Blog Nona

Each first and third Wednesday of the month, Lake Nona’s Laureate Parks Village Center comes alive with the vibrant sights, sounds, and scents of the Lake Nona Farmers Market. This popular bi-monthly event brings together a curated selection of local farmers, artisans, and small businesses offering everything from fresh produce and handmade goods to specialty foods and plants. Open year-round, the market offers residents and visitors a lively way to support the community while enjoying a relaxed, open-air shopping experience right in the heart of Lake Nona.

More than just a place to pick up groceries, the Lake Nona Farmers Market is a gathering spot where neighbors connect and visitors discover the creativity and passion of local vendors. Shoppers can browse booths filled with farm-fresh fruits and vegetables, organic honey, artisanal breads, handcrafted jewelry, and much more. Food trucks and live music often add to the festive atmosphere, creating a welcoming environment that feels like a small-town tradition with a modern Lake Nona twist.

As Lake Nona continues to grow, the Farmers Market has become an essential part of the community’s lifestyle, offering a refreshing alternative to big-box stores while supporting local entrepreneurs. Whether you're stocking up on fresh ingredients, hunting for unique gifts, or just enjoying a sunny morning stroll, the Lake Nona Farmers Market delivers a taste of local flavor with every visit.  It is an evening market from 5 to 8pm which makes it perfect for stopping buy after work.

#LakeNonaFarmersMarket #lakenona

Every summer, Lake Nona’s vibrant spirit comes alive with the annual Run Nona 5K and Nemours Children’s Run, a beloved event that blends fitness, family, and community into one exciting evening. Held in the heart of Lake Nona’s Town Center, the race invites runners, walkers, and families to hit the streets for a fun-filled 5K through the scenic community, followed by a lively block party celebration. Designed for participants of all ages and fitness levels, the event has become a highlight of Lake Nona’s active lifestyle calendar, drawing residents and visitors who love a little friendly competition and a lot of local pride.

The Run Nona 5K offers a certified course that winds through some of the community’s most picturesque areas, with runners cheered on by enthusiastic spectators along the way. Meanwhile, the Nemours Children’s Run provides a shorter, kid-friendly race designed to introduce young runners to the fun of organized events. Both races finish back at the Town Center, where the energy continues with live music, delicious food and drinks, and interactive activities for the entire family. It’s not just about crossing the finish line—it’s about celebrating health, wellness, and community together.

With its festive atmosphere and inclusive spirit, the Run Nona 5K and Nemours Children’s Run perfectly capture the active, family-focused vibe that defines Lake Nona. Whether you’re racing for a personal best or simply joining the fun, it’s an event that leaves everyone smiling.

Register and get details today.

#RunNona5K #NemoursChildrensRun #lakenona

Taste of Nona is one of the Lake Nona area’s favorite culinary events, bringing together a vibrant showcase of the community’s best restaurants, cafes, and eateries for an evening of incredible food, drinks, and entertainment. Hosted annually by the Lake Nona Regional Chamber of Commerce each spring, this lively event is designed to spotlight the neighborhood’s growing dining scene while offering residents a night of tasting, mingling, and celebration. Set in a festive atmosphere, guests sample an impressive array of dishes from dozens of local favorites, making it a can’t-miss event for food lovers across the region.

More than just a tasting event, Taste of Nona captures the spirit of community that defines Lake Nona. Attendees are treated to live music, raffles, and the chance to meet the chefs and artisans behind their favorite restaurants. Each ticket includes unlimited food and beverage samples, allowing guests to explore everything from gourmet creations and international flavors to creative cocktails and decadent desserts. The event’s energetic and welcoming vibe makes it a perfect night out for friends, couples, and families alike.

As Lake Nona’s culinary reputation continues to grow, Taste of Nona stands as a true celebration of local talent, creativity, and community pride. It’s a delicious reminder of why Lake Nona is quickly becoming one of Central Florida’s most dynamic places to live, work, and dine.

