Valentine's Day Offers Annual Free Wedding Event

The most romantic day of the year is an opportunity for area couples to "tie the knot" in a legal wedding ceremony. While the normal $30 ceremony fee is waived, standard marriage license fees do apply.

Courtesy Polk Clerk of Courts

A Valentine's Day group wedding is an option for local courting couples. The annual event takes place on the lawn of the historic Polk Courthouse in Bartow.

On Valentine's Day at noon, Clerk & Comptroller Stacy Butterfield is hosting the 12th annual group wedding on the historic lawns of Fort Blount Park in Bartow. Registration is now open for courting couples wanting to tie the knot for free

"We are thrilled to host this cherished tradition for its 12th year," said Clerk Butterfield. "It's an honor to help couples create a stress-free, joyful, and memorable start to their new life together on such a meaningful day."

The free ceremony will take place at 343 W. Davidson St. and is limited to 30 couples on a first-registration basis. All couples must apply for a marriage license and register for the event by Tuesday, Feb. 11. The various fees and options may be viewed at .

Couples may register when applying for a marriage license at any of the three Clerk's office locations-the Bartow Courthouse, Lakeland Government Center, or the Northeast Government Center in Lake Alfred. Couples must submit the first part of the marriage license application online before visiting any of the three Clerk's offices to complete the application.

To register, they simply need to state they would like to participate in the event. Both individuals must be present to finalize their marriage license, and both must have a valid form of photo ID. Couples must also make sure they know their Social Security Number.

For more information or to register for the wedding, call the Official Records Department at 863-534-4516 or visit the Clerk's office online at http://www.PolkCountyClerk.net.