Southgate Shopping Center

Hollis Garden

Swan Roundup

Alligator family

Polk Theatre

Circle B Bar Reserve

• Molly’s Musicians Showcase | Tuesday, Jan. 23 | 9 p.m. | Molly McHugh’s Irish Pub, 111 S. Kentucky Ave., Lakeland | Free entry | Take the stage or support local musicians at this open mic night in downtown Lakeland.

• Zumba | Wednesday, Jan. 24 | 5-6 p.m. | Lakeside Village, 1479 Town Center Dr., Lakeland | Free | Head to Lakeside Village’s central lawn for a Zumba class led by an expert.

• Goat Yoga on the Farm! | Thursday, Jan. 25 | 5:25-6:15 p.m. | The Cloven Hoof Farm, 6170 Robins Rd., Lakeland | $10-$25 | We’re not kidding around — try this beginner-friendly, 45-minute goat yoga class.
• David Smith w/ Tito’s Latin Cuisine | Thursday, Jan. 25 | 6-9 p.m. | Swan Brewing, 115 W. Pine St., Lakeland | Free entry | This Thirsty Thursday, jam out with live tunes on the Swan Brewing patio.

• Spirit of the Buffalo Pow Wow and Native American Festival | Friday, Jan. 26-Sunday, Feb. 4 | 10 a.m.-6 p.m. | International Market World Flea and Farmers Market, 1052 US Hwy. 92 W., Auburndale | $4-$20 | This two-weekend event will feature crafts, intertribal dance competitions, historic displays, and 60+ exhibitors
• ESPORTS Parent’s Night Out | Friday, Jan. 26 | 5:30-9:30 p.m. | XP League Lakeland, 3201 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland | $40 | Drop the kids off for a night to yourself while they have fun gaming and eating pizza.

• Cafe Zuppina is moving downtown to 116 S. Tennessee Ave., the former home of Cafe Roti. The new location will still offer full-service dining, market options, and a coffee bar. Today is the final day to visit the original location at 4417 S. Florida Ave.

• The Smoke on the Water barbecue festival has been canceled, but the Humane Society of Polk County is putting a twist on it. Smoke OFF the Water will feature food and family activities while raising money for animals in need. Get tickets for the event, happening Feb. 2-3.

• Speaking of Smoke on the Water — Grills Gone Wild (Feb. 9-10) has replaced Smoke on the Water as the second leg of the Triple Crown of BBQ’s three barbecue competition events. See cookoff details.

• Lake Gibson High School’s wrestling team took home a state duals title at last week’s state championship. Gianni Maldonado helped the Braves to a win over Jesuit High School, clinching a state title for the fourth consecutive year. (The Ledger)

• The Carol Jenkins Barnett United Way Children’s Resource Center is introducing a support + play group for children with Down Syndrome and their siblings. Starting Jan. 30, the group will meet weekly on Tuesdays, 12-12:45 p.m.

• 1%. That’s how many Americans read 50+ books in 2023, Pressed shared. Grow your 2024 reading log by joining a book club to read along with other Lakelanders.

• Bonnet Springs Park is hosting Weddings in the Park, an event where couples can get to know wedding vendors + the park’s venue options. Get tickets to attend the showcase on Sunday, Feb. 18, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Pro tip: Vendors can also reserve space.

• Florida Polytechnic University will host a panel of experts to discuss the use of AI in military and law enforcement on Wednesday, Jan. 31 at 3:30 p.m. The free panel is open to the public — just head to room 2200 in the Applied Research Center.

• Start making those Valentine’s Day reservations with this list of romantic restaurants around Polk County. Lakeland eateries Nineteen61, The Terrace Grille, Bay Street Bistro, and Scarpa’s Italian made the list. (The Ledger)

• 220,292. That’s how many Lakelanders participated in a program by the city’s Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Arts Department last year. Interested in learning something new? Check out a class happening near you.

Feeder types

• Seed feeders are the most versatile. Black-oil sunflower seeds appeal to the greatest number of birds, according to the Audubon Guide to Bird Feeding.
• Nectar feeders give hummingbirds and orioles a sweet treat. Opt for a low-capacity feeder to make sure you’re cleaning it regularly.