The City of Belleview is gearing up for a milestone celebration, marking 140 years since its incorporation in 1885. On Saturday, May 3, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Lake Lillian will come alive with music, food, entertainment, and community spirit as residents and visitors gather for the city’s Founders Day event.
This free, family-friendly celebration will showcase Belleview’s vibrant past and promising future, with a full lineup of activities for all ages. The highlight of the day will be the Official Birthday Cake Cutting Ceremony and the inaugural Belleview Time Capsule Ceremony, where attendees are invited to contribute mementos, letters, and artifacts to be sealed and reopened on the city’s 175th anniversary in 2060.
“This milestone is not just a celebration of our city’s founding, but of the people, values, and resilience that have carried Belleview through nearly a century and a half,” said Mayor Christine Dobkowski. “Our 140th celebration is an opportunity to honor those who came before us, celebrate who we are today, and inspire those who will carry Belleview forward.”
Event Highlights Include:
Interactive children’s zone featuring:
Inflatables
Face painting by Chippy Creative Services
Cookie decorating station hosted by The Church on the Hill
Petting zoo with rabbits, chickens, and goats
Activities from Snapology
Live DJ entertainment
Historical exhibit showcasing Belleview’s legacy
Free birthday cake (while supplies last)
Belleview Time Capsule Ceremony
Over 50 local vendors and nonprofits will be on site, offering handcrafted goods, community resources, and family activities. Attendees can also enjoy a wide variety of food from popular vendors like Hurt’s BBQ, Fat Tiki, Green Pea Coffee Co., Weirsdale Winery, and Papa John’s, as well as treats from Moustache Ice Cream, Kona Ice, and more.
Free snacks such as kettle corn from Poppin N Shakin, cotton candy courtesy of Bradley Blessing State Farm Insurance, and mini bundt cakes from Nothing Bundt Cakes Ocala will also be available while supplies last.
Just across the lake, car enthusiasts can check out the Gregg Smith Automotive Car Show, which benefits the United Way of Marion County.
“This event is for everyone — longtime residents, new families, and anyone who calls Belleview home,” said Robert Vass, Events and Promotions Manager. “Whether you’re enjoying the food, dancing to the music, or placing a message in the time capsule, we want everyone to feel part of something special.”
Admission: Free and open to the public
Sponsors include: FixIT Tek, Peek’s Printing & Design, Bradley Blessing State Farm Insurance, Opus
