Lake County is bustling with community events aimed at supporting local students and families as the new school year approaches. From free backpack giveaways to engaging summer celebrations, residents can participate in various activities throughout the region this July.
Back-to-School Giveaways and Celebrations
On **July 22**, Eustis Lakeside Dental, located at **15 W. Atwater Ave., Eustis**, will host a free drive-through backpack giveaway starting at **14:30**. The event aims to equip elementary students with essential school supplies, distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. To receive a backpack, students must be present in the vehicle. More details are available at eustislakesidedental.com.
The **Fruitland Park Library**, at **604 W. Berckman St.**, will hold a “Pete the Cat Back to School Bash” on **July 25** from **09:00** to **11:00**. Families can enjoy free school supplies, fun activities, and refreshments, including hot dogs and ice cream. Additional highlights include a bounce house and informational booths about bike helmet fittings. This event is free and open to the public until supplies last. For inquiries, call **352-360-6561**.
First United Methodist Church of Mount Dora will also join in the back-to-school spirit with a **Back to School Bash** on **July 26**, from **11:00** to **13:00**. The event will offer lunch, haircuts, inflatables, carnival games, and door prizes. The first **100 K-8 students** who register on-site will receive a free backpack. The church is located at **439 E. Fifth Ave.** More details can be found at mtdorafumc.org or by calling **352-383-2005**.
Additionally, an end-of-summer celebration called **Last Call Mount Dora** will be held on **July 26** from **17:00** to **21:15** at Sunset Park, **230 W. Fourth Ave.** This year, attendees can look forward to a live performance by Power of Love, a tribute band celebrating the **40th anniversary** of the classic film “Back to the Future.” Participants are encouraged to bring school supplies to support local schools, with donations benefiting students in need. Admission is free.
Community Engagement and Support
On **July 19**, Community United Methodist Church of Fruitland Park will host a **Christmas in July** celebration from **11:00** to **14:00**. The event features crafts, games, and photos with Santa Claus, aimed at families with children up to sixth grade. This festive gathering is also free and open to the public.
A monthly support group for individuals with Parkinson’s disease and their caregivers will meet on **July 23** from **11:00** to **12:00** at Lake Port Square, **821 Lake Port Blvd., Leesburg**. Participants will share experiences and discuss the cognitive aspects associated with the disease. The group welcomes all who are interested.
The AdventHealth Waterman Volunteer Fundraiser is set for **July 24-25** from **07:00** to **16:00** in the hospital’s Matison Conference Center, located at **1000 Waterman Way, Tavares**. Attendees can purchase $5 jewelry and accessories, with proceeds benefiting the AdventHealth Waterman Capital Fund. For more information, contact **Pat Lannon at 301-998-5446**.
Furthermore, the Pastfinders Genealogical Society of South Lake County will offer free genealogy research assistance on **July 23** and **July 30** from **13:00** to **15:00** at Cooper Memorial Library, **2525 Oakley Seaver Drive, Clermont**. Volunteers will aid in verifying documents and exploring family trees.
The Lady Lake Public Library is conducting its third annual **School Supplies for Fines** drive until **July 31**. During this period, overdue material fees can be waived in exchange for donations of school supplies. Items such as pencils, backpacks, and crayons are welcomed. Last year, the library donated over **800 school supplies** to the local elementary school.
For those looking to engage in recreational activities, the Orlando Health National Training Center, at **1935 Don Wickham Drive, Clermont**, is offering junior lifeguard camps for ages **11 to 15** on **July 21-23** and **July 28-30**. The camp covers essential skills like water safety and CPR. The cost is **$100 per session**.
Lastly, Orlando Health South Lake Hospital provides various prenatal classes, including childbirth preparation and breastfeeding workshops. These classes aim to equip expectant parents with essential knowledge and skills. Registration is required for each class. Interested individuals can visit southlakehospital.com for more information.
Residents are encouraged to participate in these vibrant community events that not only prepare students for the upcoming school year but also foster a sense of togetherness and support within Lake County. For submissions of community events, please email [email protected] at least two weeks prior to the event.