JANUARY EDITION: News & events for Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis

Mount Dora lights display to remain up through January
Just in case you didn't make it to downtown Mount Dora before Christmas, or you just want to soak up more holiday cheer, most of the area's lights, including those in Donnelly Park, will remain up through the end of January.

Good news on the Wekiva Rail-Trail Extension
CSX Railroad is finally willing to sell the railroad property for a trail extension. Lake County, the City of Mount Dora, and the City of Tavares have agreed to partner and proceed with negotiations to acquire the land. The Trust for Public Land, a California-based nonprofit organization which has significant experience with similar endeavors, has committed its support for this rails-to-trails project. If it comes to fruition, the trail would connect the two cities to each other, as well as other areas in Lake County.  Read more

Gilbert Park playground renovations completed
If you have kids, there's no time like the present to pack them in the car and head to Mount Dora's recently renovated iconic playground. Half of the area has been completely reimagined with fun new equipment. Read more

January brings first Antique Extravaganza of 2025
In case you didn't get enough retail therapy last month, the mother of all shopping opportunities returns to Mount Dora on January 17 through 19. The Antique Extravaganza at Renningers Antique Center features everything from rare collectibles to oddities, and it never disappoints. Read more

Daytrippin' to Black Bear Wilderness Area
Just a stone's throw from Mount Dora sits 1600 acres of unspoiled natural Florida. Make the short drive across State Road 46 and then hike through the preserve's bald cypress and boardwalk along the St. Johns River for a beautiful morning or afternoon. Read more

Local authors publish new book on Florida
A local writers group dubbed "Writers One Flight Up" published a new book that captures the unique essence of the Sunshine State. "Only in Florida!" is a collection of short stories, articles, and poems with a diverse range of narratives reflecting the rich cultural tapestry, vibrant landscapes, and eccentric characters that define Florida. All profits from the book are donated to the W.T. Bland Library in Mount Dora. The 238-page anthology is available on Amazon here.

Mount Dora's inaugural Daisy Music Fest hits stage in January
Daisy Music Fest will come to Mount Dora Community Building on January 11 at 6 p.m. and could become the most fun annual fundraiser in the city. Proceeds of the event will go to Libby's Legacy Breast Cancer Foundation in memory of Jeanette Bokland, a Mount Dora resident who passed away from breast cancer earlier this year. Tickets are available here.

New project highlights downtown Mount Dora's historic buildings
Mount Dora Historical Society’s new project of placing 17 identification markers on downtown’s historic buildings is well underway. The volunteer-led effort will help educate the public about the city’s rich history. Read more

Scroll down for more local Buzz, featured events and most recent Best of Mount Dora winners.

New smoothie spot opens at Fitness CF
Fitness CF completed renovations to the interior entrance of the gym to include a new smoothie bar integrated into the front desk. The offerings range from low-calorie smoothies to options with high protein and even shakes for kids. The gym's made-to-order smoothies are available to non-members and members alike.

Big Lots in Eustis is going out of business
The national discount chain, Big Lots, announced it will be going out of business and all of its locations will be selling off their inventory. Watch for some good deals at the Eustis location. Read more

Modernism Museum closes indefinitely
According to its website, the Modernism Museum Mount Dora on 4th Avenue in downtown Mount Dora has temporarily, but indefinitely, closed its doors. No reason was provided, however the Modernism Museum Shoppe across the street remains open as usual.

New family restaurant preps to open in Mount Dora
If all goes as scheduled, The Yardery will open this month, according to the business' social media. The downtown Mount Dora location is tucked between the parking garage and the railroad tracks on Baker Street will feature casual eats, drinks and yard games. Read more

A new shop for crafters opens in Tavares
For crafty DYI junkies, a new shop in Tavares may provide some fun inspiration and materials. Crochet Aweigh is a modern new yarn shop located at 122 E. Alfred Street in Tavares.

Got any local buzz?
If you know of a new local restaurant or retail shop prepping to open in Mount Dora, Tavares or Eustis, please email us the details here.

Scroll down for more Local Buzz, events and the most recent Best of Mount Dora winners.

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Three of Mount Dora parks gaining improvements
In addition to renovations at Gilbert Park's playground, other city parks are also seeing improvements. Construction of beautiful new basketball courts were completed at Summerview Park and the conversion of the tennis court in Donnelly Park to pickleball courts is expected to be completed soon.

Crime analyst hired to help reduce crime
Mount Dora Police Department hired a crime analyst to collect data which will help the department determine the deployment of officers and other resources based on the areas of town and times of day where and when crimes occur. Recently, the analyst presented data to the City Council that showed decreases in violent crimes in several categories. 

Find more local government news here.

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