#TasteofNona #lakenona

Each December, Lake Nona becomes a magical winter wonderland during the much-loved "Oh, What Fun!" Holiday Festival. Held at the Lake Nona Town Center, this festival transforms the heart of the community into a festive celebration complete with dazzling lights, holiday markets, entertainment, and special appearances from Santa Claus himself. Designed for residents of all ages, the festival offers a season-long celebration where families, friends, and neighbors come together to embrace the joy and spirit of the holidays.

Oh, What Fun! features nightly entertainment including live music performances, holiday movie screenings on the lawn, and interactive family activities that keep the energy high throughout the season. Children can visit Santa’s Cottage for meet-and-greet moments, while parents and shoppers explore a pop-up holiday market filled with artisan gifts, seasonal treats, and festive decorations. Food trucks and local restaurants provide delicious bites, adding to the festive atmosphere with winter-themed menus and holiday desserts.

One of the festival’s highlights is the nightly snowfall experience, where flurries drift across the Town Center, delighting visitors and creating a true winter holiday feel — even in the heart of Florida. The joyful energy, twinkling lights, and shared sense of celebration make Oh, What Fun! a beloved tradition for Lake Nona families and a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the magic of the season close to home.

#OhWhatFunLakeNona #lakenona

Every October, Lake Nona transforms into a playful, spooky wonderland with its signature event: Graveyard Smash. Designed as a family-friendly Halloween festival, Spooky Nona brings together the entire community for an evening of costumes, trick-or-treating, live entertainment, and fall-themed festivities. Hosted in Lake Nona Town Center, the event invites residents of all ages to dress up, explore creatively decorated zones, and enjoy treats from local businesses and food vendors scattered throughout the area.

Highlights of Graveyard Smash typically include themed photo ops, live music, craft stations, pumpkin painting, and even dance parties under the stars. Kids, pets, and adults alike get into the spirit with costume contests and festive games. The entire event captures Lake Nona’s signature blend of creativity, community, and family focus. Whether you’re hunting for candy, showing off your costume, or simply soaking in the lively atmosphere, Spooky Nona offers an unforgettable night of Halloween fun right in the heart of Lake Nona.

#graveyardsmash#SpookyNona #lakenona #halloween

Each summer, Lake Nona residents gather for one of the community’s most anticipated events: the Lake Nona Annual Fireworks Festival. Held around Independence Day, this lively celebration transforms Lake Nona’s Town Center and surrounding parks into a sea of red, white, and blue, bringing together neighbors, families, and visitors to honor the holiday with style. The event typically features live music, food trucks, kid-friendly activities, and, of course, an unforgettable fireworks display that lights up the Florida night sky.

Designed to celebrate not only the Fourth of July but also the spirit of Lake Nona itself, the festival offers an atmosphere of joy and unity. Residents often arrive early with lawn chairs and picnic blankets, enjoying everything from local vendors to patriotic performances. The grand finale, a dazzling fireworks show choreographed to music, remains the centerpiece, leaving attendees in awe year after year. The Lake Nona Annual Fireworks Festival continues to grow, reflecting the vibrant, family-focused community that calls Lake Nona home.

#LakeNonaFireworksFestival #4thofjuly #july4th #fireworks #lakenona

In the Southeast Nona area, the Back to Nature Wildlife Refuge offers a unique and meaningful experience for residents and visitors who appreciate Florida's diverse wildlife. Nestled within the protected lands of the Split Oak Forest Wildlife and Environmental Area, this nonprofit organization serves as a sanctuary for injured, orphaned, and displaced native animals. More than just a place to see wildlife up close, Back to Nature is a center for education, conservation, and community involvement, making it a true hidden gem for Lake Nona residents seeking to connect with nature and support a worthy cause.

