The AGB’s 14,000-sqft expansion comes with an $8 million price tag. | Rendering via Straughn Trout Architects
With so many developments planned for this year, we have plenty of diverse dining destinations, fresh entertainment, and renovated retail to look forward to. Here are a few we’re most anticipating.
Arts + entertainment
We don’t have to wait long for this first development. The Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art will reveal a major expansion in January, which Executive Director Dr. Alex Rich called “a once-in-a-generation moment.”
Be one of the first to see the additional galleries, art labs, and new renovations when it opens on Saturday, Jan. 18.
Did you catch the Publix without its signature green signage just before demolition?
Photo by LALtoday
Retail
Lake Miriam Square Publix devotees, your time has almost come. The supermarket was demolished in summer of 2024 and is currently being rebuilt with a larger footprint, including a mezzanine with seating and a new liquor store + pharmacy.
The remodeled store is set to open this summer, but you can shop the former Publix GreenWise Market store across the street until then.
Veggies Are Vital | 10-11 a.m. | Lakeland Public Library | Free | Become more confident in your plant-based decisions with this session led by Feeding Tampa Bay.
Fleet Feet Fun Run | 5:30 p.m. | Lakeside Village | Free+ | Meet at Fleet Feet for this 5K walk or run, followed by food and drink specials at Brass Tap.
Thursday, Jan. 9
Yogadance | 4-5 p.m. | Lake Crago Outdoor Recreation Complex | $5 | Dance to music from around the world in this uplifting exercise class for all levels — Silver Sneakers members get in free.
Friday, Jan. 10
Lakeland Cruisers Cruise Night | 5-8 p.m. | Lakeside Village | Free | View modern and classic cars at this family-friendly car show.
Central Florida Food and Spirits Experience | 4-7 p.m. | Camp Margaritaville, Auburndale | $75+ | Eat, drink, dance, and play to raise funds for local kids through Kiwanis of Lakeland.
🤝 Imagine the impact if we all volunteered on January 20
Presented by AmeriCorps
Join AmeriCorps in honoring the life and legacy of Dr. King by volunteering this MLK Day. | Photos provided by AmeriCorps
Did you know? Martin Luther King Jr. Day (Monday, Jan. 20) is the only federal holiday designated as a National Day of Service to encourage all Americans to volunteer.
For 30 years, the MLK Day of Service has grown as more people embrace the idea that citizenship involves taking an active role in improving the communities where we live, work, and play.
Polk County is under a cold weather warning until 8 a.m. after temperatures began to dip overnight. The National Weather Service says that we should expect wind chills as low as 25Âş, but freezes are unlikely.
Ranked
No. 4. That’s what Lakeland ranked on U-Haul’s list of metro areas with the largest net gains of one-way trips in + out last year, meaning it’s still a top destination for movers. We’re all out of moving boxes, but we do have New to Lakeland guides to share.
Lakelander
Meet Brayden, the first baby born at Lakeland Regional Health in 2025. He made his arrival at 12:11 a.m. — just in time to join the New Year’s parties. ICYMI, Lakeland Regional Health made US News & World Report’s “2025 Best Hospitals for Maternity Care” list last month. (Fox 13 News)
Sports
Polk State College’s basketball team is kicking off its 60th season with a 12-2 record. Beginning in 1965 with a $300 budget, the team has gone on to win several state titles. Cheer them on in their next game tomorrow, Jan. 8 at 7 p.m. in Winter Haven.
Arts
The RP Funding Center has transformed into an art gallery this month thanks to the Lakeland Arts Association’s latest show. Catch “Express Yourself” through mid-January to see varied works by local artists in the venue’s halls. (Fox 13 News)
Kids
If your young artist is inspired by the “Express Yourself” exhibition, check out Art Centric’s upcoming drawing classes. Happening on select Friday afternoons from Jan. 10 to Feb. 21, these classes will teach kids ages 10-15 the basics of sketching + shading.
Drink
Local tea shops are having a ball with boba tea, with several new spots popping up around town lately. Try these drinks with tapioca pearls and other add-ins at a new shop like Dong Tea, a classic like Tea Largo, or another one of our favorites. (LkldNow)
Plan Ahead
Caribbean Carnival will return to Bonnet Springs Park on Saturday, Feb. 22. This year’s heritage festival will feature live performances, activities for little ones, and a family-friendly market. Pro tip: To join the event as a vendor, apply by this Friday, Jan. 10.
Active
Heat things up with a pop-up hot yoga class at Yoga Pointe tomorrow, Jan. 8 at 4:15 p.m. This hour-long flow will feature moderate heat and step-by-step guidance for those new to the studio.
Eat
Take a bite out of 2025 at Polk County Taco Week, happening Jan. 10–19. Explore 40+ restaurants offering unique flavors like pork belly, tempura lobster, ice cream tacos + more. Plus, keep an eye out for paired drink specials. See participating restaurants.*
Wellness
Simplify wellness with fast, convenient deliveries that fit your schedule: Thrive Market delivers organic groceries and family essentials straight to your door. (Members save an average of 30% on top brands.) Join today for 30% off your first purchase and a free gift valued at up to $60.*
Announced
New year, same LALtoday. While we love a good New Year’s resolution, we love unbiased, fact-centric local news even more. Buy your LALtoday team coffee + support us in creating this free, daily newsletter.
Correction
Yesterday, we shared that several county officials would be sworn into office on Monday, Jan. 6, but have since learned the investiture ceremony is taking place today, Jan. 7 at 4 p.m. You can attend the ceremony in person at Polk State College’s Center for Public Safety Auditorium, or watch online.
Category
Plan Ahead
Honor Dr. King’s legacy
Don’t forget your chairs to enjoy next Saturday’s MLK parade. | Photo by the City of Lakeland
This Martin Luther King Jr. Day, come together with other Lakelanders to serve the community and commemorate the civil rights activist’s legacy at these upcoming events:
Day of Caring The Florida Children’s Museum will offer free admission this Saturday, Jan. 11 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Kids can dream big together with art performances, hands-on activities, and interactive exhibits.
Unity Through Diversity: An Evening at the AGB Dive into Martin Luther King Jr.’s life + legacy with a special lecture at the Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art. The talk begins at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 15.
47th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade Celebrate at this parade on Saturday, Jan. 18. The procession begins at 1 p.m. at the crossing of Providence Road and West 14th Street, and it ends at Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue and 2nd Street, near the Coleman-Bush Building.
A highly-rated hydroponic growing system, so you can still have fresh herbs and vegetables in winter. We like this self-misting version, which avoids root rot and helps plants grow quicker. Hello, fresh leafy greens, basil, and tomatoes.
Did you get a chance to attend Light Up BSP in December? If so, Bonnet Springs Park wants to hear from you in a short survey. My family and I made a night of it with dinner at Tsunami Sushi first, and it was the perfect evening — here’s hoping it returns this year.
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