Just imagine — this could be your view on your morning walk. | Photo by Gregory Mills
Lakeland’s most iconic bird is the swan, but we have a special place in our hearts for another avian: the snowbird, aka a northerner who moves to southern states (like Florida) during the cooler months.
Whether you’ve been a part-time Lakelander long-term or just joined the flock this year, keep reading for our snowbird’s guide to Swan City.
Things to do
Lakeland’s winter months are the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors. Stop by Bonnet Springs Park for fresh air and weekly events.
Valentine Charms Walk-In Painting Event | 2-6 p.m. | Picassoz Art Cafe | $12.50 | Feel the love + paint a Valentine charm set that can be used for gift tags, pendants, or even decoration.
Tribute Tuesday | Times vary | Historic Ritz Theatre, Winter Haven | $35 | The Ritz will become the Copacabana at this tribute to performer Barry Manilow.
Wednesday, Jan. 22
Yoga in the Vines | 6 p.m. | Keel Farms, Plant City | $15 | Get your flow on with this guided, 50-minute class in the vineyard, then stick around to redeem your free drink from the winery.
Thursday, Jan. 23
AGB Thursdays | 4-8 p.m. | The Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art | Free | The museum is staying open late every Thursday with extra time to explore + special weekly programming.
Friday, Jan. 24
Turn Up and Tone | 7-8 p.m. | Uno Dos Tres Studio | $15 | Blend dance with HIIT, strength training, toning, and active recovery techniques to take your fitness to the next level.
Saturday, Jan. 25
Time Travel 5K + 10K | 2-5 p.m. | Southern Landing at Florida Southern College | $15+ | Hop in your time machine to take a lakeside run with a Wild West theme.
During the closure of the Lakeland Public Library’s main branch from Monday, Jan. 27 to Wednesday, Jan. 29, a new, citrus-themed exhibit will be installed in the Lakeland History and Culture Center. See inside at the Welcome Back Bash on Saturday, Feb. 1, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Arts
Muralist Samara Ash has been selected to paint an 80-ft piece outside the RP Funding Center. The Florida Wildlife Corridor Foundation will commission the artist to create a mural inspired by local wildlife. While we wait to see what Ash creates, tour Lakeland’s other magnificent murals.
Shop
Put your green thumbs to work by buying new greenery at the City of Lakeland’s Plantae-Palooza. Head to Hollis Garden on Saturday, Feb. 22 from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. to shop all types of plants, from tropicals and perennials to succulents and herbs.
Sports
Sand you believe it? Santa Fe Catholic School has completed the largest beach volleyball facility at a Polk County school, with Coach Bruce Guth building most of it himself. With three courts complete, the school’s team can now play home matches + rent them to Warner University. (The Ledger)
Try This
Why keep your event a secret? Share it with our audience of the most engaged Lakelanders. Visit our self-service ad portal to get started + your event could be in our newsletter in as little as two days.
The Buy
The Buy
Our favorite $6.99 women’s thermal undershirts and women’s thermal leggings to get you through the winter season. We love brand 32 Degrees (you may recognize it from Costco) for durable, warm basics at price points that make us happy.
Need a way to invite your friend to the farmers market this weekend? Sending a text is so last year — send them our custom playlist instead. Let us know if it actually works.
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