LKLD September 2023

ON THE COVER: Inspired by the work of Andy Warhol. Andy Warhol was born Andrew Warhola on August 6, 1928, in a working-class neighborhood in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. In 1960, Warhol turned his attention to the pop art movement, which began in Britain in the mid1950s. In 1962, he began a large series of celebrity portraits, featuring Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley, and Elizabeth Taylor. Warhol made his series of Campbell’s Soup Cans in 1962 and exhibited them the same year in his first solo pop art exhibition at Ferus Gallery in LA. Find out more about Andy Warhol at warhol.org or visit The Andy Warhol Museum in Pittsburgh.

Welcome to the BEST issue of the year! This issue celebrates the local entrepreneurs that YOU voted for. We asked our readers to vote from June 1 – July 31, then we counted. And counted. And counted. In fact, we had thousands of votes to go through, the most we’ve ever received, so thank you. Thank you for taking the time to write in the names of your favorite businesses and voting them as the best. Congratulations to all of the winners this year!

Be sure to check out our Top Ten lists and calendar for the fun events happening this month. Keep tagging your social posts with #lkldhaven and you might find it in the next issue of the magazine. How fun is that?

Have a great September, hope to see you around town. Congratulations again to all the Best Of LKLD winners, it’s time to celebrate!

Amy Sexson Editor/Partner Haven & LKLD Magazines Destroyer Media & Marketing Winter Haven Farmers Market CentralFloridaTix.com

Email me: amy@destroyermedia.com

Publisher // Chris Sexson chris@destroyermedia.com

Ad Director // Christine Campbell christine@destroyermedia.com

Editor & Photographer // Amy Sexson amy@destroyermedia.com

Managing Editor & Writer // Tara Crutchfield tara@destroyermedia.com

Art & Production Manager // Steven Maynard steven@destroyermedia.com

Account Representative // Jessica Parker jessica@destroyermedia.com

Graphic Designer // Ella Doyle ella@destroyermedia.com

Media Specialist // Nate Schaller nate@destroyermedia.com

Organizer of Destruction // Nicole Nikdel nicole@destroyermedia.com

Event Coordinator // Lyndsey Venrick lyndsey@destroyermedia.com

Contributing Writer Shannon Carnevale LkldNow.com

For advertising information please contact: christine@destroyermedia.com

PUBLIX EXPANDING DOWNTOWN

Publix Super Markets is planning a major expansion in downtown Lakeland as it takes over a fourth building to create a “technology campus” for its information technology workers.

Lakeland Economic Development Council President Steve Scruggs told city commissioners in early August that there will be hundreds of new high-skill, high-wage jobs, with an average annual wage of $130,000 – more than 250% of Polk County’s annual average wage. Publix has positioned IT staff in the Bank of America Building, the old JC Penney building and two and a half floors of The Ledger building. Scruggs said FedEx is moving out of the old Maas Brothers/Burdine’s building as it downsizes. According to Scruggs, the grocery chain behemoth employs about 1,200 IT workers currently in the downtown area.

DOWNTOWN PROJECT IMPROVEMENTS

Julie Townsend, executive director of the Lakeland Downtown Development Authority, is continuing her campaign to bring back historic charm while adding family-friendly fun to the city’s center. In a report to Lakeland City Commissioners, Townsend said over the course of a year, the LDDA produces about 88 events and activities, generating about 275,000 visitors, and are looking to increase that. Her plan includes: continuing to work with the Homeless Coalition of Polk County to care for those in the downtown area; considering returning some downtown streets to their original brick; re-instituting a lunchtime Squeeze shuttle service for downtown visitors; developing vacant, city-owned properties downtown; and adding an app that will provide scavenger hunts and other fun activities throughout the year. The LDDA’s $1 million budget is funded by two extra mils on downtown property owners’ tax bills.

WORDS

STUDENTS FAILED STATE READING TEST

A LkldNow review of preliminary reading scores shows that fewer than half of Polk County’s students are reading at or above grade level with one exception — 53% of fourth graders passed Florida’s statewide test. In the rest of the grades tested — third through 10th — a majority of students failed. In Polk County, 58% of third graders failed the reading test, along with 61% of eighth graders and 60% of 10th graders. In Lakeland, out of 36 elementary schools, 10 traditional or magnet Polk County Public Schools showed 50% or more of third graders reading at or above grade level. Out of five charter schools, which are publicly funded but privately run, four scored 74% or above with Lakeland Montessori Schoolhouse at 100%. The majority of Crystal Lake and Philip O’Brien third-graders were reading at a level 1 — the lowest score.

BACK TO SCHOOL

More than 115,000 Polk County Public Schools students returned to the classroom for the 2023-2024 school year on Aug. 11. Polk County is the 7th largest school district in the state and among the top 30 in the nation. It has 167 regular, charter, magnet, academy, and special education schools in an area the size of Rhode Island. It is the second largest employer in the county, with 7,000 teachers on the payroll and another 6,000 staff. Teacher shortages remain an issue again this year — a problem throughout the state and nation. Some students entered classrooms staffed by substitutes as the district continues to advertise positions. Statistics show the number of teachers needed on the first day has steadily increased each year — nearly tripling over the last six years. It went from 111 teacher openings in 2017 to 311 teacher openings this year.

CITY PROPERTY TAX RATE TO REMAIN FIXED

In the coming weeks, the city of Lakeland will put the finishing touches on its budget for the 2024 fiscal year, which begins Oct. 1. There are still two public hearings before commissioners cast a final vote, but the $164.23 million spending plan is unlikely to change much. The city does not plan to raise its property tax rate. Priorities include boosting pay for all city workers, building more affordable housing, adding an eighth fire station in north Lakeland, helping Florida Southern College expand the Polk Museum of Art and adapting to the increasing cost of materials for resurfacing roads. At the city’s annual budget retreat in August, City Finance Director Mike Brossart recommended holding the millage rate at $5.4323 for every $1,000 of assessed value. That means a home with a taxable value of $200,000 after exemptions would owe $1,086 in taxes to the city.

NEIGHBORHOODS HOME TO BACKYARD CHICKENS

Dixieland is one of many Lakeland neighborhoods where the number of residents keeping backyard chickens has grown in recent years. Urban chicken-keeping is a trend that took off during the COVID-19 pandemic and surged again earlier this year when egg prices doubled due to inflation, supply chain issues and the worst avian flu in U.S. history, affecting 58.8 million birds in 47 states. “I just can’t find a reason why you wouldn’t want to have chickens,” said Lorrie Delk Walker, of Lakeland. “Overall, chickens are very sociable. They are very easy keepers if you keep their water clean and keep them fed. There is just not a lot of stuff that goes wrong. They’re an easy pet in my opinion. We don’t have vet bills … like a dog or cat and they’re producing eggs.”

STATE-MANDATED CHANGES FOR SCHOOLS

The first bell of the 2023-2024 school year rang on Aug. 11 with some changes made by the Legislature, Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Florida Department of Education to which teachers will have to adjust — and some for which Polk County Public Schools’ administrators are racing to create new policies. The changes include: a policy called “Teachers’ Right to Control Their Classroom;” new — and some say controversial — American history standards; a new “Civics Seal of Excellence” for teachers; approved curriculum videos from conservative think tank “Prager U,” which is not a university; the requirement that students use restrooms and locker rooms that adhere to their biological sex at birth; and the elimination of AP Psychology in Polk County Public Schools. While some say the changes were made to mold students into patriotic citizens, others criticize lawmakers for what they call overt conservative indoctrination.

CITY ELECTIONS

Two incumbent city commissioners have no declared challengers and may breeze to re-election without opposition. Commissioner Sam Simmons, who was appointed to the position last fall and faces his first election, has drawn two challengers. So far, Commissioner Chad McLeod is unopposed for a second term in his at-large seat, and Commissioner Bill Read is unopposed for a third term representing northeast Lakeland. This would be Read’s final four-year stint as a commissioner, under term limits spelled out in the City Charter. The deadline for candidates to file for the nonpartisan Nov. 7 city election is noon Sept. 22. Typically, candidates file preliminary papers with the City Clerk’s Office well before that date in order to begin fundraising.

FLORIDA POLY’S PRESIDENT TO STEP DOWN

Florida Polytechnic University will soon add another “first” since it opened in 2014 — its first search for a new president. Randy Avent, 64, who has led the Lakeland-based university since its founding, announced that he will step down at the end of the 2023-24 academic year. He said he plans to take a “brief sabbatical” and then return as a faculty member. Florida Poly Board of Trustees Chair Cliff Otto said Avent was the right leader to tackle the difficult task of establishing a public STEM university from the ground up. Although Florida Poly is the youngest of the state’s 12 public universities, Avent is currently the system’s longest-serving president. Under a new law signed by DeSantis in March 2022, the search for a new president will be much less transparent than the first time around.

