Culture

A crowd sits in camping chairs watching fireworks over Lake Mirror during Red, White & Kaboom Lakeland event. Trees and street lights block part of the view.
Events
Don’t miss these top Lakeland events happening all year long
We’ve got the ultimate list of Lakeland events you don’t want to miss out on each year. Mark your calendar for these community celebrations.
January 16, 2026 01:47 PM
 · 
Connor Jacobson
The exterior of the Lakeland Antique Mall with a sign reading "Antique Mall" and a life-size horse statue
Business
Go treasure hunting at the Lakeland Antique Mall
Search through over 40,000 sqft of vintage collectibles and antiques at one of Lakeland’s largest antique malls.
September 28, 2023
 · 
Connor Jacobson
Lakeland City Hall sign in grass and flowers in front of building
City
Lakeland’s 2024 fiscal year budget by the numbers
The City of Lakeland has finalized its budget for the upcoming fiscal year — let’s take a look at the $746.9 million bottom line.
September 25, 2023
 · 
Rilee Delgado
A green graphic reads "Lakeland Sushi Bracket"
Food
LALtoday sushi bracket
We’re fishing for Lakeland’s favorite sushi spot.
September 19, 2023
 · 
Rilee Delgado
Screen Shot 2021-04-22 at 11.54.54 AM
New to Lakeland
Swan City meets the big screen: Movies filmed in and around Lakeland
Our town has become a regular star on the silver screen — how many of these movies have you seen that were filmed on location in Lakeland?
September 14, 2023
 · 
Victoria Bardega
a group photo of Bidi Bidi Banda group memeers
Sponsored
Inside scoop: Who to see at the Hispanic Heritage Celebration
We’ve got the inside scoop on who and what to see at Bonnet Springs Park’s Bienvenido a BSP: Hispanic Heritage Celebration.
Sponsored by
Southeastern University cheerleaders lead a cheer on the football field before a game
Sports
The sports fan’s guide to Lakeland’s college teams
Fall means the return of college sports in Lakeland. Never miss a game with our guide to local teams.
September 6, 2023
 · 
Connor Jacobson
A group of five sit on stools in a panel discussion
Education
New educational opportunities coming to Polk County
From early childhood education to schools for underserved communities, here are the educational opportunities coming soon to the Lakeland + Polk areas that we’re watching.
August 30, 2023
 · 
Rilee Delgado
A white sign reads "Express Lane, mobile orders only" at Black and Brew's south side location.
Food
Daydreaming about Lakeland drive-thru windows
Ignore the logistics — we’re day dreaming about Lakeland eateries we’d love to dine at via drive-thru, if we could wave a magic wand.
August 28, 2023
 · 
Rilee Delgado
A digital map of Lakeland, FL with colorful points on different happy hour locations
City
Find your next favorite spot in Lakeland with our community maps
We’re on a mission to map out Lakeland’s top destinations for foodies, art lovers, and pet parents. Learn how you can help.
August 24, 2023
 · 
Connor Jacobson
A group of people sit on yoga mats doing a yoga practice in Hollis Garden in Lakeland, FL
Experience
Flow at these Lakeland yoga studios
Check out these eight yoga studios around Swan City, which offer classes for beginners, hot yoga, and more fitness classes.
August 23, 2023
 · 
Robin Schwartzkopf
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An exterior view of Lakeland Regional Medical Center with a glass building, brick building, and a grassy median with a fountain.
Wellness
How germ-prone is Lakeland?
According to Soliant Health, Lakeland ranks low on its list of cities most likely to get sick, and there are precautions you can take this flu season.
November 14, 2024
 · 
Michael Beausoleil
Lakeland Economic Development Council members sit and listen to a panel of members at Catapult
Business
Lakeland Economic Development Council celebrates 40 years
The LEDC has been a major driver in Lakeland’s economy since 1984 — but what is it, and how does it affect daily life?
November 13, 2024
 · 
Connor Jacobson
The exterior of the historic Old Polk County Courthouse entrance with a dome and high columns.
City
What do you want Polk County to look like in 2050?
You can help direct Polk County’s future for the next 25 years by leaving your thoughts on the county’s Comprehensive Plan.
November 11, 2024
 · 
Connor Jacobson
A wintry background with snowflakes that reads "LALtoday's 2024 Gift Guide."
Culture
LALtoday’s 2024 holiday gift guide: 90+ gifts for everyone on your list
Including gifts for neighbors, foodies, significant others, homebodies, students, and gifts under $20.
November 8, 2024
 · 
Sarah Leonhardt
Exterior shot of Crispers in downtown Lakeland
Food
Come on, dish: Which Lakeland restaurant do you miss the most?
We want to know — which Lakeland restaurant or meal sparks nostalgia in your heart and belly, and why?
November 8, 2024
 · 
Amelia Grooms
The downtown Lakeland skyline and businesses as seen from East Main Street
Business
How to start a business in Lakeland
You have a good idea — now the fun begins.
November 7, 2024
 · 
Rilee Delgado
Pumpkins and plants on sidewalk outside of Scout & Tag storefront
Business
What’s open + closed on Thanksgiving in Lakeland
Find out where you can go on Thanksgiving Day, what’s closed this year, and where to find Thanksgiving dishes ahead of time.
November 7, 2024
 · 
Connor Jacobson
Lights surrounding Lake Mirror at night time in Lakeland, FL
Culture
Embrace your inner night owl: Late night Lakeland activities
Who says there has to be sun to have fun in Swan City?
November 6, 2024
 · 
Amelia Grooms
Books
Culture
Literature with Lakelanders: Join these local book clubs and storytimes
Find a love of literature at these reading programs for all ages.
November 6, 2024
 · 
Connor Jacobson
City Editor Amelia and a friend pose with their paintings at Painting with a Twist
Business
Get crafty at these Lakeland creative spots
Flex your artistic muscles or let the experts lead you step by step through crafting classes.
November 5, 2024
 · 
Connor Jacobson