You’re invited to take part in Arts and Health Week from November 8 - November 14, 2026!
This dynamic, community-wide celebration highlights the powerful connection between creative expression and well-being. Through interactive events, performances, and educational programs, we invite the entire community to explore how the arts support physical, emotional, and social health. Led by the
Watson Clinic Foundation's Arts in Medicine Program and the Polk Arts and Health Collaborative, this week unites healthcare professionals, artists, and everyday residents to imagine a healthier future together.
Some of the event highlights taking place during the week include the following (click the RSVP link to reserve your spot for any event of your choosing):
Event: Growing Through Creativity: Florida Children's Museum
Date: Sunday, November 8 from 10 am - 1 pm
Location: Florida Children’s Museum, 600 Bonnet Springs Blvd., Lakeland, FL 33815
Description: Families are invited to explore emotions through creativity, music, and play! Children visiting the Florida Children's Museum will have the opportunity to design their own felt "Feelings Monster," participate in engaging music activities led by a board-certified music therapist, and take home a family resource bag filled with book recommendations, conversation starters, and simple activities to continue building emotional wellness together.
No RSVP Required.
Event: Art Crawl
Date: Sunday, November 8 from 11 am - 5 pm
Location: Swan Brewing, 115 W. Pine Street, Lakeland, FL 33815
Description: Join us at Swan Brewing as Arts and Health Week kicks off with the energy and color of Art Crawl, Lakeland’s annual immersive art festival. We’ll spark connection and joy with a vibrant community coloring. Discover “Did you know?” moments while you explore and discover the many ways that the arts support health. It’s a celebration of creativity, community, and well-being, all in one unforgettable afternoon.
No RSVP Required.
Event: State of the Arts: From Conversation to Experience
Date: Monday, November 9 from 6 pm - 8 pm
Location: Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art, 800 E. Palmetto St., Lakeland, FL 33801
Description: The conversation continues. Join LkldNow, Lakeland Vision, Color Wave Walls and Watson Clinic Foundation for the second State of the Arts forum. Building on last year's community discussion, local leaders will share updates on the progress, opportunities, and challenges shaping our arts and cultural landscape while exploring how the arts continue to strengthen our economy, enhance quality of life, and contribute to healthier, more connected communities.
RSVP Required (link coming soon).
Event: Healing Through Horticulture: A Cancer Survivorship Workshop Experience
Date: Tuesday, November 10
Time & Location: TBD
Description: Join the Breast Cancer Foundation of Central Florida, the Garden Club of Lakeland, and Watson Clinic Foundation for a hands-on workshop exploring the healing power of nature. Open to all cancer survivors—from the day of diagnosis onward—participants will create a miniature succulent garden while learning how connecting with nature can support emotional well-being, reduce stress, and foster resilience throughout the survivorship journey.
RSVP Required (link coming soon).
Event: Little Beats, Big Benefits — Session 1
Date: Friday, November 13 from 9:30 am - 10:15 am
Location: CJB Children’s Resource Center- Bonnet Springs Park, 400 Bonnet Springs Blvd., Lakeland, FL 33815
Description: Discover how music and movement can boost your child's health and happiness! Designed for children under six, this playful music therapy session with United Way Success by 6, held at Bonnet Springs Park, invites kids to sing, dance, and move while parents learn how rhythm and motion support early development and well-being. Presented by United Way Success By Six, in partnership with Whole Steps Music Therapy and the Watson Clinic Foundation's Arts in Medicine Program, this event blends fun with evidence-based insights to show how small beats can make a big impact!
RSVP Required (link coming soon).
Event: Little Beats, Big Benefits — Session 2
Date: Friday, November 13 from 10:30 am - 11:15 am
Location: CJB Children’s Resource Center- Bonnet Springs Park, 400 Bonnet Springs Blvd., Lakeland, FL 33815
Description: Discover how music and movement can boost your child's health and happiness! Designed for children under six, this playful music therapy session with United Way Success by 6, held at Bonnet Springs Park, invites kids to sing, dance, and move while parents learn how rhythm and motion support early development and well-being. Presented by United Way Success By Six, in partnership with Whole Steps Music Therapy and the Watson Clinic Foundation's Arts in Medicine Program, this event blends fun with evidence-based insights to show how small beats can make a big impact!
RSVP Required (link coming soon).
Event: Swing Into Wellness: LKLD Lindy Hop
Date: Saturday, November 14
Time: To be confirmed
Location: Magnolia Building, 702 E. Orange St, Lakeland, FL 33801
Description: Experience the joy of movement through beginner-friendly swing dancing! Whether you come solo or with friends, you'll discover how music, movement, and social connection can boost well-being while having an incredible time. No partner or dance experience required—just bring comfortable shoes and a willingness to have fun at this special event with LKLD Lindy Hop and Watson Clinic Foundation. Special thanks to Partner Sponsor City of Lakeland.
RSVP Required (link coming soon).
Event: The Big Sing: A Concert Turned Inside Out
Date: Saturday, November 14 from 2 pm - 4 pm
Location: Florida Southern College Branscomb Auditorium, 1100 Johnson Ave, Lakeland, FL 33803
Description: This isn't a concert you'll watch—it's one you'll be part of. Imagine hundreds of voices rising together as a live symphony orchestra accompanies you. Whether you've sung on stage or only in your car, everyone belongs. No auditions. No experience. No pressure. Just an unforgettable evening of music, joy, and connection. Before you leave, pick up our Find Your Singing Community guide to discover local choruses, community singing groups, and vocal opportunities that can keep the music going long after the final note.
RSVP Requested (link coming soon).
Click here for all Arts & Health Week 2026 events.