LAKELAND MOVES ELIBRARY

People in south Lakeland will have to drive a little farther to access a library in a few weeks. After 16 years in the Lake Miriam Square shopping center, the eLibrary will close its doors permanently at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 2. The facility is being moved to the Kelly Recreation Center at 404 Imperial Blvd., two miles north. The new Kelly Branch Library is scheduled to open Monday, Sept. 18. At the new Kelly Branch Library, users will be able to browse and borrow from collections of popular library materials for children and adults, get a library card, pick up requested items in self-serve book lockers, and return materials borrowed from any Lakeland public library, according to a news release. The library will also offer public WiFi access, technology assistance, printing, faxing and scanning services. Chromebooks can also be checked out for use within the facility.

FARMERS MARKET

The Lakeland Downtown Farmers Curb Market is back every Saturday in downtown Lakeland from 8 am – 2 pm. Shop local, handmade, homegrown, plants, artisan gifts, pastries, breads, specialty foods, and more. Enjoy live entertainment most Saturdays. downtownfarmerscurbmarket.org

POLK TOP 10

CRYSTAL CUP

Sept. 3, 1 – 4 pm at Honeycomb Bread Bakers. Features a series of local competitors brewing craft coffee for a blind taste-test by judges. Listen to a guest speaker and ask questions during the Q & A. Coffee samples provided. Register in advance. centralfloridatix.com

NUNSENSE: THE MEGA MUSICAL

Sept. 8 – 17 at the Lakeland Community Theatre. To save their convent from financial ruin, the Little Sisters of Hoboken have “One Last Hope” to raise the money and properly bury their accidentally poisoned sisters. lakelandcommunitytheatre.com

DISCO FEST II

Sept. 9, 8 pm at Haus 820. Plan your outfit and get ready for a night of throwback fun with Buena Market. This party will have a popup roller rink, a Nostalgia Market, arcade games, food & cocktails, and of course, dancing! Hourly skate rentals available. Ages 18+. buenamarket.com/disco-fest

ATHENA AWARDS

Sept. 14, 6 – 9 pm at the Lakeland Community Theatre. The ATHENA Awards honor local women and organizations that demonstrate excellence, creativity and initiatives that give back to the larger community. Purchase tickets in advance. lakelandchamber.com

RUN FOR THEIR LIVES!

Sept. 16, 7:30 am at Peterson Park in Lakeland. This is SPCA Florida’s Inaugural Run for Their Lives 5K Race. Walkers, families, and dogs are welcome, virtual option & kids race available. Register in advance. spcaflorida.org/run

DINNER & A MOVIE

Sept. 23, 6:30 pm at the Gem Theater. Feed me, Seymour! Watch the cult classic Little Shop of Horrors with dinner. Admission includes screening of the film and seated dinner (appetizer, entree, dessert, water/tea). Purchase tickets online. centralfloridatix.com

THE BARK EASY

Sept. 23, 6:30 – 9:30 pm at the Lakeland Loft. This is a fundraiser for the Polk County Bully Project. Go back to the Roaring 20s when the pitbull was the dog of America. Dress to impress, and enjoy live jazz, drinks, food, a wine pull and a silent auction. Purchase tickets online. givebutter.com/c/thebarkeasy

LAKELAND PUNK ROCK FLEA

Sept. 24, noon – 6 pm at Swan Brewing downtown. Over 80 vendors & food trucks, free admission, sk8r approved, pets welcome and mostly kid safe (PG13ish) plus live music. More info on FB @lakelandpunkflea/events.

AFTER SCHOOL ART

Sept. 25 – Oct. 30, every Monday from 4:30 – 5:30 pm at the Polk Museum of Art. No pre-registration required, but classes fill up quickly, doors open: 4:20pm. Designed for the parent/guardian and child to learn creative new skills together. Every week is different. polkmuseumofart.org/after-school

ORLANDO TOP 10

MAGICAL DINING

Throughout September at participating restaurants. Enjoy three-course, prix-fixe dinners with tiered pricing set at just $40 or $60 per person plus tax and gratuity. Through Visit Orlando, up to $2 from each meal served will benefit one or more local nonprofits. magicaldining.com

HALLOWEEN HORROR NIGHTS

Select nights from 6:30 pm – 2 am, Sept. 1 – Nov. 4 at Universal Orlando. This separately ticketed event will have 10 haunted houses, five scare zones, live entertainment, and the park’s most exciting rides open at night. Ages 13+ recommended. universalorlando.com/hhn/en/us

WILD FLORIDA 5K

Sept. 2, 8 am at Lake Baldwin Park. Run wild with Conservation Florida and support their mission to save natural and agricultural landscapes for future generations. You can also walk or run virtually. After party at Gator’s Dockside. conservationfla.org/events/wildfl5k

EVERY BRILLIANT THING

Sept. 8 – 24 at the Garden Theatre in Winter Garden. Starring John O’Hurley (J. Peterman from Seinfeld). This one-person play examines what makes life worth living, and the power of theatre to bring people together. gardentheatre.org

ORLANDO LAKES CLEANUP

Sept. 9 – 16. They need volunteers to tackle this effort, with a goal of removing over 3,000 lbs of trash from the lakes. Participants are encouraged to bring their own boat, kayak, or canoe or participate on foot. Opportunities to volunteer are available, visit orlando.gov/ orlandocares to register.

ORLANDO TACO WEEK

Sept. 13 – 27 at participating restaurants. Each Chef will prepare their unique take on tacos with a taco special. Access your Taco Week Passport and get it virtually “stamped” at participating locations. Eat and post on social media to win prizes. orlandotacoweek.com

SCIENCE OF A CUBAN SANDWICH

Sept. 16, 6 – 9 pm at MOSI, ages 18+. Led by expert scientists and chefs, this friendly competition will delve into the physics of baking bread, the chemistry of sandwich fillings and the biology of taste and flavor. Live music, drinks, & more. mosi.org

SYMPHONY IN SPACE

Sept. 20 & 27 at the Dr. Phillips Center. This is a Young People’s Concert by the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra. This cosmic concert will blast off to new heights with Mozart and moonbeams, Beethoven and Big Dippers, Stravinsky and stardust. drphillipscenter.org

HAPPY FRIGHTS

Select nights from Sept. 29 – Oct. 31 at Leu Gardens. A family-friendly trick-or-treating experience. Kids can explore a neon maze, climb a hay pyramid, watch magic shows, trickor-treat and more! Seasonal food and drink available for purchase. Must reserve ticket in advance. halloweeninthegarden.com

OKTOBERFEST

Sept. 30, 4 – 10 pm at Lake Nona Town Center. Hear live music by the King Guys Band, German food, German themed entertainment, photo-ops, games, and the annual Stein Hoisting competition. No tickets needed, food & drink for purchase. lakenona.com

TAMPA TOP 10

SUNSET MARKET

Sept. 1 & 15 from 5 – 10 pm at the Imagine Museum in St. Pete. Watch live art demonstrations featuring glass blowing, shop the artist’s market, enjoy live music, and purchase from St.Pete’s best food trucks. Free to attend, on the first and third Fridays every month. imaginemuseum.com

HOWL-O-SCREAM

Sept. 8 – Oct. 31 at Busch Gardens. This separately ticketed night event includes haunted houses, scare zones, riding attractions in the dark, shows, and unspeakable horror in every corner of the park. Evil Upgrades available for an additional purchase. Purchase tickets in advance. 18+ only. buschgardens.com

MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS

Sept. 8 – 24 at the Mainstage Theatre by the Carrollwood Players. Based on the book by Agatha Christie, just after midnight, a snowdrift stops the Orient Express in its tracks. The luxurious train is full, but by the morning it is one passenger fewer. carrollwoodplayers.org

ROSENCRANTZ AND GUILDENSTERN ARE DEAD

Sept. 13 – Oct. 8 at the Straz Center. A comic retelling involving the Bard of Stratford-upon-Avon, from the point of view of two bumbling support players. This is the story of what “really” happens behind the scenes as events pass them both by. strazcenter.org

ONE DAY PLANT SALE

Sept. 16, 9 am – 2 pm at the USF Botanical Gardens. Purchase a diverse range of fruit trees, perennial vegetables, and healing plants. Elevate your garden with their specialized consultation, design, and installation services from Third Insight Design. usf.edu/gardens

3RD THURSDAY TAMPA

Sept. 21, 6 – 10 pm at Grand Central at Kennedy. This is a food truck event featuring cocktails provided by restaurants and bars plus live music. Free 2-hour parking is located on site, and dogs are welcome. tampabaymarkets.com

JURASSIC PARK IN CONCERT

Sept. 22 & 23 at the Mahaffey Theater in St. Pete. Celebrating the 30th anniversary of the film, experience Jurassic Park as never before: projected in HD with The Florida Orchestra performing John Williams’ iconic score live. themahaffey.com

SPANISH NIGHTS

Sept. 22 at 8 pm and Sept. 24 at 2 pm at the Straz Center. In this upbeat celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, Opera Tampa will entertain audiences with music from Spain, Cuba, Puerto Rico and beyond. A perfect night out for anyone looking to live la vida opera. strazcenter.org

ZOO TAMPA KID’S FUN RUN

Sept. 23, 7 – 11 am. This kid-friendly event features three exciting races; a Diaper Dash and Toddler Trot, a 1K Fun Run for kids ages 4-7, and a 2K run for children ages 8-14. The race encourages a healthy lifestyle while helping to protect and preserve wildlife and wild places. zootampa.org

DESSERT WARS

Sept. 23, 3 – 7 pm at the Florida State Fairgrounds. Sample over 50 local dessert vendors with cookies, ice cream, donuts, and more. The vendors will sample their best and compete to be Dessert Wars Champion! Purchase tickets online. floridastatefair.com

BESTOF LKLD

This issue is the BEST, like for real. Each year, we offer a list of categories for our readers to vote on from June through July. No nominations, simply write-in your thoughts. On August 1, the votes are tabulated, and the winners are announced in the September issue. This year we received thousands and thousands of votes, more than any year before! Thank you.

