
Weekends are never dull in Leesburg. Beside the fact that the nation’s premier attractions (such as Walt Disney World, Universal Studios Theme Park and Sea World) are less than one hour away, there is plenty to do right here in town! Lake County is known for its festivals — almost every weekend there is a celebration with a “homestyle” flavor to enjoy. The annual Leesburg Art Festival, one of the largest events in the city, combines entertainment and fine food with an outstanding display of fine arts and crafts.
The annual festival is dedicated to creating appreciation of the arts in Lake County. Exhibitors and visitors from throughout the U.S. gather to celebrate first-class original artwork in the historic downtown.
In addition to festivals, Leesburg, Mount Dora, and Eustis each have their own regional theater companies, giving residents a wide range of plays to enjoy. The Melon Patch Players, Inc., Leesburg’s local troupe, puts on six shows each year.
Each month, the Lake-Sumter Community College Performing Arts Series brings world-class entertainment to the Paul P. Williams Fine Arts Center, located on the campus.
“Lights of Lake,” the county’s annual lighting extravaganza, grows bigger and better each year, as the holiday light-decorating efforts of cities, businesses and residents show a united holiday spirit during this special season. The cities of Mount Dora, Eustis, Tavares, Leesburg, Clermont and Lady Lake rally together to attract sightseers from throughout Florida and beyond. More than four million lights flicker along corridors and waterways, making Lake County a virtual winter wonderland (without the snow, of course).
The beauty of Lake County is unprecedented all year long, but with the addition of the lights, holiday visitors choose it as a destination. It’s the first time the cities have come together under the same logo for such a large countywide event.
Bus tours, bands, choirs, food vendors and additional activities complement the project and the variety of slated events encompassed by the “Lights of Lake” schedule. A boat parade also lights up Hickory Point Park.
The communities are distinguishing themselves by using the natural resources of Lake County. The ability to see the lights from the lakes is a new way to embrace the spirit of Christmas and community unity.