48th Annual Pioneer Days Festival

Experience the rich history and vibrant culture of Lake Wales at the annual Pioneer Days Festival! Scheduled for October 28-29, 2024, this family-friendly event brings history to life with a variety of activities including historical reenactments, a craft market, live music, and much more. Join us at Lake Wailes Park for a weekend celebrating our community's heritage and the pioneering spirit of Polk County. Don't miss the special "Beers with Pioneers" event for a taste of local brews in a historical setting!

Step back in time at the Lake Wales Pioneer Days Festival 2024, a cornerstone event celebrating the rich history and enduring spirit of Lake Wales and Polk County. 

Scheduled for October 26 and 27, 2024, this free community heritage festival invites families, history enthusiasts, and visitors from all over to explore a vivid tapestry of life in early America. Immerse yourself in a weekend filled with historical demonstrations, artisan craft markets, and live entertainment, offering something for every age and interest. Don't miss the chance to partake in the Pumpkin Patch kids’ activities, enjoy traditional festival foods, and celebrate local legends with the Pioneer of the Year award. Join us at Lake Wailes Park for an unforgettable journey through the past, promising engaging experiences and fun for the entire family.

What to Expect

Prepare for a journey back in time at the Lake Wales Pioneer Days Festival 2024, where history comes to life with authentic demonstrations, unique crafts, captivating music, and endless family fun.

Heritage Village

Step into the Heritage Village and immerse yourself in the life of early settlers with hands-on historical demonstrations, from blacksmithing to candle making, in the heart of Lake Wales.

Community Market by Buena Market

Explore the Craft Market, a treasure trove of handmade goods where local artisans showcase their skills, offering everything from pottery to woodworking, perfect for finding that unique gift or keepsake.

Live Entertainment

Enjoy a lineup of Live Entertainment featuring local musicians, storytellers, and performers, bringing the sounds and stories of yesteryear to the present on the vibrant stages of Lake Wales Pioneer Days.

Family Entertainment

The Pioneer Days Festival is a family affair, with a dedicated Family Fun zone packed with activities for kids of all ages, including petting zoos, pumpkin patch crafts, and interactive games.

…and many more!

Celebrate History with a Twist at Beers with Pioneers!

Immerse yourself in a unique evening of local flavors and historical tales at the Lake Wales History Museum's Beers with Pioneers. Part of our exciting Pioneer Days festival, this craft beer crawl on the evening of October 25th invites you to wander through downtown Lake Wales. Discover our vibrant community as you enjoy a selection of beers from our local Polk County breweries, celebrating both our heritage and the spirit of innovation that defines our city.