Welcome home, Depot 303 | Indecisive foodies out there are about to have a new comfort spot. Depot 303, Mulberry’s first food hall, officially opened yesterday — here’s what to expect when you go.
Better hop to it | With Easter coming up on Sunday, April 20, we’re rounding up a few ways to celebrate, from brunches and services to family-friendly activities and Easter Bunny photo ops.
What’s the motion in the ocean? | With forecasters already predicting above-normal activity for the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season, here’s what to know before it starts.
Asked
Asked
When do monarch butterflies begin to migrate through Florida?
A. August B. September C. October D. Monarch butterflies don’t migrate through Florida
Children’s Theater | 2-2:30 p.m. | Lakeland Public Library | Free | Kids ages 4+ will hop on stage and become the stars in this interactive storytime.
“Something Rotten!” | Saturday, April 12-Sunday, April 13 | Times vary | Lakeland Community Theatre | $28+ | It’s the closing weekend of this comedic show brought to life by local actors that tells the tale of the world’s first musical.
A Tribute To Rush | 8 p.m. | Union Hall | $20 | Even the most devoted fans will love Ultimate Rush’s tribute to this rocking trio.
Sunday, April 13
Sours & Flowers | 12-6 p.m. | Grove Roots Brewery, Winter Haven | Free+ | The taproom will transform into a plant nursery with plenty available for purchase, plus new fruited sours to try.
E-Reader Case Craft Day | 2-4 p.m. | Lakeland Public Library | Free | Bring a clear case for your Kindle or other e-reader and use the materials provided to decorate it.
Silent Book Club | 2-3:30 p.m. | Pour Bear Coffee | Free+ | Head to this coffee shop after hours to read in silence + connect with other book lovers.
Thursday, April 17
Jellybean Jubilee | 4-7 p.m. | Simpson Park Community Center | Free | Hop on over to this free community event featuring an egg hunt, crafts, games, bounce houses, and face painting — just to name a few.
Friday, April 18
Florida Wildlife Corridor Foundation Mural Unveiling | 3-6 p.m. | RP Funding Center | Free | After muralist Samara Ash reveals a wild new piece near Entrance 4, head inside for a panel discussion, artist meet, and short film screening.
Today is the last day of National Library Week, and the best way to observe the occasion is by paying a visit. If you’re overdue for a trip to one of Lakeland’s libraries, find a branch near you and see what it offers beyond books.
Number
$5. That’s how much a Mega Millions ticket will cost you now, up from $2. According to Mega Millions, the costlier ticket could get you bigger prizes; previous $500 winnings would now be $1,000-$5,000. You could buy ~833 cruffins from Born and Bread with that money. (CNN)
Outdoors
Keep your eyes to the sky tonight to catch a glimpse of the “Pink Moon” — but no, it won’t be a different color. April’s full moon has the rosy nickname because the month is associated with spring flowers. See what’s in bloom by strolling through one of Lakeland’s parks.
Travel
A new experience from Adventures by Train is offering travelers the chance to tour “around the world by train.” The 100-day trip is completely flight-free, instead crossing the globe via train and “luxury sea voyages.” The trip only has 12 spots available, so we’re starting small (and locally) with Amtrak.
Eat
McDonald’s McDouble meal, Taco Bell’s Luxe Box, and Wendy’s Biggie Bag. Those are three budget-friendly meals from fast food chains named in Parade’s Top 10. If you’d rather eat local without breaking the bank, check out meals under $10 in Swan City.
City Guide
City Guide
🤝 Ready to lend a helping hand?
Many hands make light work — bring a group to volunteer with. | Photo by @bonnetspringspark
April is recognized as National Volunteer Month, meaning it’s the perfect time to get involved + help your fellow neighbors. Check out these 40+ volunteer opportunities around Lakeland that let you give back while sharing your passions, whatever they may be.
For those with hearts for healthcare
Arts in Medicine | Lend your musical talents or help assemble + distribute craft kits for patients in Watson Clinic’s Cancer Center.
For those who are natural-born teachers and mentors
Dream Center | Adopt a block and serve the community by offering food, clothing, and children’s activities each month.
For those who want to support victims of abuse
Peace River Thrift Shoppe | Donate clothes, accessories, books, art, and home items to help serve clients of Peace River Center.
For those on a tight schedule
Pedal Power Bicycle Ministry | Meet once a month to restore old bicycles, which are then donated to community members in need.
A targeted red light therapy device — use it to help accelerate wound healing, ease muscle soreness, target cold sores and fever blisters, soothe achy finger joints, and more.
Today’s the day: Crave Cookies is finally open in Oakbridge Centre. We sampled some of the cookies before opening day + let’s just say, Lakeland is in for a real treat. If you stop by, make sure to tag us in your photos and share what you tried.
}})
