Good morning, Greater Winter Haven.

This is Winter Haven Wake — reporting live from Florida’s coldest week of the year.

In today’s Winter Haven Wake:

Let’s go ⬇️

— Logan Byrd and Mike Romaine

Before Florence Villa became a neighborhood of Winter Haven, it was a destination all its own.

In the early 1900s, Florence Villa developed along the shores of Lake Howard as a small but thriving lakeside town. Promoted as a peaceful winter retreat, it attracted visitors looking for warm weather, fresh air, and a slower pace than larger Florida cities.

At the heart of the community stood the Florence Villa Hotel, shown here in an early photograph from around 1910. The hotel welcomed seasonal guests who arrived by rail and spent their days boating, fishing, and enjoying life along the lake. Wide porches, rocking chairs, and lake breezes were part of the appeal.

Florence Villa wasn’t just a resort stop. It had its own post office, businesses, and identity. But as Winter Haven grew rapidly during Florida’s land boom, the two towns became increasingly connected. In 1925, Florence Villa was officially annexed into Winter Haven, folding its streets, homes, and lakefront into the expanding city.

Today, the name lives on in roads, neighborhoods, and the shoreline itself. But long before it was part of Winter Haven, Florence Villa stood on its own as a small lakeside town built around rest, recreation, and winter living.

After a long absence, Florida’s Citrus Festival is officially returning to downtown Winter Haven, and it’s shaping up to be a big one.

Citrus helped build Polk County.

Long before theme parks and distribution centers, oranges and groves were at the heart of the local economy.

Citrus festivals were once a familiar part of life across Polk County, but as the industry changed over time, many of those celebrations quietly faded away.

That’s what makes this weekend special.

On Saturday, January 31st, Florida’s Citrus Festival returns as a new annual tradition, offering a modern take on those festivals of the past.

Hosted in Central Park, the event celebrates citrus heritage while bringing families together for a full day of food, music, history, and hands-on fun.

The festival runs 11 AM – 8 PM and is completely free.

It’ll feature everything from local citrus growers and history exhibits to live entertainment, food trucks, kids’ activities, and citrus-inspired eats and drinks.

What you’ll find at the festival:

🐈️ Smokey is a gray and white adult male Domestic Shorthair with striking green eyes and a calm, gentle presence. Neutered and quietly confident, he’s the kind of cat who enjoys soaking in the moment and watching the world go by from a cozy spot nearby.

He’s been at the shelter since January 12th and is ready for a peaceful home where he can settle in and be someone’s steady companion.

ADOPT SMOKEY HERE

🐕️ Nemo is a black and white adult male Bulldog mix with a soulful expression and a sturdy, lovable build. Neutered and well-mannered, he has a sweet, thoughtful demeanor that makes him easy to fall for the moment you meet him.

He’s been at the shelter since December 12th and is patiently waiting for a family who’s ready to give him the fresh start he deserves.

ADOPT NEMO HERE

Check the event links for additional information.

TODAY Grove Roots Run Club | Thursday, January 29th | 6:30PM (FREE)
Location: Grove Roots Brewing
Description: A great way to kick off the weekend! Runners and walkers are welcome- route options include 1 mile or 5K. Bundle up this week- it’s gonna be a chilly one!

Chair Yoga | Friday, January 30th | 10:30AM - 11:30AM (FREE)
Location: Winter Haven Public Library- Multipurpose Room
Description: Activate the muscles that help you find length up through the spine for better posture and energy flow and improve your balance as you create stability in your core and flexibility in your joints. Class instructed by Kristie Renardson, space is limited. Event Info

Spirit Classic Gymnastics Meet | Friday - Sunday | ($20 cash)
Location: AdventHealth Fieldhouse
Description: Get ready for an exciting showcase of youthful talent and athleticism at the Spirit Classic! This year is Mardi Gras themed and you’re invited to dress up for the occasion- beads, masks, and accessories encouraged. The meet features three days of fun, be sure to check the full schedule at the link. Event Info

Fitness at the Port | Saturday, January 31st | 9AM - 10AM ($15)
Location: Port 27
Description: A morning of fun and fitness at Port 27! Meditation and Rev/Flow classes happen simultaneously from 9am-10am. Event Info

