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Two costumed performers on stilts, one dressed as a scarecrow and the other as a candy corn witch, holding trick-or-treat bags.
Events
Plan Ahead: Don’t miss these events happening in Lakeland
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.
September 24, 2025 01:43 PM
 · 
Staff
An analogue clock with several timezones (Bangkok, Tokyo, Sydney, Beijing, etc.)
City
Will we always change the clock?
Daylight saving time has been around as early as 1918, and many legislators across the country are looking to change that.
March 2, 2023
 · 
Jessalin Heins-Nagamoto
The Southside Cleaners sign reading "Stay Tuned"
Culture
Here’s your sign: The Southside Cleaners sign returns
Our readers share their ideas for the iconic sign’s next message.
February 28, 2023
 · 
Connor Jacobson
The Mexico City Capitanes play against the Lakeland Magic.
Sports
See the Lakeland Magic at these upcoming games
Cheer on the G League basketball team and enjoy free promotions this month.
February 28, 2023
 · 
Connor Jacobson
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Culture
25 gift ideas for every budget
Perfect for birthday gifts, thank you gifts, or something just because.
February 24, 2023
 · 
Emily Shea-Owen
LAL-unfiltered-exterior-FEB2023.JPG
Business
No filter: See inside the new Unfiltered Lakeland
Get a behind-the-scenes look at the coffee shop and artisan marketplace before it opens.
February 22, 2023
 · 
Connor Jacobson
Air Force One at Lakeland Linder International Airport 1980
History
President Jimmy Carter’s 1980 visit to Lakeland, FL
We’re firing up the time machine and stepping back in history.
February 21, 2023
 · 
Rilee Delgado
A heap of tomatoes and vegetation in a dark brown wooden bin outside.
Travel and Outdoors
The beginner’s guide to composting in Lakeland
We’re answering questions like “What is composting?” and “How do I compost in an apartment?”
February 17, 2023
 · 
Jessalin Heins-Nagamoto
A rendering of the Prospect Lake Wire mixed-use development
City
New development to break ground near Lake Wire
Atlanta-based real estate company Carter has acquired 22 acres of land on Lake Wire in West Downtown Lakeland for a new mixed-use development near the RP Funding Center.
February 9, 2023
 · 
Rilee Delgado
lakeland swans
Culture
Asked: Should Lakeland have a Poet Laureate?
Poet Laureates serve countries, states, and sometimes even cities — should Lakeland have one?
February 7, 2023
 · 
Rilee Delgado
Wine bottles before plates of food
Food
Let’s get cooking: Upcoming classes for Lakeland’s aspiring home chefs
Whether you’re looking to refine your existing skills or you’re starting from scratch, sign up for one of these cooking classes.
February 7, 2023
 · 
Rilee Delgado
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A photo of downtown Lakeland overlooking Lakeland Electric and Lake Mirror.
City
Breaking down the cost of living in Lakeland
Compare the cost of living for Lakeland, FL with national averages + understand how expenses in Lakeland stack up against other cities.
July 8, 2024
 · 
Staff
Screen Shot 2019-09-24 at 3.01.57 PM
Culture
Pick two options to create your Lakeland dream life
Choose wisely.
July 8, 2024
 · 
Connor Jacobson
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Travel and Outdoors
Plan the perfect picnic at these Lakeland locales
Whether you’re looking for a spot that’s surrounded by nature or bathed in the shade, consider one of these spots next time you’re looking to dine al fresco.
July 3, 2024
 · 
Amelia Grooms
A timelapse photo of the exterior of the Polk Theater at night. The marquee sign is lit with blinking lights, and car lights streak by the front door.
Culture
Enter LALtoday’s 2024 Picture of the Year contest
Hit us with your best shot.
July 3, 2024
 · 
Connor Jacobson
fireworks show at publix field
Experience
Fourth of July events in and around Lakeland
Central Florida has some breathtaking firework displays — here are a few taking place in our neck of the woods.
July 3, 2024
 · 
Rilee Delgado
A girl sitting beside Lake Mirror looking at the lake and moon at night
City
The zodiac signs as Lakeland neighborhoods
It’s written in the stars... and the skyline.
July 2, 2024
 · 
Bella Rainey
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.
City
Celebrate holidays safely in Swan City
Bringing out the fireworks? Here’s how the Lakeland Fire Department recommends staying safe during holiday seasons.
July 2, 2024
 · 
Connor Jacobson
City
Here’s what you can shop for during Florida’s tax holidays
From household supplies to park passes, grills, and more.
July 1, 2024
 · 
Rilee Delgado
Images of two businesses are shown side by side. On the left, an exterior shot of Lakeland Public Library, and on the right, a shot of the sign for BookaReaderville. They are separated by a green divider line.
Business
Old + new in Lakeland: 10 options for 5 types of businesses
Explore some of Swan City’s oldest establishments alongside new additions to the business + restaurant scene.
July 1, 2024
 · 
Amelia Grooms
Adults hold children on coffee shop couches as one plays a sound bowl.
Business
Get the tykes taken care of at these Lakeland preschools
Finding childcare is no easy feat — let this guide serve as a place to start.
June 27, 2024
 · 
Amelia Grooms