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🍓 It’s the sweetest time of year
The festival has been ranked one of the top 40 fairs in the US — and we can see why. | Photo by LALtoday
We’re just one week away from the 2026 Florida Strawberry Festival, coming up Thursday, Feb. 26 through Sunday, March 8. We rounded up our top tips to have the berry best experience, whether it’s your first time or your 91st.
Tickets
General admission tickets can be purchased at the Main Gate, but they’re cheaperonline. Pro tip: We always save even more by buying ours at participating Publix stores.
Parking Parking on festival grounds costs $10 per car, but it fills up fast. Come prepared to find a private driveway or business offering parking nearby.
Getting around
WiFi can be tricky there, so save the map to your phone for easy access. The festival app is also helpful to keep track of the schedule + vendor locations — download it for Apple or Android.
How would you rate Lakeland’s overall quality of life? That’s one of the first questions in the City of Lakeland Community Survey, now open through Monday, March 16. Submit your feedback on local services, economic development, and spending priorities in the 10-15 minute survey.
Civic
Local Florida House representatives are on the move. For District 50 residents, Rep. Jennifer Canady is now holding monthly mobile office hours at the Lakeland Public Library. If you live in District 51, a special election for state representative will take place on Tuesday, March 24. Find your district. (LkldNow)
Coming Soon
Swan City has a new spot for home-style meals: Lakeland Diner, which is opening Monday, Feb. 23. The Greek family-owned restaurant will take over the former Wooden Spoon location at 6960 S. Florida Ave. and serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Community
Say hello to Larry Little, the city’s newly appointed Director of Communications. Little’s decade-spanning career has taken him from TV news reporting in Texas to city communications in California. He said his goal is to strengthen partnerships with city departments, residents, the community, and the media.
Open
The Bookish Flower has blossomed into a storefront on Frank Lloyd Wright Way. This new fantasy bookstore is open Tuesday-Saturday with new books + reading nooks — plus, a selection of antique furniture you’ll have to venture to the back to find.
Plan Ahead
Table this for later. The Junior League of Greater Lakeland is bringing back its Art of Tablescaping events March 6-7, featuring master designers. Tickets are available for dinner with the designers, hands-on workshops, and a showcase event. Pro tip: Save with a Complete Experience ticket.
Eat
Vegetation is now open later from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. for dinner service. On the all-vegan menu this week: Korean tacos, creamy pasta, black bean burgers, and more.
You don’t need to hit a breaking point to start therapy. If you’re replaying conversations or overthinking decisions, Octave Therapy can match you with a vetted, fully licensed therapist. Octave is in-network with many major plans + the average session cost is $28 out of pocket. Find your in-network therapist today.*
Category
Biz
Letting local business shine
Find Amethyst Bliss at local markets with products from businesses like Rafa Natural. | Photo by @amethystblissgifts
In honor of our many movers and shakers, we asked readers to nominate small businesses they love so we can share them with our whole audience — and you certainly delivered. Now, we’re passing the mic to local business owners who shared why they love what they do.
Amethyst Bliss Gifts
“Every product is handmade by me or another local maker, and I love that I get the opportunity to support and work with other small businesses.” — Owner Jessica Machala
SUN KAVA
“I’m a born and raised Polk County local, and proud every day to have built such an awe-inspiring community here, for all who might be vulnerable or just a little odd, as a young woman in her 20s.” — Owner Brittany Davis
Lakeland BBQ Company
“We started this business from our love of BBQ competitions and a passion for great barbecue, family, and serving our local community with food that brings people together.” — Owner Melissa Sanchez Vann
The votes are in, and Florida’s House of Representatives voted to change our state bird from the mockingbird to the American flamingo. It’ll go to the Senate now, but it looks like many readers are on board with the change — 41% picked the flamingo when we asked what the state bird should be in the fall.
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