-  November kicks off the area's busy tourist season and there are enough events to keep  social calendars overflowing.   First up is the start of the  Lady of the Lakes Renaissance Faire in Tavares during the first weekend in November.  The following weekend is the two-day Mount Dora Plant & Landscape Fair featuring some of the top nurseries from across the state. Read more.    Next up is the  first Antique Extravaganza weekend of the season in Mount Dora.  Read more

After Thanksgiving, downtown Mount Dora and Eustis will come alive with their festive Light Up events that start off the holiday season.  Light Up Eustis is the Friday after Thanksgiving (Nov. 29) and the impressive  Light Up Mount Dora is on Saturday, November 30.  Read more  
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-  The votes are in!   Readers have cast their votes in all sorts of categories for the 2019 Best of Tavares awards.  Hopefully, some of your favorites won, as well as some new places to check out.  Find the winners in all the categories here.  

- In October, downtown Mount Dora opened a new parking lot as part of its long-term plan to help alleviate its parking shortage.  The new lot can accommodate 49 compact cars and is a stone's-throw from everyone's favorite downtown restaurants and shops.  Read more

-  It's a long and winding story, but the Mount Dora City Council placed any redevelopment of the Mount Dora Golf Association on hold until they have discussions and input from the association's members.  According to the association's representatives, the course has  seen an increase in the number of rounds of golf played and the course's condition has improved. 

-  Do you need 'buzz' for your business?  Enlist Mount Dora Buzz as your strategic partner to write your digital content, including web pages, blogs, email newsletters, social media posts and more.  Get more info

- Local elections in Mount Dora and Tavares  are November 5.  Don't forget to head to the polls.  Mount Dora will also have several proposed charter amendments on the ballot for voters to approve or reject.  You can review the amendments here.  

Discover new and fun things in Mount Dora on the Explore Mount Dora Facebook page, a must-see for all the upcoming holiday festivities.   

Want to know what's happening at City Hall?  Check out Mount Dora Buzz' government page here

Scroll down for all the restaurant and store news.

© Mount Dora Buzz 2019

-  Fall is here and that means the start of the area's event season.  Mark your calendars with the Best Fall Events in Lake County with the help of this handy list with descriptions.  View list

Discover more things in Mount Dora on the Explore Mount Dora Facebook page, a must-see for all the upcoming holiday festivities.  

- Mount Dora has some exciting entertainment news.  A new event and concert venue just west of downtown opened in September. Mount Dora Plaza Live is a fully renovated facility that's already scheduled a diverse lineup of entertainment this fall.  Read more

- October is Breast Cancer Awareness
month and there are many fun, inspiring and helpful ways to show your support, ranging from a Pink Out 5k in Tavares, flocks of pink flamingos and BraVo!, a fun fundraiser in Mount Dora that raises money for free or low-cost mammograms.  

-  One of the biggest annual events in Mount Dora takes place at the end of October.  Mount Dora Craft Fair was recently ranked #4 in the list of best craft fairs in the U.S. It's definitely worth a trip to downtown Mount Dora.   More info

-  Be sure to cast your ballot for the Best of Tavares awards.  Categories include best restaurants, bars, music, events and more.  Get your ballot here.  Winners will be announced in the November update of Mount Dora Buzz. 

-  Some stellar entertainment is on Mount Dora's horizon.  Mark your calendars for Art of the Deal.  This year's festive gala benefiting Mount Dora Center for the Arts is just around the corner and promises to be better than ever in its new location.  Read more

-  October means it's time for all things pumpkin, from muffins and cookies to martinis, lattes and ice cream.  Get the list of the best local pumpkin patches here.  Then watch Mount Dora Buzz on Facebook for a list of the best local pumpkin edibles and drinkables.  Feel free to email us your nominations.  