Founded in 1989, Back to Nature Wildlife Refuge started as a small, grassroots effort by a group of dedicated volunteers who wanted to provide rehabilitation and second chances for Central Florida’s wildlife. Over the years, the organization has grown into a vital part of the region’s environmental landscape. In 2010, Back to Nature relocated to its current home adjacent to Split Oak Forest, allowing it to expand its services and reach. The facility now includes spacious animal enclosures, educational exhibits, walking trails, and a small but impactful visitor center, all designed to foster a deeper understanding of Florida's unique ecosystems and the creatures that call them home.

The heart of Back to Nature’s mission is wildlife rehabilitation. Each year, the refuge receives hundreds of animals in need—everything from injured hawks and orphaned raccoons to displaced tortoises and even deer. The goal is always to release these animals back into the wild once they have recovered. For those that cannot be released due to permanent injuries or habituation to humans, Back to Nature offers a lifelong home within its sanctuary. Visitors to the refuge can meet a variety of permanent resident animals, including bald eagles, bobcats, owls, foxes, and tortoises, each with their own story of resilience and survival.

Educational programming is another major focus at Back to Nature. The refuge offers guided tours, field trips for schools, summer camps, and public workshops that cover topics such as wildlife conservation, native habitats, and responsible stewardship of Florida’s natural resources. These programs are designed to inspire the next generation of environmental advocates and to foster a greater respect for the delicate balance of Florida's ecosystems. Special events like Wildlife Festivals, Family Days, and seasonal celebrations offer fun, interactive opportunities for the community to engage with the refuge’s mission in a lively, family-friendly atmosphere.

Visitors to Back to Nature Wildlife Refuge can enjoy a leisurely walk through the facility's scenic trails, which wind past enclosures housing the permanent animal residents and offer glimpses into the natural beauty of the surrounding conservation lands. Informational signage throughout the grounds shares the stories of individual animals and educates visitors about Florida’s native species. While the refuge is modest compared to larger zoos or theme parks, its intimacy and authenticity create a truly rewarding experience, especially for families, school groups, and wildlife enthusiasts seeking a more personal and meaningful encounter with nature.

The refuge is also closely tied to broader conservation efforts in the Lake Nona and southeast Orlando areas. Its location near Split Oak Forest—a crucial protected habitat for species like the gopher tortoise and Florida scrub-jay—underscores its commitment to preserving natural environments. Back to Nature partners with local, regional, and national organizations to promote land conservation, wildlife rescue, and public awareness initiatives that have lasting impacts well beyond its own borders.

Supporting Back to Nature Wildlife Refuge is easy and impactful. As a nonprofit organization, it relies heavily on donations, sponsorships, volunteer efforts, and community involvement. Opportunities to help include animal care volunteering, event staffing, habitat maintenance, and participating in fundraising events. Even a simple visit to the refuge supports its operations, helping to ensure that Central Florida’s wildlife continues to have a safe haven for years to come.

Located at 10525 Clapp Simms Duda Road, Orlando, FL 32832, Back to Nature Wildlife Refuge is less than a 20-minute drive from Lake Nona’s Town Center. Its convenient proximity makes it an ideal destination for an afternoon outing, educational field trip, or weekend adventure that combines fun with meaningful impact. Parking is free, and admission fees are modest, making it an affordable and accessible option for individuals, families, and groups alike.

Whether you're seeking a peaceful walk among native animals, looking to teach children about Florida's environment, or simply wanting to support an organization that makes a real difference, Back to Nature Wildlife Refuge delivers an experience that is heartfelt, educational, and unforgettable. It is a testament to the spirit of community, compassion, and stewardship that defines the Lake Nona area and provides a perfect complement to the high-energy lifestyle that surrounds it.

To learn more about visiting hours, animal adoptions, upcoming events, or volunteer opportunities, guests are encouraged to visit the refuge’s official website or connect with them through social media for the latest updates.

#BacktoNatureWildlifeRefuge #lakenona

Located conveniently near Lake Nona and just south of Orlando International Airport, McCoy Community Park offers a welcoming retreat for families, athletes, and outdoor enthusiasts in Southeast Orlando. Though not as large or widely known as some of the city's signature parks, McCoy Community Park stands out as a beloved gathering place for nearby neighborhoods, providing well-maintained facilities, open spaces, and a genuine community atmosphere. For residents of Lake Nona and surrounding areas, it serves as a nearby recreational escape without the need for a long drive or crowded tourist traffic.

