Happy Wednesday South Laker!
We are officially over the hump and heading straight for a weekend that feels like a true Florida vacation. The weather is holding steady for outdoor fun, so it’s time to finalize those plans before the Friday rush hits.
Now, in today’s edition:
Laker Notes: Big updates on lakefront camping and water system updates.
Weekend Lineup: A Reggae festival, local markets, and family campouts.
Know Before You Go: Crucial lane closures on SR 33 and US 192.
South Laker Eats: A hidden gem for authentic Guyanese food.
And more...
Let’s get to it.
— Charlie Ferrer
Laker Notes
Data Source: Accuweather.com
🏕️ Waterfront Campout: The City of Clermont is opening up Waterfront Park for the "Great Clermont Campout" starting this Saturday, February 28. Families can pitch tents right on the shore of Lake Minneola for a rare overnight stay that includes a giant screen showing of Jumanji. It’s a unique, safe way to give the kids an outdoor adventure without leaving the city limits.
💧 Water System Milestone: The planned relocation of the water reuse line in the Hartwood Reserve and Regency Hills areas is officially scheduled to be completed by February 25. This critical infrastructure upgrade is part of a broader push to strengthen the city's sustainable water resources as our population grows. Residents in the southern neighborhoods can look forward to full service restoration and more reliable irrigation heading into the weekend.
🏠 Community Voices: The City of Groveland is hosting its District 3 "Neighborhood Huddle" tonight, February 25, at Groveland Elementary School starting at 7:00 PM. This is a direct chance for locals to meet with City Council members in a casual setting to discuss the future of the Parkwood Street area and upcoming community safety initiatives. It’s your best opportunity to get the "inside track" on local development and make sure your neighborhood's needs are heard.
Weekend Lineup
Thursday, February 26
City Council Workshop | 5:30 PM-8:30 PM | E.L. Puryear Building, Groveland | Get a first look at upcoming city projects and voice your opinion on local growth.
Election Worker Info Session | 10:00 AM-11:00 AM | Lady Lake Public Library (Regional) | Learn how you can help run the local precinct for the upcoming special elections.
Zumba Gold | 11:30 AM-4:00 PM | Clermont Arts & Rec Center, Clermont | Get up and dance to a mix of dance styles, catering to adults and seniors alike.
Business After Hours | 5:00 PM-7:00 PM | Computer Business Consultants, Clermont | Celebrate 30 years of local business with networking and appetizers.
Friday, February 27
Business Accelerator Series | 8:30 AM-10:00 AM | South Lake Chamber, Clermont | A deep dive for local entrepreneurs looking to scale their businesses this year.
The International Rolling Stones Tribute Show | 7:00 PM–9:00 PM | Clermont Performing Arts Center, Clermont | Watch a touring tribute show that celebrates and recreates the look, sound and the attitude of The Rolling Stones.
Taking Territory '26 Conference | Starting at 7:00 PM | The River Clermont, Clermont | Enjoy a day of worship, teaching, and space to encounter God and be stirred in faith.
Friday Night Live Music | 6:00 PM–9:00 PM | Downtown Clermont | Hit the breweries for local tunes and a walk through the historic district.
Saturday, February 28
The Great Clermont Campout | 12:00 PM (Sat)–11:00 AM (Sun) | Waterfront Park, Clermont | Sleep under the stars and enjoy a movie on the big screen with your neighbors.
One Love Reggae Festival | 4:00 PM-9:00 PM | Lake David Park, Groveland | Get grooving with live reggae music, Caribbean food, family fun, and unity!
Apopka Loop Connector Grand Opening | 9:00 AM–11:00 AM | McCormick & Ingram Rd, Ocoee | Join the celebration as the West Orange Trail finally links up to the Lake Apopka Loop.
Firearms Safety Training | 8:00 AM–6:00 PM | Groveland Community Center | A comprehensive safety course led by local experts for responsible owners.
Dance Ever After Saturday | 11:00 AM - 11:30 AM | Clermont Arts & Recreation Center Rehearsal Room, Clermont | Learn how to dance ballet, jazz, creative movement, and contemporary.
Clermont Basketball Academy Youth League | 9:00 AM-12:00 PM | Clermont Arts & Recreation Center, Clermont | Cheer on our local rising stars and support youth athletics.
Sunday, March 1
Italian Festival Preview | 12:00 PM-4:00 PM | Groveland | Get the first scoop on the upcoming Italian American Club festival coming this month.
Clermont Farmers Market | 9:00 AM-2:00 PM | Montrose Street, Clermont | Shop fresh local produce and handmade goods from South Lake artisans.
Feature your event here.
Know Before You Go
🚧 SR 33 Lane Closures: Plan for extra time if you're heading toward Groveland; rotating lane closures are expected between Domenico Court and Parkwood Street through Friday for sidewalk work. (FDOT Lake County)
🚧 US 192 Westbound Delay: If you're heading toward the attractions from South Clermont, look out for single lane closures near Bali Street for sidewalk installation. (FDOT Lake County)
🚧 West Orange Trail Bridge: The bridge behind Apopka Middle School is closed for construction. Cyclists should use the marked detours to reach the new connector. (Orange County FL)
South Laker Eats
Image Source: Lens Traveler
Bobbi’s Roti Hut
If you’ve been craving something that feels like a trip to Guyana without the airport hassle, you’ve got to check them out.. Their pillowy, flaky roti is perfect for scooping up rich, aromatic curries that burst with flavor. This small, independent shop that puts a lot of love into their spices, and you can taste it in every bite.
The Big Give
Image Source: Lake Cares
Lake Cares Food Pantry
A local powerhouse making sure no one in our community goes hungry, with 94% of every donated dollar going directly to food programs. They are currently seeking volunteers to help stock shelves and support their Children’s Feeding Program, which provides meals for students over the weekend.
Volunteers are the backbone of their mission, powering everything from welcoming clients on distribution day and stocking pantry shelves to supporting our community events.
You can click here to register.
Vintage South Lake
Image Source: Orange County Regional History Center
Florida Citrus Tower
The Florida Citrus Tower is more than just a roadside attraction; it’s a 226-foot monument to our region’s history as the citrus capital of the world. Built in 1956, it once allowed visitors to see miles of nothing but orange groves before the freezes and development changed the landscape.
It remains one of the highest observation points in Florida, offering a unique perspective on how much South Lake has grown. You can even still ride the original-style elevator to the top for a panoramic view of the rolling hills.
Learn More: Citrus Tower History
Move This Week
Image Source: Florida State Parks
Bike Trail of the Week: Van Fleet State Trail (Mabel Station)
For an uninterrupted cycling experience, start on the north side of the Van Fleet Trail at the Mabel trailhead, right here in Lake County. This 29.2-mile paved rail-trail runs “straight as an arrow” through the heart of the Green Swamp, offering a completely flat, peaceful ride far from traffic and noise. It’s a favorite among road bikers logging serious miles and families seeking a safe, car-free adventure.
Location: 7683 Berkley Road, Polk City
Before You Go: Download park map
Gear Up
Products we think every cyclist should have:
💧 Stay hydrated on the new long-distance connector with this Insulated Water Bottle that keeps your water cold even in the Florida sun.
📱 Keep your trail map handy and your hands free with a Universal Bike Phone Mount for your handlebars.
🧳 Pack your snacks and extra tubes in a Compact Saddle Bag that won't weigh you down on the boardwalk.
Thanks ❤️
Thanks for spending part of your day with The South Laker. If this issue brightened your morning, pass it along to someone else who could use a smile for this weekend.
