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, June 2

First Friday: Family Fun Night | Friday, June 2 | 6-9 p.m. | Downtown Lakeland | Free entry | Visit this month’s First Friday event for family-friendly fun, food, and festivities.
Improv Comedy Show! | Friday, June 2 | 7:30-10:30 p.m. | Rec Room, 202 N. Massachusetts Ave., Lakeland | $10-$15 | Laugh along at these improvised comedy shows — all ages are welcome to the 7:30 p.m. show and the 9:30 p.m. show is 21+.
Beer, Spirits, and Ghosts Walking Tour | Friday, June 2 | 7-9:30 p.m. | Downtown Winter Haven, 220 Ave. A NW, Winter Haven | $70 | Drink spirits while learning local ghost stories on this guided tour around downtown Winter Haven eateries.

Saturday, June 3

Lakeland Downtown Farmers Curb Market | June 3 | 8 a.m.-1 p.m. | Downtown Lakeland | Free entry | Find fresh produce, plants, and locally handcrafted items at this outdoor farmers market.
Family Nature Walk | Saturday, June 3 | 10 a.m. | Bonnet Springs Park, 400 Bonnet Springs Blvd., Lakeland | Free | Families can take a guided 1-mile walk around the Blanton Family Lagoon to explore the park’s natural plants and animals.
Summer Reading Kick-Off Party | Saturday, June 3 | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. | Lakeland Public Library, Larry R. Jackson Branch, 1700 N. Florida Ave., Lakeland | Free | Celebrate the beginning of the library’s Summer Reading Program with games and activities.
It’s a Deaf Thing — Deaf Expo | Saturday, June 3 | 10 a.m.-6 p.m. | RP Funding Center, 701 W. Lime St., Lakeland | Support deaf-owned businesses at this expo.

Sunday, June 4

Big Love Bake Sale | Sunday, June 4 | 12-3 p.m. | ART/ifact, 820 N. Massachusetts Ave., Ste. 2, Lakeland | $5 | Grab baked goods and coffee at this fundraiser for the Rose Dynasty Foundation — tickets include one item of your choice.
Fundraiser for ASA Service Dogs! | Sunday, June 4 | 4:30-6:30 p.m. | Painting with a Twist, 3670 Harden Blvd., Lakeland | $40 | Paint for a purpose at this fundraiser for ASA service dogs.
Sunday Funday & Mimosa Bar! | Sunday, June 4 | 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.

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From the editor

Arts

Summer is the perfect time to explore Lakeland’s art scene. With schools out for summer vacation, round up the whole family and check out local theatre productions, live music, and more. Bonus: If you’re looking to volunteer, Lakeland has plenty of opportunities in the arts.

Number

10. That’s how many questions you’ll answer in this quiz to find out which Lakeland neighborhood is the perfect fit for you. We think it’s pretty accurate — City Editor Rilee took it in ~2 minutes and got the neighborhood she currently lives in.

Watch

Looking for more summertime activities? Our Instagram reel boasts a few suggestions including classes at Picassoz, movies at the Silver Moon Drive-In, and Wawa Summer Fun Days at Bonnet Springs Park. Tell us what you’re looking forward to this summer.

Great Escapes

Our guide to the Quad Cities

Great Escapes: Our guide to the Quad Cities

The Centennial Bridge is an iconic QC landmark. | Photo by KCtoday

Whether you’re just driving through on a trip across I-80 or you have a longer stay in mind, act like a local with these tips for the Quad Cities.

Fun fact: Although it’s called the “Quad Cities,” there are more than four towns in this region. The oldest original “Tri Cities” were Davenport, Moline, and Rock Island. Later came East Moline, but then Bettendorf overtook it in size.

Why go? From coffee, beer, and public art self-guided tours to family passes and pro sports (yes, water ski shows count), you’ll always have something to do.
Act like a local: Whitey’s Ice Cream (named after the owner’s hair color) is a 90-year-old family business with accolades like first place at the World Dairy Expo.
Where to stay: Renwick Mansion — a historic Italian Revival home with panoramic views overlooking the Mississippi — can fit 17 of your closest friends. ($500/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

Trending

The buzziest deodorant in the beauty scene right now: Lume whole body deodorant. Yup, whole body. It’s aluminum and baking soda-free and offers odor protection for any and everywhere. Try it in Toasted Coconut or Fresh Alpine.*

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).*

Drink

Ditch the hangover without having to ditch your favorite cocktail with Ritual Zero Proof Spirits. The award-winning brand makes non-alcoholic rum, tequila, gin, and whiskey so you can enjoy the ritual of having a drink without feeling icky the following day. Psst — check out Ritual’s collection of cocktail recipes.*

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The Wrap

Today’s edition by:
LALtoday Team

City Editor Rilee spent a summer living in Rock Island, IL, and working in Davenport. If you decide to visit, make time for a meal at her old stomping grounds, Me & Billy. Pro tip: The Franny Burger is a can’t-miss menu item.

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