McCoy Community Park spans approximately 20 acres and offers a balance of active and passive recreational spaces. Its amenities are tailored to support both organized sports and casual, everyday leisure activities. At the heart of the park is a set of meticulously maintained athletic fields, including baseball and softball diamonds that are regularly used for local leagues, practices, and pick-up games. For youth sports organizations, McCoy Park provides a convenient, accessible location to host practices and small tournaments without the scheduling conflicts often seen at larger regional parks.

Shaded bleachers provide seating for spectators, ensuring that friends and family can comfortably cheer on their teams during weekend games or after-school practices.

The park also offers a playground area designed for younger children. The playground is modest but thoughtfully designed, featuring climbing structures, slides, and swings in a soft, mulch-covered setting. Nearby picnic tables and shaded pavilions make it easy for parents to relax while children play, creating a family-friendly atmosphere that draws visitors throughout the week. For those planning small celebrations like birthday parties or team gatherings, the covered picnic areas can often be reserved in advance through the City of Orlando Parks and Recreation Department.

Another highlight of McCoy Community Park is its accessibility and ease of use. Located just off McCoy Road and easily reached from Narcoossee Road or Boggy Creek Road, the park is less than a 15-minute drive from most Lake Nona neighborhoods. Parking is plentiful and free, and the park's layout is compact enough to allow visitors to comfortably move between fields, playgrounds, and picnic areas without long walks. The park's straightforward design and proximity to major roads make it a favorite spot for families who value simplicity and convenience in their recreational choices.

While McCoy Community Park may not have the expansive trail systems or splash pads found at some of Orlando’s larger parks, it makes up for it with a strong sense of local pride. Community sports leagues, family picnics, and weekend fitness groups all find a home here. The park regularly partners with local organizations to host youth sports clinics, seasonal festivals, and volunteer-driven beautification projects that help maintain its clean, inviting environment. For those who prefer a quieter, more local experience compared to Orlando’s larger destination parks, McCoy Community Park offers a refreshing change of pace.

The park’s proximity to the airport also makes it a unique landmark. Planes taking off and landing provide an exciting backdrop for kids and aviation enthusiasts alike, creating a subtle energy throughout the park without being disruptive. It’s not unusual to see families pause their soccer games for a moment to watch a jumbo jet roar overhead—a simple pleasure that adds to the character of the space.

For Lake Nona residents, McCoy Community Park is a reminder that sometimes the best parks aren't the ones with the most attractions, but the ones that feel like home. Its focus on community, recreation, and accessibility makes it an important piece of Southeast Orlando’s park system and a quiet asset for those who know where to find it. Whether you're looking to coach a youth team, host a picnic, or simply spend an afternoon outdoors close to home, McCoy Community Park delivers a welcoming, down-to-earth experience that fits seamlessly into the Lake Nona lifestyle.

To learn more about McCoy Community Park, including facility reservations and upcoming events, visitors can check the City of Orlando Parks and Recreation website or visit the park directly to explore its offerings firsthand.

#McCoyCommunityPark #lakenona

The Lake Nona YMCA Family Center has become a cornerstone of health, fitness, and community life for residents of the Lake Nona region. Conveniently located in Laureate Park near the heart of Lake Nona’s bustling Town Center, this modern and thoughtfully designed facility brings together world-class fitness amenities, youth programming, and a true sense of belonging. For Lake Nona families, young professionals, and retirees alike, the YMCA represents not just a place to exercise—it’s a vital gathering point where wellness and connection thrive.

Opened in 2018, the Lake Nona YMCA Family Center reflects the broader vision of the Lake Nona community itself: innovation, inclusivity, and a focus on the whole person. The 30,000-square-foot facility is state-of-the-art, offering an extensive selection of fitness options that cater to a wide variety of interests and needs. Whether you are looking to train for a triathlon, join a group fitness class, or simply find a supportive environment to stay active, the Lake Nona YMCA provides top-notch resources to help members achieve their goals.

