Find the Tax Collector’s building illuminated every night in the Midtown district. | Photo via @twothirdsrochambeau
Publix is nearly synonymous with Lakeland, with the grocery giant making as big of an impact on the local culture as it has on the region’s economy. Founder George Jenkins started the business just one town over in Winter Haven in 1930, and it came to occupy quite a few buildings over nearly a century in business. How many of these do you recognize?
One of Lakeland’s most iconic buildings is the Polk County Tax Collector’s art deco-style office on North Massachusetts Avenue. Decked out in “Publix green” neon, you can’t miss this former grocery store that operated from 1953 to 1964.
You’ll find the original store’s art deco style in the renovated Waller Centre.
Screenshot via Google Maps
A drive through Lakeland’s Dixieland district will bring you to Waller Construction and Design Center, painted in a pale shade of — you guessed it — green. It was the first location Publix actually built in Lakeland, open from 1949 to 1965.
First Friday: Holiday Spectacular | 6-9 p.m. | Downtown Lakeland | Free+ | Santa Claus is coming to town for pictures while local makers + food trucks set up shop in the streets.
Winter Dance Concerts | Friday, Dec. 6-Saturday, Dec. 7 | 7-9 p.m. | Harrison School for the Arts | $9+ | Students will take the stage for dance performances inspired by the season.
Just Laughs Comedy Showcase | 8 p.m. | The Stage Room | $10 | Enjoy an evening of laughter at this monthly comedy showcase.
Saturday, Dec. 7
Holiday Bandit Market | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Central Park, Winter Haven | Free+ | Feel the holiday spirit at this outdoor market featuring creations from local makers + food trucks.
Docent-Led Tour | 1-2 p.m. | The Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art | Free | Get a guided tour of the AGB’s exhibits from the museum docents — registration required.
‘Tis the Season: Holiday Concert | 5-7 p.m. | Lakeside Village | Free | Bring your own chairs and blankets to celebrate with live music, storytime, snowfall + more.*
Sunday, Dec. 8
DCTE’s Merry Magical Holiday Ball for Charity 2024 | 12:30-3 p.m. | Enchanted Fairytale Hollow | $45 | Children can meet their favorite fairy tale characters and enjoy magical entertainment in this community fundraiser.
“Winter Praises” | 3-4:15 p.m. | City Central Church | $10+ | The Lakeland Choral Society will sing through centuries of diverse holiday music.
The Florida Strawberry Festival has announced its final round of 2025 headliners. Catch Reba McEntire on Feb. 28, Boyz II Men on March 3, Chris Tomlin on March 4, Whiskey Myers on March 6, and John Fogerty on March 9. Tickets go on sale Thursday, Dec. 12 at 8 a.m.
Try This
Speaking of music news, the 10th annual Orange Blossom Revue kicks off today in Lake Wales. Grab tickets to this two-day festival to hear headliner JJ Grey & Mofro, Grammy-nominated duo The War & Treaty, local artist Van Plating, and more Americana acts. (The Ledger)
Civic
The City of Lakeland may foreclose on the downtown building next to the LDDA’s office after years of code violations by its owner. Officials have deemed the 99-year-old building dangerous due to structural damage + disrepair. The issue will go before a Polk County court. (The Ledger)
Sports
Seven local football players committed to Division I schools this week during early signing. Lakeland High’s Jermichael Gillis will play close to home at the University of South Florida, while others like Victory Christian School’s Jozia Scott are heading out of state to schools like Kansas State University. (The Ledger)
Cause
These books give back. Find Little Bus Books’ wishlist tree at its market pop-ups through Dec. 15. Buy a book listed on the ornaments on the tree + and it will be donated to Hope House, Rose Dynasty Foundation, or Pace Center for Girls.
Arts
Today is the final day to see “The Best of Polk Show” at Tree Swallow Gallery in downtown Winter Haven. This juried art exhibit includes some of the best pieces from local artists, from photographers to basket weavers. (Fox 13 News)
Drink
Just in time for finals week study sessions, Pour Bear Coffee has introduced a 15% student discount if you show a school ID. For little ones not quite in their college days yet, don’t miss Santa’s stop in the coffee shop tomorrow from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.
The holidays sometimes come with a few surprises — but accidents and sniffles don’t have to ruin the fun. The good news: Lakeland Regional Health’s urgent care is there for you when you need it. Learn more.*
Finance
The bad news: Car repair costs have surged 17% in the last year, with some repairs exceeding $6,000. The good news: An Endurance protection plan could save you thousands. Sign up and receive $450 off your new contract, plus a free year of Elite Benefits. Get your free quote.*
Home
How much could you borrow from your home? Get HELOC quotes now — calculate your payment.*
Trending
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Trim the tree, Lakeland style
You’ll find this trinket on City Editor Connor’s tree every year. | Photo by LALtoday
When you’re cozying up by your Christmas tree this season, these Lakeland-themed ornaments are just the thing to turn your living room into a winter swan-derland.
Pampeana Swan These baubles from Take Heart are made in Ecuador through fair trade practices. Opt for a flapping white swan, serene black swan, a bird with her flock, or (our pick) a romantic pair.
Queen Elizabeth II If your tree is already stocked up on swans, add Gaines Jewelers’ ornaments of the royal who started it all. You can even choose the color of her outfit to match your decor.
Florida Southern Chapel Screen Fans of Frank Lloyd Wright may recognize the design on this piece — it’s inspired by the choir screen in the Annie Pfeiffer Chapel.
Detroit Tigers Mosaic Tree Topper When you’ve run out of room, don’t forget the star. This one is perfect for those who spend all winter dreaming of spring training.
The Buy
The Buy
The AirFly Pro — it’s a nifty gadget that will wirelessly transmit audio from in-flight entertainment to Bluetooth headphones so you can ditch those pesky wired earbuds.
And with that, another Lakeland Christmas Parade has come and gone. I heard some folks had their chairs out by 6 a.m. yesterday — while that might be the time this newsletter hits your inbox, that is way too early for me to be braving the cold downtown. ICYMI, keep an eye on our Instagram for footage.
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