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.
Connor here. If you’ve heard planes constantly flying over your house this week, it can only mean one thing: SUN ‘n FUN is in full swing. I’ve been peeking outside while writing our newsletters to catch a glimpse of all the aircraft. If you haven’t made it out yet, plan to visit before it ends on Sunday, April 2.
Brian Sutherland with Kayley Bishop | Friday, Mar. 31 | 6:30 p.m. | Union Hall, 1023 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland | $12-$15 | Americana singer-songwriter Brian Sutherland and country artist Kayley Bishop are bringing a live show you won’t forget to Union Hall.
Adult Prom Night | Friday, Mar. 31 | 7 p.m. | Rec Room, 202 N. Massachusetts Ave., Lakeland | $50-$90 | See who will be named king and queen at this 1980s-inspired party featuring food, drinks, and a live band.
Florida Tropics SC vs. St. Louis Ambush | Friday, Mar. 31 | 7:05 p.m. | RP Funding Center, 701 W. Lime St., Lakeland | $5-$20 | Cheer on the Florida Tropics to a win over the Ambush in this indoor soccer game.
Saturday, April 1
2023 SUN ‘n RUN 5K | Saturday, Apr. 1 | 7 a.m. | Lakeland Linder International Airport, 3900 Don Emerson Dr., Lakeland | $40 | Start this race at the LAL airport terminal surrounded by US Navy Blue Angels and watch hot air balloons take off as you run.
Spring Plant Sale | Saturday, Apr. 1 | 8-11 a.m. | City of Lakeland Nursery/Oak Hill Burial Park/Cemetery , 4620 Hwy. 98 S., Lakeland | Free | Purchase edible, native, Florida-friendly plants and citrus from Master Garden Volunteers.
Lake Morton Historic Home & Garden Tour | Saturday, Apr. 1 | 11 a.m.-4 p.m. | Frank Lloyd Wright Sharp Family Tourism and Education Center, 750 Frank Lloyd Wright Way, Lakeland | $17 | Get a look inside nine of Lake Morton’s historic houses on this self-guided tour.
“The Drowsy Chaperone” | Sunday, Apr. 2 | 2 p.m. | Harrison School For the Arts, 750 Hollingsworth Rd., Lakeland | $16-$18 | Harrison School for the Arts students perform this classic comedic musical.
FSC|Dance: Reshaping Boundaries | Sunday, Apr. 2 | 2:30-4 p.m. | Florida Southern College, 111 Lake Hollingsworth Dr., Lakeland | $10-$20 | Watch FSC dance students perform modern and experimental choreography, plus a reimagining performance of “The Firebird” ballet.
60%. That’s how many of our readers said they were interested in buying or had already purchased an electric vehicle. Check out these local charging stations before your next commute or road trip.
Pets
Even your pets can love life in Lakeland. Bring Rover along for a bite at one of Lakeland’s dog-friendly eateries or take them for a walk at the pet-friendly Bonnet Springs Park. For some extra pampering, bring them to Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming, coming soon.
Eat
Need a tasty meal that won’t break the bank? Try Zarza Latin Food & Grill (4648 Cleveland Heights Blvd.). Visit during lunch for the Super Special: A quarter chicken with rice and beans for less than $5. See what else we tried.
There’s always something happening on the barrier island. | Photo by @FTWtoday
Whether you’re strolling down the Strand, touring historic homes, or eating Shipley’s donuts on the sand, this port town is always a great time. Use this quick guide for the perfect spring day in Galveston.
Why go: Explore this coastal city that opens the Gulf of Mexico to all of Texas with activities for all types of travelers.
Act like a local: Ready to sit back for a slice of pizza and a little local music? Kick back at Sharky’s Tavern (504 25th St.) for a micro brew with a side of live music.
Where to stay:Coffee on the porch of this 3-bedroom, 3-bath cottage? Yes, please. Plus, the Ave. O Chateau is steps away from Pleasure Pier. (~$548/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.*
An electric wine opener is one of those inexpensive kitchen gadgets that you don’t know how you lived without once you get one. We especially love this one for its sleek design and ergonomic grip. To upgrade your wine even further, this set includes an automatic wine aerator and reusable vacuum stopper.
Travel
Trying to talk someone into an April vacation? Just show them these hotel deals on Expedia. We love:The Islander Resort that’s on a private beach in the Florida Keys.
Wellness
What’s in: Red light therapy. What’s out: Forms of treatment that are painful and invasive. Red light therapy is non-invasive and painless, and evidence suggests it may be able to ease body aches, heal sun damage, and build collagen. Brb — we’re adding this easy-to-prop light and this facial massager to our Amazon cart.
Hey, how did you like this email?LALweekend is a new offering from LALtoday, and we want to make sure we’re getting it just right.
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