Events in Polk County today

A 3D mobile mammography screening event will take place at Trinity Church Haines City, presented by The Beautiful Gate’s nationally recognized Mammograms After Sunday Service program. Designed for convenience and comfort, this breast wellness initiative is built on an award winning approach to health equity and serves Florida residents with or without insurance. Uninsured participants may qualify if they live in Florida, do not have health insurance, have not had a mammogram within the past year, and are ages 40 to 64. Those under 40 may also qualify if they are symptomatic or have a first degree family history of breast cancer, and eligibility extends to individuals whose income is at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty level. Women of any age who have completed treatment for breast cancer may also be eligible. Insured Florida women who are due for their annual screening can schedule directly with 3D MammoLink, and most health plans cover screening mammograms with no out of pocket cost. Those at average risk generally begin screening at age 40. As an added benefit, anyone who schedules, keeps their appointment, and completes a virtual breast health session will receive a free gift card. Space is limited, appointments are filling quickly, and preregistration is available to secure a spot.

This power yoga class at Lake of the Hills Community Center features a vigorous vinyasa flow shaped by the modern yoga movement of the 1990s. Breath-led sequences build heat while developing strength, mobility, and cardio endurance through full-body engagement. Expect purposeful progressions and quicker transitions through poses like warrior variations, plank, and chaturanga, complemented by steady holds to refine alignment and control. The practice emphasizes safe mechanics as it challenges muscular stamina, coordination, and mental focus. Designed for the intermediate level, it is best for students already comfortable with fundamental postures and transitions who can move with some independence and body awareness. Newer practitioners are encouraged to start with a slower-paced class first. Drop-in is $15, and the session aims to leave participants feeling strong, energized, and centered.

Lean Dean Dog Machine celebrates its official opening with a ribbon cutting in Downtown Lakeland. Attendees can watch the ceremony, meet the crew, take photos, and enjoy lunch as the cart serves hot dogs with house-made toppings and a lively, high-energy vibe. After weeks of serving around Lakeland, this milestone marks the start of the next chapter for the cart. Hot Dogs From Tomorrow.

Weekly networking meeting for Lakeland Biz Pros, an independent group focused on entrepreneur support and business connections. Members own their seats, creating continuity within the group. Over lunch, attendees can expand their network and build business contacts.

This relaxed senior social at Golden Ridge Groves features friendly company and sweet treats. For guests 55 and older, ice cream scoops are $3 and milkshakes are $6. Browse the market, reconnect with friends, and enjoy an easygoing afternoon at the grove.

Experience a restorative sound bath inside the Bok Tower Discovery Room at the Discovery Center overlooking the gardens. Meditation teacher and singing bowl specialist Anthony Profeta leads the session with Himalayan and crystal singing bowls, tuning forks, and other vibrational tools designed to release stress and support balance for body, mind, and soul. Please bring a mat or a favorite blanket and pillow. Cost is $25 for members and $40 for non-members, and registration is required. About the facilitator: Anthony Profeta is a former medical student turned internationally renowned meditation teacher, mindfulness expert, and singing bowl specialist. His background includes more than two decades of study in monasteries and ashrams in the US, Italy, Nepal, and India, and mentorship from Jack Kornfield, Sharon Salzberg, and the Dalai Lama. His writings have appeared in The Elephant Journal and Thrive Global, and he has been featured in the Huffington Post and Palm Beach Illustrated. His Good Vibration: Sound Bath Experiences have sold out venues across the US, including in Miami and at Art Basel. He has worked with companies such as Sharp Electronics and Pandora Music, and his guided and sound bath meditations are available on iTunes, Amazon, Spotify, and Pandora.

ThunderBeard, billed as America’s number one ZZ Top tribute, brings a memorable live show to The Polk Theatre that evokes the band’s peak years. The performance focuses on faithful sound and stage presence for an experience that feels true to the original. Feedback from The Vault in Saginaw, MI and Lexington Village Theatre highlights the trio’s professionalism, tight presentation, and attention to the look, even down to the beards, with praise that places them very close to the real thing.

A lively karaoke night invites singing along to favorite tunes and sharing plenty of laughs. Expect good vibes alongside food and drinks as friends cheer each performance and an ordinary evening becomes a memorable experience. Held every Thursday, with the next song waiting for whoever wants the mic.

Peace Train Karaoke takes over Jessie's Lounge in downtown Winter Haven for an evening of singing. Choose your favorite tunes, enjoy a lively playlist between performances, and sip from the available drink selection.

Experience the Strokes Fore Hope Golf Scramble at Cleveland Heights Golf Course, benefiting Talbot House Ministries of Lakeland. This community tournament brings golfers together for a round that blends camaraderie, friendly competition, and purpose. Participation supports individuals and families facing homelessness and hardship, advancing hope, healing, housing, and vital services through Talbot House Ministries. The event uses a shotgun start format, and team registration is $500. The experience features opportunities to connect, prizes, and meaningful impact on and off the course.

