Plus, a summer getaway to Cajun country.
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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 26
  • Jerk Fest | Friday, May 26 | 7-10 p.m. | Union Hall, 1023 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland | $10 | Celebrate Jamaican culture with reggae music by DJ Plug and food by Our Noire Kitchen.
  • Live Music: Kimi Tortuga | Friday, May 26 | 4-8 p.m. | Keel Farms, 5202 Thonotosassa Rd., Plant City | Free entry | Enjoy farm-fresh food, handcrafted wine, beer, and cider while listening to the musical stylings of Kimi Tortuga.
Saturday, May 27
  • Lakeland Downtown Farmers Curb Market | Saturday, May 27 | 8 a.m.-2 p.m. | Downtown Lakeland | Free entry | Find fresh produce, plants, and locally handcrafted items at this outdoor farmers market.
  • Cars + Coffee | Saturday, May 27 | 9 a.m.-1 p.m. | The Joinery, 640 E. Main St., Lakeland | Free entry | Grab a cup of joe and show off your ride or browse other cars.
  • Memorial Day Service | Saturday, May 27 | 10-11 a.m. | Veterans’ Memorial Park, 141-199 Lake Beulah Dr., Lakeland | Free | Guest speaker John John Hillery — Military Order of the Purple Heart — is speaking at this event hosted by the NAACP Lakeland Branch and Armed Services Veteran Affairs Committee.
  • STEM in the Park | Saturday, May 27 | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. | Bonnet Springs Park, 400 Bonnet Springs Blvd., Lakeland | Free | Visit on the fourth Saturday of each month to explore topics in science, technology, engineering, and math in the Nature Center Classroom — this month’s topic is chemical reactions.
  • Open Ballroom Social | Saturday, May 27 | 7-10 p.m. | Just Dance Academy, 124 S. Kentucky Ave., Lakeland | $10 | Show off your ballroom dance skills in this open event — this month’s theme is Red, White, and Blue.
Sunday, May 28
  • Feasts of Persia Field Trip to Swan Brewing | Sunday, May 28 | 12-7 p.m. | Swan Brewing, 115 W. Pine St., Lakeland | Free entry | The Feasts of Persia food truck will be serving kabob dishes and American fare while HB Jazz Trio performs.
  • A Vibrant View | Sunday, May 28 | 12:30-2:30 p.m. | Painting with a Twist, 3670 Harden Blvd., Lakeland | $39 | Paint this moonlit sky over a lake with your friends, favorite refreshments, and help from a professional.
  • Film: “Interstellar” | Sunday, May 28 | 4 p.m. | Polk Theatre, 139 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland | $5 | See this 2014 science fiction film directed by Christopher Nolan on the big screen.
Click here to have your event featured.
 
From the editor
 
Travel
  • It’s high time to start planning your summer beach days. For those wanting a quick trip, check out these beaches within three hours of Lakeland. If you prefer something on the quiet side, you can’t beat these seashores with fewer crowds.
Edu
  • Lakeland graduates have a lot to celebrate this week. If your student has walked the stage and tossed their cap, look for their smiling face in The Ledger’s photo galleries. Pro tip: We know where to find the perfect grad gift. (The Ledger)
Eat
  • Does Memorial Day weekend have you thinking of barbecue? Us, too. We asked our Instagram followers for the best places to find brisket, pulled pork, and ribs. Check the comments for their suggestions and find our favorite local barbecue joints here.
 
Great Escapes
 
Our Guide to Baton Rouge, LA
State Capitol Park, Baton Rouge
Visit the Capitol Gardens for a break from the big city bustle. | Photo by @evrentrx
One thing we love about Baton Rouge is how much pride the city has in its history. The food, the music, and the people are all a reflection of the rich cultures that make this city so special.
  • Why go: The rich Creole and Cajun cultures here make for an unforgettable food experience. We suggest booking a food tour for any fellow food nerds.
  • Act like a local: If you like live music, you’ll love Mid City Ballroom. This renovated church now hosts live music performances and the world’s only Komet Amp showroom.
  • Where to stay: Going with a group? This charming stay offers four bedrooms + a full kitchen. (~$285/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.*
 
 
Shop
 
The Buy
Travel
  • Turn misplaced keys into a thing of the past with the Apple AirTag. The button-sized tracking device can give you step-by-step directions to your lost keys (or phone…or wallet…) and has a battery life of one year. Pro tip: Put one in your checked luggage and never worry about lost baggage again.*
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The Wrap
 
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