Lakeland’s “prototype” Publix | See what’s planned for Publix’s newly rebuilt Lake Miriam Square store that could give us a glimpse into the future of grocery shopping.
Get a taste of the sea | Swim over to these places where you can find fresh seafood right here in Swan City, plus a few that readers think are worth the short drive.
Asked
Asked
Which lake would you most want to live by?
A. Lake Morton B. Lake Hollingsworth C. Lake Wire D. Lake Parker E. A different lake — I’ll write in my answer
Docent-Led Tour | 1 p.m. | The Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art | Free | Register for an informative tour of the museum’s featured exhibit to get a closer look at the art.
Caribbean Street Fest | 1-8 p.m. | Lakeland Square Mall | Free+ | Feel the rhythm of reggae music as you enjoy entertainment + a vendor market.
“The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe” | Saturday, May 17-Sunday, May 25 | Times vary | Theatre Winter Haven, Winter Haven | $15 | See the story of the magical land of Narnia come to life on stage in this play.
Plantae Palooza | 5-9 p.m. | Keel Farms, Plant City | Free+ | Grow your own fun by shopping from plant vendors and enjoying bites + bevs from the farm.
Sunday, May 18
90-Minute Tri | 7-9:30 a.m. | Lakeside Village | Free | Come ready to move with 30 minutes of Pure Barre, a 30-minute run with Fleet Feet, and 30 minutes with Yoga Pointe.
Dixieland Mid-Day Market | 10 a.m.-3 p.m. | Union Hall | Free+ | Start your week off on the right foot by shopping from local makers + bakers, then head inside for a themed brunch and entertainment.
Bowling for Bullies | 12:30-5 p.m. | Bowlero | $25 | Roll strikes and spares to support the work of Polk County Bully Project.
Paul Cataldo Duo | 2-5 p.m. | Swan Brewing | Free+ | Spend the afternoon listening to acoustic music and snacking on Simply Southern Kitchen food truck bites.
Saturday, May 24
52 Ways of Love Community Celebration | 12-5 p.m. | Joker Marchant Stadium | Free | NFL legend Ray Lewis will return home for a community event featuring entertainment + celebrity guests to promote mental health awareness.
57%. That’s the percentage of Gen Zers who want to become influencers, according to a 2023 survey by Morning Consult. If you know a Gen Zer who’s less obsessed with internet fame, introduce them to our leading industries and employers guide in Lakeland. (CNBC)
Holiday
Brace yourself for Memorial Day travel — this year is likely to break a 20-year-old record with nearly 45.1 million people on the move. Don’t forget that you need a REAL ID to fly. Here’s how to get yours. (Axios)
Liam and Olivia — those were the most popular baby names in Florida (and the entire US) in 2024 based on recently released data from the Social Security Administration. If you already know a Liam or Olivia, help them out by sharing these kid-friendly Lakeland activities with them.
City Guide
City Guide
🎫 One for the money, two for the show
Don’t miss the RP Funding Center’s “Classic Albums Live” series starting this summer. | Photo by @lakelandgov
...Three to get ready and four to go to these tribute shows coming up in Lakeland this year. Whether you’re into rock or reggae, you’re sure to hear your favorite artists’ biggest hits.
A set of wind chimes. There’s nothing like listening to the soft melody of wind chimes in the evening summer breeze. We love this premium set for their soothing tones, durability, and silver finish.
J. Crew Factory is now open at Lakeside Village. After visiting on opening day, I can already tell this will be my new spot to find cute clothes (while saving a pretty penny). Find everything from tops and dresses to jeans and accessories at discounted prices.
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