BY ROBIN MIMNA
This quiet West Volusia city may be small, but it knows how to draw a crowd. Over the weekend of March 15-16, Lake Helen saw packed streets and overflowing parking lots as three major events brought together runners, strawberry enthusiasts and art lovers for a lively and memorable weekend.
Leprechaun Run 5K kicks off a weekend of festivities in Lake Helen
Kicking off the weekend, the second annual Leprechaun Run 5K Fun Run, hosted by American Legion Post 127, had runners hitting the pavement under ideal race conditions. Among the enthusiastic participants were Mayor Vernon Burton, Commissioner Roger “Lucky” Eckert and former Commissioner Kelly Frasca showing their support for the event, which raises funds for local military veterans and their families.
The race saw a competitive finish, with the top runners posting impressive times:
Owen Cox (19, MA) – 19:58
Alexander McDermott (21, AZ) – 21:01
Katrina Pelican (46, FL) – 21:56
Cole Miller (16, FL) – 22:45
Jenny Enslin (48, FL) – 22:52
Katy Cook (45, FL) – 23:48
After crossing the finish line, participants enjoyed free pancakes and beer, courtesy of American Legion Post 127. The high turnout and enthusiastic participation cemented the Leprechaun Run as a growing St. Patrick’s tradition in Lake Helen.
Strawberry Fest brings sweet success
The third annual Strawberry Fest, organized by Buckler Promotions, transformed the Lake Helen Equestrian Center into a berry-filled wonderland. Crowds flocked to enjoy Plant City strawberries, strawberry shortcake, and other sweet treats, along with arts and crafts vendors, live entertainment, and family-friendly attractions.
The festival saw an overwhelming turnout, with parking lots quickly reaching capacity and vehicles lining neighborhood streets as attendees made their way to the event.
A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of Volusia/Flagler Counties, and attendees also donated canned goods to support local food pantries.
Art & craft show highlights local creativity
Over at historic Hopkins Hall, the inaugural Lake Helen Art & Craft Show, presented by the Lake Helen League for Better Living, celebrated the talents of local artists and artisans. The event, an expansion of the League’s Art With a Heart tradition, featured works on display both inside the hall and in the scenic outdoor space.
& craft show in Lake Helen display their hard
work.
Mayor Burton was also spotted at the art show after the race.
“It’s such a beautiful day for these events, someone asked if I’d ordered the nice weather,” Burton said.
A major highlight of the show was the featured work of renowned local painter Judith Hopton, whose distinctive pieces have long been celebrated in the community. Attendees had the chance to browse and purchase a variety of handcrafted art while supporting local food pantries through donations and events.
Organizers of all three events are already planning for next year, striving to keep Lake Helen a vibrant destination for festivals, arts and community-centered fun.
— Robin Mimna serves on the board of the Lake Helen League for Better Living.