Best Of LKLD is our biggest issue of the year, and putting it together is full of laughs, tears, and nervous sweating. But, it’s a labor of love. This issue has a special place in our hearts because we love to hear from our readers and celebrate our small businesses. To our winners, giving their best to the community, we see you, we appreciate you, keep killin’ it! Best Of LKLD serves as a hyperlocal guide. Keep it to refer back to throughout the year when you’re looking for a new Chinese spot, in the market for a jetski, or need an urgent care suggestion.

Without further ado, welcome to YOUR official list of our community’s best restaurants, businesses, makers, and artists. Each winner comes highly recommended by your friends and neighbors.

FOOD + DRINK

BEST PIZZA

PALACE PIZZA DOWNTOWN

114 S Kentucky Ave, Lakeland (863) 688-0045

FB @palacepizzadowntown

IG @palacepizzadtwn palacepizzadowntown.com

This pizza shop reigns supreme! Palace Pizza Downtown is royalty in the Best Pizza category year after year. They bring over 25 years of experience to the table, along with fresh dough, quality tomatoes, and 100% whole milk mozzarella cheese. The Palace Pizza fam follows traditional recipes to give guests authentic Italian flavor. You can get pizza by the slice or pan with options like Neapolitan, Sicilian, and supreme. Or, build your own! (They even have gluten-free pizza.)

2nd: J. Burns’ Pizza Shop

3rd: Jet’s Pizza

BEST BURGER

BURGER 21

1601 Town Center Dr, Lakeland (863) 937-8002

FB @b21lakeland

IG @myburger21

burger21.com/locations/lakeland

These guys are bun in a million, according to Best Of LKLD voters! Now lettuce tell you why. Burger 21 chefs hand-cut and hand-patty each burger in the kitchen for every order. Their juicy Angus beef is a fan favorite, with plenty of other options, like chicken and veggie burgers (which are free of hormones and antibiotics). Polish your burger off with a shake and fries! “Our goal is to create a neighborhood spot where friends, families, and coworkers can come together and eat delicious quality burgers. With more than 21 burger varieties featuring chicken, seafood, veggie, and beef, a Burger 21 burger is like nothing you’ve ever tasted.”

2nd: The Chop Shop

3rd: Ford’s Garage

BEST TACOS

TAPATIO’S

MEXICANO

from scratch, using the freshest meats, produce, and ingredients, according to tradition and what our family has handed down through the generations,” says Tapatio’s. Best Of LKLD voters love their traditional tacos with options including al pastor, de carne asada, chorizo, and more! These top-tier tacos are served on a soft corn tortilla and garnished with onion and cilantro. Tapatio’s, you are the chips to our salsa – we think you’re fantas-taco!

2nd: Mega Mercado

3rd: Taco Bus

BEST WINGS

WINNERS CIRCLE SPORTSBAR AND GRILL

4215 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 644-9464

FB @winnerscirclelkld

IG @wcsportsbar winnerscirclesportsbar.com

This is the wingman you need in your life. Tasty American-style bar food, done right. Since 2002, this family-owned sports bar has offered good drinks and good times with weekly events like karaoke, free-play poker night, corn-hole, beer pong, buzz time trivia, live DJs, and comedy shows. This repeat wing winner is a three-time “King of the Wing” Championship Title holder. Winners Circle Championship Wings are available bone-in (breaded or naked) or boneless (grilled or fried) with over 46 flavors to toss them in, from mild to hot, sweet to tangy, and everything in between. Some of their unique wing flavors include Syracuse Hot, Coconut Lime, Sour Creme & Onion, PB&J, Cinnamon Chipotle, Smokehouse Maple, and many more!

2nd: Decisions Grill & Bar

3rd: Beef O’Brady’s

BEST CUBAN SANDWICH

OLE’ TAMPA CUBANS

Alamo Plaza, 4525 Florida Ave S STE 31, Lakeland (863) 583-4733

FB: Ole’ Tampa Cubans Lakeland

IG @oletampacubans

ings.” One Ole’ Tampa Cubans customer raved in part, “WOW! Best place in Lakeland for an authentic-tasting Cuban sandwich! [...]”

2nd: Elena’s Cuban Cafe

3rd: Divicious Deli & Coffee Shop

BEST ITALIAN

RESTAURANT

SCARPA’S ITALIAN

1833 E Edgewood Dr, Lakeland (863) 937-8940

FB: Scarpa’s Italian IG @scarpasitalian scarpasitalian.com

Scarpa’s surpasses the competition yet again for Best Italian Restaurant! Since opening in 2013, Scarpa’s has cemented itself as a Lakeland Italian food institution. The restaurant is family-owned and operated by Glenn, former chef at Mario’s for twelve years, and Ashley Scarpa. Their menu boasts housemade pastas, and they’ve even had a visit from chef Emeril Lagassé for his show, Emeril’s Florida, in 2016. Scarpa’s award-winning Italian dishes are made fresh daily and prepared to order, so be sure to call ahead for a sought-after Scarpa’s table. Enjoy your penne bolognese or veal cannelloni with a glass or bottle of wine from their substantial wine menu.

2nd: Il Forno Italian Restaurant

3rd: Palace Pizza Downtown

BEST INDIAN RESTAURANT

CURRY MANGO

6625 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 940-2275

FB @mycurrymango

IG @mycurrymango

mycurrymango.com

These guys just keep winning, naan stop! At Curry Mango, guests can indulge in authentic Indian flavors like butter chicken, lamb vindaloo, and chicken tikka masala. Patrons appreciate their bright, flavorful dishes, authenticity, and service.

BEST SUSHI RESTAURANT

NEW MOON SUSHI

4231 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 647-1212

FB @newmoonsushi IG @newmoonsushi newmoonsushi.com

If we’re getting sushi, New Moon is who we’re rollin’ with. Best Of LKLD voters say its soy good! Their vast selection of traditional Japanese dishes, sushi and sashimi rolls, ramen, tempura, teriyaki dishes, and more have guests singing their sushi praises. Wash your South Florida roll down with a glass of hot sake, wine, or one of New Moon’s 20 signature cocktails. One sushi-satiated patron wrote in part, “We had a great experience at New Moon Sushi! Their rolls were very creative with great flavor combinations. Our favorite was the Fuji Apple roll! We had the pork shumai for an appetizer and they were fresh and flavorful. [...]”

2nd: Tsunami Sushi & Hibachi

3rd: Fancy Q Japanese Restaurant

BEST BBQ RESTAURANT MISSION BBQ

4014 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 225-8433

FB @missionbbqtheamericanway IG @missionbbq mission-bbq.com

Another MISSION accomplished for this Lakeland BBQ Restaurant winner. Meat your heart out with Texas-inspired, oak-smoked brisket, slow-smoked hand-pulled pork, or try a bit of everything with a sampler. Along with Smokehouse Signatures, sandwiches, and salads, enjoy made-from-scratch sides like Maggie’s Mac-N-Cheese, green beans with bacon, or baked beans with brisket. According to MISSION BBQ, “We believe there is nothing more American than BBQ. And nobody is more American than the brave men and women who have sworn to protect and serve Our Communities and Our Country. We do what we do for the love of our soldiers, firefighters, police officers, first responders—all our loved ones in service.”

2nd: Mojo Federal Swine & Spirits

3rd: Blue Dog Craft Barbecue

RESTAURANT

734 E Memorial Blvd, Lakeland (863) 686-6958

FB @Tapatios tapatiosmemorial.com

6645 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 646-2199

FB @tapatiostiendasfl IG @tapatios2 tapatiostogo.com

Tapatio’s is totally spec-taco-lar! “We always cook

oletampacuban.com

713 N Church Ave, Mulberry (863) 943-5556

FB: Ole’ Tampa Cubans

Welcome to Polk County’s taste of Tampa! These must-try Cuban sandwiches are made with slow-roasted garlic pork, Genoa salami, Swiss cheese, mustard, and pickles pressed to perfection on authentic La Segunda Cuban bread straight from Ybor City. “Whether you prefer a traditional Cuban, enjoy it a little sweet or a little spicy, we have the perfect sandwich to satisfy your crav-

One Curry Mango convert wrote, “My first time enjoying Indian food, and it didn’t disappoint. Fell in love with the fresh garlic naan and the dipping sauces. I had the mango curry chicken and my husband had Tikka Masala. Both were delicious. Staff was very attentive and nice. Loved the experience and food! Hidden little gem in Lakeland, worth the drive from Lithia.”