The fitness center features a wide array of strength and cardio equipment, including free weights, resistance machines, treadmills, ellipticals, rowing machines, and more. An indoor cycling studio, functional training areas, and dedicated spaces for stretching and personal training ensure that members can customize their workouts to suit their preferences. For those who thrive on group energy, the YMCA offers a robust schedule of classes ranging from yoga and Zumba to HIIT, spin, Pilates, and body pump sessions. Certified instructors lead every class, creating an encouraging and motivating environment for participants at every fitness level.

One of the standout features of the Lake Nona YMCA is its aquatics program. The facility includes a beautiful heated outdoor swimming pool with lap lanes and a splash pad for children. Swim lessons are available for all ages, from beginner-level children to adult swimmers looking to refine their technique. In addition, the YMCA hosts water fitness classes and open swim times, making it a family-friendly resource for both recreation and competitive swimming development. Aquatic safety is a top priority, and all lifeguards are Red Cross-certified to ensure the highest standards of pool supervision.

Families are particularly drawn to the Lake Nona YMCA for its wide variety of youth programming. Beyond swim lessons, the center offers youth sports leagues, including soccer, basketball, and flag football, all designed to emphasize sportsmanship, teamwork, and skill development. Seasonal camps, after-school programs, and teen leadership initiatives provide children and adolescents with a safe, supportive environment to grow socially and emotionally while staying active. The YMCA’s strong focus on character development and community service also aligns with Lake Nona’s broader values of innovation and social responsibility.

The YMCA’s commitment to holistic wellness extends beyond physical fitness. The facility offers specialized wellness coaching, weight loss programs, chronic disease prevention initiatives, and mindfulness classes that address the mental, emotional, and social dimensions of health. Through partnerships with local healthcare providers and community organizations, the Lake Nona YMCA hosts educational seminars, screenings, and wellness events throughout the year, reinforcing its role as a hub for lifelong well-being.

Membership options are flexible and accessible, with plans available for individuals, couples, families, and seniors. Financial assistance is also available for those who qualify, ensuring that the YMCA remains an inclusive and welcoming space for all members of the community. Members enjoy access not only to the Lake Nona location but also to YMCA facilities across Central Florida, expanding their wellness options even further.

One of the many advantages of the Lake Nona YMCA Family Center is its integration into the greater Lake Nona community fabric. Located adjacent to Laureate Park and near Lake Nona Town Center, the YMCA sits within easy reach for thousands of Lake Nona residents. Many members choose to bike, jog, or even walk to the center, incorporating fitness into their daily routines in a natural, seamless way. Parking is ample and convenient, and the facility is easily accessible from major roads like Narcoossee Road and Tavistock Lakes Boulevard.

The spirit of community is palpable at the Lake Nona YMCA. From group fitness classes that foster camaraderie to volunteer events that give back to local causes, the Family Center goes far beyond traditional gym culture. It’s a place where neighbors meet, friendships are forged, and the ideals of wellness, family, and service come together. In a fast-growing region like Lake Nona, where innovation and lifestyle go hand in hand, the YMCA stands as a welcoming, essential part of the community's everyday rhythm.

Whether you’re looking to kickstart a new fitness journey, find enriching programs for your children, or simply connect with like-minded neighbors, the Lake Nona YMCA Family Center offers an unparalleled combination of facilities, programming, and heart. It’s more than just a fitness center—it’s the beating heart of wellness in Lake Nona, helping residents lead healthier, happier, and more connected lives every day.

To learn more about programs, classes, and membership options, visit the official YMCA website or stop by the Lake Nona Family Center for a tour and complimentary guest pass.

