MOUNT DORA, FL (352today.com) — Families from across Central Florida are invited to experience the golden sweetness of Zellwood corn and small-town charm at the Mount Dora Corn Festival, happening Saturday, May 24, from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Elizabeth Evans Park. This family-friendly celebration highlights the region’s agricultural history while serving up a full day of food, entertainment, and community fun.

Admission includes unlimited ears of freshly prepared Zellwood sweet corn, grown exclusively at Long & Scott Farms near Mount Dora. Advance tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for children ages 4-9. Kids under 3 are free.

Get in on the corn on the corn on the cob eating contest – regular or spicy! Courtesy: City of Mount Dora

Chris Carson, Cultural & Special Events Manager for the City of Mount Dora, says the festival aims to revive a cherished tradition that once defined Zellwood. “The Corn Festival symbolizes the spirit of our community and the importance of agriculture—especially corn. For years, I heard stories from families about how special those Zellwood days were, and we wanted to bring that feeling back.”

Festival-goers can expect a packed lineup of activities including:

  • Corn on the cob eating contests (regular and spicy)
  • Cornbread cook-offs for both home bakers and businesses
  • Signature corn-themed food vendors
  • A kids’ zone and expanded petting zoo
  • Cornhole tournaments
  • Live music headlined by Blanco Brown with special guest Sean Holcomb
  • The crowning of the Corn King and Queen

Carson emphasizes the festival’s family-friendly appeal: “From the petting zoo to live music by the lake, we designed this event so every generation can enjoy something. Nobody’s in a rush to leave—they’re enjoying each other’s company.”

Four smiling volunteers in blue shirts and white aprons that read “It’s Corn!” pose together under a festival tent while holding corn trays. Booths and festivalgoers are visible in the background.
Volunteers serve fresh corn at the Mount Dora Corn Festival, wearing aprons with the event’s official logo. Courtesy: City of Mount Dora

The picturesque lakefront setting at Elizabeth Evans Park also plays a big role. “It’s a unique landscape. You have Lake Dora right there, plus easy access to downtown without closing streets. It’s beautiful and convenient,” Carson says.

Music is another major draw. While local and regional performers will take the stage throughout the day, national headliner Blanco Brown and also performing Sean Holcomb are expected to bring in crowds. “Bringing in nationally recognized artists adds a level of credibility and energy that elevates the entire experience,” Carson explains.

Blanco Brown leans on a classic brown car while wearing a colorful crocheted jacket, beige pants, and a brown cap with his name embroidered. Industrial silos and a blue sky fill the background.
Blanco Brown will perform at the Mount Dora Corn Festival. Courtesy: Blanco Brown/BBR Music Group

The Corn Festival also boosts local tourism and business. “May tends to be slower for tourism, but this gives people a reason to stay in Mount Dora rather than head to the beach. Foot traffic increases, and that helps our local shops and restaurants.”

Beyond entertainment, the event aims to honor agricultural heritage and educate new generations. “This festival has roots,” says Carson. “It’s our responsibility to keep traditions alive and remind people how important farming and heritage are to our community.”

Organizers hope to expand future festivals with more culinary collaborations and corn-based recipes. “There’s so much creativity with sweet corn—we’d love to see area restaurants join in to showcase drinks, dishes, and more,” Carson says.

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