We look forward to this explosive event all year long. | Photo by LALtoday
Red, White & Kaboom returns with fireworks, food, and music this Thursday, July 3 at 6 p.m. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a new Lakelander, we’re answering commonly asked questions about the event.
Where should I park?
Use our downtown parking guide to find free public garages, street spaces, and lots. Pro tip: Park further away from Lake Mirror for an easier exit after the event.
When are the fireworks?
The firework display begins at 9 p.m., with the closing song playing around 9:15 p.m.
Where should I set up? This one comes down to personal preference. We’ve sat in several spots over the years, and as long as you’re not under a tree, you’ll have a clear view of the fireworks.
Maker’s Market | 6-9 p.m. | Catapult | Price of purchase | Shop artisan goods from Kitchen, Makerspace, and Workspace members in Catapult’s parking lot.
Friday, July 4
Independence Day Celebration | 2:30-10 p.m. | Mosaic Park, Bartow | Free+ | Celebrate with an afternoon picnic, local country music performers, family activities, and a veteran’s salute before the 9:10 p.m. fireworks extravaganza.
Golden Hour Fridays | 4-8 p.m. | Lakeside Village | Free+ | Get your glow on with laid-back music, picnic space, and casual vibes on the Lawn every Friday this summer.
City of Auburndale Fireworks | 9 p.m. | Lake Ariana, Auburndale | Free | Bring a chair to watch fireworks over the lake — remember, areas around the boat ramp are closed for construction.
Make & Mingle Social | 5:30-7:30 p.m. | COhatch | $5 | Get creative with the Breast Cancer Foundation of Central Florida as you craft bag charms and keychains over light refreshments.
Wednesday, July 9
Stars & Stripes | 6:30 p.m. | The Ritz, Winter Haven | $35 | It’s a party in the USA at this concert featuring patriotic hits by Johnny Wild and the Delights.
Friday, July 11
Dixieland Night Market | 6-11 p.m. | Union Hall | Price of purchase | See what’s new from Lakeland’s art, fashion, food, and jewelry makers as you shop beneath the stars.
Saturday, July 12
Florida Jeopardy: Sunshine State Showdown | 10 a.m.-1 p.m. | Lakeland Public Library | Free | Create a team name, nominate a captain, then show what you know about our state’s history and pop culture.
Bluey Reads Day | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Books-A-Million | Free | Pajamas are encouraged at this sleepy-themed event, featuring three story times and games for little Bluey fans.
CJ Vapes & Lounge owner Jeremiah Joaquim has filed plans to open a cocktail bar called the Velvet Swan in the former Dissent Brewing space on Kentucky Avenue. Joaquim says he aims to create a sophisticated and upscale lounge environment. (The Ledger)
Plan Ahead
The Lake Mirror Classic Concours and Car Show will return downtown Friday, Oct. 17-Sunday, Oct. 19, but the search for volunteers is on now. Sign up to join the team, and RSVP to join the Volunteer Kickoff Party on Saturday, July 19 at 2 p.m. at Camp Margaritaville.
Sports
McKeel High School grad KJ Scobey is one of 56 players selected to compete for 28 roster spots on the USA Baseball team. Sobey recently finished his freshman year at the University of South Carolina, ending the season with nine multi-hit games + eight home runs. Team USA will announce their finalists later this month. (The Ledger)
Pets
Budget on a tight leash? SPCA Florida will hold a pop-up sale on all of its Pet Shop retail items on Saturday, July 12, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Shop for pet essentials outside the adoption center, or head inside to meet a new furry friend.
State
In case you missed it, Paris Richardson (Miss Gainesville) was crowned Miss Florida 2025. Did you know? The competition moved to Lakeland in 2016 and brings ~$1.6 million in annual tourism revenue.
Health
From groundbreaking procedures to personalized risk assessments, cancer care at Lakeland Regional Health’s Hollis Cancer Center is comprehensive, collaborative, and close to home. With nationally trained specialists and advanced technology all under one roof, patients can receive expert care without leaving Polk County. Learn more.*
Number
1 million. That’s how many working professionals subscribe to Superhuman AI to learn the latest AI skills, tools, and news. Sign up for free.*
The Buy
Save up to 70% at local restaurants, spas, museums, gyms, and more with curated deals from Groupon. New deals appear every day so you can discover your next “why-didn’t-we-do-this-sooner” at the click of a button.
The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.
Last July, I sat near the Summit building to watch Red, White & Kaboom, and it was a pretty convenient spot. If you find a place to set up camp, Lakelanders are pretty good about leaving your chairs be while you go to grab dinner from a food truck — just be considerate.
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