2nd: Chilly Masala Indian Cuisine

BEST DONUTS HOLE IN ONE DONUTS

Multiple Locations in Central Florida

2076 E Edgewood Dr, Lakeland (863) 665-8385

Hole In One Donuts are like a par-tee in your mouth! You’re going to want to make some time FORE! this Lakeland donut shop. Glazed, sprinkled, cream-filled, and powdered sugar goodness are par for the course at this Lakeland bake shop. Hole In One Donut devotees often rave about their freshness and how friendly the staff is. One happy Hole In One customer wrote, “This is the best place! Family run for many years, we always see the same people when we come in. Their donuts are SO good. The blueberry cake is the best I’ve tried. Everything tastes so fresh! We love getting their special which is a breakfast sandwich, donut and a drink for a very reasonable price. It’s just good simple food from a lovely little shop. Don’t skip on the blueberry cake donut!”

2nd: Charlie’s Mini Donuts & Coffee

3rd: Krispy Kreme

BEST SUB SANDWICH

PUBLIX

FB @publix IG @publix publix.com

Pub Subs are pretty deli-ghtful! This iconic sandwich has become the nation’s envy, with an array of subs to savor, from the Boar’s Head Italian Sub to the Publix Ultimate Sub. The options are ‘sub’stantial, but the tried-and-true sammy is the Chicken Tender Sub made with Publix Deli’s famous double-hand-breaded chicken tenders. Little known fact, if you don’t have a Pub Sub every so often, they’ll revoke your Florida card. I’m due for mine soon!

2nd: Subs ‘n Such

3rd: Firehouse Subs

BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT TAPATIO’S RESTAURANT MEXICANO

734 E Memorial Blvd, Lakeland (863) 686-6958

FB @Tapatios tapatiosmemorial.com

6645 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 646-2199

FB @tapatiostiendasfl

IG @tapatios2 tapatiostogo.com

Not only are they taco titans, but this restaurant also boasts the best Mexican fare. Fresh meats, produce, and ingredients are used to make authentic family recipes that have been handed down through generations. Tapatio’s has a sprawling menu offering everything from flautas, guac, and chips and salsa, to burritos, quesadillas, enchiladas, fajitas, and of course, Tapatio’s Best Of LKLD-winning tacos. End your meal with churros and ice cream or a piece of toothsome tres leches cake. “Favorite authentic Mexican restaurant in Lakeland. Their food tastes amazing like it’s homemade and portion sizes are huge. The food is always hot for takeout and tastes fresh. [...]” reads part of one Tapatio’s five-star review.

2nd Abuelo’s Mexican Restaurant

3rd: Azteca D’ Oro Mexican Restaurant

BEST LATIN RESTAURANT

NINETEEN61

215 E Main St, Lakeland (863) 688-1961

FB @nineteen61

IG @nineteen61_ nineteen61.com

Passionate and creative chefs use fresh ingredients to craft authentic and modern Latin cuisine. Nineteen61’s Owner and Chef Marcos Fernandez has “traveled to where the food takes him. This unrestricted approach translates into a diversified career of industry experience, spanning over 16 years and several countries.” These travels have broadened Chef Marcos’ culinary creations from

the native Cuban cuisine of his youth to Peruvian, Italian, French, Spanish, and the American South. Hundreds of five-star reviews laud Nineteen61 for its exceptional Latin fare, upscale atmosphere, and unmatched service.

2nd: Zarza Latin Food & Grill

3rd: Tapatio’s Restaurant Mexicano

BEST SOUL FOOD RESTAURANT

FRED’S MARKET RESTAURANT

2120 Harden Blvd, Lakeland (863) 603-7080

FB: Fred’s Market Restaurant

IG @freds_market fredsmarket.com

Family dining and southern hospitality are at the heart of this Lakeland eatery. Fred’s Market Restaurant was started in a gas station where Evelyn Johnson would cook family meals for her husband, Elton, and their children. Over the years, it grew into three restaurants offering farm-to-plate fresh dishes with the same southern hospitality it started with. “Our food is slowly cooked in a natural and unprocessed way, served in a cozy atmosphere full of warmth and fun. We don’t compromise on quality or character, whether it’s the ingredients in our dishes or the attitudes of our people. It’s southern comfort that’s pure and hearty all the way to the core, and it’s all found at Fred’s Market Restaurant.”

2nd: Country Chicken & Fish

3rd: Plates on Deck

BEST BREAKFAST RESTAURANT

KEKE’S BREAKFAST CAFE

3615 Florida Ave S #110, Lakeland (863) 937-9666

4115 US Hwy 98 N, Lakeland (863) 937-7395

FB: Keke’s Breakfast Cafe IG @kekesbreakfastcafe kekes.com

“It’s like your hometown diner grew up and went to the city.” Keke’s serves up an eggcellent handmade breakfast using the best ingredients available, with fresh fruits and vegetables delivered daily and the highest quality bread and dairy products. Their menu includes waffles, pancakes, omelets, French toast, create-your-own combos, and more. One Keke’s patron writes, “Everything was perfect, fresh strawberries, eggs seasoned/cooked right. No wait on the weekend around 10 am and we didn’t have to wait long for our food. Definitely would come back.”

2nd: Fat Jacks Deli & Pub

3rd: First Watch

BEST BRUNCH FRESCOS SOUTHERN KITCHEN

& BAR

132 S Kentucky Ave, Lakeland (863) 683-5267

FB: Frescos IG @frescoslakeland frescoslakeland.com

Bottomless blood orange mimosas and sweet buttermilk pancakes, anyone? Frescos Owner and Chef Tina Calhoon believes that “with good food comes comfort and happiness. THAT is the Frescos’ philosophy and tradition that she continues to build on – offering warm, southern hospitality and creating an experience through food that brings joy to others.” And that’s just what you get with Frescos’ fabulous brunch – pure joy. Some of the southern goodness includes fried green tomatoes, apple bourbon monkey bread, shrimp and grits, and spicy chicken and waffles. Imbibe in a bellini or Bloody Mary and end things sweetly with butter pecan cake or creme brulee. I could keep going… Their brunch is just that good!

2nd: First Watch

3rd: Momma and Friends Brunch Show

- CONTINUED ON PAGE 23 -

BEST SEAFOOD

HARRY’S SEAFOOD BAR & GRILLE

101 N Kentucky Ave, Lakeland (863) 686-2228

FB @harrys.seafood.lakeland IG @hookedonharrys hookedonharrys.com

Voters are hooked on Harry’s! “We’ve taken the best of Cajun, Creole, and Southern flavors and infused them with a modern twist to create some truly unique and award-winning dishes.” Award-winning indeed! You can’t go wrong with Southern seafood staples like shrimp-n-grits, blackened redfish, Harry’s Signature Crab Cakes, and shrimp po’boys. One customer reviewed in part, “Harry’s is an amazing place for some great seafood, drinks, and atmosphere. Very authentic New Orleans cuisine. [...]”

2nd: Fish City Grill

3rd: Mr. & Mrs. Crab

BEST THAI RESTAURANT THAI OISHI

1535 Town Center Dr, Lakeland (863) 333-0657

FB: Thai Oishi Restaurant thaioishirestaurant.com

Looking for great-tasting Japanese and Thai dishes? If you haven’t been, it’s about Pad Thai-me you try out Thai Oishi! From Drunken Noodles to Panang Curry, they have all you’d need to Thai you over in a cozy atmosphere. Traditional Thai dishes may be ordered mild, medium, hot, or Thai hot, and most dishes can be made vegetarian upon request. One Thai Oishi patron wrote, “My absolute favorite Thai restaurant in Lakeland. Their duck dishes are superb and their sushi is always fantastic and fresh.”

2nd: Spice Thai & Sushi

3rd: Fancy Q Sushi & Thai

BEST MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT CAFÉ ZUPPINA

4417 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 644-5144

FB @CafeZuppina IG @cafezuppina cafezuppina.com

A taste of the Mediterranean, not too far from home. Cafe Zuppina owners Berna and Erkan Nar have shared their Turkish culture with the Lakeland community for over a decade through fresh, healthy Mediterranean food. The dishes at Cafe Zuppina are made from scratch with fresh

ingredients, which the owners shop locally for each day. Everything on the menu, from the Veggie Moussaka and the Aegean Salad to Zuppina’s Lamb Chops, are as stunning visually as they are to taste. In 2019, Cafe Zuppina opened The Market next door, which serves as a coffeehouse and curated collection of international goods.

2nd: Louis Pappas Fresh Greek Lakeside

3rd: Street Cafe

BEST CHINESE RESTAURANT

PEKING HOUSE

2411 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 688-9022

thepekinghouse.com

This award-winning Chinese restaurant is praised for its tasty cuisine made to order using fresh ingredients. Peking House offers an extensive menu with familiar dishes like sweet and sour chicken, lo mein, chop suey, and dumplings, along with house specials like spicy crispy shrimp and Mandarin seafood delight. End your meal with some tasty Chinese doughnuts! “Best traditional Chinese food in Lakeland. Love the hole in the wall aspect of this place that has stayed true to its roots. Large portions, quality ingredients and nice friendly people!” wrote one customer.

