MAY SCOOP: News & events for Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo locally
Get ready for lots of local fiestas on May 5, the day celebrating Mexico’s victory over France at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. On that date a much smaller Mexican force defeated the better-equipped French army. It became a symbol of resistance and national pride for Mexico. However, in the U.S. the day has evolved into a broader celebration of Mexican culture, heritage, food, and music. Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis all have their share of lively Mexican celebrations, so be sure sure to check out the specials at your fave Mexican restaurants.

Local Mother's Day ideas
Mother's Day is May 10 and Mount Dora Buzz put together some ideas for you to celebrate Mom. Whether it's restaurants or fun activities, there is plenty to do in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, so spoil Mom. Get the fun ideas here.

Paratroopers to drop from the skies over Lake Dora again
Once again a vintage aircraft will make multiple passes over Lake Dora as former military jumpers descend into the water on May 16. The best vantage points are by boats anchored on the lake and along the shoreline in Wooton Park in downtown Tavares. Learn more details here.

Newest status update on Donnelly Street Reconstruction in Mount Dora
Progress continues at a steady clip on the Donnelly Street gateway reconstruction, with the project still on track to reopen by the end of next month. The current project is focused only on the section of Donnelly Street impacted by last year’s flooding, between Fiddler Drive and Limit Avenue. Read more

Lakefront Cars, Food & Market event returns in May
Enjoy another day on the Tavares waterfront with live entertainment, classic cars, and food trucks in Wooton Park on May 15. The lakefront Cars, Food & Market event runs from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

North Lake County’s top-selling neighborhoods revealed
With 746 homes sold in just three months, the first quarter reflects a market that remains active and steady. And while prices will always draw attention, it’s the neighborhoods with consistent activity that often tell the more complete story. Learn the top selling neighborhoods here.

A new community hub takes shape in Mount Dora
Rising in the Northeast area, the impressive Nathaniel Bell Community Resource and Recreation Center is steadily taking shape as a transformative and modern space designed to bring programs, services and connections under one roof. Learn more and see interior and exterior renderings of the completed project here.

The season for day trippin' starts now
Florida's offseason is the best time for day trips around the state, so Mount Dora Buzz is digging into its archives, to share short and fun road trips from Central Florida. Some you'll love so much, you'll want to stay overnight. Find this month's featured location here.

Fresh-baked bagels arrive in Mount Dora with Einstein Bros. opening​
A popular national chain known for its wide variety of fresh-baked bagels has officially opened its doors in Mount Dora, adding a convenient new breakfast and lunch option along the busy U.S. 441 corridor. Located between J.W. Simpson Way and Fiddler Road near First Watch, Einstein Bros. serves up more than 20 flavors of bagels baked daily, along with egg sandwiches, deli classics, baked treats, and a lineup of coffee drinks—making it an easy stop for locals looking to grab breakfast on the go.

New yoga studio to open in downtown Mount Dora​
Life in downtown Mount Dora will soon be a little more zen. A new yoga studio, Tri Yoga Collective, is in the build-out process in the former Segway location on Alexander Street. The freestanding building will also be home to Tri Roots Cafe with a seasonal menu including warm grain bowls and fresh juices.

Mount Dora's newest fine-dining restaurant opened.
Special occassions in Mount Dora got a little more special last month with the long-awaited opening of Salt & Ember, a fine-dining restaurant in the impressively renovated former space of Magical Meat Boutique. The new owner, chef, and management have extensive experience in upscale dining and it shows. Read more

Local Mexican restaurant gets new owners
It opened in 2024, and now Botanico Tacos and Tequila is under new ownership. The small, but vibrant restaurant is known for a relaxed daytime vibe and a more lively nightlife spot. Read more

The local area has so many dining options with such diverse cuisines and experieces. When you're looking for something different and delicous, get some inside scoop with the 'Foodie Finds' on the Mount Dora Buzz Facebook page.

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Mount Dora Mayor proposes agreement to protect Lake County's rural lands
Last month Mount Dora Mayor James Homich urged local leaders to take a unified stand against urban sprawl, by proposing a countywide Joint Planning Agreement (J.P.A.) aimed at preserving Lake County’s rural landscape.
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In the April 21 letter sent to city council and commission members in cities across Lake County, as well as the Lake County Commission, Homich outlined a framework for coordinated growth management between the county and its municipalities. The proposal centers on a shared commitment to protect land designated as Rural or Rural Transition from increased residential development.

Mount Dora & Lake County change strategy to address odor
In late 2025, the City of Mount Dora and Lake County jointly filed a petition to challenge extending the operational life of Mid Florida Landfill located in Lake County near Mount Dora’s southeastern city limits. The petition also challenged the opening of a new phase of the landfill. Last month, both governments agreed to voluntarily dismiss an administrative petition, so the parties can pursue litigation in civil court in Tavares.  

Odor allegedly emanating from the landfill has been a nuisance and potential health issue for some area residents for several years. Depending on wind direction, the areas impacted the most have been Sullivan Ranch and other subdivisions southeast of Mount Dora.

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

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