Whoa, we’re halfway there | The Lakeland Family YMCA is expected to complete its $21 million renovation by 2027 — see where the project stands at its halfway point.
Hammers up | In honor of National Home Improvement Month, check out these five Swan City fixer-uppers that are ready for you to put your unique stamp on.
Not-so-hidden gems | Whether you’re looking to treat yourself, give a helpful hint, or shop for someone special, check out our list of Lakeland jewelers that are a cut above the rest.
Asked
Asked
Should Lakeland have a senior center?
A. Yes, and I would use it B. Sure, but I wouldn’t use it C. No, let’s try something else
NAACP Lakeland Branch Memorial Day Program | 10 a.m. | Veterans Memorial Park | Free | Join the NAACP Lakeland Branch for this annual program featuring guest speaker Dr. Annette Tucker-Osborne, Col., US Army, Ret.
Cats & Mats | 10 a.m. | Purrology Cat Cafe | $10 | Enjoy 30 minutes of an all-levels yoga flow, followed by 30 minutes of play with adoptable cats + kittens.
Memorial Day Cookout | Saturday, May 24-Monday, May 26 | 11 a.m. | Lakeland Harley-Davidson | Free | Head to this dealership for a free afternoon of food, refreshments, music, and giveaways.
52 Ways of Love Community Celebration | 12-5 p.m. | Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium | Free with RSVP | NFL legend Ray Lewis will return home for a community event featuring entertainment + celebrity guests to promote mental health awareness.
Sunday, May 25
Vegan BBQ ‘n Brews | 12-3 p.m. | Brew Hub | Price of purchase | Southern Fried Vegan — voted the best vegan barbecue joint by USA Today — is popping up with a menu of southern and sandwich specials at this brewery.
Sunday Crafternoon | 1-3 p.m. | Rose Dynasty Center | Free | Bring your in-progress art projects or start one from scratch at this community get-together.
Monday, May 26
Rise & Run | 6 a.m. | Fleet Feet | Free with RSVP | Set out on an early morning run from Lakeside Village to Pour Bear Coffee — all runners get a free brew at the end.
Tuesday, May 27
Embroidery & Cross Stitch Class | 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. | Fabric Warehouse | Free | Learn the basics of these needle crafts in this guided, hands-on class.
Airbnb just launched a new in-app feature that allows you to book services and activities. Imagine a sushi chef in a shipping container apartment. If you’re just looking for a cool place to stay,browse some of our favorite Airbnbs.
Eat
Chicken strips are back at McDonald’s. The McCrispy Strips recently became the restaurant’s first permanent addition to the menu in four years. Prices can vary by location, but you can usually get a combo meal for about $12. If this isn’t your flavor, explore other local restaurants with meals under $12.
Read
“My Friends” by Fredrik Backman, “Atmosphere” by Taylor Jenkins Reid + “Don’t Let Him In” by Lisa Jewell. Those are three of the summer’s most-anticipated books, according to Goodreads data. Head to a Lakeland bookstore to pick up a copy or crack open other local recommendations. (People)
Tech
We have “American Gothic” at home. That’s something more people may be saying after Samsung acquired the rights to ~50 works from the Art Institute of Chicago, now available for download on Samsung Smart TVs — it also has pieces from the MOMA + the Met. But can they compete with our local mural scene?
City Guide
City Guide
🍽️ Food and a view, don’t mind if we do
Soon, you may be able to read a book from Inklings while you enjoy Hillcrest’s porch. | Photo via Nicole Maddock-Paulson
Is it just us, or does eating outside make food taste better?
Catch some rays or laze in the shade at one of these 30+ Lakeland patios. Pro tip: Don’t miss the shade level we’ve included for each of these locations — especially as we pre-heat for the summer months.
Hillcrest Coffee | Partially shaded
Sip your favorite coffee or tea on the wraparound porch of this 1925 bungalow.
Il Forno | Fully covered Pioggia o sole. That’s “rain or shine” in Italian, which is exactly how you can enjoy classic Italian dishes at this restaurant’s south Lakeland location.
Britt’s Cafe | Partially shaded What’s the only thing better than brunch? Brunch on the patio, where you can enjoy your sunny-side up eggs in the sunshine.
Lakeland Loft | Mostly sunny
If you can grab a spot on The Loft’s second-story balcony, you’ll have one of the best views of downtown to enjoy with your drink or cigar.
Your favorite summer find during Amazon’s Memorial Day sale. Note: Deals subject to change.
⭐ With 40% off Sloosh pool floats, you’ll be bobbing in the water with back and head support.
⭐ Take 36% off women’s sun protection shirts, great for blocking UVA + UVB rays during summer hikes, pickleball games, and beach walks.
⭐ Deck out the patio with 46% off solar-powered outdoor string lights.
There’s less than one week of school left for PCPS students, meaning summer camp season is right around the corner. If you still looking for a spot to send your kiddo, check out Lakeland Mom’s comprehensive guide of available camps around Polk County. Don’t worry grown-ups — we have a way for you to get in on the fun, too.
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