Lake County Hosts Exciting Events to Kick Off Back-to-School Season

Upcoming events in Lake County, Florida, are set to engage the community as students prepare to return to school. A series of activities, from backpack giveaways to support groups, offer valuable resources and entertainment for families.

Back-to-School Events Across Lake County

On July 22, Eustis Lakeside Dental will host a free drive-through backpack giveaway at 15 W. Atwater Ave., beginning at 14:30. The event will provide essential school supplies for elementary students, distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. It is required that students be present in the vehicle to receive a backpack. More details can be found at eustislakesidedental.com.

The Fruitland Park Library, located at 604 W. Berckman St., will celebrate with a “Pete the Cat Back to School Bash” on July 25 from 09:00 to 11:00. The event will feature free school supplies, games, and activities, including bounce houses and bike helmet fittings. Food options, such as hot dogs and ice cream, will also be available while supplies last.

First United Methodist Church of Mount Dora is organizing a Back to School Bash on July 26 from 11:00 to 13:00. Families can enjoy lunch, haircuts, inflatables, and carnival games. The first 100 K-8 students who register will receive a backpack. The church is located at 439 E. Fifth Ave. Further information can be obtained at mtdorafumc.org.

Another highlight is the Last Call Mount Dora event, scheduled for July 26 from 17:00 to 21:15 at Sunset Park, 230 W. Fourth Ave. This end-of-summer celebration will feature a live performance by Power of Love, a tribute band celebrating the 40th anniversary of “Back to the Future.” Attendees are encouraged to bring school supplies for local public schools, ensuring that donations support students in need.

Community Events and Support Groups

Community United Methodist Church of Fruitland Park will host a Christmas in July celebration on July 19, from 11:00 to 14:00. Families with children up to sixth grade can enjoy crafts, games, and lunch, along with photo opportunities with Santa Claus.

On July 23, Lake Port Square, 821 Lake Port Blvd., Leesburg, will hold a monthly support group for individuals affected by Parkinson’s disease and their caregivers from 11:00 to 12:00. Members will share experiences and discuss various issues related to the disease. The event is open to the public.

From July 24 to 25, the AdventHealth Waterman Volunteer Fundraiser will take place from 07:00 to 16:00 at the hospital’s Matison Conference Center, 1000 Waterman Way, Tavares. The sale will feature $5 jewelry and accessories, with proceeds benefiting the AdventHealth Waterman Capital Fund.

The Pastfinders Genealogical Society of South Lake County will offer free genealogy research assistance on July 23 and July 30 from 13:00 to 15:00 at Cooper Memorial Library, 2525 Oakley Seaver Drive, Clermont. Volunteers will assist attendees with document verification and family tree research.

Additionally, the Lady Lake Public Library is running its third annual School Supplies for Fines drive until July 31. Patrons can donate school supplies to waive overdue fees, supporting local students. Donations can be made at the library, located at 225 W. Guava St.

Educational Opportunities for Youth

The Orlando Health National Training Center is conducting junior lifeguard camps for ages 11 to 15 from July 21 to 23 and July 28 to 30, running from 09:00 to 14:00. The camp covers essential skills such as CPR and water safety, along with physical fitness training and rescue techniques. The cost is $100 per session, and participants must be able to swim.

First Presbyterian Church of Mount Dora is hosting a summer book group discussing C.S. Lewis’s book “Mere Christianity” every Tuesday from 19:00 to 20:30 until August 28. A summer movie series will also feature “The Chosen” on Wednesdays at 18:30 through August 27, both free and open to the public.

The Lakes League Men’s Softball League is seeking players aged 50 and over for games scheduled to begin in October at Pear Park, 26701 U.S. Highway 27, Leesburg.

In real estate news, the Henin Group has recently acquired a residential project called Treasure Trove with 110 lots in Leesburg, while also finalizing permits for another 85 lots at Silver Lake Woods. Infrastructure work is expected to start in the fourth quarter of this year. Homes at Silver Lake Woods will range from 1,500 to 2,544 square feet, with prices starting from the mid-$300,000s.

Orlando Health South Lake Hospital offers a variety of prenatal classes, including childbirth preparation and breastfeeding education. Classes are available weekly, with registration required. Expectant mothers can bring support persons to the sessions.

These community events and initiatives reflect Lake County’s commitment to supporting families and fostering community engagement as the new school year approaches. For additional information on these events, residents are encouraged to visit the respective websites or contact the organizations involved.