Kristie Firmin, who owns The Lake Dora Courtyard Food & Events, a popular entertainment spot in Tavares, had to pivot when her business caught fire and destroyed her kitchen equipment. Kristie was able to reopen, however the good times did not last long as she received a notice that her lease was not renewing and that she needed to vacate that location earlier this year.

(Kristie Firmin worked hard with the community to reopen the previous location after a kitchen fire. Unfortunately her lease was not renewed forcing her to seek out other options.)

Since May when that location closed, Kristie has been working hard on finding a new location. She is planning on partnering with Inn On The Green in Tavares, which would bring an outdoor bar and live entertainment to the area. Most of the outdoor furniture that was part of the previous location has been moved to Inn on the Green.

“This project is called from nothing to something,” Kristie says. “I am working with the owners of Inn On The Green and using this as temporary space for entertainment, food and spirits.”

(Inn on the Green will has worked with Firmin to open up an unused space next to the motel which will feature entertainment, food and spirits.)

The new business will be called The Courtyard at The Inn on the Green. Kristie is putting a lot of hard work into making this happen.

In a recent social media post on Facebook, Kristie says, “It’s a lot of work and I have a lot of support. I have an opportunity here that is going to benefit local musicians, the community, charities, and help rebrand the Inn on the Green. Inn On The Green Management actually went down to City Hall and introduced the idea. They told them that Kristie Firmin is moving into the space and that they back her 100%. When I learned they did that, I was blown away. These are the type of people we are supporting and working with so a special thank you to them!”

(Many great bands and entertainers have taken the stage at The Lake Dora Courtyard.)

While there is still work to be done to get this new entertainment venue off the ground, this is exciting for the area. The backdrop of the new entertainment venue will be situated on a pretty lake offering relaxing views. One thing is for sure, Kristie knows how to perservere through tough times. Regardless, Firmin was upbeat and encouraged by the help the community continues to give her and her business.

(The ourdoor entertainment space has been styled to fit the Inn on the Green theme.)

There is no current opening date.

“I wanted to open this weekend but I am not there yet,” Kristie says. “Stay tuned for an opening date though, I am working hard to get this done.”

Hard work has gone into repainting the chairs, bar, tables, and the venue looks like it’s going to be a terrific place to enjoy some live entertainment. When we know of an opening date we will be sure to update.