-  In case you didn't catch Mount Dora Buzz's reporting last month, Lake County's own Wolf Branch Brewing announced it would be opening its second location in Mount Dora.  Its original location in downtown Eustis will remain open.  Read more
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-  Watch out for bicycles on city streets and backroads as Mount Dora Bicycle Festival comes to town the first weekend in October.   Cars should safely share the road by staying at least three feet from bikes.  Cyclists are required to obey the same traffic laws and street signs as cars. 

Want to know what's happening at City Hall?  Check out Mount Dora Buzz' government page here
Scroll down for all the restaurant and store news.

Copyright Mount Dora Buzz 2019

​- We are sad to report the closing of 1884 Restaurant and Bar in downtown Eustis.  The large and historic space closed its doors near the end of September.  Stay tuned to Mount Dora Buzz on Facebook for an update of what business fills the space.  

- Fast food lovers have been tearful ever since Mount Dora's Chick-fil-A temporarily closed for renovations.  The end result should make  chicken lovers (and anyone that's been snarled in its traffic jams) very happy.  Read more

- Seafood lovers should get their appetites ready! Mount Dora Seafood Festival comes to downtown later this month with four days of pirate-themed fun beginning on September 27 with a kick-off Pirate Party downtown.  The actual festival will be September 28 and 29.  
Read more
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-  A new Mount Dora residential development has been proposed with up to 27 single-family homes on 10.9 acres on 11th Avenue.  The proposed Cottages on 11th is scheduled for a public Mount Dora City Council meeting on September 5. Read more

-   The votes are in!  Drum roll please!  The list of the 2019 Best of Mount Dora winners for categories ranging from dining and shopping to festivals and outdoor activities is now available.  The annual readers' choice awards is the way voters spread some love to their favorite local businesses.  Discover the 2019 Best of Mount winners here.  Watch for the Best of Tavares ballot on the Mount Dora Buzz Facebook pagesoon.  

-   The old post office building in downtown Mount Dora has officially sold.   The primely-located property, which has a building and parking lot, had been under contract with a local buyer since June and changed hands near the end of August.  Read more

-  There is no shortage of beautiful walking and hiking trails in the area, but somehow they have remained a well-kept secret.  Well, Mount Dora Buzz let the secret out, so make time to enjoy nature and squeeze in some exercise while visiting any of the Top 10 Walking Trails in Lake County.  Read more

-  Last month a local resident noticed documents on the City of Mount Dora's website regarding Mount Dora Golf Association and inquired about it on Nextdoor and Facebook, resulting in quite a bit of speculation.  Here's what interested residents need to know.  Read more
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-   A familiar local face was named as Mount Dora Police Department's new Chief.  Prior to being promoted to the top spot, Chief Robert Bell was Acting Police Chief and Assistant Police Chief for the city.  The Sorrento resident and Tavares High School graduate has been with the MDPD for 26 years and has a history of building positive relationships in the community.  

- It's official!  Mount Dora's elections this November will have only one race. Incumbent Mayor Nick Girone has been challenged by former Mayor Cathy Hoechst.  Meanwhile, District 1 will see a new face since CIty Council member Laurie Tillett decided not to seek re-election.  Pam Burtnett ran unopposed and will take Tillett's seat. District 4 Council Member Marc Crail and At-Large City Council member Harmon Massey are unopposed and now considered re-elected.  Congrats to them and thank you, Council Member Tillett for your service.
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-  Mount Dora Firefighters have been busy organizing a 9/11 Memorial Walk to commemorate the sacrifices of the fallen first responders on that date in 2001.  The three-mile walk will start and end at Evans Park on the waterfront.  The public is invited to participate and can get more information on the calendar here.

Want to know what's happening at City Hall?  Check out Mount Dora Buzz' government pagehere
Scroll down for all the restaurant and store news.

