WINTER PARK — Central Florida doesn’t seem to have a shortage of folks with a passion for the arts, or residents and tourists alike who love visiting Winter Park to stake out the shops on Park Avenue, or take in a museum or theater show.

This popular city just outside Orlando is beckoning all arts lovers to stop by next week, when the Winter Park Arts Weekend offers a salute to artists and art lovers alike.

“Save the Date!” the City of Winter Park government notes, calling it “Four days of community events and performances showcasing the amazing and diverse art & cultural experience that Winter Park has to offer.”

What is the Winter Park Arts Weekend?

As the City notes on its website, this event kicks off on Thursday, Feb. 20 and runs through Sunday, Feb. 23. There is a complete list of events available at at wpinspires.org/artsweekend.

“Discover the City of Arts & Culture at Arts Weekend,” the City notes. “This four-day arts extravaganza will feature dozens of community events and performances at Central Park’s Main Stage and many cultural venues throughout the city.

“We invite you to immerse yourself in the amazing and diverse art & cultural experiences that Winter Park has to offer. Be inspired!”

The event kicks off on Thursday, Feb. 20 at 6 p.m., when the keynote speaker, Jill Sonke of The Center for Health & Wellbeing, will talk about the correlation between arts and health. Registration is required for this free community event.

On Friday, Feb. 21, there is a free community event in Central Park. “Bring your blankets and chairs to experience Big Band Spirituals, performed and sponsored by the Bach Festival Society of Winter Park,” the City notes. That concert begins at 6:30 p.m.

On Saturday, Feb. 22, from 1-4 p.m., it’s an afternoon of Art in the Park. Held again in Central Park, this afternoon features live performances and interactive arts activities that will “include touch a piece of history, watch a musical act, take an art selfie, engage in an opera,” the City notes.

On Sunday, Feb. 23, guests are invited to explore the city’s museums, gardens, community theaters and musical venues, which will be offering special programming and discounts.

The Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens, 633 Osceola Ave., will be offering half off admission during Winter Park Arts Weekend on Feb. 22 and 23.

“Explore our scenic sculpture gardens, historic home, and current exhibit while enjoying all that Winter Park has to offer,” the Polasek notes.

What Comes After the Arts Weekend?

While the Arts Weekend ends on Sunday, Feb. 23, the Polasek is inviting arts lovers to come back on Tuesday, Feb. 25 for another special event: a Sculpture Workshop from 6–8 p.m. Admission is $40 for Polasek Members and $45 for Non-Members.

“Get hands-on in this immersive workshop led by artist and educator Jesus Marin,” the museum notes. “Inspired by ‘A Matter of Time: Sculpture’ by Paul Baliker, participants will create their own sculptures using natural and found materials. All materials are provided!”

This event is open to guests ages 18+ and older or 12 and older with an accompanying adult.

Then in April, the Polasek Museum will host the annual Winter Park Paint Out on April 20–26, which includes free admission to the Gallery and gardens all week.

“The 17th Annual Winter Park Paint Out is just around the corner! Join us as 22 acclaimed plein air artists bring Winter Park to life on canvas,” the museum notes. “Enjoy live painting demonstrations, browse the wet room gallery, and take home an original piece of art—all while supporting the Polasek Museum.”

Arts lovers, looks like you have plenty to enjoy in this city.

Michael Freeman is an Orlando journalist, playwright, and author of the book A Christmas Eve Story. Contact him at Freelineorlando@gmail.com.

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