Things to Do This Weekend in Polk County? 26 Picks for Sept. 18 to 20, From a Winter Haven Hispanic Heritage Festival to a Polk City Corn Maze Opening

Looking for things to do this weekend in Polk County? The third weekend of September brings a Hispanic Heritage Festival and a food truck rally to Winter Haven, the opening of the fall corn maze season in Polk City, Bartow’s monthly Friday Fest, a holiday craft fair and a taco festival in Lakeland, a library book sale in Mulberry, a car show in Lake Alfred and a line dancing night in Auburndale, along with weekend farmers markets and flea markets from Lakeland to Lake Wales, community theater, library programs and a couple of early morning fundraisers for runners and cyclists.

The Citrus Tea News checked each of the 26 events below against the organizer’s or city’s own page for Sept. 18 to 20, 2026. Plans can change, so it is always smart to check with the organizer before you head out.

Friends of the Mulberry Library Book Bazaar in Mulberry

The Friends of the Mulberry Library hold their semiannual Book Bazaar fundraiser on Friday, Sept. 18, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Saturday, Sept. 19, from 9 a.m. to noon at the Mulberry Civic Center, 901 NE 5th St. in Mulberry.

Shoppers will find discounted books and media, with paperbacks at four for $1, hardcovers at two for $1, audiobooks at four for $1 and DVDs at four for $1. It is a good stop for readers of all ages who want to stock their shelves and support the library. Find it on The Citrus Tea News events calendar.

International Market World Flea and Farmers Market

International Market World is open all weekend at 1052 U.S. Highway 92 W. in Auburndale, with hours of 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18, and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, and Sunday, Sept. 20.

The 30-acre market describes itself as a flea market, farmers market, and entertainment center with more than 1,200 vendors selling retail items, crafts, and farm-fresh produce. Free entertainment includes circus shows at noon and 1 p.m. on weekends, a live alligator exhibit, and karaoke. The market’s website did not list an admission or parking cost. It is a fun outing for bargain hunters and families. Find it on The Citrus Tea News events calendar.

Sunshine Flea Market in Lake Wales

Sunshine Flea Market is open Friday, Sept. 18, through Sunday, Sept. 20, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 24200 Highway 27 in Lake Wales.

Operating since 1993, the market has several buildings of indoor vendors along with food vendors, and its website mentions merchandise ranging from tools to outdoor items. The website did not list an admission or parking cost. It is a good weekend browse for shoppers and treasure hunters in the Lake Wales area. Find it on The Citrus Tea News events calendar.

Chair Yoga With the Traveling Yogi in Mulberry

The City of Mulberry’s Studio 37 hosts Chair Yoga with the Traveling Yogi on Friday, Sept. 18, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at 400 N. Church Ave. in Mulberry.

The class, led by Kayla the Traveling Yogi, is designed for people who are interested in yoga but would rather not get down on the floor. The class is free, no registration is required, and the city says it is open to anyone, making it a good fit for older adults and beginners. Find it on The Citrus Tea News events calendar.

Sensory Story Time in Winter Haven

The Winter Haven Public Library offers Sensory Story Time on Friday, Sept. 18, from 1 to 2 p.m. in the library’s Flex Space at 325 Ave. A NW in Winter Haven. The program repeats monthly through January.

The program uses songs, movement, and stories to support social and emotional learning, literacy, and motor skills. It welcomes all children and especially those who need extra sensory, social, or emotional support, with tools such as weighted animals and noise-reducing headphones available. It is free, but registration is required, and seating is limited. It is geared toward children 5 and under and school-age children. Find it on The Citrus Tea News events calendar.

Harvest Holler Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch Fall Opening in Polk City

Harvest Holler opens its fall 2026 season on Friday, Sept. 18, at its farm at 950 Tavares Road in Polk City. The season runs through Nov. 15, and the farm lists hours of 4 to 8 p.m. Fridays, noon to 8 p.m. Saturdays, and 1 to 5 p.m. Sundays, so all three days this weekend are open.

Attractions listed on the farm’s website include the corn maze and pumpkin patch, the See the Animals Adventure Hayride, cow barrel train rides, hay mountain climbing, tire swings, miniature golf, and a large slide, with food sold separately at the farm’s food stand. Admission is $17 for ages 13 to 64 and $14 for children ages 2 to 12, seniors 65 and older, and military, law enforcement, and fire personnel, while children 23 months and younger get in free. Pets and drones are not allowed. It is a strong pick for families with young children. Find it on The Citrus Tea News events calendar.

Bartow Friday Fest in Bartow

Main Street Bartow’s monthly Friday Fest returns to downtown Bartow on Friday, Sept. 18, from 6 to 9 p.m. The street party is held on the third Friday of most months, and the organizer lists its location as 180 S. Central Ave. in Bartow.

