JANUARY BUZZ for Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis

2026 marks the 20th year of Mount Dora Buzz!
It seems like yesterday when the first monthly edition went to a small group of readers before it mushroomed into today’s online publication. We are beyond grateful for all of The Buzz’s readers, social media followers, partnering businesses, contributors, and all of those who have offered kind or constructive words over the last two decades. We appreciate you and aim to always do right by you.

January is the most anticipated month for local film buffs
The Central Florida Film Festival returns to Mount Dora this month with screenings of more than 170 independent films. This marks the 18th year for the international film festival. Read more

Mount Dora’s creative landmark awaits its small-screen premiere
While on the topic of films, a film crew was in Mount Dora shooting the colorful van Gogh house, and local interviews with residents were conducted about the house. The film, originally slated for release in the fall 2024, is currently pending completion, so stay tuned.

Mount Dora Art Festival returns this month
One of Florida's most acclaimed art festivals returns to the streets of downtown Mount Dora this month. The juried festival brings some of the nation's best artists across many genres to this annual two-day event.  Read more

Mount Dora’s designated golf cart and motorcycle parking opens
The City of Mount Dora recently updated an ordinance making it possible to lease a small parking lot from Main Street Leasing. The downtown corner lot at Fifth Avenue and Alexander Street now exclusively accommodates 22 golf carts and motorcycles. Those smaller vehicles may still park in other public spaces; however, the designated area is expected to free up regular spaces for larger vehicles.

Renningers Antique Center to kick off first Antique Extravaganza of 2026
Vintage treasure seekers can once again head to the rolling hills of Renningers Antique Center in Mount Dora to discover unique finds from hundreds of vendors. The southeast's biggest antique show happens only three weekends a year, and this month it will be January 16, 17, and 18 at 20651 U.S. Highway 441.

Main connector road reopens in Mount Dora
Wolf Branch Road in Mount Dora reopened to traffic last month after being closed due to a washout from a heavy rainstorm on October 26. Repairs to the Lake County road cost $600,000.

Watch for new stoplight on U.S. 441
Be mindful of a new traffic light installed at the intersection of Fiddler Drive and U.S. 441, near the new commercial and residential developments just west of the Country Club of Mount Dora.

Watch the Mount Dora Buzz website and Facebook page for updates on more stories.

Scroll down for new business Buzz, featured events, and more.

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A new place for steaks set to open in late January
Texas Roadhouse, a steakhouse chain based in Louisville, Kentucky, that opened its first restaurant in 1993, is opening a new 8,000-square-foot location at 19210 U.S. 441 in Mount Dora this month. Read more

Local watering hole closes its doors
In early 2025, Bar Rescue, the reality show that provides a lifeline to struggling bars, transformed Big Dog Saloon on S.R. 19 in Mount Dora. The episode aired on Paramount+ last March. Despite the changes, the bar closed its doors permanently with a final farewell party last month. Stay tuned to see what will fill the space next.

Simple changes to Lake County homes can yield big returns
One of the biggest misconceptions in real estate is that selling for top dollar requires major renovations or large upfront costs. In reality, some of the strongest returns come from small, thoughtful investments made before a home ever hits the market.  Read more 

Watch for more new eateries in Mount Dora to open soon
After months of activity on U.S. 441 near Fiddler Drive, two more eateries, First Watch and Mission BBQ are putting on the final touches before opening, including First Watch and Mission BBQ. Follow Mount Dora Buzz on Facebook for updates on their openings.

Scroll down for more local Buzz and local events.

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Mount Dora expands its city limits
In November, the Mount Dora City Council voted to annex property abutting the city’s existing boundary. New developments on the north and south sides of U.S. 441 between ABC Liquors and the Country Club of Mount Dora will now be part of the City of Mount Dora. Previously, the area was in unincorporated Lake County. The Lake County Commission approved the developments despite Mount Dora’s objections. Now part of the city, the area will receive city services and contribute to the city’s tax base.

A huge shout-out to local elves in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis
Mount Dora, Tavares, and Eustis go above and beyond during the holiday season to create memories for families and attract visitors to their downtowns. This is no easy feat and requires hardworking elves from the cities' parks departments, public safety, utilities, and public works. Thank you, elves, for all you do to bring holiday vibes to the area.

Mount Dora to offer free trees to city residents
The City of Mount Dora, through its Urban Forestry Department, announced the launch of its Community Canopy Program, a new initiative designed to expand the city’s urban forest while making tree planting easy and accessible for residents within the city limits. The program launches on January 5, 2026, in partnership with the Arbor Day Foundation. Read more​

Scroll down for this month's featured events, the Best of Mount Dora, or find more local government news here.

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