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A light-up Santa and his reindeer overlook downtown Lakeland
City
What to know in Lakeland during the 2024 holiday season
From city office closures to the final days for enjoying holiday attractions, here’s what you can expect during the Christmas and New Year’s holidays.
December 19, 2024 11:30 AM
 · 
Connor Jacobson
An exterior photo of Lakeland Linder International Airport with three flags and palm trees blowing in the wind.
City
New dining concept coming to Lakeland International Airport
Learn more about the biz that will be taking over the spot formerly held by WACO Kitchen.
December 16, 2024
 · 
Amelia Grooms
Shoppers at vendor tents set up on downtown street
Business
Become a vendor at the Lakeland Downtown Farmers Curb Market
Want to set up shop at the farmers curb market? Read these tips before submitting your application.
December 9, 2024
 · 
Connor Jacobson
The exterior of the Catapult building in Lakeland.
Business
10 things you might not know about Catapult, Lakeland’s business incubator
In honor of Catapult’s 10-year anniversary, we’re spilling the tea on what goes on behind the scenes. How many of these facts did you know?
December 6, 2024
 · 
Amelia Grooms
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Real Estate
Remember when these buildings were Publix supermarkets?
Publix has made its mark on Lakeland, from its economy to its architecture. Find out what these former buildings are today.
December 5, 2024
 · 
Connor Jacobson
A Christmas ornament with two swans forming a pink heart shape
Culture
Trim the tree with these Lakeland-themed ornaments
Decking the halls has never been easier — or more swan-filled.
December 5, 2024
 · 
Connor Jacobson
Photos of jewelry and jewelers at The Jewelry Box.
Sponsored
Discover perfect-for-you jewelry at this hidden gem
Sponsored by
A vacant car lot with three buildings and a billboard is shown.
Business
New eats on Main Street: Food truck court potentially coming to downtown Lakeland area
Learn what Lakelanders could expect in terms of the cuisine, experience, and opening timeline should the plan get approved.
November 20, 2024
 · 
Amelia Grooms
A lake at dusk in Lakeland with night lights illuminating and city buildings in the background.
City
See Lakeland’s top rankings on nationwide lists
It’s not such a small town anymore — check out how Lakeland’s growth is reflected in rankings from the past year.
November 19, 2024
 · 
Connor Jacobson
Shoppers walk through vendor tents at the downtown Lakeland Holiday Night Market
Business
Start seasonal shopping at these Lakeland holiday markets
Find a unique gift by local vendors, artists, and makers at these holiday-themed markets in and around Lakeland.
November 15, 2024
 · 
Connor Jacobson
Restaurant patrons speak with a waiter at their table in side The Peach House.
Business
Lakeland restaurateurs show support for ‘The Pepper Project’
Here’s how you can help the family of restaurant owner Jeannie Weaver-Lopez.
November 15, 2024
 · 
Connor Jacobson
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Four holiday-themed cocktails sitting on a bar at The Brass Tap
Food
Find holiday drinks at these Lakeland pop-up bars
Have a cup of cheer at these limited-time bar experiences with themed drinks + decor.
December 12, 2024
 · 
Connor Jacobson
Entrance to Munn Park with trees, benches, and signage
Culture
Which locations around Lakeland deserve a historical marker?
Historical markers are physical signs, plaques, and statues that commemorate a significant place or event. Where would you like to see a historical marker around Lakeland?
December 12, 2024
 · 
Jessalin Heins-Nagamoto
St. Augustine - Great Escapes 2
Experience
The ultimate road trip to St. Augustine
Hit the road and head to St. Augustine — we’re sharing all the details about what to do and eat, plus where to stay.
December 11, 2024
 · 
Staff
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Culture
Lakelanders’ goals for 2025
Looking to make the most of Lakeland life in 2025? Check out the goals our readers + followers have set, plus some recommendations of our own.
December 10, 2024
 · 
Amelia Grooms
A postcard of the former "New Community Tourist Center Building in Lakeland, Fla." held in front of the current Magnolia Building
City
Read what this Lakeland visitor had to say in 1953
We found a postcard from more than 70 years ago — it turns out, not much has changed.
December 9, 2024
 · 
Connor Jacobson
A side-by-side image showing an old lakeshore view of Lake Morton next to a current one.
City
How Lakeland has changed: Then and now in photos
We dug through Florida’s archived photos and postcards to see how much Lakeland has changed since it was first founded in 1885 — you might be surprised.
December 9, 2024
 · 
Connor Jacobson
A Christmas mug with a lit Christmas tree in the background
Culture
Fill in the blanks to create a Lakeland-inspired holiday film
If your holiday season isn’t complete without a cheesy Hallmark movie, then this activity is for you.
December 6, 2024
 · 
Amelia Grooms
A string of Christmas lights with a large lit display in the background
New to Lakeland
Winter events happening in and around Lakeland
Check out winter and holiday events happening in and around Lakeland in this seasonal guide.
December 4, 2024
 · 
Staff
A Christmas parade float is decorated with red and white glitter, realistic looking reindeer, and a sleigh. Santa and Mrs. Claus sit in the sleigh, waving to guests above and below the float.
Events
Our Lakeland Christmas Parade pro tips
It’s the most wonderful time of the year. Check out what you can expect for the annual parade taking place Thursday, Dec. 5.
December 3, 2024
 · 
Staff
Black and Brew's winter menu is on two chalkboards. Next to it is a decorated Christmas tree and a mural that says "your anytime place."
Food
Grab a cup of cheer with these holiday treats around Lakeland
From coffee to baked goods to cocktails, try these festive bevs + bites for the holiday season.
December 2, 2024
 · 
Amelia Grooms