Event Calendar
Explore Upcoming Events at Lake Wales History Museum
Join us at the Lake Wales History Museum for a diverse array of events that celebrate and explore the rich heritage of Lake Wales. Our calendar is filled with educational workshops, historical reenactments, and cultural exhibitions designed to engage and delight community members of all ages. These events not only highlight our city's history but also foster a deeper connection with the community's ongoing narrative.
If you're interested in hosting your own event at our museum or partnering with us for a community event, please reach out. Our unique venue offers a historical ambiance that enhances any gathering, providing a memorable setting for both private and public events. We welcome collaborations that promote cultural enrichment and historical education in our community.
The Polar Express at Make It Magical!
The Polar Express is scheduled to arrive!
Join us on Friday, December 12, from 5 to 9 PM for one of our favorite holiday traditions. It will be a fun, festive community night filled with local shopping, twinkling lights, SNOW (!), and of course…
The Polar Express Trains sponsored by yours truly at the Lake Wales History Museum!
Bring the whole family out for an evening of holiday cheer as kiddos hop aboard for a charming train ride through the event. It’s the perfect way to kick off the season and make memories that’ll last well beyond December.
We can’t wait to celebrate with you!
Lake Wales Christmas Parade
The Lake Wales History Museum is excited to have a float in the City of Lake Wales & Rotary on the Ridge Christmas Parade this year! Catch the festive fun on Saturday, December 13, from 6:00 to 8:30 PM.
See you along the parade route!
A Vintage Christmas: Hands-On Garland Making
Get into the holiday spirit with us at the Lake Wales History Museum!
From December 16th to 20th, we’re celebrating a classic holiday tradition with vintage popcorn and cranberry garland making. Drop in anytime during the week, gather around the craft table, and enjoy this simple, charming activity that families have loved for generations.
We’ll have all the supplies, just bring your holiday cheer!
A Citrus Holiday Tradition: Freshly-Squeezed OJ Day
Join us for Fresh-Squeezed Orange Juice Day at the Lake Wales History Museum!
Stop by on Saturday, December 20th, from 10 AM to 3 PM for a sweet taste of Florida history! Learn about the tradition of gifting oranges at Christmastime and explore orange-related artifacts from our collection!
And the best part? You’ll get to make your own fresh-squeezed orange juice using oranges picked just for this event by our friends at Hunt Brothers, just like families would have enjoyed in the early 1900s!
Bring the whole family for a refreshing and fun holiday experience at the museum.
Museum Closed for the Holidays
Please note, the museum will be closed Sunday, December 21, through Monday, January 5, as we pause to celebrate the season with our families and prepare for a bright new year ahead.
As 2025 comes to a close, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude for everyone who has visited, supported, volunteered, and shared their love of Lake Wales history with us. You make this museum a vibrant and meaningful place.
We wish you a joyful Christmas holiday and a happy New Year, and we look forward to welcoming you back in 2026 with new stories, new exhibits, and new reasons to celebrate our community.
Unbound Society Book Club
Join us each month for the Unbound Society Book Club at the Lake Wales History Museum, where we explore compelling non-fiction works that challenge and enlighten. Dive into a range of topics from history to science, and engage in lively discussions with fellow enthusiasts. Whether you're a lifelong learner or simply curious, our book club offers a welcoming space to expand your understanding and connect with others.
Unbound Society Book Club
Join us each month for the Unbound Society Book Club at the Lake Wales History Museum, where we explore compelling non-fiction works that challenge and enlighten. Dive into a range of topics from history to science, and engage in lively discussions with fellow enthusiasts. Whether you're a lifelong learner or simply curious, our book club offers a welcoming space to expand your understanding and connect with others.
Unbound Society Book Club
Join us each month for the Unbound Society Book Club at the Lake Wales History Museum, where we explore compelling non-fiction works that challenge and enlighten. Dive into a range of topics from history to science, and engage in lively discussions with fellow enthusiasts. Whether you're a lifelong learner or simply curious, our book club offers a welcoming space to expand your understanding and connect with others.
Unbound Society Book Club
Join us each month for the Unbound Society Book Club at the Lake Wales History Museum, where we explore compelling non-fiction works that challenge and enlighten. Dive into a range of topics from history to science, and engage in lively discussions with fellow enthusiasts. Whether you're a lifelong learner or simply curious, our book club offers a welcoming space to expand your understanding and connect with others.