Ski Show | Saturday, January 31st | 4PM (FREE)
Location: Lake Silver/MLK Park
Description: Walking distance from Downtown Winter Haven, catch Cypress Gardens Ski Team’s Monthly exhibition! Be sure to bring a lawn chair or blanket for seating. Pre-show begins at 3:30pm; attendance is free, but donations are always appreciated. Event Info

TODAY U-Pick Grapefruit & CUPS Education | Thur. - Sat. beginning Jan. 29th | 10:30AM - 4:30PM (FREE)
Location: Golden Ridge Groves (2129 Alturas Road, Bartow)
Description: Step into GRG’s state-of-the-art CUPS (Citrus Under Protective Screening) structure and pick your own premium Ray Ruby Grapefruits. As you wander through the lush, protected rows, you’ll learn how this innovative system helps combat HLB/Greening and supports the future of Florida citrus. Visit on a Friday or Saturday to enjoy a scenic Hayride over on to the CUPS. Event Info & More U-Picks!

TODAY Blood Drive | Thursday, January 29th | 2PM - 7PM (FREE)
Location: Port 27
Description: Donate blood at Port 27 on Thursday and receive at $20 eGift card, t-shirt, Wellness Check, and BOGO 50% off Beer! Event Info & More U-Picks!

TODAY Happy Hour Networking | Thursday, January 29th | 4:30PM - 6PM (FREE)
Location: Union Taproom
Description: Don’t miss this fun networking opportunity, sponsored by Gator Industries, where business owners and entrepreneurs can connect in a relaxed, happy-hour atmosphere. Everyone is invited to enjoy fun giveaways, great conversations, and meaningful connections—so bring a friend, your business cards, and get ready to network. Event Info

Crossing the Moat | Saturday & Sunday | 8AM - 12PM ($20)
Location: Bok Tower Gardens
Description: Step back in time and celebrate the history and legacy of Bok Tower Gardens with music, storytelling, and rare opportunities, honoring the Gardens’ dedication as a gift to the American people on February 1, 1929. From 8am - 12pm, guests may cross the historic Yellin Gates and stand before the Great Brass Door, one of the few times each year this is allowed! Event included with Garden Admission ($20) Event Info

Sunday Funday | Sunday, February 1st | 1PM - 6PM (FREE)
Location: The Ritz Theatre
Description: Sunday Funday at The Ritz Theatre is back with doors opening at 1:00 p.m., Nitro Bingo at 2:30 p.m. ($30 buy-in), and Tipsy Karaoke at 5:00 p.m., creating a full afternoon of fun and excitement. Come join the energy, laughter, and good vibes as you start your new favorite Sunday tradition! Event Info

Lecture Series: Our Florida | Tuesday, February 3rd | 5:30PM - 6:30PM (FREE)
Location: Winter Haven Library
Description: The 2026 Winter Haven Public Library Lecture Series, Our Florida!, continues with a lecture by journalist turned book publisher, James Abraham, presenting Bloody Streets and Crooked Lines: 100 Years of Black Voter Suppression in Florida. The lecture begins at 5:30 p.m. in the Library Multi-Purpose Room, with doors opening at 5 p.m. Seating is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Event Info

Trivia Tuesday | Tuesday, February 3rd | 6:30PM (FREE)
Location: Grove Roots Brewing
Description: General knowledge trivia every Tuesday at GRB. Bacon Wake Food Truck will be at the brewery 5pm-9pm! Event Info

Winter Haven Farmers Market | Saturday, January 31st | 9AM - 1PM (FREE)
Location: Along Magnolia Ave, Downtown Winter Haven
Description: Fresh produce, local honey, handmade crafts, and local vendors. Located on Magnolia Ave (between 2nd & 3rd St SW), check them out on Facebook and Instagram for the weekly vendor list. The goal of Winter Haven Farmers Market is to support local vendors and offer a healthy foodie destination every Saturday morning in Winter Haven. Facebook | Instagram

Peas Creek Farmers Market | Saturday, January 31st | 8:30AM - 1PM (FREE)
Location: Peas Creek Farm (1726 Taylor Road, Bartow)
Description: Enjoy fresh from the farm veggies, local grass-finished beef cuts & ground, sourdough breads, baked goods, and the delightful community we’ve built under our barn! Explore the farm, spend time with old friends, and get the freshest foods available! Crops are harvested between 30min to 12 hours before the market opens on Saturday! Event Info

LAVA Garage Sale | Saturday, January 31st | 9AM - 2PM (FREE)
Location: Lake Ashton Clubhouse (4141 Ashton Club Drive, Lake Wales)
Description: Visit Lake Ashton Veterans Association’s Tag Sale (community garage sale) this Saturday! All proceeds benefit LAVA Auxiliary Veterans Programs.

