by VISIT SEBRING
Mark your calendars for the much-anticipated 33rd edition of the Caladium Festival, set to take place from July 26 – 28, 2024, in the heart of Central Florida.
Known as the Caladium Capital of the World, Lake Placid welcomes plant enthusiasts to celebrate the vibrant beauty and diversity of caladiums. With a climate perfect for growing these stunning plants, the area produces more than 90% of the world’s caladium bulbs across more than 1,200 acres of commercial farmland.
“After a challenging growing season in 2023, we are thrilled to be back with a three-day event this year,” says Jennifer Bush, Executive Director of the Greater Lake Placid Chamber of Commerce.
“The Caladium Festival is the highlight of our growers’ year, and with a much better growing season this time around, we’ll have an exceptional array of caladiums for everyone to enjoy.”
Visitors can expect to see a stunning display of heart-shaped leaves in various patterns and colors, from greens and whites to vibrant pinks and reds.
The festival is not only a showcase for these beautiful plants but also a summer celebration for the whole family. Attendees can enjoy caladium bus tours with knowledgeable, passionate growers on board, providing insights into the cultivation and care of caladiums. In addition to the tours, caladium bulbs will be available for purchase, allowing visitors to take a piece of Lake Placid home with them.
This year’s festival promises an array of activities beyond the botanical displays. The schedule includes a car and bike show, live entertainment, an arts and floral arrangement competition, vendor booths, and much more. A special highlight is the return of the “Caladium Flyer” from Sugar Express, Florida’s historic steam-powered passenger train. One-hour train trips will depart Lake Placid on Friday and Saturday at 10 a.m., noon, and 2 p.m. each day, offering a nostalgic journey through the scenic landscapes of Central Florida. Tickets for the train rides are $30, while the festival itself is free to attend.
As caladium fields reach their peak beauty in late July through September, the festival offers the perfect timing for visitors to enjoy the stunning displays. Following the festival, the caladium tubers are harvested and shipped across the United States and internationally.
For more information, visit https://www.caladiumfestival.org. You can also contact Tanya Churchmuch at ta***@mu****.com or Casey Hartt at Ca***@vi**********.com .