Unbound Society Book Club
Join us each month for the Unbound Society Book Club at the Lake Wales History Museum, where we explore compelling non-fiction works that challenge and enlighten. Dive into a range of topics from history to science, and engage in lively discussions with fellow enthusiasts. Whether you're a lifelong learner or simply curious, our book club offers a welcoming space to expand your understanding and connect with others.
Unbound Society Book Club
Join us each month for the Unbound Society Book Club at the Lake Wales History Museum, where we explore compelling non-fiction works that challenge and enlighten. Dive into a range of topics from history to science, and engage in lively discussions with fellow enthusiasts. Whether you're a lifelong learner or simply curious, our book club offers a welcoming space to expand your understanding and connect with others.
Unbound Society Book Club
Join us each month for the Unbound Society Book Club at the Lake Wales History Museum, where we explore compelling non-fiction works that challenge and enlighten. Dive into a range of topics from history to science, and engage in lively discussions with fellow enthusiasts. Whether you're a lifelong learner or simply curious, our book club offers a welcoming space to expand your understanding and connect with others.
Unbound Society Book Club
Join us each month for the Unbound Society Book Club at the Lake Wales History Museum, where we explore compelling non-fiction works that challenge and enlighten. Dive into a range of topics from history to science, and engage in lively discussions with fellow enthusiasts. Whether you're a lifelong learner or simply curious, our book club offers a welcoming space to expand your understanding and connect with others.
Museum Closed for Thanksgiving
Please note, the museum will be closed for the Thanksgiving holiday from Saturday, November 22, to Saturday, November 29. We will resume normal hours on Tuesday, December 2.
Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at the Lake Wales History Museum!
We’re especially grateful for our community, our volunteers, and everyone who helps keep local history alive.
We hope your holiday is filled with warmth, gratitude, and time spent with those you cherish.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Unbound Society Book Club
Join us each month for the Unbound Society Book Club at the Lake Wales History Museum, where we explore compelling non-fiction works that challenge and enlighten. Dive into a range of topics from history to science, and engage in lively discussions with fellow enthusiasts. Whether you're a lifelong learner or simply curious, our book club offers a welcoming space to expand your understanding and connect with others.
Pioneer Days
Step back in time at the Lake Wales Pioneer Days Festival 2025, a cornerstone event celebrating the rich history and enduring spirit of Lake Wales and Polk County.
Scheduled for October 25 and 26, 2025, this free community heritage festival invites families, history enthusiasts, and visitors from all over to explore a vivid tapestry of life in early America. Immerse yourself in a weekend filled with historical demonstrations, artisan craft markets, and live entertainment, offering something for every age and interest. Don't miss the chance to partake in the Pumpkin Patch kids’ activities, enjoy traditional festival foods, and celebrate local legends with the Pioneer of the Year award. Join us at Lake Wailes Park for an unforgettable journey through the past, promising engaging experiences and fun for the entire family.
For more information, please visit our Pioneer Days page.
Pioneer Days
Step back in time at the Lake Wales Pioneer Days Festival 2025, a cornerstone event celebrating the rich history and enduring spirit of Lake Wales and Polk County.
Scheduled for October 25 and 26, 2025, this free community heritage festival invites families, history enthusiasts, and visitors from all over to explore a vivid tapestry of life in early America. Immerse yourself in a weekend filled with historical demonstrations, artisan craft markets, and live entertainment, offering something for every age and interest. Don't miss the chance to partake in the Pumpkin Patch kids’ activities, enjoy traditional festival foods, and celebrate local legends with the Pioneer of the Year award. Join us at Lake Wailes Park for an unforgettable journey through the past, promising engaging experiences and fun for the entire family.
For more information, please visit our Pioneer Days page.
Unbound Society Book Club
Join us each month for the Unbound Society Book Club at the Lake Wales History Museum, where we explore compelling non-fiction works that challenge and enlighten. Dive into a range of topics from history to science, and engage in lively discussions with fellow enthusiasts. Whether you're a lifelong learner or simply curious, our book club offers a welcoming space to expand your understanding and connect with others.
Unbound Society Book Club
Join us each month for the Unbound Society Book Club at the Lake Wales History Museum, where we explore compelling non-fiction works that challenge and enlighten. Dive into a range of topics from history to science, and engage in lively discussions with fellow enthusiasts. Whether you're a lifelong learner or simply curious, our book club offers a welcoming space to expand your understanding and connect with others.
Engines of Victory: America’s Forgotten Wartime Railroaders
Join us at the Lake Wales History Museum for a special event highlighting a little-known chapter of WWII history!
