Throughout the year of 2025, Windermere has been celebrating the century that has passed since the founding of the town. Over 100 years ago, Cal Palmer, J. Howard Johnson, and Howard Lyon formed the town and also created the Windermere Improvement Company. In addition, all three men later went on to become mayors of this town.
The celebrations began in January with events such as a torch lighting ceremony in which two gas lamps were lit, held by the mayor of Windermere, Jim O’Brian and descendant of Cal Palmer, Palmer Luff.
The next main event held was a country fair that included many games and rides that was held on April 5th. There were also food trucks and a country band, Sawyer Brown, played live music there.
Furthermore, the different businesses in Windermere have also gotten involved with The Art Room holding previous art shows and classes and with the Windermere Police Department putting together beds for children in need on October 18th to give back.
The most recent events that occurred were the 5k and 10k races that took place on October 11th. These Run Among the Lakes races welcomed racers of all ages to run or walk the paths to the finish line. From children to runners who qualify for the Boston Marathon and senior citizens, there were hundreds of people all taking part in this event.
The celebrations and events will continue throughout the rest of the year with there being holiday events in the winter holiday season. There will be a Light Up Windermere event on November 21st to start the celebrations and the 100th year anniversary will conclude with the Movie in the Park and an event where children are able to meet and take pictures with Santa.
The year of 2025 has been filled with many fun events for all residents and those visiting the town of Windermere to participate in. Even though the year is coming to a close, there are still many events to take part in before 2026 begins. And through next year and all the years to come, there will continue to be many different town events to bring the community together and to celebrate the success of the town of Windermere.
Sources Used:
Sikes, Annabelle. “Windermere Reviews Updated Town Hall Renovation Plan.” West Orange Times & Observer, West Orange Times & Observer, 25 July 2024, www.orangeobserver.com/news/2024/jul/25/windermere-reviews-updated-town-hall-renovation-plan/.
Price, Amy Quesinberry. “Windermere Spending Year Celebrating 100th Anniversary.” West Orange Times & Observer, West Orange Times & Observer, 15 Jan. 2025, www.orangeobserver.com/news/2025/jan/15/windermere-spending-year-celebrating-100th-anniversary/.
“2025 Town of Windermere Centennial Celebration Orlando Health 5K/10K Run among the Lakes.” West Orange Chamber, 23 Sept. 2025, wochamber.com/event/2025-town-of-windermere-centennial-celebration-orlando-health-5k-10k-run-among-the-lakes/.
“Home.” The Funk Collection Exp Realty, www.realtyinorlando.com/windermere-real-estate/history-of-windermere-florida.php#:~:text=In%201910%2C%20the%20Windermere%20Improvement,makes%20the%20city%20so%20special. Accessed 13 Oct. 2025.
Ramos, Liz. “Windermere to Host Centennial Country Fair.” West Orange Times & Observer, West Orange Times & Observer, 26 Mar. 2025, www.orangeobserver.com/news/2025/mar/26/windermere-to-host-centennial-country-fair/.