Enjoy a family-friendly Halloween event at Bartow Executive Airport with trick-or-treating among decorated vehicle trunks, candy and other treats, and aircraft on display. Costumes are encouraged for all ages. Admission is free.

A ribbon cutting ceremony celebrates the Carillon Bell Tower at South Central Park. The instrument was gifted by Thomas Oldt as a heartfelt expression of gratitude to the community and in remembrance of the Oldt family. It features bronze bells cast in the Netherlands and covers nearly two chromatic octaves, short by a single note. The carillon is programmed to play music several times a day, adding a distinctive voice to the park.

At TLC PetSnip, Inc., Rustic & Rooted Co. marks its first vendor appearance during the Mad Veterinarian Haunted House. The event blends a haunted attraction with opportunities to shop small and show support for TLC PetSnip, Inc. Shoppers can browse favorites from Rustic & Rooted Co., including freshies, wax melts, sugar scrubs, home products, and beeswax and tallow lip balms, with more to discover. It offers a spooky night out that pairs haunted fun with local shopping for a great cause.

Celebrate the close of Hispanic Heritage Month with a coffee-inspired creative evening at Jilly’s Creative Studio. Paint and personalize your own greca, the classic moka pot, and take it home as a keepsake. All supplies are provided, and the setting highlights Hispanic traditions with plenty of fun photo moments. Come with a friend, bring a date, or enjoy it solo. The workshop welcomes beginners, so no prior painting experience is needed. Space is limited.

JohnnyB's in Lakeland hosts a Friday Night Magic event that features the Modern format. It is a chance to play games of Magic and meet other players.

Horror House Haunted House presents Psycho Circus, a haunted attraction spanning more than 4,000 square feet across two levels. It blends immersive scare zones with live performances and shows, rock bands, carnival games, and food trucks.

A date-friendly night at Out-n-About Bar and Music Lounge arrives with Halloween on the horizon. X it 7 brings rock to the start of RocTober.

Next Stop Comedy stages a stand-up showcase at Port 27 Brewery with a different roster of comedians each time. The series spotlights top talent, including performers who have appeared on TV and been heard on podcasts.

The IWWF's 2026 Barefoot World Championships return to Auburndale, Florida, bringing together Junior, U23, and Open divisions.

Historic Downtown Bartow sets the scene for a first-year 5K and Kids 1K that welcomes runners and walkers of every pace. The route winds through downtown and nearby historic neighborhoods, offering a friendly way to enjoy the area’s character for participants of all ages and abilities. 5K registration includes an official bib, a long-sleeved dri fit event shirt while supplies last, a finisher medal, access to post-race refreshments, and results. This is a recreational fun run that is not certified or professionally timed, and any times shared are unofficial and for enjoyment. The Kids 1K provides an official bib and a finisher medal, with an event T-shirt available for an additional charge. Proceeds support Main Street Bartow in its work to strengthen downtown through revitalization, community events, and local business development. The event takes place rain or shine, and registration fees are non-refundable.

An annual festival at the Visit Central Florida Welcome Center brings together creative fall crafts, local vendors, seasonal treats, music and entertainment, and family activities for all ages. Admission is free, and everyone is welcome to take part in the festivities.

Support the TBS Step Team at a lively car wash fundraiser. Get your vehicle sparkling while helping raise funds for the team. This in-person community get-together features plenty of soap, smiles, and a friendly atmosphere, offering an easy way to catch up with others and show your support.

Celebrate one year of Nordstrom Rack at Lakeside Village with new arrivals from well known brands and a chance to win a $150 Nordstrom Rack gift card. No purchase is required to enter. The sweepstakes features two separate drawings, one held each day of the celebration, with entry accepted from store opening through close of business at Nordstrom Rack at Lakeside Village. Selected entrants must respond to the notification within three days. Open to U.S. residents who are 18 or older. Odds vary based on the number of entries. The total approximate retail value of all prizes is $300. Check the participating store for the official rules that outline entry, notification, and prize details. Void where prohibited. Sponsor: Nordstrom, Inc.

This complete aviation session is $299 and is offered on Saturday and Sunday. Parents and students start with about 1.5 hours of structured group ground training at an on-airport facility, where students learn core aviation fundamentals in a fun and professional environment. The experience continues with approximately one hour of one-on-one, hands-on flight instruction in a comfortable four-seat training aircraft with an FAA-certified flight instructor. It is real flight training, and students will have the chance to operate the controls under the instructor’s supervision. When space and operating conditions allow, a parent may ride in the back seat to watch and capture photos or video. After the first session, a structured 12-week Youth Aviation Program is available for those who want to continue, offering more formal pilot training, helping build a foundation toward future FAA pilot certificates and ratings once age and eligibility requirements are met, and providing an early pathway toward a career in aviation.

