Pioneer Days turns 50 this weekend in Lake Wales, and the best part? Admission is free both days. It may be the weekend’s biggest celebration, but Polk County has plenty more waiting for you.

Halloween arrives early this year. Downtown Bartow kicks things off Friday with a trick-or-treat trail, the Mulberry Harvest Festival brings its own fall flavor, and Saturday morning brings Auburndale’s costume parade and Haines City’s Trunk or Treat. The little ones will love the construction trucks and emergency vehicles parked alongside candy-filled trunks at Lake Eva Park.

Craving live music? Three tribute bands take the stage this weekend, bringing the sounds of Michael Jackson, Santana, and some good ol’ country to Polk County.

Over in Lakeland, Bonnet Springs Park has a full slate for big and little scientists alike, and the holiday shopping expo at the RP Funding Center is the perfect place to get a jump on your gift list.

There’s plenty more where that came from, and we’ve got it all on The Citrus Tea News Calendar.

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Pioneer Days turns 50, and Mulberry throws a harvest party worth the drive.

Trunk or treat events, a chemistry day, and a costume parade the kids won’t forget.

A Santana tribute, a Michael Jackson tribute, and country music too!

Want to shop local? Check here for the farmers’ and downtown markets, plus the holiday shopping expo to kick off the season.

Theatre, a student art reception, and a basket weaving class, plus Church Fall fests, a block party, and a cheer competition.

Check the calendar for all the best Halloween and fall events coming soon, so you can get them on your holiday season calendar early, with local parades, festivals, holiday shopping, and more.

More to Do

Arts and Culture Festivals Family Live Music Markets Community

Coming Soon Around Polk County

Check the Full Weekend Calendar for all the best Halloween and fall events coming up, so you can get them on your calendar early, with local parades, festivals, holiday shopping, and more.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is free to do in Polk County this weekend?
Pioneer Days, live concerts, chemistry sessions at Bonnet Springs Park, and the Mulberry Harvest Festival are all free, and there’s even more to explore.

Is Pioneer Days in Lake Wales free this year?
Yes. The festival marks its 50th year at Lake Wailes Park on Saturday and Sunday, and admission is free both days.

When can I find Halloween events and trunk-or-treats?
All of our Halloween and fall festival events are here.

What farmers markets are open in Polk County this weekend?
Farmers and downtown market events rotate each weekend.

What is happening in Polk County for Halloween this year?
Halloween falls on a Saturday, Oct. 31, but there are several events all month long.