Good morning, Greater Winter Haven.

This is Winter Haven Wake, your friendly guide to what’s next around town.

In today’s Winter Haven Wake:

Let’s go ⬇️

— Logan Byrd and Mike Romaine

Before Winter Haven had city commissioners, zoning maps, and municipal departments, it was simply a growing lakeside settlement trying to organize itself after officially incorporating in 1911.

That moment changed everything. Incorporation meant local control over roads, utilities, ordinances, and public services. It meant the town was no longer just a stop between citrus groves, it was becoming a city with structure and ambition.

The earliest city meetings were modest and, like many small Florida towns at the time, officials often met in shared spaces before a dedicated building was established. As the population grew during the land boom of the 1920s, so did the need for a proper City Hall.

By the mid-1920s, Winter Haven had a formal municipal building downtown (pictured above), reflecting the same optimism that gave rise to the Haven Hotel and the Williamson Theatre. City government moved from informal gatherings to a visible civic presence. Streets were paved. Utilities expanded. Regulations took shape. In that building, both the police department and the fire department were located on the first floor, denoted by the side garage in the image. The foundation of modern Winter Haven was laid inside those early council chambers.

In The History of Winter Haven Florida, written by Josephine Burr in 1974, she recalls the construction of City Hall and the other city improvements that happened at the time. “In 1919 he [Mr. Asbury Summerlin] was elected to the City Council as Mayor and served in that position through 1923. During his regime the City Hall was built on the corner of Sixth and Central Ave [current day Popeye’s Louisiana Chicken] which was recently torn down to build the Royal Castle Hamburger stand. The gold leaf design that was used on the old city hall was done by Mr. William Check, a sign painter who was a real artist, living here for many years. The streets were all paved through Villa Park and the Southeast section of the city, and the first sanitary sewers were laid during these years.”

Today’s City Hall operations have evolved and relocated over time, and we have amassed a much greater population and collections of businesses, but the history of Winter Haven’s founding reminds us of the humble beginning of the city we call home.

If you have kids (or know someone who does), this is your reminder:

Polk County Public Schools’ Magnet & Choice application window is officially open, and closes tomorrow, February 20th.

Magnet and Choice schools offer specialized programs and themed instruction designed to give students unique learning experiences beyond traditional zoning options. From career academies to advanced academic tracks and arts-focused programs, this is the window for families to apply for the upcoming school year.

Applications opened January 12th and must be submitted through the Parent Portal.

Once the window closes, that’s it for the year.

🐈️ Duff is a black and white adult male Domestic Shorthair with bright eyes and a sharp tuxedo coat to match. Neutered and full of personality, he’s been at the shelter since February 6th and is ready to find a home where he can stretch out, explore, and soak up attention.

With his classic good looks and confident stance, Duff would love a family to call his own.

ADOPT DUFF HERE

🐕️ Atlas is a tan and white adult male Canaan Dog with alert ears and a steady, intelligent gaze. He’s been at the shelter since February 14th and is ready for a home that appreciates a loyal, active companion.

Strong, watchful, and handsome, Atlas is the kind of dog who bonds deeply and stands by his people.

ADOPT ATLAS HERE

Check the event links for additional information.

TODAY Grove Roots Run Club | Thursday, February 19th | 6:30PM (FREE)
Location: Grove Roots Brewing
Description: Runners and walkers are welcome- route options include 1 mile or 5K. (Plus there’s beer at the end!) Food Truck (5pm-9pm): Gizzy’s of Nutley Pizza

Chair Yoga | Friday, February 20th | 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

Pickleball Open Play | Friday, February 20th | 4PM - 5:50PM (FREE)
Location: Camp Margaritaville Auburndale
Description: Get active and meet other local pickle ball enthusiasts at Margaritaville’s Open Play! Every Friday at 4pm, free and open to all ages and skill levels. Event Info

Yoga in the Gardens | Saturday, February 21st | 9AM - 10AM ($12+)
Location: Bok Tower Gardens
Description: A relaxing outdoor yoga class featuring gentle, all-level movements, breathing techniques, and extended relaxation with a touch of yoga philosophy. Beginners welcome. Bring your mat and meet on the Camellia Glade. Registration required. Event Info & Registration

Ski Show | Saturday, February 21st | 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

World of Figure 8 100 | Saturday, February 21st | 5PM ($20+)
Location: Auburndale Speedway (5640 E County Rd 542, Winter Haven)
Description: The world's best Outlaw Figure 8 Racers return to Auburndale Speedway for one night only with an action-packed night headlined by the $10,000 pot in the World Figure 8 Championship! Event Info & Tickets

