Sumter County's special events celebrate our region's rich heritage, engage visitors, and make it an exciting destination all year long. Below is a list of major annual events to help you plan your overnight or weekend visits. To see more public events in Sumter County, click the button to the right to go to our searchable events calendar.
Recurring Events Events in The Villages
Annual Events |
 Dade Battlefield ReenactmentJanuary 7-8, 2012 Dade Battlefield Historic State Park 7200 County Road 603 Bushnell, Florida 33513 (352) 793-4781 Every January, under the oaks of Dade Battlefield State Park, history lovers gather to commemorate the battle that started the Second Seminole War. On December 28, 1835, Indian warriors ambushed 108 U.S. soldiers at this site, and only three soldiers survived. The 80-acre park protects not only a historic battlefield, but also the natural communities as they existed during the war. As you stroll the half-mile trail through pine flatwoods, keep your eyes peeled for gopher tortoises, woodpeckers, songbirds, hawks or indigo snakes. The amenities of Dade Battlefield include a playground, picnic area with covered shelters and recreation hall. The park's visitor center provides information and displays about the historic battle, as well as a 12 minute video history of the battle This Land, These Men. More Information: |
 AGRItunityJanuary 27-28, 2012 Sumter County Fairgrounds 7620 State Road 471 Webster, Florida 33513 (352) 793-2728 This conference and trade show provides opportunities for farmers, ranchers and people interested in agriculture to learn, network, meet suppliers and explore the possibilites of starting or changing an agricultural operation. The trade show will include many suppliers that are important for farmers, as well as large equipment and livestock displays. More Information: |
 Sumter County Fair March 9-17, 2012 Sumter County Fairgrounds 7620 State Road 471 Webster, Florida 33513 (352) 793-2750 This 96-year old fair features amusement rides, a beauty pageant, live entertainment, rodeo rides, food vendors, games and livestock judging and auctions. More Information: |
In 1968, the late Ellis Anderson, established a day where ones who once lived in the Community of Royal could return home to visit. Ellis asked the residents and their visitors to begin at a local church for morning worship and after church to gather at the Royal Park in the Royal Community Center for dinner and a meeting to plan the next year's event. Every family was asked to bring a covered dish to make the meal where all could be served. Dishes, such as collard and mustard greens, conk peas, corn bread, macaroni and cheese, perlow rice, sweet potato pie, pig tails, pig feet, ribs, fried chicken, pound cake, peach cobbler, etc. were enjoyed by all. The first occurrence was the third Sunday in June, Father's Day. From this humble beginning, this event has grown to welcome between 5,000-6,000 visitors. Today, the Royal Library Association is the lead homecoming planning committee and the activities benefits the RHEAP programs and the Young Center. The event still takes place on every Father's Day Weekend with food & craft vendors, softball & volleyball tournaments, family & friends day, parade and worship service at New Life Center Ministries, Inc. More Information: |
An annual commemoration of the end of World War II, it is held annually on the first Saturday in August. Allied and Axis re-enactors will present living history encampments and displays, as well as uniform and weapons demonstrations. There will also be military vehicle exhibits and a militaria collectables show. A veterans service office and local veterans groups will be on hand. More Information: |
Experience what makes dining and shopping special in Sumter County. Distinctive local restaurants will serve samples of their signature dishes. Enjoy live entertainment and browse displays from local boutiques and specialty shops. Bid in a silent auction on prizes donated by local merchants. A portion of proceeds will fund new scholarships for graduating seniors at Wildwood High School, South Sumter High School, and The Villages Charter High School. Tickets $20 in advance, $25 at the door. Presented by the Sumter County Chamber of Commerce. More Information: |
The annual Bushnell Fall Festival is a popular and cherished event sponsored by the city to celebrate the birthday of The City of Bushnell. Held the third Saturday of October, more than 20,000 visitors have been reported to attend this festival and enjoyed the various types of food and crafts available. More Information: |
An 1830s Style Hayride. More Information: |
 Sumter County Beef and Boogie FestivalFriday and Saturday, November 2-3, 2012 Sumter County Farmers Market 524 Market Blvd, Webster, Florida 33597 (352) 793-3099 The Sumter County Beef and Boogie Festival is a celebration of the county's cattle beef industry, complete with live entertainment, beef cookoffs (including a competition for Sumter's Best Burger), kids activities, educational displays; craft, food and merchandise vendors, and more. Admission $6 for adults, ages 12 and under free. Presented by the Sumter County Chamber of Commerce. More Information: |
More Information: |
Recurring Events |
Established and chartered in 1937 by local Farmers to sell vegetables and cattle. Located in the heart of Florida, it's the oldest and largest flea market in Florida and is listed under the Top Ten Tourist Attractions in the State. The Market covers over 40 acres; there is no admission fee and parking on the grounds is free. More Information: |
Watch as cattle from local farms are auctioned. They receive cattle starting Monday evening from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. and again on Tuesday morning starting at 7 a.m. More Information: |
The City of Wildwood, in conjunction with the University of Florida, holds the Wildwood Growers’ Market. The Growers’ Market features locally grown fruits and vegetables, ornamental plants and flowers, handmade crafts, and food and drink. More Information: |
Florida's largest monthly automotive Swap Meet, Car Show and Car Corral. It's the old fashion type of swap meet, filled with automotive dealers selling parts, cars and antiques. Find that part you've been looking for. More Information: |
Events in The Villages |
More Information: |
This project made possible through funding provided by VISIT FLORIDA and the Florida Commission on Tourism
Wildwood Christmas Parade 
Special events are endless in The Villages! Whether a visit from a well known personality, a unique demonstration or show, or festive parade & celebration - you can bet there are always events to look forward to year-round!