Arts and Health Week is a dynamic and inspiring celebration held from
Sunday, November 8 – Saturday, November 14, which highlights the powerful connection between creative expression and well-being. By taking part in interactive events, performances, and educational programs, the entire community is invited to explore how the arts support physical, emotional, and social health. Led by the
Polk Arts and Health Collaborative – a
Watson Clinic Foundation initiative - this week unites healthcare professionals, artists, and everyday residents to imagine a healthier future together. These special events are made possible through collaborations with valued local partners, Presenting Sponsor
Orlando Health Watson Clinic Lakeland Highlands Hospital, and grant support from the
Polk Arts & Cultural Alliance.
Over 50 organizations throughout Polk County will celebrate this special week through education, engagement in exciting programs, and by amplifying our wonderful arts community. Some of the event highlights co-hosted by the Watson Clinic Foundation’s Arts in Medicine program include:
Event: State of the Arts: Conversation to Experience
Date: Monday, November 9 from 6 pm – 8 pm
Location: The Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art, 800 E. Palmetto St., Lakeland, FL 33801
Description: What’s next for Lakeland’s creative community? Join LkldNow, Lakeland Vision, Color Wave Walls, and the Watson Clinic Foundation for local perspectives on progress, opportunities, and challenges, and explore how arts and culture help our community thrive. This experience kicks off with interactive arts experiences, including a special guest appearance by Fred Johnson from the David A. Straz Center for the Performing Arts, as well as an opportunity to take home your very own piece of art!
Event: Healing through Horticulture: A Cancer Survivorship Workshop Experience
Date: Tuesday, November 10 at 6 pm
Location: Home Instead, 810 E. Main Street, Lakeland, FL 33801
Description: Join the Breast Cancer Foundation of Central Florida, the Garden Club of Lakeland, and the 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. This event will also feature an informative presentation from Watson Clinic board-certified Endocrinology specialist Madiha Alvi, MD, FACP, FACE on the hormonal changes you can expect during and after cancer treatment and a hands-on horticulture and wellness experience. This event is also supported through our program partner Home Instead.
Event: Little Beats, Big Benefits
Date: Friday, November 13 from 9:30 am – 10:15 am
Friday, November 13 from 10:30 am – 11:15 am
Location: 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 families with children under six, this playful music therapy session invites kids to sing, dance, and move while parents learn how rhythm and motion support early development and well-being. Presented by The Carol Jenkins Barnett United Way Children’s Resource Center (Success by Six), in partnership with Whole Steps Creative Arts Center and the Watson Clinic Foundation's Arts in Medicine program.
Event: The Big Sing
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 a room full of voices rising together as a live chamber orchestra plays feel-good songs across time. Whether you've sung on stage or only in your car, everyone belongs. No auditions. No experience. No pressure. Just an unforgettable evening of sing-along 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. Partners for this event include Florida Southern College, Lakeland Choral Society, Lakeland Symphony Orchestra, and the Watson Clinic Foundation's Arts in Medicine program. Also made possible through a generous grant from the Polk Arts & Cultural Alliance.
Event: Swing Into Wellness: Jump, Jive & Thrive
Date: Saturday, November 14 from 5 pm – 9 pm
Location: Magnolia Building, 702 E. Orange St., Lakeland, FL 33801
Description: Ready to swing into wellness? Jump, Jive, & Thrive makes movement fun with beginner-friendly swing dancing and a welcoming atmosphere. Come on your own or bring friends to learn steps, laugh, and enjoy the social side of dance. No previous experience needed. This event is made possible through the generous support of event partner LKLD Lindy Hop and program partner the City of Lakeland.
All events require an RSVP to attend. For more information and to RSVP for these and other events occurring during the week, visit ArtsHealthWeek.org.