Main Street Bartow describes Friday Fest as a monthly street party for families with entertainment, food, vendors, and a car show, and says the evening welcomes everyone for live music, food trucks, vendors, and community fun. The organizer’s page did not list an admission cost or the lineup for this month, so check Main Street Bartow’s social media for details. It is a good pick for families and anyone looking for a relaxed Friday night downtown. Find it on The Citrus Tea News events calendar.

Monthly Mingle at Simpson Park Community Center in Lakeland

The City of Lakeland’s Simpson Park Community Center hosts its Monthly Mingle every third Friday, which falls on Sept. 18, from 6 to 8 p.m. at 1725 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave. in Lakeland.

The city describes the gathering as a monthly night of fun and friends with a different activity each time, such as games, crafts, snacks or surprises. It is for ages 16 and up; spots are limited, and registration must be completed in person at a city facility by the Thursday before the event. A cost was not listed. It is a good social outing for teens and adults. Find it on The Citrus Tea News events calendar.

A Year With Frog and Toad KIDS in Winter Haven

Theatre Winter Haven is staging this youth musical on its Norman and Linda Small Second Stage at 210 Cypress Gardens Blvd. in Winter Haven. Public performances this weekend are at 6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18; 1 and 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19; and 1 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20, and the run continues through Sept. 27.

The show follows best friends Frog and Toad through the seasons with what the theater calls “catchy songs, playful humor, and sweet life lessons.” Tickets for the 1 p.m. Saturday performance were listed at $15 on the theater’s ticketing site, and prices for the other performances were not confirmed. It is a natural fit for young children and families. Find it on The Citrus Tea News events calendar.

“Company” at Lakeland Community Theatre in Lakeland

Lakeland Community Theatre continues its production of “Company” with performances at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 18 to 20, at the theater at 121 S. Lake Ave. in Lakeland. The theater lists the show as running until about 10:30 p.m., and tickets are $24 to $30.

The musical centers on a bachelor celebrating his 35th birthday who weighs the idea of marriage while his married friends share the pros and cons over a series of dinners, drinks, and a wedding. The theater gives the production a PG13 rating, which makes it best suited for teens and adults. Find it on The Citrus Tea News events calendar.

Tour de Tow Cycling Event in Bartow

The Greater Bartow Chamber of Commerce lists Tour de Tow for Saturday, Sept. 19, from 7 a.m. to noon, with registration opening at 7 a.m. and riders heading out at 8 a.m. The chamber’s 2026 listing places the start at Front Page Brewing Company, 190 S. Florida Ave. in Bartow, while Main Street Bartow’s page for the ride lists 180 S. Central Ave., so riders should confirm the starting point with the chamber.

The annual ride winds through southern Polk County on three routes: the Family Fun Ride of 17 miles for $30, the Half Century Metric Ride of 35 miles for $40, and the Metric Century Ride of 62 miles for $45. Tandem riders pay an extra $25, and registering on the day of the ride adds $5. Support vehicles with refreshments follow every route, and the ride benefits the Power Pedalers program, which the chamber says has donated more than 130 bicycles to children in need. It is a good fit for cyclists of all levels, including families on the shortest route. Find it on The Citrus Tea News events calendar.

POWer in Pink 5K in Lakeland

The Breast Cancer Foundation of Central Florida holds its eighth annual POWer in Pink 5K on Saturday, Sept. 19, at First Presbyterian Church, 175 Lake Hollingsworth Drive in Lakeland. Packet pickup runs from 6:30 to 7:15 a.m., the race starts at 7:30 a.m., and awards are set for about 8:15 a.m.

Registration is $40 and closes at 7:30 a.m. on race day. The foundation says all proceeds support its work providing immediate relief to people and families in active breast cancer treatment. The event is open to both walkers and runners, making it a good morning out for anyone who wants to support a local cause. Find it on The Citrus Tea News events calendar.

Lakeland Downtown Farmers Curb Market in Lakeland

The Lakeland Downtown Farmers Curb Market sets up on Saturday, Sept. 19, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. along North Kentucky Avenue between Lemon and Oak streets in downtown Lakeland. Downtown Lakeland says the market runs every Saturday from September through May.

The organizer says about 120 vendors take part each week with produce, plants, artisan gifts, pastries, breads and specialty foods, and that there is live entertainment most Saturdays. Admission is free, and parking downtown is free all day on weekends. It is an easy outing for shoppers of all ages. Find it on The Citrus Tea News events calendar.

Winter Haven Farmers Market in Winter Haven

The Winter Haven Farmers Market runs Saturday, Sept. 19, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Magnolia Avenue in downtown Winter Haven. The market is held every Saturday, and the organizer’s upcoming market page did not list a street number or an admission cost.

