The city of Eustis is getting ready to host one of the longest-running, patriotic birthday bashes in Florida.
The 123rd annual Georgefest is a free family-friendly event that takes place Feb. 15 through Feb. 22 in downtown Eustis. It features carnival rides, games, a parade and live entertainment, as well as a history recital and talent show.
Eustis hosts this weeklong celebration in honor George Washington’s birthday, Feb. 22, 1732.
“This event is something to be proud of,” said Jamie Lanford, the city’s public relations manager. “After 2020, this became the longest-running celebration. It added an extra sense of pride for our community and we have no plans of slowing down or stopping. Our sense of pride is unmatched and that’s why the event is so successful.”
The 10th annual Running of the Georges 5K previews the main event 8 a.m. Feb. 8 at Ferran Park, 250 Ferran Park Drive, Eustis. Hundreds of participants dressed as George Washington are expected to race from the park, along Lakeshore Drive and circle back to the park.
Registered participants get a shirt and a short video of them finishing the race. Early registration for the race costs $25 and $30 the day of the race. Proceeds will go toward the city’s Youth Scholarship Program.
Residents will continue the fun Feb. 15, with the opening of the PrimeTime Carnival in downtown Eustis from noon to 11 p.m, and the Kick-Off Concert.
The PrimeTime Carnival, sponsored by the Eustis Chamber of Commerce, will feature a Ferris wheel, merry-go-round and other rides.
The carnival will be open from noon to 9 p.m. Feb. 16, from 5 to 10 p.m. Feb. 17 through Feb. 20, and from noon to 11 p.m. Feb. 21 and Feb. 22. Festival-goers can buy unlimited ride wristbands for $20 before the carnival begins. Wristbands purchased during the carnival will range from $25 to $30 for the week.
Hailing back to the tradition that started it all, the Georgefest Grand Parade will step off 10 a.m. Feb. 22 on Bay Street.
“What makes this event so special is it’s for everyone and it’s completely free,” Landford said. “When it started, it was just a parade. Some (activities) are annual and just expected at this point, including the parade.”
The third annual George Is On My Mind History Recital will shine the spotlight on the festival’s younger participants. Children ages 10 years old and younger will share the history of the nation’s first president during a community performance 6:30 p.m. Feb. 19 at Alice McClelland Memorial Bandshell, on the south end of Ferran Park. The Young Talent Showcase featuring participants 17 years old and younger will follow at 7 p.m.
Throughout the week there will be live musical acts, including Point of Grace, a Christian music group. The group will headline the Kick-Off Concert at 7:30 p.m Feb. 15 at the Alice McClelland Memorial Bandshell.
Grammy-nominated country music artist Jo Dee Messina will take the stage 8 p.m. Feb. 21. The Robert Randolph Band will close the live performances 7:30 p.m. Feb. 22. The four-time Grammy-nominated gospel group features a pedal steel guitar.
The celebration will conclude 9 p.m. with the Grand Finale Fireworks show over Ferran Park.
“The city of Eustis is so community driven,” Lanford said. “We are proud to have a strong sense of history and keeping traditions alive.”
For more information about the patriotic celebration, visit eustis.org or call 352-357-8510.
Staff writer Brea Jones can be reached at 352-753-1119, ext. 5414, or brea.jones@thevillagesmedia.com.