Historical Interpreters Bring WWII Rail History to Life
Step into the world of America’s Military Railway Service with the 722nd Railway Operating Battalion Co. C and explore how railroads helped win the war. On-site, you can:
🪖 See authentic WWII artifacts and weapons up close
🎖️ Learn about the Military Railway Service’s stateside training
🚂 Discover the story of wartime train operations
Experience history through talks, demonstrations, and hands-on interpretation!
Grand Re-Opening Ribbon Cutting
🎊 Join us for our official Grand Re-opening Ribbon-Cutting! Explore updated exhibits, see new artifacts on display, and enjoy guided museum tours. It will be fun for history lovers of all ages! Stay tuned for more details coming soon. 🎊
Community Cleanup Day
Volunteer and Help Preserve History!
The Community Cleanup Day is your chance to make a real impact!
We’re calling on volunteers to roll up their sleeves, grab their yard tools, and join us in beautifying our museum grounds. Every helping hand matters in preserving our local heritage and creating a welcoming space for visitors!
Food & Drinks Provided
Great for Families, Friends, and Community Groups
In Partnership with the Polk County Passion Project
Email info@lakewaleshistory.org to sign up today and be part of history in the making!
Unbound Society Book Club
Join us each month for the Unbound Society Book Club at the Lake Wales History Museum, where we explore compelling non-fiction works that challenge and enlighten. Dive into a range of topics from history to science, and engage in lively discussions with fellow enthusiasts. Whether you're a lifelong learner or simply curious, our book club offers a welcoming space to expand your understanding and connect with others.
Back to School Bash
🎉 Back to School Bash at the Lake Wales History Museum! 🎉
Summer’s winding down, but the fun isn’t over yet! Join us on Saturday, August 9th, from 10 AM – 3 PM for a FREE family-friendly event to celebrate the start of a brand-new school year!
Here’s what you can look forward to:
🎒 Grab your school spirit and get ready for a day of fun
🚂 Help us "Load the Locomotive" with school supplies! Supplies will be available at the Back to School Bash for families in need and will also be donated to the Lake Wales Charter Schools for distribution.
🎨 Get creative at the craft station
🎭 Enjoy face painting and colorful fun
💃 Dance your way through The Freight with music and smiles
Whether you’re gearing up for kindergarten or heading into high school, this bash is the perfect way to start the school year off right.
Bring your school supply donations, your friends and family, and let’s celebrate Lake Wales style! ✨
For more information, please click here for our Facebook event page.
Unbound Society Book Club
Join us each month for the Unbound Society Book Club at the Lake Wales History Museum, where we explore compelling non-fiction works that challenge and enlighten. Dive into a range of topics from history to science, and engage in lively discussions with fellow enthusiasts. Whether you're a lifelong learner or simply curious, our book club offers a welcoming space to expand your understanding and connect with others.
4th of July - Museum Closed
🎆 We will be closed for Independence Day. Enjoy your holiday safely and come see us next week!
Red, White, and Popcorn!
🍿 Swing by the museum that day to grab a bag of delicious popcorn and pick up a free American flag while supplies last! It's a fun and festive way to celebrate the season and show your patriotic spirit.
History Hunt
🔎 Explore the museum with a fun scavenger hunt for kids! Complete it and get a small prize to take home. Great for curious minds and future history buffs.
Little Historians Craft Day
🎨 Bring the kids by for a patriotic craft activity perfect for all ages. Drop in between 10 AM – 3 PM to create your own take-home treasure.
Monday Museum Stroll
📜 Step into the story of Lake Wales with free guided tours of the museum by our own Bart, available throughout the day. Learn how our city began and see behind-the-scenes highlights of our collection!
Founder’s Week!
🎉 We're celebrating Founder's Week with daily festivities honoring our history and the incredible community that keeps it alive! The Lake Wales History Museum was founded on July 4, 1976, by local preservationist Mimi Hardman, and we're proud to continue her legacy nearly 50 years later. Join us all week long for special events and celebrations! 🎉
Unbound Society Book Club
Join us each month for the Unbound Society Book Club at the Lake Wales History Museum, where we explore compelling non-fiction works that challenge and enlighten. Dive into a range of topics from history to science, and engage in lively discussions with fellow enthusiasts. Whether you're a lifelong learner or simply curious, our book club offers a welcoming space to expand your understanding and connect with others.
Unbound Society Book Club
Join us each month for the Unbound Society Book Club at the Lake Wales History Museum, where we explore compelling non-fiction works that challenge and enlighten. Dive into a range of topics from history to science, and engage in lively discussions with fellow enthusiasts. Whether you're a lifelong learner or simply curious, our book club offers a welcoming space to expand your understanding and connect with others.