This week’s vendor lineup of about 50 sellers includes produce, meats, baked goods, coffee, handmade pots, jewelry, candles, plants and pet treats. Free market bags sponsored by Crews Bank and Trust will be handed out at the information booth while supplies last. It is a good stop for families and anyone stocking up on local goods. Find it on The Citrus Tea News events calendar.

Silver Moon Drive In Swap Shop in Lakeland

The Swap Shop at Silver Moon Drive In, 4100 New Tampa Highway in Lakeland, runs Saturday, Sept. 19, and Sunday, Sept. 20, from 5 a.m. until around noon.

The drive-in bills the Swap Shop as one of Central Florida’s largest weekend flea markets, an open-air marketplace with vintage goods, tools, produce, and unique finds. Shopper parking is free, and the website did not list an admission cost for shoppers. It is a good early morning stop for bargain hunters. Find it on The Citrus Tea News events calendar.

Heroes and Hotrods Car Show in Lake Alfred

The City of Lake Alfred hosts its fourth annual Heroes and Hotrods Car Show on Saturday, Sept. 19, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Lions Park and Boat Ramp, 175 North Nekoma Ave. in Lake Alfred.

The city promises music, a ski show, door prizes and more, and says the event is free for spectators. A vehicle registration fee was not listed on the city’s event page. It is an easy morning out for car fans and families, with the lake right there. Find it on The Citrus Tea News events calendar.

Saturday Coffee With Jo Estrada in Frostproof

Mr. Chris’ Coffee Depot hosts a morning of live music on Saturday, Sept. 19, from 10 a.m. to noon at 118 E. Wall St. in Frostproof. The City of Frostproof’s event calendar invites visitors to listen to the sounds of The Beatles performed by Jo Estrada while enjoying coffee and breakfast at the depot.

The listing did not state an admission cost. It is a relaxed choice for Beatles fans and anyone who likes a slow Saturday morning with music. Find it on The Citrus Tea News events calendar.

Buckler Arts and Craft Fair in Lakeland

Buckler Shows brings its craft fair to the Exhibit Hall at the RP Funding Center, 701 W. Lime St. in Lakeland, on Saturday, Sept. 19, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, Sept. 20, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The organizer lists the show as its 33rd annual Christmas in September Craft Fair.

Admission is $6 per person; children 12 and under get in free, and a hand stamp is good for both days. Parking is free. The venue says weapons and outside food and drinks are not allowed, and only service animals are permitted. It is a good pick for shoppers who want to get a head start on holiday gifts from local artisans. Find it on The Citrus Tea News events calendar.

Polk County History Center Architectural Tour in Bartow

The Polk County History Center offers its monthly architectural tour on Saturday, Sept. 19, from 11 a.m. to noon at the historic Polk County Courthouse, 100 E. Main St. in Bartow. The tours are held on the third Saturday of each month.

Led by the center’s education team, the tour explores the neoclassical design features used by courthouse architect E.C. Hosford, and this month’s tour focuses on the historic 1908 Courtroom. Polk County’s event page did not list a cost, while Visit Central Florida lists the tour as free. It is a good fit for history lovers and curious families. Find it on The Citrus Tea News events calendar.

Hispanic Heritage Festival in Winter Haven

Polk County Government hosts its Hispanic Heritage Festival on Saturday, Sept. 19, from noon to 4 p.m. at Lake Gwyn Park, 137 Ave. A East in Winter Haven.

The county describes the festival as a celebration for families with live music, authentic street food, vendors, games and prizes, along with a fashion show and a talent show celebrating Hispanic cultures. The county is also offering free health screenings and Polk HealthCare Plan enrollment at the festival. The county’s event page did not list an admission cost. It is one of the best bets of the weekend for families looking for an afternoon outdoors. Find it on The Citrus Tea News events calendar.

Brick or Treat at LEGOLAND Florida in Winter Haven

LEGOLAND Florida Resort, 1 Legoland Way in Winter Haven, hosts Brick or Treat starting on Saturday, Sept. 19 through Nov. 1 on select dates. Candy stations are open throughout the park from 2 to 7 p.m. on event days. Find it on The Citrus Tea News events calendar.

Taco Festival at Lakeland Square Mall in Lakeland

Saturday Shoppes hosts a Taco Festival at Lakeland Square Mall, 3800 U.S. Highway 98 N. in Lakeland, on Saturday, Sept. 19, and Sunday, Sept. 20, from 2 to 8 p.m. both days.

The organizer promises tacos with bold flavors and fan-favorite fillings along with local merchants, and says the event welcomes all ages. Shopper admission and parking are free. It is a tasty stop for families and food lovers. Find it on The Citrus Tea News events calendar.