#LakeNonaYMCAFamilyCenter #lakenona

Located just a few minutes east of Lake Nona, North Shore Golf Club offers an accessible and enjoyable championship golf experience for residents and visitors alike. Situated along Moss Park Road near the scenic Lake Hart and Lake Mary Jane areas, this semi-private 18-hole course provides a welcoming atmosphere, outstanding course conditions, and an affordable alternative to private country clubs. For Lake Nona residents looking for a casual round, professional-level play, or a convenient place to improve their game, North Shore Golf Club stands as one of the region's best-kept secrets.

Designed by Mike Dasher and opened in 2001, North Shore Golf Club delivers a truly unique playing experience with its dual-style layout. The "front nine" winds through a traditional Carolina-style setting, with fairways framed by towering oak trees and natural woodlands. The "back nine" opens up into a classic Florida links-style layout, featuring wide fairways, strategic bunkering, and the challenge of constant coastal winds. This diversity in design not only keeps players engaged throughout their round but also highlights Florida’s natural beauty in two distinct ways.

The par-72 course stretches over 6,900 yards from the championship tees but offers multiple tee boxes to accommodate players of all levels. The course rating is a comfortable 73.4 with a slope of 134, meaning it provides a test for competitive players while remaining accessible and enjoyable for beginners and high-handicap golfers. Water hazards come into play on several holes, adding both beauty and challenge, but the wide landing areas allow for an enjoyable pace of play even for casual golfers.

North Shore Golf Club is especially popular for its well-manicured TifEagle greens, which roll true and fast throughout the year. Golfers frequently praise the conditioning of the course, noting that even during Central Florida’s hotter months, the maintenance staff keeps fairways lush and greens in tournament-quality shape. The club is a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary, emphasizing environmental stewardship and showcasing a rich array of native plants, wetlands, and local wildlife.

The facilities at North Shore Golf Club complement the course perfectly. The clubhouse features a fully stocked pro shop, locker rooms, and The North Shore Grill, where players can enjoy casual dining and drinks after a round. The covered patio area offers beautiful views of the finishing holes, making it an inviting spot to relax and recount the day’s shots. The club also offers a spacious driving range, short game practice areas, and putting greens, providing ample space for warm-ups or serious practice sessions.

Instructional opportunities at North Shore are available through a team of PGA-certified teaching professionals. Private lessons, group clinics, junior camps, and club fitting services are offered year-round, making it an excellent venue for players looking to sharpen their skills. The club’s community-oriented approach means it regularly hosts tournaments, charity outings, and league play, fostering a welcoming environment for both competitive and social golfers.

One of the biggest advantages for Lake Nona residents is the convenience of North Shore’s location. Situated just off Moss Park Road and within minutes of the 417 expressway, the course can be reached from most Lake Nona neighborhoods in about 10 to 15 minutes. For golfers who want a quick nine holes after work or a relaxing weekend morning round without battling I-4 traffic, North Shore Golf Club offers an unbeatable option close to home.

Memberships at North Shore Golf Club are optional and flexible, including full golf memberships, weekday-only options, and seasonal programs. Public daily fee play is also available, with competitive rates and discounted tee times offered through online booking platforms. Many Lake Nona residents appreciate having the ability to play a high-quality course without the financial commitment of a full private club membership.

Beyond golf, the course’s proximity to other Lake Nona attractions adds to its appeal. After a morning round, it's easy to swing by Lake Nona Town Center, Boxi Park, or any of the area's top restaurants for lunch or shopping. For active residents looking to blend golf with Lake Nona’s lifestyle of health, wellness, and recreation, North Shore fits perfectly into the rhythm of daily life.

Whether you're a serious player chasing birdies, a beginner looking for a friendly place to learn, or a family seeking a relaxing outdoor activity, North Shore Golf Club delivers on all fronts. It’s a welcoming, beautifully maintained course that feels like a private club without the exclusivity—and it’s right next door to everything Lake Nona has to offer.

To book a tee time, learn about membership options, or get more information on events and tournaments, interested players can visit the official website or contact the pro shop directly at (407) 277-9277.

#NorthShoreGolfClub #lakenona