City of Lake Wales, Florida

09/14/2026

On Friday, September 11, members of the Lake Wales Police and Fire Departments gathered with family and friends at Legion Field to honor the heroic first responders who made the ultimate sacrifice on September 11, 2001.

Participants recreated the 110 flights of stairs climbed by first responders at the World Trade Center by climbing the bleacher steps at Legion Field 90 times.

This small but meaningful tribute served as a way for our Lake Wales first responders and their loved ones to remember and honor the 2,977 lives lost in the tragedy 25 years ago, while reflecting on the courage, sacrifice and selflessness displayed by first responders that day.

09/14/2026

A familiar local favorite has found a new home in the downtown historic district of Lake Wales. The community came out to celebrate the ribbon-cutting for Downtown Pizza & Sportsbar, located at 253 East Stuart Avenue. Owners Kevin and Janay Rodriguez relocated their popular business to the heart of Lake Wales and it’s bringing new energy and activity to the revitalized historic core.

The Rodriguez family have served the area since 2018, when they first opened Dundee Downtown Pizza. Now, they are bringing their well-loved menu and small-town hospitality to Lake Wales. Guests can enjoy brick-oven-style pizza, wings, calzones, Strombolis, pasta, and salads. In the space next to the dining room, they have created a sports bar experience featuring large-screen TVs, darts, and a pool table. They are open from 11am-10pm seven days a week. Check out their menu or order online: www.downtownpizzafl.com or call ahead for pickup: 863-353-5473.

Welcome to the neighborhood!

09/11/2026

Located at 20 N. Market St., Market Cafe serves up a variety of breakfast and lunch options, including bowls, sandwiches, salads, wraps and more. You can also build your own meal from their selection of plates and baskets, with a variety of sides to choose from.

Watch the video to hear about Gabe's lunch experience and discover what makes this family-owned restaurant a specialty eatery.

Visit the link in our bio to discover more specialty shops and eateries, outdoor adventures and signature events to experience in Lake Wales.
www.experiencelakewales.com

09/10/2026

City Commission proclaimed September 14 through September 18 as Redevelopment Week.

WHEREAS, Community Redevelopment Agencies (CRAs) and redevelopment programs play a vital role play a vital role in revitalizing neighborhoods, addressing areas of slum and blight, strengthening local economies, revitalizing downtowns, and improving the quality of life for residents and businesses throughout the State of Florida; and

WHEREAS, redevelopment initiatives encourage private investment, support small businesses, improve infrastructure, enhance public spaces, and expand housing opportunities, thereby fostering vibrant, resilient, and equitable communities; and

WHEREAS, the Florida Redevelopment Association (FRA), in partnership with municipalities, counties, and community stakeholders, promotes best practices, professional education, and collaboration to advance community redevelopment efforts throughout Florida; and

WHEREAS Florida Redevelopment Week serves as an opportunity to recognize redevelopment achievements, highlight transformational projects, engage residents and stakeholders, and celebrate the economic, social, and cultural benefits of community revitalization; and

WHEREAS, the observance of Florida Redevelopment Week will raise awareness of the importance of community redevelopment and inspire continued public and private investment in Florida's neighborhoods, downtowns and commercial corridors.

09/09/2026

09/08/2026

Select the link to view the agenda for the City Commission Meeting on Wednesday, September 9 at 6pm.

Agenda:
https://www.lakewalesfl.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_09092026-1741?html=true

Live stream: https://lakewales.granicus.com/player/camera/3?publish_id=2&redirect=true&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR1aK5HHZrBHuJzHdzMvZS0sLk1NUnvSiWo6SuwQWGqlDf5XDx--3vx7TEc_aem_AWzg8vR8A5ADSCFThqcaa-EXNQdMFvny487ODxDdnO8OewEAwbsXMVsqtn0_p7o1TLm7PoMgPbqbsZ7pxNnEx9yA

09/06/2026

When you "flipped" your calendar yesterday to September did you get goose bumps? We did! Pioneer Days is NEXT MONTH! Gearing up for a great event.

09/03/2026

City administration offices and facilities will be closed Monday, September 7th in observance of Labor Day.

09/01/2026

Dolly Parton's Imagination Library brings smiles to kids in Lake Wales and beyond. Spectrum News Reporter Alexis Jones shares Dolly's love for literacy, and the resources available to kids at the Lake Wales Public Library and online. Check out the video to learn more details.

The program mails a brand-new book to children each month, addressed to them and tailored to their age.