Copyright Mount Dora Buzz 2019

-  With its restaurants, bike trails, shops, brewery and majestic oak canopy, Winter Garden has become a popular destination for Central Floridians, including Mount Dorans.  Mount Dora Buzz spoke to Winter Garden's City Manager to uncover just how the city earned its vibe.   Read more
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- In case you didn't read our coverage in July, Tavares has some very exciting news.  New riverboat cruises are expected to begin this fall on Lake Dora aboard The Dora Queen.  The impressive boat will be based out of Tavares' docks at Wooton Park.   Read more

-  Get ready to show your local favorites some love!  The Best of Mount Dora voting kicks off today in all kinds of categories ranging from people, places, shopping, dining and more.  Winners reap the coveted benefits of bragging rights all  year!  Read more

-  Floridians know August is peak hurricane season and generally they know what to do to prepare.  However, here's a list of lesser-known tips that will make even lifelong Floridians take notice.  Read more 

-  A new theater opened in Eustis on U.S. Highway 441.  Living Drama Theatre had its first performances in July and the next production will welcome audiences in September.  Read more

-  Some local families don't have the resources for adequate school supplies, and teachers often pay to make up for the shortage. The "Supplies to Thrive" project lets you help by donating basic items to any of five convenient locations, or directly to one of Mount Dora's public schools. Your gifts will put these supplies into the hands of Mount Dora students that need them.  Read more

- Mount Dora campaigns for mayor and city council will soon begin again. If you're interested in serving your community and helping to make decisions about the city's future, here's the top 10 things to know about running for office in Mount Dora, including the deadlines and simple requirements.   Read more

Want to know what's happening at City Hall?  Check out Mount Dora Buzz' government page here
Scroll down for all the restaurant and store news.

Copyright Mount Dora Buzz 2019

-  After a lengthy investigation, Mount Dora‘s police chief was fired.  An independent investigator’s report cited numerous issues of concern at the department.  Here are the key findings.    

- It's the time of year when residents of Mount Dora, Tavares and Eustis get more than their fair share of parties. Instead of the three cities celebrating our nation's independence on the same day, the cities spread the festivities over three days. So, grab your lawn chairs and take in three awesome lakefront celebrations and fireworks shows beginning with Mount Dora's on July 3 (get details), followed by Tavares on July 4 (get details) and last, but not least, Eustis' celebration on July 5 (get details).
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With so many opportunities to watch the skies light up, you may be wondering where the best spots are to view the fireworks.  Mount Dora Buzz has you covered.  We've got the top 10 local spots to watch the shows on all three nights. Read more

- It's finally happening.  Mount Dora Post Office is relocating and will officially open in its new location on July 8.  The larger facility is expected to improve the post office's efficiency and handle the community's continued growth.  Read more

- After twenty years, Mount Dora's Museum of Speed, a local attraction on Highland Street, reached the end of the road.  The small museum, which housed classic and exotic cars, as well as vintage memorabilia, permanently closed last month. Stay tuned to Mount Dora Buzz to learn about the new business moving into the location in the coming months.

- Mount Dora campaigns for mayor and city council will soon begin again. If you're interested in serving your community and helping to make decisions about the city's future, here's the top 8 things to know about running for office in Mount Dora, including the deadlines and simple requirements.   Read more

Want to know what's happening at City Hall?  Check out Mount Dora Buzz' government page here
Scroll down for all the restaurant and store news.

Copyright Mount Dora Buzz 2019

- It seems to be on the wish list of many residents and visitors of Mount Dora and Tavares.  A bike and walking trail that would connect the two historic downtowns and beyond.  Mount Dora Buzz asked Tavares City Administrator everything you need to know about the possible Tav-Dora Trail.  Here's the top 10 things you need to know.  Read more

-  Summer is here and the snowbirds are long gone, so there's no time like the present for locals to reconnect and explore Mount Doraand its many offerings.  After all, 'tis the season of short lines and plentiful parking.  Discover fun and interesting spots throughout the area here.

