New year, new developments | From art to dining to retail, here are the five developments we’re most anticipating this year. Pro tip: The AGB Museum’s expansion is set to open next Saturday, Jan. 18.
Spill the tea | Doesn’t this weather make you want a cup of Earl Grey? Plan an afternoon getaway at a tea room, or brave the cold with a Southern-style iced tea.
Know your local leaders | Several Polk County government officials were sworn in this week. Get to know their positions, from how often they’re elected to the function of their offices.
Asked
Asked
What do you predict will happen in Lakeland this year?
It’s the last chance to send in your ideas for what will take place this year before we share some of your predictions next week.
Day of Caring | 10 a.m.-3 p.m. | Florida Children’s Museum | Free | Kids are invited to dream big with free museum admission, live performances, and hands-on activities in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Library Birthday Party | 2-4 p.m. | Larry R. Jackson Branch Library | Free | Celebrate 30 years of this branch with cake and party games — anyone have 30 candles?
Junior League of Greater Lakeland’s Black Diamond Ball | 6-9 p.m. | Junior League Building | $150+ | Support local students at this fundraiser gala featuring dinner, drinks, and dancing — and don’t forget a ticket to the afterparty.
Songs & Strings: Hungrytown | 6:30-9 p.m. | 1120 Candlewood Dr., Lakeland | $20 | This internationally known folk music duo will kick off this year’s Songs & Strings house concert series.
Sunday, Jan. 12
Se7en Wetlands Guided Hike | 10 a.m. | Loyce E. Harpe Park | Free | Venture into the wetlands for a 3.5-mile hike highlighting the open lake cells — don’t forget your sunscreen, or to RSVP.
“Menopause The Musical 2" | 2:30-3 p.m. | RP Funding Center | $40+ | Tap your toes along to musical parodies all about “Cruising through ‘The Change.’”
Monday, Jan. 13
Awe Walk | 9-10 a.m. | Bok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales | $25 | Slow down, awaken your senses, and connect with nature in this guided walk of the Gardens + Pine Ridge Nature Preserve.
Thursday, Jan. 16
Sip, Reflect & Connect | 6-7:30 p.m. | Venue 1890, Winter Haven | $35 | Rest + recharge with a cozy beverage in hand during this sound bath and small group experience.
By the Chef Pizza has announced new hours for its soft opening: Wednesday-Sunday, 1-4:30 p.m. + 5:30-8 p.m. Want to keep up with all the most recent restaurants and bars that are opening or closing in our area? Read more on our website.
Trending
Dry January may be bigger than ever in 2025 — just look at how more people search the term on Google every year. If you’re zero-proof curious, check out some of our favorite local options.
Number
$3.10. That’s how much a gallon of gas costs in Florida right now. Read more about the cost of living in Lakeland, including the median household income and average cost of healthcare and groceries.
Drink
Goodbye, peppermint mocha and hello, cortado. Starbucks added a new espresso option to its menu. But can it compete with Concord Coffee’s? Consider this your sign to plan a (local) coffee run this weekend.
City Guide
City Guide
✈️ The 411 on LAL
LAL, we are cleared for takeoff — here’s what you need to know before you take flight. | Photo by LALtoday
Book those flights and pack your bags, because there’s plenty to explore at Lakeland International Airport. Here’s what to know if you fly out this year.
Flight updates
LAL currently offers six nonstop flights, with its newest route to Nashville, TN beginning on March 6. Also new this year, flights to Atlanta, GA + Hartford, CT have been paused, but the airport said their return is not off the table.
New restaurant
Sora, a dining concept from the owners of Omusubee and Wafu Taiyaki, will take over the restaurant space vacated last year by WACO Kitchen. The opening date is TBA, but we’re already hungry for its Asian-influenced dishes and American fare.
Parking is still free — for now
An overflow lot was added during the holiday season to keep up with increased parking, and all airport visitors can currently park for free. Plus, the parking lot is only about 300 ft from where you board the plane.
The top reviewed running shoe for comfort on Amazon: Brooks Women’s Ghost 16. If you’re starting a running practice this year, be kind to your feet (and help your progress) with a sneaker that will love you back.
Today’s farmer’s market trip just got even more exciting, because Market on Kentucky will open its doors to shoppers. This new concept from Frescos’ owners Tim + Tina Calhoon will sell food products from local makers, including a Meraki Bakehouse stall, in the former Taco Bus space.
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