Winter Haven isn’t only rich in things to do, it also offers a wealth of cultural experiences. Whether you’re looking for theater, comedy, music or galleries, we’ve got you covered! Theatre Winter Haven has been recognized as one of the best small theaters in America and has been entertaining Central Florida for over 45 years. It captivates audiences with eight full-scale productions annually as well as summer, youth, senior and stage reads. Their auditorium holds more than 330 and sells more than 30,000 tickets each year. Downtown’s historic Ritz Theatre has undergone restoration as a multi-purpose facility. Built in 1925, the theatre provided entertainment and a sense of
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community for residents of Winter Haven. Today you will experience film festivals, vaudeville shows, musical performances from some legendary favorites and much more. Polk State College also hosts theatrical and musical productions on its stage in the Fine Arts Auditorium on the Winter Haven campus. The Polk State Players, Over 55 Show Band and the music department take turns entertaining audiences at events throughout the year. They also have a robust visual arts program that displays student artwork throughout the year. Winter Haven’s musical history boasts hometown artists like Jim Stafford and Gram Parsons, and its present day also includes young artists making their mark. Recently the community, through non-profit Main Street Winter Haven, completed the Derry Down Project – a restortion of the 1960’s concert venue in the downtown district that was Gram Parson’s first concert hall. The facility is rockin’ with concerts, private events and meetings on a weekly basis.