2nd: China Wok

3rd: Ling’s Buffet

BEST RESTAURANT FOR OYSTERS

FISH CITY GRILL

1485 Town Center Dr., Suite D112, Lakeland (863) 683-1243

FB @fishcitygrill

IG @fishcitygrill fishcitygrill.com

The best shuckin’ place for oysters in Lakeland! Fish City Grill offers oyster nachos made with fried oysters, chipotle tartar sauce, and fresh pico de gallo, or guests can keep it classic with oysters on the half shell with a varying selection from Fresh Gulf Oysters and East Coast Oysters from small farms. For an entree, you can make it a Pick 2 or Pick 3 combo with beer-battered cod, catfish, shrimp, and oysters. Yum! One customer writes, “I have only been here twice, and let me tell you I will keep coming back! I’ve tried different dishes and have loved everything I’ve had so far. The Mango Margarita was refreshing and so good. The Chargrilled Oysters and Calamari are a must every time. Love this place! Money well spent!!”

2nd: Lucky’s Sports, Oyster, & Tiki Bar

3rd: Gary’s Oyster Bar & Seafood House

BEST ICE CREAM

MAYDAY ICE CREAM

640 E Main St, Lakeland (Inside The Joinery)

FB @maydayicecream

IG @maydayicecream maydayicecream.com

Sprinkle some Mayday goodness on your day! Cancel your plans immediately and head for a scoop of handcrafted ice cream. Based in The Joinery, Mayday Ice Cream dishes out tasty cold treats topped with homemade sprinkles, served in homemade waffle cones. Their cones smell so good you might just cartoon float your way to their shop when you walk into the food hall. Enjoy it there or grab a to-go pint of flavors like Blueberry Toast Crunch, Cloud 9, Parent Trap, Ice Box Lemon, Key Lime Pie, Coffee + Donuts, Gillespie’s Bourbon Pecan, and more.

2nd: Andy’s Frozen Custard

3rd: Bruster’s Ice Cream

BEST FOOD TRUCK

JIMMY’S FAMOUS SEAFOOD EXPRESS

FB @Jimmysflexpress

IG @jimmysseafood

jimmysfamousseafood.com

If you know any good seafood jokes, let minnow! Maybe you’ve had their steamed crab at Swan Brewing or their grouper sandwich at Grove Roots? You’ve definitely heard of them – they are famous, after all! According to Jimmy’s Famous Seafood Express, “We are a food truck bringing you the amazing tastes of Jimmy’s famous seafood from Baltimore to the streets of Florida!” Jimmy’s is well-known for fresh, delicious seafood bites on the go, like their award-winning Jumbo Lump Maryland Crab Cakes, The Crabby Patty (an 8 oz hamburger patty smothered in house crab dip and topped with fresh crab meat), and Kung Pao Shrimp Tacos (hand-breaded shrimp fried to perfection served with homemade coleslaw on flour tortillas). Swim over to their social media to see where they’ll be next.

2nd: Fat Maggie’s

3rd: Omusubee

BEST DINER

REECECLIFF FAMILY DINER

940 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 686-6661

IG @reececliff.diner reececliff.com

Reececliff Family Diner is the longest-running restaurant in Lakeland, serving Americana diner fare since 1934. They pride themselves on consistency and a down-home atmosphere. The diner offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner Southern

classics from their Ranchers Breakfast to Reececliff Honey Chicken. Guests rave about their food, portion sizes, ambiance, and customer service. We’ve heard the pie, which has been “crafted by the same expert for more than 50 years,” is worth a visit alone!

2nd: Fat Jacks Deli & Pub

3rd: Cozy Oaks Restaurant

BEST FINE DINING

NINETEEN61

215 E Main St, Lakeland (863) 688-1961

FB @nineteen61

IG @nineteen61_ nineteen61.com

“Phenomenal dining experience. The service was superb, the food was exceptional, and the white sangria was perfect. The Grand Marnier creme brulee was absolutely divine. The perfect upscale spot for a special occasion,” writes one Nineteen61 patron. Nineteen61, opened in 2015 by Chef Marcos Fernandez, continues to be a Best Of LKLD voter darling. This posh downtown restaurant prides itself on authentic cuisine with menus that are “both authentic and modern in Latin culture,” fresh ingredients, and creative chefs. “At Nineteen61, we position ourselves as a benchmark for Lakeland dining. A new standard that shows what is possible – what Lakeland diners should expect from their restaurants.”

2nd: Scarpa’s Italian

3rd: The Terrace Grille

BEST PATIO DINING

THE PATIO - LAKELAND

850 S Tennessee Ave, Lakeland (863) 816-3101

FB: The Patio-Lakeland IG @thepatiolakeland finediningrestaurantlakeland.com

String lights and lush greenery abound in this centrally located oasis. The Patio - Lakeland offers an intimate hideaway dining experience with sophisticated brunch and dinner menus. This locally owned and operated fine dining establishment specializes in outdoor dining and features a substantial selection of dishes, including seafood, pizza, and wine. According to The Patio, “Our chefs use the highest-quality ingredients in our dishes and prepare them with care to ensure every bite is full of flavor.” This restaurant is also pet-friendly, so you can bring your four-legged BFF! Enjoy refined fare with your friends and family amid an upscale, cozy ambiance at The Patio.

2nd: Nineteen61

3rd: Frescos Southern Kitchen & Bar

BEST CASUAL DINING THE BACK NINE

124 S Tennessee Ave, Lakeland (863) 603-3700

FB: The Back Nine Lakeland

IG @thebackninelakeland thebackninelakeland.com

The Back Nine owners, Ethan and Jenna Smith, “had a desire to create a place of togetherness, where you can just be and enjoy the people around you.” According to Best Of LKLD voters, that’s just what they created. The Back Nine is a relaxed pub offering exceptional hospitality, tasty drinks, craft food, and state-of-the-art golf simulators. One Back Nine patron writes, “A wonderful family dining and virtual sports entertainment venue. An outstanding addition to our downtown choices. I know where the golfers are going to be when the rains come. Pet Friendly dining outside with easy access from the street for your furry children. Nice menu line up with lots of unique offerings. Two words, ‘Cuban Eggrolls.’ Will definitely be regulars.”

2nd: Frescos Southern Kitchen & Bar

3rd: (TIE) LoveBird Almost Famous Chicken

3rd: (TIE) Black & Brew Coffee House & Bistro

BEST BAR REVIVAL

119 S Kentucky Ave, Lakeland (863) 606-6090

FB: Revival

IG @revivallakeland revivallakeland.com

Our ‘spirited’ voters say Revival is the Best Bar around! “You may have guessed that we’re quite passionate about our cocktails and the experience they leave you with. No gimmicks, no snazz, just the belief that a beverage program can challenge you to enjoy the marriage of some of Earth’s finest pleasures. Fine Spirits & Fine Company.” Innovative bespoke beverages and unmatched service in a speakeasy atmosphere – what’s not to love? An excerpt from one review reads, “One of my absolute favorite cocktail bars. They deliver high-quality, creative, and rotating cocktails as well as exceptional and personable service. [...]”

2nd: The Back Nine

3rd: Molly McHugh’s Irish Pub

BEST COCKTAILS REVIVAL

119 S Kentucky Ave, Lakeland (863) 606-6090

FB: Revival

IG @revivallakeland revivallakeland.com

Good cocktails have been revived in the Swan City. Revival patrons can sip specialty cocktails, a full page of Old Fashioneds, seasonal offerings, beer, wine, Tiki drinks, Spritz, or any of the Revival Classics like a Faux-Spresso Martini, Jack Rose, or Savoy Swizzle. “Our master mixologist, Jeannie, a detail-obsessed creative force, is constantly creating unique handmade cocktails that are unparalleled. Driven by passion, you can find her experimenting weekly with new spirits and ingredients, defining the Lakeland cocktail scene.”

2nd: Nineteen61

3rd: The Back Nine

BEST WINE MENU NINETEEN61

215 E Main St, Lakeland (863) 688-1961

FB @nineteen61 IG @nineteen61_ nineteen61.com

With unparalleled service and the Best Fine Dining atmosphere, there’s nowhere better to relax with a glass of pinot than Nineteen61. The establishment prides itself on authentic cuisine, fresh ingredients, and creative chefs, but they should add ‘impressive wine menu’ to that list. According to Nineteen61, “What started as a beer and wine bar has blossomed into a comprehensive and compelling bar program with the support of the community, and under the direction of Nineteen61 partner, Emerson Bamaca.” Join Nineteen61 for Happy Hour, including $6 glasses of wine Monday - Saturday, 3-5 pm, and Sunday, 3-4 pm (drinks only).