Divina Glow Elite and C&B Wellness Studio & Cafe Inc. present a fall-themed experience centered on movement, creativity, and genuine connection. Participants will enjoy an intimate Reformer Pilates session suitable for all levels, whether trying a reformer for the first time or returning with experience. The gathering also features a hands-on candle bar to craft a personalized candle, a friendship-focused activity, photo-worthy moments, local vendors to discover, and relaxed time to meet and mingle with other women. Expect cozy autumn accents and a few surprises along the way. To accommodate small class sizes, the event is organized into two arrival and session blocks. Attendees select a preferred session time when purchasing tickets, and each group enjoys the complete experience, including Pilates, candle making, vendors, and connection-centered activities. A neutral fall color palette is encouraged for outfits, with shades of beige and brown. Capacity is limited due to reformer availability.

Polk State College Theatre in Winter Haven, Florida hosts a full weekend dedicated to the America’s Ideal Miss Florida State Pageant. The first day features optional competitions that showcase talent, spokesmodel presentations, onstage question responses, casual wear, active wear, and swimsuit. The second day highlights interviews, fun fashion, and evening gown, culminating in the crowning of the new America’s Ideal Miss Florida queens. The atmosphere centers on confidence, friendships, and spirited competition.

A 50th anniversary celebration at the Sunshine Foundation Dream Village honors decades of dreams fulfilled, shaped by hope, resilience, and life changing moments. The gathering also looks ahead to the many dreams still to come, marking a golden milestone with gratitude for the past and optimism for the future.

Jilly’s Creative Studio teams up with Sweet Sensations by Steph for a hands-on Frost & Fall cake decorating workshop. Guided by Sweet Sensations by Steph, participants learn fun techniques, experiment with colorful frosting, and finish with festive Halloween sprinkles and decorations. Each person decorates a cake and takes it home. The autumn and Halloween theme makes it a fit for a girls night, a date, or a just-because creative outing. This is a special collaboration between Jilly’s Creative Studio and Sweet Sensations by Steph, and tickets are available with limited capacity.

Spend a day at Camellia Groves in Winter Haven, Florida picking fresh Florida lemons right from the trees. Explore the Camellia Market, browse local vendors, and find additional fruit like pumellos and finger limes. Enjoy live music from @troli bear while @lovecoffeewine offers specialty coffee and wine, with food from @fizassecretkitchen and @FLtopdog. Shop treats and handmade goods from @hugabeehoneyTM, Kayla's Crispy Pop Kettle Corn, @miarosegourmet, Sun-Flour Farm Stand, and Casita Crafts. Admission is free and no reservations are required. U-pick lemons are $35 per crate, and the Camellia Groves Recipe Collection makes its debut.

Young creators can dive into a hands-on slime workshop at Jilly’s Creative Studio in the Depot Arts District in Lakeland. Kids will blend and knead their own gooey masterpiece, add Halloween inspired touches, personalize the look and feel, then take their spooky slime home. Tickets are available and capacity is limited.

At The Twisted Prop Bar & Grille, this event brings people together for food and high-energy rock music in a friendly setting. It is centered on good company, something to eat, and an upbeat soundtrack.

Compete in an Advanced-format Yu-Gi-Oh locals with up to four rounds lasting 50 minutes each, played as best of three. The entry fee is $10 and includes two OTS packs at buy-in. For every two buy-ins, one additional OTS pack is added to prize support and distributed to the top performers, and first place earns a Special Winner OTS pack. Prize support also includes one booster pack for each match win, an extra booster for the top four, and a booster for any player who finishes without a match win.

Boktoberfest features a performance by The Brussel Sprouts German Polka Band on the Cafe Terrace. The Blue Palmetto Cafe will offer German-themed specials to complement the music. Admission is free for members and $20 for non-members.

Family and professional caregivers, along with anyone in the community, are welcome to experience the Virtual Dementia Tour, an individual, hands-on simulation that reflects the daily challenges faced by people living with dementia. This sensory training offers practical insight into how dementia affects perception and behavior, encouraging participants to move from uncertainty to informed action while supporting clearer communication and more compassionate care. Sessions are drop-in, last about 30 minutes, and do not require an RSVP. Sponsored and facilitated by Senior Helpers - Polk County, FL, the program was created by Second Wind Dreams, an international nonprofit founded by P.K. Beville, M.S. For more information, contact Senior Helpers at 863-686-7333.

Options for Women brings free medical services to North Lakeland with a mobile clinic positioned opposite Kathleen Highschool. Appointments can be scheduled, and walk-ins are accepted, serving individuals of all ages who need STD testing or pregnancy confirmation with consultation. Referrals for women’s wellness are available, and anyone considering next steps in pregnancy can receive information and supportive guidance to explore options. All services are confidential, compassionate, and free of judgment.