concert***
Nov. 20, Visual Art Exhibit: 8th Gr. Invitational*- 6 p.m.
Dec. 5-6, Winter Dance Concerts
Dec. 12-13, Music of the Season
Jan. 13, Visual Art Exhibit*- 6 p.m.
Jan. 13, Creative Writing Event***
Jan. 15, Winter Short-Film Festival**
Feb. 6-7, Winter Theatre Show***
Scan the code to purchase tickets for upcoming events!
Feb. 10, Spring Choral Concert
Feb. 26, Senior Art Exhibit @ AGB Museum - 6 p.m.
Feb. 27-Mar. 1, Spring Musical (2 p.m. on Mar. 1)
Mar. 6, Roll Out the Red Carpet
Mar. 12, Visual Art Exhibit*- 6 p.m.
Mar. 12, Wind Symphony Concert
Mar. 26, String Orchestra Concert
Mar. 31, Spring Piano Concert
Apr. 9, Spring Jazz Concert
Apr 14, Choral Pops Concert
Apr. 17-18, Spring Theatre Show***
Apr. 23, Visual Art Exhibit*- 6 p.m.
Apr. 23, Spring Orchestra Concert
Apr. 30, Spring Guitar Concert***
May 5, Literary Magazine Event***
May 7-8, Spring Dance Concerts
May 14-15, Spring Short-Film Festival**
Photo by Andy Glogower
Broadway Beginnings Heads to NYC A
2026 SUMMER INTENSIVE
This June, Broadway Beginnings invites young performers to step into the heart of New York City for ON BROADWAY, a musical theatre intensive taking place June 24–27, 2026.
Led by founder Elizabeth Burton Lyons and an acclaimed roster of Broadway professionals, ON BROADWAY gives students the extraordinary chance to train and connect with artists currently working
on the world’s biggest stages. Past faculty have included: Rob McClure (Mrs. Doubtfire), Derek Klena (Moulin Rouge!), Elizabeth Teeter (Beetlejuice), Samantha Pauly (The Great Gatsby), Jessica Lee Goldyn (A Chorus Line), Michael James Scott (Aladdin), Tommy Bracco (Newsies), and JJ Niemann (The Book of Mormon)—to name just a few.
What truly sets ON BROADWAY apart is not only who students learn from, but how they learn. Alongside world-class training in acting, singing, and dance, the program emphasizes mental health and wellness as core components of artistic growth. Guided by Wellness Director Sarah Claire Colling and faculty member Spencer Glass, students explore mindfulness, self-reflection, and community connection—building both artistic skill and emotional resilience.
Each day in NYC is a celebration of growth and artistry, from morning
workshops with Broadway stars to evenings spent seeing hit shows. Students leave not only with stronger technique but with confidence, purpose, and lifelong friendships.
In 2026, ON BROADWAY is expanding access through new scholarship opportunities, including eligibility for Step Up For Students participants and a dedicated ON BROADWAY scholarship.
For young artists dreaming of the stage, ON BROADWAY offers more than training—it’s a foundation for a healthy, sustainable, and inspired career. Broadway Beginnings also offers year-round programs in Polk County, including private lessons, group classes, and summer camps. Learn more or apply at broadwaybeginnings.com.
BARTOW ART GUILD FEATURED ARTIST
Tony Guinn
For photographer and visual artist Tony Guinn, The In-Between is both a body of work and a way of seeing. His journey began when his grandmother handed him a camera at the age of seven, sparking a lifelong fascination with capturing the unseen. After decades of quiet exploration, his path crystallized in 2010 when a friend encouraged him to print and exhibit his work. That first show, Guinn says, “closed a loop”—transforming photography from a pastime into a practice of presence.
Guinn’s art is not about documenting what things look like, but about evoking what they feel like. Working by instinct, he uses motion, blur, and light to dissolve the familiar into energy, revealing something sensed rather than observed. His images
invite stillness and curiosity, asking the viewer to slow down—to feel rather than to judge, to dwell in the subtle tension between motion and quiet, between what’s seen and what’s felt.
For Guinn, the camera is not a tool of record but of revelation. “Technically, I’m a photographer,” he says, “but I’m an artist first. I use the camera to hold feeling—to trace presence and translate movement into memory.”
The In-Between — Works by Tony Guinn will be on view at Bartow Art Guild’s Momentum Gallery January 3–24, with an Opening Reception and Meet the Artist on January 12 from 6–8 pm. tonyguinn.com
Photo provided by Broadway Beginnings
Thank you to the following supporters of the Polk Arts & Cultural Alliance:
BARTOW
Bartow Adult Concert Band
Bartow Art Guild
City of Bartow
Kids Tag Art, Tax Collector for Polk County
L.B. Brown House Museum
Luster African American Museum
The Orpheum Theatre
Polk County History Center
Polk County Public Schools
Trish Pfeiffer
DAVENPORT
Davenport School of the Arts
Davenport Historical Society
FROSTPROOF
Frostproof Historical Society
HAINES CITY
Creative Synergy
LAKELAND
All Saints Episcopal Church
ArtCrawl
Arts in Medicine - Watson Clinic Foundation
The Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art (The AGB) at Florida Southern College
Betsy Kay Finch Performing Arts Foundation, Inc.