2nd: Scarpa’s Italian

3rd: The Pink Piano

BEST COFFEE SHOP

BLACK & BREW COFFEE HOUSE & BISTRO

205 E Main St, Lakeland (863) 682-1210

4209 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 250-8554

100 Lake Morton Dr, Lakeland (863) 500-9500

FB @blackandbrew

IG @blackandbrew blackandbrew.com

The community’s favorite coffee shop, Black & Brew Coffee House & Bistro, now serves Lakeland with three locations. Started in 2006 by brothers Chris and Michael McArthur, B&B is the perfect place to enjoy “community over locally roasted coffee and fresh fare.” They offer a menu of drinks, including traditional espresso beverages, coffee, tea, hot (or frozen) chocolate, frappes, and even featured wines and craft beer, along with sustenance for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. One

customer wrote of Black & Brew’s newest Florida Ave. location, “Love this new location! The decor is very cool and the staff is so sweet. They make you feel like a regular and you can tell they enjoy working together and serving their community. I come in about once a week to have breakfast, coffee, and get some work done.”

2nd: Concord Coffee

3rd: Mitchell’s Coffee House

BEST BEER LIST SWAN BREWING

115 W Pine St, Lakeland (863) 703-0472

FB @swanbrewingco

IG @swanbrewing swanbrewing.com

“We believe traditional beer styles are a vital part of any taproom, and new world beers highlight our spirit of innovation.” And with almost 40 years of combined brewing experience backing their beers, you know it’s good. Swan’s brews pay homage to the community they love with names like Poke County Pils and Straight Outta Lakeland. Enjoy cold craft beers made with only the finest (locally sourced when possible) ingredients in a family and pet-friendly atmosphere. Craft beer connoisseurs appreciate Swan’s array of brews across 30 taps. Cheers to Swan Brewing for another year atop the Best Beer List!

2nd: The Brass Tap

3rd: Cob & Pen

BEST U-PICK FARM

FANCY

FARMS MARKET

5204 Drane Field Rd, Lakeland (813) 478-3486

FB @fancyfarmsinc IG @fancyfarmsmarket fancyfarmsmarket.com

Carl and Dee Dee Grooms started this family-owned strawberry farm and market in 1974 with just 15 acres of strawberries. Son Dustin and daughter Kristi eventually joined the family farm. Today, Fancy Farms operates seasonally from December to June on nearly 125 acres. They offer local produce, fresh flowers (mid-May through the end of June), and seasonal desserts like Strawberry Shortcake, Strawberry, Peach, and Blackberry Cobbler, Hand-Spun Strawberry, Blueberry, and Peach Milkshakes, Strawberry, Blueberry, and Peach Lemonade, and more! “Once you have a taste of our berries – you’ll see just how fancy they are!”

2nd: Keel Farms

3rd: Whitehead’s Blueberry Farm

BEST NEW RESTAURANT VEGETATION CAFE & KITCHEN

1439 E Gary Rd, Lakeland (863) 216-8534

FB: Vegetation Plant Food

IG @vegetationplantfood vegetationplantfood.com

BEST POLK COUNTY BEER ROME CITY, IPA BREW HUB

3900 S Frontage Rd, Lakeland (863) 698-7600

FB: Brew Hub

IG @brewhub brewhub.com

Did you know at its founding, Lakeland was almost named Rome City? It’s true! And that’s where Brew Hub’s 5.8% ABV, 70 IBU American IPA gets its name. Rome City is a GABF 2017 Gold-medal and US Beer Open 2022 Silver-medal-winning IPA, “packed with the juicy goodness of hops, [and] an homage to our flagship brewery in Lakeland, Florida.” One Untappd user said, “I can see why this is award-winning,” and another noted, “Have to travel over 1500 miles to get this … worth every single mile!!!”

2nd: Straight Outta Lakeland, IPA - American Swan Brewing

3rd: The Bean – Coconut and Coffee Blonde Swan Brewing

“I want to nourish you and your family in the most healthful way possible and I want you to love this way of eating as much as I do,” says owner Rima. And patrons do love Vegetation Cafe & Kitchen’s fresh, tasty meals like Sausage Rigatoni & Ricotta and Tuscan Kale & Bean Soup. Visit the cafe to pick up freshly made, ready-to-go plant-based meals, snacks, and sweets or stay and enjoy them there. Vegetation is a 100% vegan cafe focused on fresh, minimally processed food. One customer writes, “We are so lucky to have this healthy gem in Polk! The dishes are creative & delicious, the employees are all friendly, and the space is perfect for a relaxing lunch. And the espresso drinks are an added bonus!”

2nd: Fresh Kitchen

3rd: 4 Rivers Smokehouse

BEST CATERING COMPANY

TERRIE LOBB CATERING

1239 E Main Street, Bartow (863) 533-6483

FB: Terrie Lobb Catering, Inc.

IG @terrielobbcatering terrielobbcatering.com

“Terrie Lobb Catering offers an excellent menu, professional and courteous staff, and some of the best food that you could have catered in, [...]” writes one client. Terrie Lobb Catering, a repeat winner in this category, has forged a reputation of excellence. They have menus for every occasion, including breakfast, hors d’oeuvres, cold lunch, hot lunch, dinner, wedding, and corporate lunch specials. After attending The American Culinary Academy, Terrie Lobb opened the Bartow-based cafe, The Docket. She catered on the side and found it was suited to her culinary and hospitality abilities. In 2000, she started Catering by Chef Terrie Lobb out of her home, preparing, delivering, and serving each dish herself. Over twenty years later, Terrie Lobb Catering, Inc. employs a kitchen staff with full-time chefs and professional servers to create tailored client experiences that exceed expectations.

2nd: Essential Catering Solutions

3rd: Lakeland BBQ Company

BEST VEGAN FOOD

VEGETATION CAFE & KITCHEN

1439 E Gary Rd, Lakeland (863) 216-8534

FB: Vegetation Plant Food

IG @vegetationplantfood vegetationplantfood.com

Offering fresh, minimally processed, 100% vegan food, Vegetation Cafe & Kitchen has become a Lakeland darling, taking home Best New Restaurant, Best Vegan Food, and Best Hidden Gem. Guests can visit the cafe to pick up freshly made, ready-to-go plant-based meals, snacks, and sweets or stay and enjoy them there. One patron raves, “Fantastic food. We tried several things and everything was excellent. The Sesame Tempeh Noodle Bowl was my favorite, but the Smoothie Bowl and the Chimichurri vegetable plate were excellent as well. Most of the dishes are “grab and go” so you pick them up without any wait. A couple are made to order. Definitely recommended!”

2nd: The Juice Box

3rd: Street Cafe

BEST BAKERY

BORN & BREAD BAKEHOUSE

1113 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 450-4513

FB @bornandbreadbakehouse

IG @bornandbreadfl

bornandbreadbakehouse.com

“Each day, our lifework is to make the highest quality product, to maintain excellence, to serve our community with our hands and our hearts and to work as a team with love and empathy. Together we will create, learn, and travel through life. We were made for greatness,” says Born & Bread Bakehouse. Each Saturday, resident baking badass, owner Jenn Smurr and her team make fresh bread, cookies, pastries, breakfast sammies, and other handcrafted treats that the community craves. On Wednesdays, Born & Bread is a hub for hungry patrons seeking bread, pastries, breakfast, and lunch. We recommend, well, everything… But to be more specific, you haven’t lived until you’ve had a B+B baked pot pie (which you can order hot or get a take + bake) or their Benton’s BLT finished with a scallion cream cheese, crisp butter lettuce, and fresh tomatoes.

2nd: Publix

3rd: Meraki Bakehouse

BEST HIDDEN GEM

VEGETATION CAFE & KITCHEN

1439 E Gary Rd, Lakeland (863) 216-8534

FB: Vegetation Plant Food

IG @vegetationplantfood

vegetationplantfood.com

This vegan cafe and kitchen has five stars across the board. Guests can visit the cafe to pick up freshly made, ready-to-go plant-based meals, snacks, and sweets or stay and enjoy them there. “Vegan, in Lakeland? I am so happy. We have visited her booth at events. So glad to see a store front to visit anytime we want, [...]” writes one satisfied customer. This is a sentiment we can get behind as well. The community is so glad to see Rima and her team set up shop at a brick and mortar so we can have exceptional, 100% vegan fare anytime we want! This ‘hidden gem’ is sure not to stay hidden for long, with so many singing their praises.

2nd: (TIE) Street Cafe

2nd: (TIE) Uncle Nick’s Italian Deli, Bagels and Catering

3rd: Krazy Kombucha

BEST SERVICE

NINETEEN61

215 E Main St, Lakeland (863) 688-1961

FB @nineteen61

IG @nineteen61_ nineteen61.com

This Best Fine Dining and Best Wine List winner also has exceptional service. Guests rave that it’s the perfect place for a special occasion, with world-class fare and unmatched attention to detail that make for an incredible evening. Displaying Nineteen61’s commitment to service to a T, one patron writes, “Hands down best customer service and food I’ve had probably ever! Zach F. was our server and went out of his way to make sure we had an incredible experience! My friend and I were celebrating graduation and they made me a custom menu, free mimosa for the first time visit, and had the entire team sign a card for me!!! Blown away. 10/10 recommend!” This is just one of hundreds of glowing reviews for this Main Street mainstay.

