Lakeland’s Amtrak station can be found north of Lake Mirror.
Photo by LALtoday
Train travel is in for 2026. Amtrak is offering its US Rail Pass for 50% off in honor of America’s 250th birthday. The $250 promotion includes 10 rides to 500 destinations, valid over 30 days. Don’t wait to purchase your pass — after tomorrow, this deal is riding the rails.
If you’re planning a trip, check out our Amtrak guide below, featuring tips on buying tickets, parking, and checking bags at Lakeland’s downtown train station.
What’s your favorite kind of BBQ? We’re dreaming about these ribs. | Photo provided by Visit Central Florida, via Emily Mort
In 2026, we’ve resolved to eat more BBQ.
If you’re ready to risk it for the brisket with us, head to the 29th Annual Lakeland Pigfest on Friday, Jan. 23 + Saturday, Jan. 24 at the SUN ‘n FUN Expo Campus.
Here are the sweet + spicy details:
Admission is $5 (free for kids 12 and under)
Exchange cash for Pig Bucks to purchase food from 150+ vendors
Enjoy live music and family-friendly activities
Bonus: Ticket sales and purchases support local non-profit organizations and charities.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day. City + county offices are closed in observance, along with recreation facilities and libraries. The Lakeland City Commission will meet tomorrow at 9 a.m. back at City Hall.
Mansion Monday
A new record-breaking condo recently sold for $21 million in Las Vegas, with skyline views of Sin City from within a prestigious country club. Here in Swan City, the most expensive country club home we could find on the market is spectacular, too. (Realtor)
Eat
Wings, meet margs. There’s a new weeknight special at The Peach House featuring aji verde chicken wings and your choice of margarita for $20. Sit in the bar area to enjoy this special — and don’t be afraid to branch out with an avocado margarita.
Try This
Country line dancing is making a comeback, and bars across the US are embracing a honky-tonk vibe to draw in crowds. Editor’s pick: Slip on your cowboy boots and join the fun in Lakeland at Union Hall’s Wednesday lessons from 5 to 9 p.m. (Wall Street Journal)
Sports
The countdown is on to the greatest tournament in golf. The Masters returns to Augusta National in 77 days, with the world’s best men’s golfers vying for the coveted Green Jacket. Get in the spirit, connect with friends, or practice your short game at a Swan City golf course.
On This Day
Today, Jan. 19, is the day Edgar Allan Poe was born in 1809. If it’s been a while since you read “The Raven,” spend the day in Poe-esque fashion and find a dark, quiet, brooding corner at the library.
Try This
Get a taste of the Southeast’s best BBQ at Pigfest this Friday, Jan. 23, and Saturday, Jan. 24. Admission is just $5 (free for kids 12 and under) for lots of BBQ, live music, and family-friendly fun.*
Read
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The Buy
Our favorite two-piece set featuring a knit sweater vest and pants. Pair it with your favorite cardigan for winter wardrobing, then wear it on its own as the weather warms for effortless, year-round style.
Did you catch the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Parade this past weekend? In case you missed it, watch the recording while we wait to hear which participants won the top awards in categories like best decorated vehicle and top dance group.
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