Polk State FallFest in Winter Haven Supports student Organizations and Scholarships
More than 100 booths will cover the Polk State College Winter Haven Campus on Saturday, Oct. 10, and the money they bring in goes to the college’s student organizations and to a foundation that hands out roughly $1.2 million in scholarships a year.
FallFest runs 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the campus, 999 Ave. H N.E. in Winter Haven. Admission is free; the event is open to the public, and the college says it goes on rain or shine.
Where the Money Goes
Polk State says proceeds from the day are split between various student organizations and the Polk State College Foundation, which provides about $1.2 million in scholarships each year and also buys equipment for students. The craft show carries the rest of the festival, and the college puts the booth count at more than 100, drawn from local vendors, local businesses, and the college’s own clubs.
“FallFest has been a cherished tradition at Polk State College, bringing the community together year after year,” said Nancy Lozell, program director for the arts at Polk State.
9am – 3pm with Free Admission
What To Look For When you arrive
Alongside the craft booths, the college lists a Kids Zone, games, a pumpkin patch, and a haunted house. Local law enforcement and EMS crews put on shows and presentations, and Polk State clubs sell the food.
Live entertainment runs through the day, with Skinny McGee and the Handshakes, the Polk State Music Department and the Chain O’Lakes Big Band among the acts the college has named.
FallFest lands on the second Saturday in October every year, and the college describes it as an event that has grown considerably over its run.
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Frequently Asked Questions
When is Polk State FallFest 2026?
Saturday, Oct. 10, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The college holds FallFest on the second Saturday in October each year.
How much is admission to FallFest?
Polk State lists the event as free and open to the public.
Where is Polk State FallFest held?
The Polk State College Winter Haven Campus, 999 Ave. H. N.E. in Winter Haven. The FallFest office is in the Winter Haven Fine Arts Building, Room WFA 147A.
What does FallFest raise money for?
Polk State says proceeds go to student organizations and to the Polk State College Foundation, which provides about $1.2 million in scholarships annually and purchases equipment for students.
Is FallFest canceled if it rains?
No. The college lists FallFest as a rain-or-shine event.
Sources: “Polk State FallFest Set for Oct. 10,” Polk State College, polk.edu, Aug. 4, 2026; “FallFest,” Polk State College, polk.edu, undated.