2nd: The Back Nine

3rd: (TIE) Krazy Kombucha

3rd: (TIE) Vegetation Cafe & Kitchen

- CONTINUED ON PAGE 28 -

RETAIL

BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE

PUBLIX

FB @publix

IG @publix publix.com

The name Publix is synonymous with superior customer service, and that wasn’t by accident. “Throughout our history, our associates and customers have helped Publix grow from a single store into the largest employee-owned company in the United States,” says Publix. “We thank them by remaining deeply dedicated to customer service and community involvement, and being a great place to work.” Publix team members are always friendly and eager to help customers, creating a luxury grocery shopping experience.

2nd: Scout & Tag

3rd: (TIE) Amelia Paige Boutique

3rd: (TIE) Your CBD Store | SUNMED

BEST CLOTHING BOUTIQUE

AMELIA PAIGE BOUTIQUE

223 N Kentucky Ave, Lakeland (863) 500-4264

FB: Amelia Paige Boutique

IG @ameliapaigeboutique ameliapaigeboutique.com

Owner Alicia Lovett and her husband opened Amelia Paige Boutique in 2016. She writes, “I love our town and love having a place for you to come shop with your loved ones. Our family has poured so much love into this boutique, so we hope you love it as much as we do!” Amelia Paige offers on-trend finds to stock your closet, from tops, bottoms, dresses, and rompers, to jewelry, accessories, shoes, and gifts. One customer writes, “I absolutely love to browse through this store! Whoever the buyer is, does such a good job, and the decorator, maybe they’re the same, are so gifted. Every little vignette is so cute and fun. I love getting gifts there, and the clothes are darling. I will be back.”

2nd: Bungalow Boutique and Gifts

3rd: Plum Boutique

BEST GIFT SHOP

SCOUT & TAG

244 N Kentucky Ave, Lakeland (863) 225-2426

FB @scoutingVintage IG @scoutandtag scoutandtag.com

This 3500-square-foot storefront offers plenty of locally-sourced Lakeland gifts. Scout & Tag has the cutest furnishings, decor, gifts, Lakeland-centric items, and Annie Sloan Chalk Paint products. Rafa Natural also has a space offering organic and natural skincare products inside Scout & Tag. After browsing Rafa’s delightful soaps and such, check out Scout & Tag’s offerings of seasonal

items, custom pieces, apparel, accessories, bride and groom, baby items, pet items, furniture, home accents, drinkware, plants, books and paper goods, puzzles, trinkets, and more.

2nd: Bungalow Boutique and Gifts

3rd: Stationery Loft & Gift Boutique

BEST JEWELER GAINES JEWELERS

112 S Tennessee Ave, Lakeland (863) 688-8557

FB: Gaines Jewelers IG @gaines_jewelers gainesjewelersonline.com

“Excellent jeweler, great custom, one-of-a-kind jewelry, and much more!” writes one Gaines Jewelers customer. This gem of a jewelry shop has been a Lakeland staple since 1935. It originally opened as a watch repair shop, but today offers an extensive selection of jewelry, bridal, and gifts for every occasion. In December 2017, Gina and Dean Saunders, both longtime Gaines customers, purchased the store. “Purchasing the store was [Gina’s] way of ‘celebrating every day’ - she loves and finds joy being a part of not only a legacy business but also being a part of all of our customers’ special moments to be celebrated.”

2nd: Munchel’s Fine Jewelry

3rd: (TIE) Foshee Jewelers

3rd: (TIE) Marshall Jewelers

BEST ANTIQUE STORE

JUNE TAYLOR

125 N Kentucky Ave #103, Lakeland (863) 331-5873

FB: June Taylor

IG @junetaylorshop junetaylorshop.com

Looking for some abstract art to hang on your office wall or a new set of chairs to spruce up your living room? Check out,June Taylor! “Transitional design and pieces are what separate us. We’re not solely modern, mid-century, or antiques, but we like to mix the styles to create a unique store with a distinct look.” Owners Kelly and Bill work hard to find and restore an artful amalgamation of mid-century, boho, and classical pieces for their clients. One June Taylor patron said, “Kelly’s shop is amazing! Always full of thoughtfully picked items. We scored this beautiful bar hutch. Great shop to spend some time in. We will be back soon!”

2nd: Dixieland Relics

3rd: The Curated Collective

BEST THRIFT STORE

LIGHTHOUSE MINISTRIES

THRIFT STORE

3111 US-98 S. Suite 130, Lakeland (863) 687-4076 ext. 256

FB: Lighthouse Ministries lighthousemin.org/services

Lighthouse Ministries offers many noteworthy programs, including a Gospel Rescue Mission shel-

tering men, a residential Life Learning Program for men and women, outreach centers, and community homeless intervention. But it’s their thrift store getting the praise today. Lighthouse Ministries

Thrift Store accepts donated goods like clothing, furniture, and household items and offers them at low prices. Proceeds help fund their resident interns who gain experience working there.

2nd: Top Buttons

3rd: The Salvation Army

BEST PAWN SHOP

WEST COAST PAWN & GUN OF LAKELAND, FLORIDA

5619 US Hwy 98 N, Lakeland (863) 816-5830

FB: WEST COAST PAWN westcoastpawn.com

West Coast Pawn & Gun is a family-owned business serving Lakeland since 2008. “We take pride in giving our customers excellent customer service while providing a relaxing atmosphere with an abundance of options.” One customer writes, “I have been doing business with West Coast Pawn for about 3 years now. They have great prices and very knowledgeable. I have been in a lot of gun shops and they like to speak down or act like you have no clue what you are talking about. If you are new to firearms and don’t want to deal with that environment I suggest going in and speaking with them. If I could give them more than a 5-star, I would! You guys have my business!”

2nd: Value Pawn & Jewelry

3rd: GC Pawn Lakeland

BEST BIKE SHOP

LEROY’S BIKEWORKS

6935 S Carter Rd #2, Lakeland (863) 937-9028

FB: LeRoy’s Bikeworks

IG @leroysbikeworks

For bikes, bike rentals, accessories, disc golf, service, and more, cycle down to LeRoy’s Bikeworks. Reviews laud LeRoy’s for friendly, expedient service and reasonable prices. One happy rider wrote, “Great shop, great service! My bike was in serious need of a tune-up and Mike did an excellent job getting it back in working condition. He even had it ready for me a day early. It rides better than ever. Definitely recommend!”

2nd: Bent’s Schwinn Cycling & Fitness

3rd: Trek Bicycle Lakeland

BEST BOOK STORE

PRESSED LKLD

213 E Bay St, Lakeland (863) 603-3166

FB @pressedlkld IG @pressedlkld pressedlkld.com

You’d be hard ‘Pressed’ to find a better bookstore in the area. Independent bookstore and coffee

shop, Pressed is a Best Of LKLD voter favorite! Christina and Paul Needham opened the downtown Lakeland bookstore two years ago as a “gathering space for people in our community to work, read, study, and engage in meaningful conversation.” After picking up an Ethos coffee, Honeycomb Bread Bakers, or Bandidas pastry from the bar, browse the Pressed curated selection of new and used books across genres. Book it over to the events tab on their website to see what’s happening at Pressed!

2nd: Books-A-Million

3rd: Little Bus Books

BEST FURNITURE STORE BADCOCK HOME FURNITURE &MORE

(Multiple locations)

FB @badcockfurniture

IG @badcockfurniture badcock.com

Check out Badcock’s selection of living room, dining room, and bedroom furniture, along with mattresses, appliances, electronics, and more. They even have financing options with affordable payment plans. Want a visual of what that new bedroom set might look like in your home? Badcock’s website offers a Room Planner where you first select the room that fits your home, style the space using the hundreds of Badcock items to choose from, and shop those items by checking out online or save it for in-store purchase.

2nd: June Taylor

3rd: Havertys Furniture

BEST LAKELAND DOWNTOWN FARMERS CURB MARKET VENDOR BANDIDAS

FB: Bandidas IG @bandidas_lkld bandidaslkld.com

Gabby and Gio are the oh-so-sweet couple behind this Lakeland pop-up cafe. According to Bandidas, “Connection is at the core of everything we do. Through the lens of food, we strive to create inclusive spaces where everyone is welcome. From pop-up markets to wholesale pastries, our menus are ever-evolving to highlight the seasons and our current inspirations.” Over savory empanadas and toothsome tres leches the Bandidas babes have cultivated a following that crave their craft kitchen fare. Visit this Lakeland Downtown Farmers Curb Market mainstay for some of the tastiest treats and best vibes around. (Pro tip, check out their online cake orders. I’m getting a guava and cream cheese layer cake for my birthday!)

2nd: Meraki Bakehouse

3rd: East of These

HOME SERVICES

BEST REALTOR TONYA REGAN THE MCKEEL TEAM,

KELLER WILLIAMS

(863) 602-7742

FB: Tonya Regan Realtor

IG @tonyaregan_realtorkw tonyaregan.kw.com

Tonya Regan is a repeat winner in the Best Realtor category. Clients give Regan five stars for her responsiveness, negotiation skills, professionalism, communication, and market expertise. One client wrote of Regan in part, “Tonya was wonderful! We were moving from out of town to Lakeland and could not make visits in person due to our jobs. She FaceTimed us every house and gave us all the details of every home, including the smells, small details, both loving remarks and any issues she saw about all the homes while FaceTiming! She also sent us videos of the neighborhoods and looked around the area to really give us all the information we would normally get if we were in town. She was very honest about every house and felt as if we had a friend helping us find our home since we could not be there. [...]”

