Business

A red mocktail topped with fruit and a paper umbrella
Food
Where you can find buzz-free beverages, or mocktails, in Lakeland
Shaken or stirred? Either one works, as long as it’s zero-proof. Check out this list of alcohol-free cocktails — mocktails — in Swan City.
January 14, 2026 11:39 AM
 · 
Rilee Delgado
Bright Ice Cream shop in Lakeland with a red "Opening Soon!" banner, outdoor seating, and a sunny sky along a busy street.
Food
Bright Ice opening its next scoop shop in Lakeland
Get the inside scoop on Bright Ice’s fifth location before it opens its doors in Dixieland on Friday, March 28.
March 27, 2025
 · 
Connor Jacobson
The entrance of the Project Prom store, with racks of formalwear inside and volunteers assisting shoppers in a bright, welcoming space.
Business
Project Prom: Helping Polk students celebrate safely
Find out how students can get free formal wear by signing the Project Prom pledge to stay sober.
March 25, 2025
 · 
Connor Jacobson
A medical professional operates an ION robotic-assisted technology system at Lakeland Regional Health, using a console for precision control.
Business
The latest and greatest technology being used in Lakeland
As Lakeland’s high-tech sector continues to grow, check out a few advancements in technology that are being used and developed in the local health, agriculture, and transportation fields.
March 19, 2025
 · 
Connor Jacobson
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Culture
Where to make spring cleaning donations in Lakeland
If you’re feeling eager to clean out those closets, garages, and storage sheds, consider donating to these community organizations.
March 18, 2025
 · 
Connor Jacobson
The exterior entrance of Reececliff Diner outlined with red neon lighting at night
Food
Celebrate Pi Day with Reececliff Diner, Lakeland’s longest-running restaurant
When visiting Reececliff Diner, you simply can’t forget the pie.
March 13, 2025
 · 
Amelia Grooms
Fabric Warehouse's sign next to a painted swan statue holding a swath of fabric
Business
Create something amazing with these Lakeland-area craft stores
Go on, get crafty — these locally owned shops are here to help with supplies + materials.
March 6, 2025
 · 
Connor Jacobson
A photo of the Lakeside Village courtyard, showing palm trees, umbrellas, and people playing on the green.
Business
More new bizzes on the way for Lakeside Village
Learn about the upcoming retailers that will soon call this Lakeland shopping center home.
March 4, 2025
 · 
Amelia Grooms
A hand holds out an iced coffee cup filled with coffee. In the background is a coffee shop.
Business
The RISE Institute: Where young entrepreneurs rule the school
Learn how this experiential learning program inside Lakeland Christian School is empowering middle and high school students to discover their passions in a safe + supportive environment.
February 26, 2025
 · 
Amelia Grooms
Chick-fil-A CEO Andrew Cathy and student Aaron Taher hold a $25,000 check
Business
Southeastern University student wins $25,000 scholarship from Chick-fil-A
Commercial music major Aaron Taher was surprised with the award by Chick-fil-A’s CEO, Andrew T. Cathy.
February 25, 2025
 · 
Connor Jacobson
Pumpkins and plants on sidewalk outside of Scout & Tag storefront
Business
We’re celebrating Small Business Week — here’s how to join us
Join us at LALtoday in celebrating the heart of our community: small businesses.
February 24, 2025
 · 
Kristen Templeton
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People dressed in retro attire dancing under neon lights
Culture
Dance the night away at these Lakeland spots and events
In the mood to bust a move? Shimmy down to these local spots and events for open dance floors, performances, and dancing lessons.
October 16, 2025
 · 
Connor Jacobson
The Shoppes at Lake Miriam, showing storefronts for Gosh! Asian Bistro & Sushi, Coast Dental, Glam Bar, and Hand & Stone.
Food
Eat down the street: Lake Miriam Crossing restaurants
Find a parking spot and walk to each of your favorite restaurants in the Shoppes at Lake Miriam Crossing plaza on South Florida Avenue.
October 14, 2025
 · 
Connor Jacobson
A photo collage showing Health Buddies volunteers and clients: a large group of people smiling, and volunteers with older women
Wellness
How Health Buddies are transforming life for lonely Lakelanders
Seniors in Service of Tampa Bay connects volunteers and clients with chronic health conditions for Health Buddies, a 12-week telephone call program. Learn how it works and how you can sign up.
October 13, 2025
 · 
Connor Jacobson
The Joinery food hall lit up at night, with a view of downtown Lakeland and a long-exposure shot of the street in the background
Food
Eat it all at these Polk County food halls
Deciding where to eat is hard — these local food halls are making it easier with plenty of options all in the same place.
October 10, 2025
 · 
Connor Jacobson
Front entrance of a house decorated for Halloween, featuring a large wooden door framed by two stone columns with giant black spiders hanging from them. A skeleton stands to the left of the doorway, and piles of colorful pumpkins — orange, white, and green — are arranged on both sides of the brick walkway. A festive wreath and smaller Halloween decorations complete the spooky, autumn-themed display under a cloudy sky.
Business
Trending this fall: Porch pumpkins
Skip the pumpkin patch and hire these Central Florida businesses to spruce up your landscaping with a seasonal touch.
October 10, 2025
 · 
Patrick Sidwell
Cars line a street in downtown Lakeland, leaves are on the ground.
Culture
How to spend a fall day like the “Gilmore Girls” in Lakeland
Who says you have to go to New England to have an autumn worthy of the “Gilmore Girls”?
October 6, 2025
 · 
Amelia Grooms
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City
Create your voting plan with these Lakeland election dates
Lakeland’s municipal election is coming up on Tuesday, Nov. 4. These are the dates, positions, and resources you need to know before you vote.
October 2, 2025
 · 
Connor Jacobson
A colorful mural by Gillian Fazio featuring two swans forming a heart shape, surrounded by Florida oranges and blossoms.
Culture
Choose the names for these Lakeland newcomers
Before you go to the polls in November, submit your ideas to help choose the names for three new creatures — both real and artistic.
October 2, 2025
 · 
Connor Jacobson
Three people judge archery results at the Polk Senior Games. They stand around a large target pointing at the arrows around the bullseye.
Experience
20+ activities for retired locals to stay active in Lakeland
If you recently retired and are looking for things to do, this guide will help you make the most of your newfound time in Lakeland.
October 1, 2025
 · 
Staff
A wrestling photo where AEW star Big Bill (right) delivers a high kick to Juice Robinson (left) as a referee watches.
Sports
6 boot-stomping questions with AEW star Big Bill
All Elite Wrestling will bring AEW Collision to Lakeland’s RP Funding Center for the first time on Thursday, Oct. 2. We sat down with AEW star Big Bill to learn what you can expect if you’re new to the sport or a lifelong fan.
September 30, 2025
 · 
Connor Jacobson