Step into History
Step back in time at the 50th Annual Lake Wales Pioneer Days Festival, a milestone celebration honoring five decades of preserving and sharing the rich history and enduring spirit of Lake Wales and Polk County.
Taking place on October 24 and 25, 2026, from 10 am to 4 pm, this free community heritage festival invites families, history enthusiasts, and visitors from near and far to experience a vivid tapestry of life in early America. Guests will enjoy a full weekend of historical demonstrations, artisan craft markets, and live entertainment, offering something for every age and interest.
Festival highlights include hands-on historical activities and crafts for all ages, traditional festival foods, and the continued tradition of recognizing a local legend with the Pioneer of the Year Award. Join us at Lake Wailes Park for this special 50th anniversary celebration and be part of a beloved community tradition that honors the past while bringing generations together for an unforgettable experience.
What to Expect
Prepare for a journey back in time at the 50th Lake Wales Pioneer Days Festival, where history comes to life with authentic demonstrations, unique crafts, captivating music, and endless family fun.
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Step into the Heritage Village and immerse yourself in the life of early settlers with hands-on historical demonstrations, from blacksmithing to candle making, in the heart of Lake Wales. See demonstrators such as:
Pine Away Baskets
Wilhem Arras Blacksmith
Pioneer Woman of Lake Wales
Woodturners of Polk County
Lazy K. Leatherworks
Pioneer Demonstrators
SWEAT
Florida Frontiersman
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Explore the Craft Market, a treasure trove of handmade goods where local artisans showcase their skills, offering everything from pottery to woodworking, perfect for finding that unique gift or keepsake.
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Enjoy a lineup of Live Entertainment featuring local musicians, storytellers, and performers, bringing the sounds and stories of yesteryear to the present on the vibrant stages of Lake Wales Pioneer Days.
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The Pioneer Days Festival is a family affair, with a dedicated Family Fun zone packed with activities for kids of all ages, including petting zoos, pumpkin patch crafts, and interactive games.
…and So Much more!
Celebrate History with a Twist at Beers with Pioneers!
Immerse yourself in local flavors and historical tales at the Lake Wales History Museum's Beers with Pioneers. Now part of our annual Pioneer Days festival, this unique tasting experience can be enjoyed throughout the weekend of October 24–25, 2026, at Lake Wailes Park. Sample a variety of craft beers, wines, and non-alcoholic beverages while exploring the festival and celebrating the rich heritage and vibrant community spirit that make Lake Wales unique.
For visitors joining us for the Pioneer Days Festival, a selection of comfortable accommodations awaits to ensure your weekend is as enjoyable as it is memorable. Choose from cozy hotels to charming inns, all conveniently located near the festival grounds for easy access to the event’s festivities.
ACCOMMODATIONS
HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS LAKE WALES/WINTER HAVEN
CAMP CENTRAL RV PARKS LLC
COURTYARD WINTER HAVEN
HOW TO GET HERE:
Find your way to the heart of the celebration at Lake Wailes Park for our Pioneer Days Festival. Our interactive map here guides you directly to where history comes alive and memories are made.
