The Pepper Project | After Lakeland restaurateur Jeannie Weaver-Lopez died last week, Lakeland’s culinary community is banding together to show support for her family.
(Holiday) shop ‘til you drop | Make your list and check it twice before heading to these holiday markets around Lakeland for all your gifting needs this season.
Open or closed? That is the question | Don’t get your turkey in a twist — here are the businesses that are open + closed on Thanksgiving Day in Lakeland this year.
Asked
Asked
What types of cuisine are you hoping to see in the food truck court?
A. Burgers + BBQ B. Seafood + sushi C. Tacos + burritos D. Something else
SPCA Florida Cat Adoption Event | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Petco | Price of adoption | Meet cats + kittens from the SPCA — you just might find your furr-ever friend.
Winter Haven Festival of Trees | 12-6 p.m. | Grove Roots Brewing, Winter Haven | $5 | Face painting, gifts, and sweets will be available to peruse alongside 22 decorated trees + a visit from Santa himself.
Thanksgiving Cookie Decorating Class | 11 a.m. | Keel Farms, Plant City | $65 | Find out how the cookie crumbles at this class for seasoned + beginner decorators.
Christmas Paint Party | 12-4 p.m. | Crave Hot Dogs & BBQ | $45 | Paint your own holiday door decor while raising funds for the Polk County Bully Project.
Season of Wonder Handbell Concert | 5 p.m. | First United Methodist Church of Lakeland | Free | The Magic of Bronze group will ringin the season with holiday carols.
Monday, Nov. 25
Snapology Thanksgiving Workshops | Monday, Nov. 25-Wednesday, Nov. 27 | 9 a.m.-4 p.m. | First Presbyterian Church Lakeland | $65+ | Kids can build their creativity through hands-on play on their days out of school.
Wednesday, Nov. 27
A Proper Thanksgiving Eve | 7-10 p.m. | Swan Brewing | Celebrate the day before Thanksgiving with local brews and music from Proper Wednesday.
Embrace your inner elf by helping families pick out gifts at the Parker Street Neighborhood Christmas Store. | Photo by Access Church
Whether you’re an animal lover, an artsy type, or a natural mentor, here are 40+ volunteer opportunities for Lakelanders to get involved and give back this holiday season and beyond.
Volunteers in Service to the Elderly | Help this organization that gives back to older adults by attending its annual Green Bean Snap this Monday from 9 to 11 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church.
Parker Street Ministries | Donate money or gifts to the Neighborhood Christmas Store that will offer items to families in need for 75% off.
Dream Center | Adopt a block and serve the community by offering food, clothing, and children’s activities each month.
Rose Dynasty Foundation | Help out by teaching classes, putting on community events, or maintaining the Rose Dynasty Center.
We’re officially five days out from Thanksgiving. I’ve had my mac + cheese recipe locked and loaded for the big day for a few weeks now, but if you’re looking for some inspiration for your own menu, check out these local spots offering up to-go dishes that will add the perfect Lakeland flair to your table.