Central Florida Food Truck Rally in Winter Haven

The Central Florida Food Truck Rally takes over the Boys and Girls Clubs of Polk County George Jenkins Memorial Unit, 2400 Havendale Blvd. NW in Winter Haven, on Saturday, Sept. 19, from 4 to 9 p.m.

Organizers promise more than 25 food trucks, a lifestyle and outdoor living market, live music and a kids zone, and the event’s ticketing page notes guests can arrive by boat on the Winter Haven Chain of Lakes. Visit Central Florida lists admission at $20. It is a good choice for food lovers and families. https://thecitrustea.com/event/central-florida-food-truck-rally/

Aspire Women’s Event in Haines City

Aspire Women’s Event comes to Northridge Church, 2250 State Road 17 South in Haines City, on Saturday, Sept. 19. Doors open at 5 p.m., a preshow panel begins at 5:30 p.m., and the main event starts at 6 p.m. An end time was not listed.

The Christian women’s event features a Bible teacher, a comedian, and a singer-songwriter in what organizers call “3 hours full of laughter, learning, stories, and music,” and the preshow panel will discuss a passage from Hebrews 12. General admission is $30 online or $35 at the door, VIP reserved seating is $40, and groups of 10 or more pay $25 to $35 per ticket. It is geared toward women of all ages. Find it on The Citrus Tea News events calendar.

Line Dancing Night at Camp Margaritaville in Auburndale

Camp Margaritaville RV Resort and Cabana Cabins Auburndale, 361 Denton Ave. in Auburndale, hosts Boots, Beats and Island Vibes, a line dancing night, on Saturday, Sept. 19, from 6 to 10 p.m.

DJ Gonzo plays crowd favorites, and instructor Felicia Jones teaches easy routines for all skill levels from 7 to 9 p.m., followed by more open dancing. Boots and hats are encouraged. Tickets are $7 through Sept. 18 and $10 on the day of the event, the venue accepts cards only and the event is for ages 10 and older. It is a fun night out for dancers of every level. Find it on The Citrus Tea News events calendar.

Festival Singers of Florida Season Opening Concert in Lakeland

The Festival Singers of Florida open their new concert season on Saturday, Sept. 19, at 7 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church of Lakeland, 175 Lake Hollingsworth Drive. An end time was not listed.

The concert is free, according to the host church’s event page. The choir describes itself as dedicated to engaging and inspiring through impassioned singing while expanding awareness and appreciation of the choral arts. It is a nice way to cap off Saturday for music lovers of any age. Find it on The Citrus Tea News events calendar.

Looking for more places to shop local? Lakeland and Winter Haven host this weekend’s downtown farmers markets, and several other markets around the county meet on different Saturdays each month. Find the full rundown on The Citrus Tea News farmers market page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best free things to do this weekend in Polk County?
The Lakeland Downtown Farmers Curb Market has free admission on Saturday, Sept. 19, and the Festival Singers of Florida concert at First Presbyterian Church of Lakeland that evening is free. Chair yoga at Studio 37 in Mulberry on Friday and Sensory Story Time at the Winter Haven Public Library are also free; the Taco Festival at Lakeland Square Mall has free shopper admission, and Visit Central Florida lists the Polk County History Center architectural tour in Bartow as free.

Are there farmers markets in Polk County this weekend?
Yes. The Lakeland Downtown Farmers Curb Market runs from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday on North Kentucky Avenue, and the Winter Haven Farmers Market runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday on Magnolia Avenue. International Market World in Auburndale, which includes a farmers market, is open Friday through Sunday.

What is happening for Hispanic Heritage Month in Polk County this weekend?
Polk County Government hosts a Hispanic Heritage Festival from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, at Lake Gwyn Park in Winter Haven, with live music, food, vendors, games, a fashion show, a talent show, and free health screenings.

When does the Harvest Holler corn maze open for fall 2026?
Harvest Holler in Polk City opens Friday, Sept. 18, and its fall season runs through Nov. 15.

What family events are happening in Winter Haven this weekend?
Families can choose from the Hispanic Heritage Festival, the Central Florida Food Truck Rally, Brick or Treat at LEGOLAND Florida, the Winter Haven Farmers Market, Sensory Story Time at the library, and Theatre Winter Haven’s youth musical A Year With Frog and Toad KIDS.

Is there live music in Polk County this weekend?
Yes. Options include Bartow Friday Fest on Friday night, Jo Estrada’s Beatles music at Mr. Chris’ Coffee Depot in Frostproof on Saturday morning, the Hispanic Heritage Festival and the food truck rally in Winter Haven, line dancing with a DJ in Auburndale, and the Festival Singers of Florida concert in Lakeland.

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