-  The City of Tavares got one step closer to becoming a performing arts destination. The proposed Tavares Performing Arts Centercould be a transformational project for the quality of life and economic development of the city, but it also has a price tag.  Last month the City Council decided to let voters have the final say on the project when they cast their ballots in November.  Read more
- Performing arts aren't the only art form getting lots of attention in Tavares.  Later this month, the new Lake County Museum of Art will open its doors with its first exhibit. Stay tuned to Mount Dora Buzz' Facebook page and the entertainment calendar for more information. 

-  Don't blame the messenger.  Mount Dora Food Trucks have enjoyed a long run downtown, but last month it came to the end of the road, at least for now.  If a food truck event returns to the area in the future, Mount Dora Buzz will be sure to let you know.   
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-  Parking garage, vintage train and a bike trail are hot local topics in Mount Dora.  Everyone seems to have an opinion, so just how would residents like to see Mount Dora spend its money?  The Buzz got those answers in a recent survey and here they are.  

- Since a parking garage and a bike trail were top on people's wish list, it was the right time to provide updates to downtown parking (get update) and the two possible bike trail sections, the Tav-Dora Trail and the Sorrento- Mount Dora corridor.  Get update

Want to know what's happening at City Hall?  Check out Mount Dora Buzz' government page here
Scroll down for all the restaurant and store news.

Copyright Mount Dora Buzz 2019

- Although the vintage train service to Mount Dora recently ended, it may be temporary.  Meetings among all the stakeholders are set to continue as they await results of a study to learn the financial feasibility and logistical details of resurrecting the train route and/or creating a trail.

-  Parking garage, trains, bike trail or other capital improvements are costly propositions.  How would you like to see Mount Dora spend its money?  That's what Mount Dora Buzz is asking Mount Dora residents in a new survey.  Give us your opinion and we'll share the results.  Go to survey

-  Lake Eustis Museum of Art (LEMA) announced it's relocating to Tavares and changing its name to Lake County Museum of Art.  The grand opening and first exhibit is planned for July 1 at its new downtown location at 213 West Ruby Street.  

- If you didn't get your fill of fresh local blueberries at Mount Dora Blueberry Festival, no worries.  The local U-Pick farms will finish the season shortly, but you still have time to get pickin'.  Get the link to Lake County's organic blueberry farms here

- Local kids will will never have a dull moment this summer with the range of new summer camps offered in Mount Dora this year.  There will be no boredom in the exciting week-long camps that range from kayaking, fishing, and first-responder activities.  Parents are encouraged to sign up their kids quickly, as space is filling up fast.  Get the details here

- AdventHealth Waterman is celebrating the grand opening of its new four-story tower.  The first floor will house the new emergency department and the second floor has a 24-bed women and children's unit.  Read more
 
Mount Dora Buzz is growing!  We are currently seeking an energetic advertising account executive, as well as journalism and reporter interns.  If you're creative, community-minded and passionate about your work, learn moreabout growing with us.

Want to know what's happening at City Hall?  Check out Mount Dora Buzz' government page here
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- The annual Lake County Fair starts April 4th and runs through April 13th at the Expo Center in Eustis.  The fair features livestock shows, carnival rides and competitive exhibits plus a talent show for adults and kids.  If you're thinking of going, check out the Mount Dora Buzz cheat sheet with the top five things you need to know before heading out.  Read more 

-  It's short, but sweet. The local blueberry season just kicked off and, weather permitting, should continue through the end of the month or so.  Many local blueberry farms have U-Pick hours, so we've compiled a helpful guide of the farms for you.  View guide.   Later in the month, get all the berries you want during the annual Mount Dora Blueberry Festival which celebrates the season with all things blueberry.  Read more

-  Watch for a new twist on an old tradition this summer.  For the first time, Mount Dora merchants are teaming up with the City of Mount Dora to organize its Independence Day Parade.  Watch for some fresh new ideas and tons of creativity at this summer's event.  Stay tuned.  

