Today’s Note

Hey Lakeland, Connor here. It’s a relatively quiet weekend as the city comes back from a busy holiday season. I wouldn’t miss the very first First Friday of the year, and there are also a few comedy shows that you could hit after you walk through downtown. Here’s more to try out during the first weekend of 2024.

Happy Thursday, Lakeland — Rilee here. Whether you’re a foodie, a dancer, a shopper, or a sports fanatic, there’s something going on in Lakeland this weekend you should put on your calendar. Check out nine local events below.

Events

Friday, March 24

Spring Pop-Up Series: NoxxKitchen | Friday, Mar. 24 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Catapult Lakeland, 502 E. Main St., Lakeland | Free | Enjoy Jamaican-inspired eats like jerk chicken on the Catapult patio.
Friday Night Live | Friday, Mar. 24 | 6-9 p.m. | Munn Park, 201 E. Main St., Lakeland | Free | Grab food or drinks to-go from downtown restaurants, enjoy an outdoor concert by Firelight, and shop from local vendors.
Brett Foster w/ Quit Smackin’ BBQ | Friday, Mar. 24 | 7-10 p.m. | Swan Brewing, 115 W. Pine St., Lakeland | Free | Quit smackin’ and get to Swan Brewing to start your weekend with live music.

Saturday, March 25

Paint with Your Pup | Saturday, Mar. 25 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | The Doggie Bag Boutique, 1702 E. Edgewood Dr., Lakeland | $15 | Bring your pooch to paint their own picture — proceeds benefit Until Such Time Rescue & Sanctuary.
Spring Night Market | Saturday, Mar. 25 | 4-9 p.m. | Downtown Lakeland | Free | Celebrate spring with 100+ vendors, live music and dancing, and photo opportunities from Lemon Street to Oak Street.
Latin Night in Lakeland | Saturday, Mar. 25 | 9 p.m.-2 a.m. | Leo’s Live Music, 5263 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland | $10 | Learn how to salsa at 9 p.m. before dancing the night away to bachata, salsa, merengue, and more Latin music.

Sunday, March 26

Lakeland Punk Rock Flea Market: Volume 6 | Sunday, Mar. 26 | 12-6 p.m. | Swan Brewing, 115 W. Pine St., Lakeland | Free | Rock out with live punk bands while you shop unique items, handmade goods, art, and food from dozens of vendors.
Sunday Funday & Mimosa Bar! | Sunday, Mar. 26 | 12-7 p.m. | Union Taproom, 245 W. Central Ave., Ste. 102, Winter Haven | $1 | Pour your own mimosas with prosecco on tap for $1 per ounce and free mixers.
Florida Tropics vs. Utica City FC | Sunday, Mar. 26 | 3:05 p.m. | RP Funding Center, 701 W. Lime St., Lakeland | $7-$23 | Cheer on the Tropics soccer team as they battle it out against Utica City.

We have a calendar filled with events and activities you can plan for in advance. Click the button below to bookmark ideas for upcoming date nights, family outings, and time with friends.

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100+ MORE EVENTS

Editor’s Pick

Coming Soon

Woof Gang Bakery is soon opening its doors at 1544 Town Center Dr., next door to Saigon Bistro (formerly PacSun) in Lakeside Village. The pet bakery and grooming hub is currently hiring — email the team to inquire about open positions.

Asked

Secrets are best when they’re shared. We’re looking for Swan City’s superior secret menu items or hacks. Send us your favorite off-menu items to be featured in an upcoming newsletter. Don’t worry, we ~~won’t~~ will tell.

Lakelander

We’ve loved sitting down with Lakeland’s movers and shakers — from noted artists and muralists to members of the LEDC and small business community. Pro tip: Find our full Q+A collection online and keep your eyes peeled for an upcoming conversation with a noteworthy Lakeland poet. Can you guess who?

Great Escapes

Our guide to Missoula, MT

Great Escapes: Our guide to Missoula, MT

Head to the Big Sky State for an outdoor adventure in Missoula, MT. | Photo by ATXtoday

Whether it’s winter, summer, spring, or fall, there’s plenty to do in this picturesque mountain town. Check out our guide to Missoula, MT.

Why go? Missoula is nestled in between mountains and bordered on all sides by forests, hiking trails, and rushing rivers. Try skiing in the area, taking a rafting trip, or hiking through the 22 miles of trails that run through the city itself. If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, Missoula is also known for river surfing during the summer months.
Act like a local: The butter flight at 1889 Steakhouse is a must-try, in my opinion. You also won’t want to sleep on The Camino, a Mexican-style restaurant that’s known for their goat and lamb dishes.
Where to stay: Missoula Brownstone (~$200/night)

Bonus message from our partner: If you’re looking to book this trip, Going offers all the affordable flight hacks from your home airport. Sign up here.*

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Seasonal

Has spring sprung in your home yet? If you’re looking to get outdoors, this wipeable tablecloth is just begging for some alfresco dining, and these garden and herb labels will get you in a planting mood. Plus, this viral birdfeeder practically brings the birds inside with you.

Number

$241. That’s the real price of a roundtrip ticket from Boston to Barcelona sold this year via Going — a travel membership that alerts you when flight prices drop. Sign up for a free membership or try an Elite membership for free if you’re interested in business and first class tickets, too.

Shop

If your vacuum isn’t picking up dirt and debris like it used to, it may be time for a new one. This handheld Shark vacuum is lightweight, cordless, and highly rated on Amazon. Or splurge on the Dyson V11 Cordless Vacuum that sucks up particles as small as allergens and bacteria.

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The Wrap

Today’s Edition By:
LALtoday Team

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