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.

Events

Friday, May 19

Lakeland Flying Tigers vs. Fort Myers Mighty Mussels | Friday, May 19 | 6:30 p.m. | Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium, 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd., Lakeland | $7-$10 | Cheer on the Flying Tigers over the Mighty Mussels and take part in a t-shirt giveaway.
Spring Pop-Up Series: Dominick’s | Friday, May 19 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Catapult Lakeland, 502 E. Main St., Lakeland | Price of purchase | Don’t miss lunch on the Catapult patio with meatball pocket subs, chicken parm sandwiches, and more Italian fare.
Beach Highway Series — Copper Sunset | Friday, May 19 | 7-9 p.m. | Painting with a Twist, 3670 Harden Blvd., Lakeland | $39 | Add to your collection of sunset art with the next painting in the Beach Highway series.

Saturday, May 20

Lakeland Downtown Farmers Curb Market | Saturday, May 20 | 8 a.m.-2 p.m. | Downtown Lakeland, Lakeland | Price of purchase | Find fresh produce, plants, and locally handcrafted items at this outdoor farmers market.
Jude Coffee Pop-Up | Saturday, May 20 | 9 a.m.-3 p.m. | The Curated Collective, 401 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland | Free | Order your favorite Jude Coffee beverage and shop vintage finds at The Curated Collective.
District Title, Matthew Lowry, Shelby Mason, Grandeur & The Delusions | Saturday, May 20 | 6:30 p.m. | Union Hall, 1023 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland | $10-$13 | Hear live tunes by these local rock ‘n roll and alt-rock musicians.
Movie on the Lawn | Saturday, May 20 | 7-10 p.m. | Bonnet Springs Park, 400 Bonnet Springs Blvd., Lakeland | Free entry | Enjoy a pet-friendly happy hour, enter your dog in a costume contest, and watch an outdoor showing of “DC League of Super-Pets.”

Sunday, May 21

Buena Brunch Market | Sunday, May 21 | 11 a.m.-3 p.m. | Gospel Village, 1109 E. Main St., Lakeland | Free entry | Celebrate the expansion of Gospel Village with a market featuring artisan vendors, food, and music.
Sunday Funday & Mimosa Bar! | Sunday, May 21 | 12-7 p.m. | Union Taproom, 245 W. Central Ave., Ste. 102, Winter Haven | Price of purchase | Pour your own mimosas with prosecco on tap for $1 per ounce and free mixers.
New Art! ~ Beachy Twilight Moon | Sunday, May 21 | 12:30-2:30 p.m. | Painting with a Twist, 3670 Harden Blvd., Lakeland | $39 | Bring your friends to paint this new seaside artwork together with step-by-step instruction.

100+ MORE EVENTS

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From the editor

Community

Looking to join the club? Lakeland has memberships for every interest — from museums to gardens, family activities, and self-care opportunities. Check out a few of our favorites.

Read

Have you seen our New to Lakeland page? Whether you just moved to Swan City, you’re a lifelong Lakelander, or you’re currently recruiting employees to make this city home, check it out for everything you need to know to live, work, and play in Lakeland.

Cause

Polk County Bully Project — a local nonprofit aiming to save pit bulls and other “bully breeds” in the area — is looking for foster families. You can fill out a foster application here.

Great Escapes

Our Guide to Monterey, CA

Great escapes: Our Guide to Monterey, CA

One of the many breath taking views of the Pacific Ocean along California’s Highway 1. | Photo by Emily Shea-Owen

Monterey, CA is bursting with lush coastal greenery, walking trails that bring you up close and personal with Big Sur wildlife (think: Elephant seals, brown pelicans, and sea otters), and cliff-laden seasides.

Why go: Explore the dramatic Big Sur coastline by car or on foot, spotting otters, seals, and pelicans along the way. Plus, visit the world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium and stroll down the historic Cannery Row.
Act like a local: Enjoy fresh seafood and Italian cuisine at Paluca Trattoria. The popular restaurant at Monterey’s Fisherman’s Wharf was featured in the award-winning HBO series “Big Little Lies.”
Where to stay: Vrbo— Oceanfront condo with breathtaking views (~$279/night)*

Read our full guide

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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Travel

How does Going work? Sign up for free, follow up to five airports, and get notified when flights are 40-90% off. Bonus: You can browse deals immediately after signing up (like a ~$575 round trip to Fiji).*

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Quick, who’s the next person you’ll buy a gift for? We’ve got 25 gift ideas that will spark joy + are perfect for every budget. One of our favorites? A heated back and neck massager to relieve pressure and tension.

Real Estate

Which Vrbo Vacation Home of the Year is most your style? Maybe it’s the mountain views and woodsiness at this Big Sky cabin. Or maybe it’s a Hamptons holiday at this breathtaking retreat. If vacation means heat, spas, and golf courses, check out this Palm Springs poolside property.*

Let us know what you think about LALweekend, a product of LALtoday, by answering a few quick questions.

The Wrap

Today’s edition by:
LALtoday Team

In case you missed it, we told you what not to miss at four nearby beaches — tell us your favorite beach that didn’t make the list. Bonus points if you have a restaurant, hotel, or excursion to share.

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