Blended Family Foundation
The Bohrer Gallery LLC
Broadway Beginnings
City of Lakeland
Emporium Lakeland
Florida Children’s Museum
Florida Dance Arts
Florida Philharmonia Orchestra, Inc.
Florida Southern College
Harrison School for the Arts
Historic Lakeland
Integrity School of the Arts
Lakeland Choral Society, Inc.
Lakeland Music Club
Lakeland Sister Cities International
Lakeland Symphony Orchestra
Marvelous Mud Pottery Studio
Platform ART
Polk Theatre
Randy Roberts Foundation
Rogue Stage, LLC
Rose Dynasty Foundation
RP Funding Center
Southeastern University
Swan City Piano Festival
LAKE ALFRED
Lake Alfred Historical Society
LAKE WALES
Bok Tower Gardens
City of Lake Wales
Lake Wales Arts Council
Lake Wales History Museum
Lake Wales Little Theatre
MULBERRY
City of Mulberry
WINTER HAVEN
Destroyer Media & Marketing
Dr. J. Owens Academy of Fine Arts, Inc.
Polk State College
Ridge Art Association
Historic Ritz Theatre
Symphony Guild of Winter Haven
Theatre Winter Haven
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Polk Board of County Commissioners
Polk Tourism & Sports Marketing
Diamond ($5,000 & above)
Bell-Barnett Family Fund within the GiveWell Community Foundation
CORE Wealth Advisors
Florida Southern College
Orange Blossom Revue
The Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art (The AGB) at Florida Southern College
The Florida Conference of the United Methodist Church
Visit Central Florida
Watson Clinic Foundation
Gold ($2500 - $4999)
Citizens Bank & Trust
City of Lake Wales
City of Winter Haven
Githens Insurance
Lakeland Arts Association
Lakeland Electric
Orlando Health / Watson Clinic Lakeland
Highlands Hospital
Publix Super Markets Charities
Ridge Art Association
Six/Ten LLC
Terrie Lobb Catering
Silver ($1000 - $2499)
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City of Lakeland Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Arts Department
John Frost Family
Hunt/Mitchell Family
Mims Family
The Rust Family
Bronze ($250 - $999)
Rodda Construction
Friends
of
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Polk Arts
Christian & Kayleigh Avian
Ashley Bell Barnett
Lesley Chambers
Joseph Demidovich
Michell Githens
Amber Grubb
Beverly Hendricks
Frank Howes
Bruce & Shirlee Jones
Individual Supporters
Bonnie Abrado*
Alice Absolutely*
Dianne Adams
Lizzy Allen Orrell*
Scott Audette*
Karissa Barber*
Barbara Blackman*
Betsy Bohrer*
Kemp Brinson
Barbara Canning
Maegan Carroll*
Lisa Ciccia*
Samuel Ciccia*
Mark Codd
Craig Collins*
Mary Correa*
Beth Cummings
Cherie Douglas
Carolyn Duvoe
Heather Earl*
Josh "Bump" Galletta*
Cheryl Giandalia
Andy Glogower*
George D. Gordon, III*
Melissa Green
Stephanie Gregg
Amber Grubb
John Guiseppi*
Judith Hays
Sandra Lamielle Henry
Janet Herman*
Galina Hitching
Ed Ianuzi
Sara Jones
Anita Kollinger
Cameron Lewis
Michael Maguire
Meri Mass
James C Mils
Melissa Murray
Crystal Norman
Robert E. Puterbaugh
Sharon Siebert Surrency
Melissa Tyrone
Daryl & Julie Ward
Marilyn Lacey
Patricia Lamb
Michael John Laurino*
Brannan Lawson*
Leslie Leege
Lesley Lind*
Victoria Lowe*
Daniel Mattias Mercado*
Rita Mcintyre*
Darlene Melius
Ashley Miller
Sherri Miller
Marcia Morse Mullins*
Natalie Oldenkamp
Jacque Palomaki*
Robert Phillips*
Karla Pirona*
Nancy Puri
Cindy Rodriguez
Sherry Ross
Alex Santiago
Holly Scoggins*
Elizabeth Seelenbrandt
Denise Settles*
Kimberly Smith*
Austin Snedden*
Gretchen Suarez-Pena*
Jeffrey Thomas
Steven Tryon
Margaret Wallace*
Calise Weber*
Jordan Weiland
Beverly Williams*
Toni Withaneye*
*Artrepreneurs
Updated as of 11/01/2025.
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