-  Easter is just around the corner.  Find out the best local Easter egg hunts for kids here.

-  The curtain will go up this summer on the 72nd season of IceHouse Theatre.  The line up of entertaining comedies and musicals for 2019-2020 was recently announced and season tickets are now available.  Get the list of plays and dates here. 

-  Gorgeous spring weather means people will be spending more time in their gardens. The good news for local green thumbs is that Mount Dora's Vintage Garden Show is back on April 6 & 7.  The two-day, outdoor event features all kinds of fabulous finds.  Read more

-  Big shout-out to the Purvee family of Eustis.  The family operates Crazy Critters Conservancy, a non-profit exotic animal conservancy that currently cares for over 300 animals.  This translates to a lot of time, money, kindness and devotion.  Read more

Mount Dora Buzz is growing!  We are currently seeking an advertising account executive, as well as a reporter intern.  If you're fun, professional, community-minded, creative and interested in growing with us, click here.

Want to know what's happening at City Hall?  Check out Mount Dora Buzz' government page here
Scroll down for all the restaurant and store news.

​-  Well, this one is going to leave a mark! For years, passenger excursion trains have come and gone from Mount Dora.  However,  this time it seems there will be no replacement for the vintage passenger trains that shuttle between Tavares and Mount Dora. It was no fault of the train operator, just an issue with the aging tracks.  Read more  Luckily, train enthusiasts can still catch rides between Tavares and Eustis.

- March is one of the biggest months for events in Mount Dora, Tavares and Eustis.  In addition to the area's regularly scheduled entertainment, downtown Mount Dora hosts its annual Spring Festival on March 16 & 17 that brings hundreds of crafters onto the streets of downtown.   Read more

- Wooton Park in Tavares will be the venue for three big annual events in March, including Central Florida DragonFest, Sunnyland Antique Boat Festival, as well as Planes, Trains, BBQ & Blues.

- Eustis steps up again by hosting its annual Busker Festival when performers take to downtown sidewalks to entertain and compete for prize money.  Read more.  Find more details on these events and others on the area's entertainment calendar here and on the Mount Dora Buzz Facebook page. 
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-   Increasing downtown Mount Dora's parking recently hit a snag.  Last November, the City of Mount Dora purchased a property at the intersection of Third Avenue and Baker Street. Now the City Council will have to decide whether to support the decision of its Historic Preservation Board to save the historic buildings on the property or demolish them to add an estimated 43-60 parking spaces.  Read more

-  Round Lake Road will soon be the site of Mount Dora's newest residential subdivision.  Timberwalk will offer 376 single-family homes  on 170 acres.  Read more

- 21 Lake County working artist studios will open their doors to the public on March 30 & 31 during the Off the Beaten Path Art Tour.   The self-guided tour includes artistis in Eustis, Mount Dora, Sorrento and Leesburg.  Read more

​-  The upcoming sale of one of the historic buildings in Royellou Alley promises to freshen up the narrow downtown Mount Dora roadway with new retail space and offices.  In addition to providing new life to the street, it will also be downtown's second solar building.  Read more

- Mount Dora City Manager Robin Hayes is currently among the handful of finalists for the same position in Palm Coast.  Hayes was among 57 applicants for the position.  Read more.   If you want to know more about what's happening at Mount Dora City Hall and our local schools, check the Mount Dora Buzz "Government" page for updates.  
Scroll down for all the restaurant and store news.

-  The closing of Crispers in  Eustis has created a void for lunch spots in the area.  Stay tuned to Mount Dora Buzz for the opening date of the new restaurant coming soon to the same shopping center. 

​-  Amateur singers often relegated to singing in their showers have discovered some popular venues to show off their vocal talent.   Downtown Mount Dora has karaoke nights at Las Palmas every other Saturday from 7-10 pm, while Magical Meat Boutique kicks off their karaoke on Saturdays starting at 10 p.m. after their professional musicians are done for the evening.