In celebration of Florida Arbor Day, the Ocklawaha Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) donated a crape myrtle tree to the City of Eustis, which was planted on the grounds of the historic Clifford House. This donation honors the Chapter’s long-standing connection to the house, starting with early member Lottie Clifford Taylor. Arbor Day, founded by Julius Sterling Morton in 1872, promotes the benefits of trees and encourages planting and care. Florida celebrates this observance on the third Friday of January, recognizing the importance of trees in reducing air pollution, conserving energy, and beautifying the state, while also protecting its natural balance by planting native species.

Stroll downtown Leesburg at noon on March 22 for Blooms and Brews! Enjoy samples from local businesses and receive a complimentary flower from each participating location! 

501 W. Meadow St., Leesburg.

Sponsored by Downtown Leesburg

Special Events. specialevents@leesburgflorida.com

It’s no surprise that St. Patrick’s Day is a big deal around these parts since the Irish diaspora in Florida dates back to the 1500s and has left a lasting mark on the state’s history. Early Irish settlers were part of the Spanish garrison in the 1560s, with Irish priests and soldiers serving the Spanish Crown. Father Richard Arthur, a parish priest in St. Augustine, established America’s first public school before 1606. During the Great Famine (1845–1852), waves of Irish immigrants arrived, seeking escape from economic hardship and social upheaval caused by English colonization. They sought land ownership and religious freedom, contributing significantly to Florida’s growth in agriculture, education and governance. Today, their legacy lives on in Florida’s cultural fabric. St. Patty’s Day falls on March 17.

March Madness has become a national obsession, and Florida has its fair share of representation. 

• The University of Florida has appeared in 24 NCAA Tournaments, with 48 wins and 22 losses. The Gators won back-to-back national championships in 2006 and 2007.
• Florida State participated in the NCAA Tournament 18 times with 23 wins and 18 losses. The Seminoles finished as runner-up in 1972.
• The University of Miami reached the NCAA Tournament 11 times with 11 wins and 11 losses and a Final Four appearance in 2023.

Celebrate the season of renewal starting March 20 (or any other day!) with a visit to one of two Lanier’s Produce locations. Stock up on fresh, locally grown fruits and veggies bursting with color and flavor—perfect for crafting beautiful, light spring dishes. While you’re there, pick up some delicious jams, homemade pies, local honey and more. For additional information, call owners Josie at 352.267.0452 or Kevin at 352.267.0454.

Lanier’s Produce (We have 2 locations!)

20915 U.S. Hwy 27, Groveland

3865 N. Hwy. 301, Wildwood 

Florida became the 27th state on March 3, 1845 while James K. Polk was President of the United States. William Dunn Moseley was Florida’s first governor. Approximately 66,000 people inhabited the state, and the three major crops were citrus, cotton and sugar.

Daylight saving time, also referred to as daylight saving, daylight savings time, or daylight time, is the practice of advancing clocks to make better use of the longer daylight available during summer so that darkness falls at a later time. This year it will take place on March 9 and last until November 2. 

On the nights of March 13 and 14, a total lunar eclipse will be visible from Earth, and North America—including Central Florida—will be in the prime position for the spectacular event, which will also feature a “Blood Moon.” During a total lunar eclipse, Earth passes between the moon and the sun, and all three will be perfectly aligned for a time. 

The annual Pig on the Pond Community Festival will be held March 28-30 at Waterfront Park in Clermont. Pig on the Pond is the largest annual event in south Lake County, drawing 20,000+ attendance. The festival includes a carnival, live entertainment, a kids zone and fireworks, in addition to dozens of sponsored activities. The family-friendly festival, hosted by Project Scholars raises funds for college scholarships.