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Bagpipes, kilts and cabers return as Mount Dora hosts Scottish Highland Festival

1/30/2026

ABOVE: Mount Dora Scottish Highland Festival (Mount Dora Buzz file photo)

Bagpipes will fill the air and kilts will once again be on full display during the 13th Annual Mount Dora Scottish Highland Festival, set for Feb. 20 - 22.

The three-day celebration invites residents and visitors to dive into Scottish heritage with a lively mix of music, dance, athletics, food and cultural traditions — all in a relaxed, family-friendly setting that has become a local favorite.

The festival kicks off Friday evening, Feb. 20, with a traditional Scottish Cèilidh at the Mount Dora Music Hall inside the Community Building. The opening-night gathering features live Celtic music and Highland dancing, offering an energetic start to the weekend. Admission to the Cèilidh is $12.

Festivities move outdoors over the weekend at Donnelly Park, 530 N. Donnelly St., and Elizabeth Evans Park, 100 N. Donnelly St. The two-day park festival transforms downtown into a celebration of all things Scottish, with activities designed to appeal to longtime fans and first-time visitors.

Throughout the weekend, live performances will keep the grounds buzzing. The lineup includes Albannach, The Harp Twins, Poehemia, Celtica Nova, the Seán Heely Celtic Band, Thomas Keefer, traditional Irish dancers and more, offering everything from driving drumbeats to melodic harp and fiddle tunes.

Visitors can stroll through the Heritage Village and vendor areas to explore Scottish history and traditions, watch skilled artisans at work, and sample authentic food and beverage offerings. Special exhibits on Saturday will feature Border Collies and Highland cows, giving guests a closer look at animals closely tied to Scottish culture.

One of the festival’s most popular attractions returns with Scottish Highland athletics, where tough competitors demonstrate strength and skill in classic events such as the caber toss, hammer throw and stone put — a crowd favorite year after year.

Admission can be paid at the gate and is $22 each day, with the exception of the concert on Friday which has a $12 admission. Complimentary parking and shuttle service will be available at First Baptist Church, 1000 E. 1st Avenue, with shuttles running Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. and Sunday from 1 to 7 p.m.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit the area's website and download the area's free mobile app. Be sure to follow Mount Dora Buzz's Instagram and Facebook page for more local info.

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One of Florida's best art festivals returns to Mount Dora on January 31 and February 1

1/2/2026

The streets of quaint Mount Dora will host fine artists from around the country as visitors peruse original paintings, photography, ceramics, jewelry, art glass, mixed media, sculptures, woodwork and more on January 31 and February 1 for the 50th Annual Mount Dora Art Festival.

RELATED:  Mount Dora Parking tips and free shuttles

Approximately 300 artists exhibit and sell their artwork, as well as compete for cash prizes.  Festival food, beer, wine, and cocktails will be available at kiosks throughout the festival and restaurants will be open for dining and cocktails. The Central Florida Dance Festival will also showcase a variety of dance numbers in Donnelly Park.

RELATED:  Discover Mount Dora's local entertainment calendar

Street parking is very limited, but there is a Freebee shuttle available. It's advisable to arrive early for the most parking options. Private lots will also have parking available for a fee.

The festival is free and its hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on both days. Pets are discouraged.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit the area's website and download the area's free mobile app. Be sure to follow Mount Dora Buzz on Instagram for  more local info.

Central Florida Film Festival celebrates its 20th Year

1/1/2026

Move over Cannes, the Central Florida Film Festival will mark its 20th year January 23 through 25 while screening more than 185 films in Mount Dora. The event is expected to draw filmmakers, industry professionals and film enthusiasts for a weekend of independent cinema and live discussions.

The international festival typically screens comedies, dramas, science-fiction, suspense, horror and adventure genres. The event will also feature filmmaker Q&As, panel discussions, networking events, special guests and audience choice awards. Organizers say the event remains focused on supporting independent creators and strengthening connections within Central Florida’s arts community.

All screenings will be held at the 12-screen Epic Theatre located at 2300 Spring Harbor Boulevard, just off U.S. Highway 441. A schedule of flim blocks, panel topics and guest announcements is below.

Founded in 2005, the nonprofit festival has grown into a respected regional showcase recognized for its programming and filmmaker-friendly environment.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit the area's website and download the area's free mobile app. Be sure to follow Mount Dora Buzz on Instagram for more local info.

Arts & Entertainment

Bagpipes, kilts and cabers return as Mount Dora hosts Scottish Highland Festival

One of Florida's best art festivals returns to Mount Dora on January 31 and February 1

Central Florida Film Festival celebrates its 20th Year

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

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