Sweetwater Golf & Tennis Garage Sale | Saturday, January 31st | 8AM - 1PM (FREE)
Location: Sweetwater Clubhouse (4635 U.S. Hwy 17/92 West, Haines City)
Description: Over 400 homes have contributed to this massive community yard sale! Commercial vendors will also be on site for food & beverage. Items range from small appliances to golf equipment to jewelry to furniture and more! Event Info

TODAY Variety Larry Venturino (21+) | Thursday, January 29th | 8PM [Doors 7PM] ($20+)
Location: Ritz Theatre
Description: Larry Venturino pairs his comedy with the magic of Dashnor Bushi and the ventriloquism of Nikolas Bushi in this hilarious night of laughs entitled ‘One Man Show!’ Event Info

Live Music Rose N Thorne | Friday, January 30th | 5:30PM - 8PM (FREE)
Location: Bowen Yard
Description: Enjoy all of Bowen’s food and fun offerings and live music from Rose N Thorne! Event Info

Live Music Mary Gauthier & Jamiee Harris | Friday, January 30th | 7PM [Doors 6PM] ($30)
Location: Gram Parsons Derry Down (Downtown Winter Haven)
Description: Experience acclaimed songwriter Mary Gauthier with special guest Jaimee Harris, celebrating her 25-year career of deeply personal and universally resonant music. Known for her courageous storytelling and groundbreaking work, Gauthier continues to connect audiences from all walks of life with songs that speak to the heart. Event Info & Tickets

Comedy Nick Giasullo (21+) | Friday & Saturday | 8PM [Doors 7PM] ($20+)
Location: Laugh Out Lounge
Description: Nick Giasullo is bringing his fast, sharp, and brutally honest stand-up to Winter Haven this weekend! Nick has toured nationwide, won Arizona’s top roast competition, and regularly opens for comedians such as Adam Ray and Josh Blue. His debut comedy special, Higher Education, is streaming now, but his tight pacing, smart writing, and relatable edge are best experienced live. If you enjoy clever comedy with no wasted punchlines, this is a show not to miss. Event Info & Tickets

Live Music Joe Pug | Sunday, February 1st | 7PM [Doors 6PM] ($25)
Location: Gram Parsons Derry Down (Downtown Winter Haven)
Description: Singer-songwriter Joe Pug, known for his sharp lyrical insight, plaintive harmonica style, and a body of critically praised work that has earned comparisons to some of the genre’s greats. A seasoned performer, Pug has toured with renowned artists, appeared at major festivals and NPR programs, released music on Lightning Rod Records, and also hosts the popular podcast The Working Songwriter. Event Info & Tickets

Live Music Acoustic Open Mic | Monday, February 2nd | 6PM [Doors 5:30PM] (FREE)
Location: Gram Parsons Derry Down (Downtown Winter Haven)
Description: Come enjoy a night of live music at this historic venue! Our all-acoustic Open Mic welcomes spectators of all ages—listen to talented musicians, singer-songwriters, and beginners sharing up to three songs each in a friendly, supportive atmosphere. Event Info

Live Music Alter Eagles | Tuesday, February 3rd | 6:30PM ($35)
Location: Ritz Theatre
Description: For over 15 years, The Alter Eagles have delivered an authentic tribute to the Eagles, the best-selling band in North America. With more than 2,000 performances, they bring faithful harmonies and musicianship to classic hits like Desperado, Heartache Tonight, One of These Nights, and Hotel California. Event Info & Tickets

Theatre The Wizard of Oz | Various Dates & Times ($39)
Location: Theatre Winter Haven
Description: 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. Performances run on various dates and times through February 15th. Event Info & Tickets

Thanks for reading Winter Haven Wake today.

Share this with someone whose New Year’s resolutions are currently “on pause.”

- Logan and Mike

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