TODAY Ribbon Cutting KT’s Attic | Thursday, February 19th | 9AM (FREE)
Location: KT’s Attic (840 6th St. NW, Winter Haven)
Description: The Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce invites you to celebrate KT’s Attic with a ribbon cutting! KT’s Attic is a charming vintage shop dedicated to giving pre-loved items a new home, offering a thoughtfully curated selection of unique finds. Event Info

TODAY Crafting Under the Canopy | Thursday, February 19th | 3PM - 5PM (Ages 16+)
Location: Winter Haven Public Library- Sensory Garden (outdoor)
Description: Drop in for a craft under the canopy in Winter Haven Library’s Sensory Garden! This week’s selection is painting birdhouses. Supplies and space are limited, ages 16+ only. Access the garden via Avenue A NW. Event Info

TODAY FAB Social Lunch | Thursday, February 19th | 12PM (FREE)
Location: Kokomo’s Cafe (Downtown Winter Haven)
Description: Join Females Advancing Business (FAB) for a networking lunch at Kokomo’s Cafe. Meet other area professionals and make new connections over a great meal! Event Info

WHHS FFA Bass Classic | Sunday, February 22nd | Safe Light - 2:30PM ($80/team)
Location: William G. Roe Park Boat Ramp / Tanners Lakeside
Description: The 1st Annual Spring Bass Classic supporting WHHS FFA is this Sunday! Featuring guaranteed payouts and a $1,000 first place prize, the event includes a big bass pot with 100% payback, live music (12pm), BBQ, a public raffle, and an awards ceremony following the weigh-in at Tanner’s Lakeside on Lake May. Take off is from William G. Roe Park Boat Ramp. For full tournament rules, or to sign up, contact BJ Mannix 863-287-1401 or Ryan Brown 863-287-1311. Event Info

Jeepin’ with Judd | Thursday - Sunday, Various Times (FREE)
Location: Clear Springs Ranch (Bartow, FL)
Description: Jeepin’ with Sheriff Judd is a three-day family friendly jeep event that offers obstacle courses and over 125 miles of trail rides. While only registered jeeps can play on the trails and obstacle course, spectators are free and are encouraged to attend, so bring the entire family! There will be a Power Wheels trail for the little up-and-coming Jeepers and a ton of quality food trucks and merchandise vendors on site. No matter if you are a seasoned Jeepin’ enthusiast or just wanting to see what all the excitement is about, there is something for everyone! All proceeds benefit Polk Sheriff’s Charities, Inc. Event Info

🍊🍓U-Pick Citrus & Berries! | Thursday - Sunday, Various Times (FREE)
Location: Golden Ridge Groves (2129 Alturas Road, Bartow)
Description: Looking for a fun and educational activity? Bring the family to Golden Ridge Groves to learn how Florida Citrus grows, and then pick some to take home! Not looking for the hands-on experience? The GRG Farm Market is full of local products, ice cream, and farm-fresh desserts! U-Pick Schedules*: Oranges & Grapefruits, Thursday - Saturday 10:30am-4:30pm | Strawberries, Saturday & Sunday 10am-6pm *Subject to change based on fruit availability. Event Info

Career Cosplay: Tattoo Artist | Monday, February 23rd | 4:30PM - 5:30PM (FREE)
Location: Winter Haven Public Library
Description: An exciting new program for students in 5th - 8th grades! Each month at the library, participants will explore a different career through hands-on activities, conversations with industry professionals, and creative cosplay to spark curiosity and open the door to new and unexpected possibilities. Event Info

Ribbon Cutting Golden Spots Pet Grooming | Tuesday, February 24th | 11AM (FREE)
Location: Golden Spots Pet Grooming (124 Ave A SE, Winter Haven)
Description: The Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce invites you to celebrate Golden Spots Pet Grooming with a ribbon cutting! From expert grooming services to cozy, home-style boarding suites, every detail is thoughtfully designed with your pet’s comfort, safety, and happiness in mind. Event Info

Author Talk- Tom D. Crouch | Tuesday, February 24th | 2PM - 3PM (FREE)
Location: Online
Description: Join Tom D. Crouch for a lively author talk on Smithson’s Gamble, his compelling account of the early years of the Smithsonian Institution. Drawing on nearly 45 years of experience, Crouch reveals the ambition, conflicts, and curiosity that helped shape an institution—and a nation. Event Info & Registration

Lecture Series: Our Florida | Tuesday, February 24th | 5:30PM - 6:30PM (FREE)
Location: Winter Haven Public Library
Description: The Our Florida! Lecture Series finishes with the fifth and final author, Scott M. Deitche as he discusses Cigar City Mafia: A Complete History of the Tampa Underworld, covering bootleggers, gambling, ringleaders, arsonists, narcotics dealers, and gang murders. Learn about a variety of characters that flourished in the era known as Prohibition and how Tampa was the battleground for supremacy of the criminal underworld. Event Info

Trivia Tuesday | Tuesday, February 24th | 6:30PM (FREE)
Location: Grove Roots Brewing
Description: General knowledge trivia every Tuesday at GRB. Gin Khao will be at the brewery 5pm-9pm! Event Info

Groundbreaking Fire Station 5 | Wednesday, February 25th | 9AM (FREE)
Location: Lake Hartridge Nature Park (1775 Havendale Blvd NW, Winter Haven)
Description: The City of Winter Haven invites you to join in the excitement of Fire Station 5’s groundbreaking! Event Info

Estate Sale | Friday & Saturday 9AM - 4PM | Sunday 9AM - 2PM (FREE)
Location: 5800 E County Road 542, Winter Haven
Description: Discover an incredible variety of collectibles and treasures, from vintage glassware, pottery, toys, records, and memorabilia to antique furniture, advertising items, Disney collectibles, and classic movie posters. With enclosed trailers, mobility scooters, and a massive selection of tools, this can’t-miss sale is located one mile west of the Auburndale Speedway, with parking available in the field just east of the building. Event Info & Previews of Items

Winter Haven Farmers Market | Saturday, February 21st | 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

Paradise Market | Sunday, February 22nd | 9AM - 1PM (FREE)
Location: Camp Margaritaville Auburndale
Description: This indoor market features over 60 vendors offering baked goods, artwork, home décor, boutique clothing, and more. Open to the public and resort guests. Event Info

Live Music Jason Link | Friday, February 20th | 12PM - 3PM (FREE)
Location: Margaritaville Auburndale
Description: Spend a sunny Friday afternoon at Camp Margaritaville with acoustic favorites with Jason Link. Event Info

Live Music Ian Flynn | Friday, February 20th | 5:30PM (FREE)
Location: Bowen Yard
Description: Grab some of Bowen’s best eats and enjoy live music from Ian Flynn!

Live Music Got Ur 6 | Friday, February 20th | 6PM (FREE)
Location: Tanners Lakeside
Description: Catch Got Ur 6 live at Tanners Lakeside beginning at 6pm.

Magician Matt Johnson | Friday, February 20th | 7:30PM ($35+)
Location: Ritz Theatre
Description: Over the past 25 years, Matt has performed worldwide for major companies and global audiences, appeared in The Illusionists, and been featured on hit shows like Britain’s Got Talent, where he was named the #1 Most Dangerous Act. Blending magic, mind-reading, stunts, comedy, and audience participation, his captivating performances have earned praise from Simon Cowell and Penn & Teller. Limited childcare available for $15/child! Event Info & Tickets

Live Music Hunter McNeer | Saturday, February 21st | 2PM - 5PM (FREE)
Location: Margaritaville Auburndale
Description: Kick off your evening with Hunter McNeer! Event Info

Live Music Micah Madore | Saturday, February 21st | 5:30PM (FREE)
Location: Bowen Yard
Description: Saturday night live entertainment at Bowen!

Live Music BeatleBeat | Saturday, February 21st | 6PM (FREE with admission)
Location: Bok Tower Gardens
Description: Enjoy the legendary music of The Beatles as BeatleBeat brings the Fab Four’s evolution to life with authentic costumes and faithful performances, from early Beatlemania to Abbey Road. Event Info & Tickets

Theatre Straight Outta FL | Wednesday, February 25th | 7PM ($35)
Location: GhostLight Lounge- Theatre Winter Haven
Description: Compton & Bennett deliver a fast-paced, 90-minute musical satire skewering the quirky underbelly of Florida. With two actors portraying six colorful characters, the show offers a sharp, inside look at the state’s culture, myths, and personalities through songs, sketches, and humor that only Florida could inspire. Event Info & Tickets

Theatre The Sunshine Boys | Various Dates & Times ($39)
Location: Second Stage
Description: Once legendary vaudeville duo “Lewis and Clark,” Al and Willie haven’t spoken in twelve years. When a TV retrospective forces a reunion, old wounds, memories, and laughs resurface as a young agent tries to bring the feuding partners back to the stage. Performances run on various dates and times through March 1st. Event Info & Tickets

Thanks for reading Winter Haven Wake today.

Forward this to a friend who loves being in the loop.

- Logan and Mike

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