2nd: Christine Hubbert

Team Hubbert, Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate

3rd: Tammy Storie | Regal Real Estate

BEST REALTY CO. KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY

SMART

218 E Pine St. Lakeland

(863) 577-1234

FB @kwlakeland

IG @kwrealtysmart polk.yourkwoffice.com

Keller Williams Realty Smart gets high marks from clients and agents across the board. Serving all of Central Florida, KW Realty Smart can help you buy or sell your residential and commercial property. Clients who use this realty company often remark on their professionalism, quality, responsiveness, and value. According to Keller Williams, “Our agents have local data and expert knowledge to guide you through the process of selling and buying.”

2nd PWH Realty

3rd: Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Fine Living

BEST MORTGAGE BROKER LEGACY MUTUAL MORTGAGE

2020 Edgewood Dr. S, Lakeland

(863) 937-8024

IG @homeloankeys

FB: Legacy Mutual Mortgage Lakeland - NMLS 278675 homeloankeys.com

Legacy Mutual Mortgage has grown to be one

of the largest private lenders in the state. They’ve gotten there by adhering to core values of doing the right thing, showing people they care, and doing their personal best. “What this translates to for Legacy employees, referral partners, and customers is a company that operates with the highest of integrity, respect, and a culture of customer service that is not only expected but required,” according to Legacy. One customer raves, “Your company walks you through a process that can be very daunting and overwhelming. You take the complex and make it simple. In addition, extra effort is made to make what seems like a dream at first become a reality. The promptness, professionalism, and personal contact with your lender was incredibly helpful. Thank you for my new home.”

2nd: The Mortgage Firm

3rd: Compass Mortgage LLC

BEST AC REPAIR THE LAKELAND AIR CONDITIONING COMPANY

1220 George Jenkins Blvd, Lakeland 863-859-4090

FB: The Lakeland AC Company IG @lkldac thelakelandac.com

It’s getting hot in here, so call Lakeland AC! Lakeland Air Conditioning Company is the coolest in the residential and commercial AC business. “Very professional and courteous. Did a great job, providing a portable air conditioning unit while I wait[ed] on my part from the factory. First time working with this company and this is the second visit and both times have been excellent. My go-to new company for any air conditioning needs,” writes one happy customer. They offer heating, air conditioning, indoor air quality, and maintenance plan services. “As a Florida-based company, we understand the importance of a functioning air conditioner, especially in the summertime. Knowing this, we actively stay on top of our jobs to ensure an efficient and professional experience from start to finish to get you back into a comfortable indoor environment.”

2nd: Payne Air Conditioning & Heating

3rd: Wards Air Conditioning

BEST ELECTRICIAN

LEWMAN ELECTRIC

2930 Barneys Pumps Pl, Lakeland (863) 398-0495

FB: Lewman Electric lewmanelectric.com

We’re not shocked that Lewman Electric won –they’ve got watt you need! After all, they are the ‘bright’ choice! Lewman Electric is qualified for any residential, commercial, or industrial electrical job. Owner Ryan Lewman has years of experience as a master electrician and electrical contractor backing his work. Fully licensed and insured, Lewman serves Polk County, Hillsborough County, Orange

County, and surrounding areas offering a host of services with no job being too small. One customer writes, “Lewman team showed up and was very professional and helpful. Stephen explained everything to me and responded to all of my questions. Also, the team was on-time and cared about the quality of work they were doing. To add, they cleaned up their work area. I was impressed.”

2nd: The LKLD Electrical Company

3rd: Cross Wired Electrical Services

BEST PLUMBING CO.

RICHARD C. FOX PLUMBING

1103 Lakeland Hills Blvd, Lakeland (863) 816-9414

FB @richardfoxplumbing richardfoxplumbing.com

Family-owned and operated for over 20 years, Richard C. Fox Plumbing provides commercial and residential plumbing services. Plumbing problem in the middle of the night? They offer 24/7 emergency services too! Sewer camera, sewer jetting, water heater repair, plumbing repipes – no matter the service you need, Richard C. Fox Plumbing has a 100% satisfaction guarantee backed by a one-year warranty on all services and a manufacturer’s warranty on products. One customer wrote, “We had a leak situation after hours, and Fox Plumbing responded within a couple of hours. The plumber, Tommy, quickly found the problems and corrected them. The charge was reasonable for the after-hours work, and the problem was professionally resolved. We would definitely use Fox Plumping again.”

2nd: Stuart’s Plumbing

3rd: Curry & Co. Plumbing

BEST ROOFING CO.

RIG ROOFING OF LAKELAND

122 E Main St #173, Lakeland (863) 294-4477

FB @RIGroofing

IG @rigroofing rigroofing.com

Results. Integrity. Grounded. Your shingle best roofer is at it again! This locally owned, award-winning roofing contractor serves residential and commercial customers across Polk, Hillsborough, Orange, Lake, and Osceola counties. RIG offers free roof repair and replacement estimates. One RIG Roofing of Lakeland customer gave them five stars, saying, “RIG was a pleasure to work with from the quoting process to finished project. Javier did a great walking me through the quote and exactly what to expect. I highly recommend RIG Roofing to anyone needing roof repairs or a new roof.”

2nd: High Tower Roofing

3rd: Bob & Jerry’s Roofing Inc

BEST PATIO SCREENING CO.

BOBBY KELTON ALUMINUM INC. (863) 287-9208

FB: Bobby Kelton Aluminum Inc.

Bobby Kelton Aluminum customers have it made in the shade with their specialties in swimming pool enclosures, re-screens, screen rooms, carports, and seamless gutters. Whether your project is new construction or a repair, this licensed and insured screening company has you covered in Polk County and surrounding areas – and even offers free estimates. Clients rave that they arrive promptly, the crew is professional and fast with an eye for quality and the prices are very reasonable.

2nd: Pool Screens R Us

3rd: Hardy Screens LLC

BEST TREE TRIMMING CO.

THE TREE LADY COMPANY 2080 FL-540, Winter Haven (863) 293-5867

FB: The Tree Lady Company thetreeladycompany.com

At The Tree Lady Company, their number one goal is tree preservation. “Just because your tree has decay does not mean it needs to be removed! Call us for an assessment.” The Tree Lady Company, open since 2002, provides tree care services, tree pruning services, tree removal services, and hazardous branch removal services throughout Polk County. Their company is led by a team of ISA Board Certified Arborists and a Board Certified Master Arborist who is TRAQ Qualified. One customer writes, “As a repeat customer, we value Kim’s professional opinion about taking proper care of our oak trees. The team is courteous, professional, and safety-conscious. Certificate of Insurance is provided with the quote. Our property was cleaned up and all debris taken away. We have been very happy with The Tree Lady Company.”

2nd: Monkey Business Tree & Crane Service 3rd: Tree Tune-ups

FRIDAY 6-8PM

SHUFFLEBOARD on the 2nd Friday of each month 6-8 pm NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY

SNACKS AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE

Lakeland Shuffleboard Club located in Lake Parker Park

BEST LAWN SERVICE OR LANDSCAPING

EVOLVE CONTRACTING, INC.

897 E Lemon St, Bartow

(863) 358-0056

FB: Evolve evolveyourlawn.com

This family-owned business will evolve your lawn!

Established in 2010, Evolve Contracting, Inc. offers various high-quality landscaping and hardscaping services, both residential and commercial. From landscape design and lighting to patio and driveway installation, customers can expect exceptional customer service to be a priority with Evolve. “Evolve has been taking care of my property’s landscaping since 2018. They are simply a great asset to have! They have helped me with weekly lawn cutting, mulching, planting, sod, sprinkler system, and tree cutting which has helped make our home one of the most beautiful properties in the neighborhood, [...]” writes one client in part.

2nd: LawnStarter

3rd: Franco’s Lawn & Landscaping Service

BEST FENCING CO.

MY FENCE COMPANY LLC

2810 Maine Ave, Lakeland (863) 440-0292

FB: MyFenceCo

IG @myfenceco myfenceco.com

From a small chain link perimeter fence around your home to a large aluminum swing gate at the entrance of your commercial business, My Fence Company can get the job done right! This locally-owned fencing installation team offers cost-efficient solutions for homes and businesses in Lakeland. Jessica writes, “It was a pleasure working with Mo and his team. We needed the fence ASAP due to having a toddler, and they were able to fit us in right away. They were also very patient with us since we had a few changes throughout the process, and communication was fantastic. The fence looks great, we have had many compliments. I highly recommend My Fence Company and will definitely work with them again!”

2nd: Williams Fence Co.

3rd: Danielle Fence & Outdoor Living

BEST PEST CONTROL

SUPERIOR SPRAY SERVICE, INC.

5611 Commercial Blvd, Winter Haven (833) 682-0700

FB: Superior Spray Service, Inc. IG @superior_spray_service superiorspray.com

Being pestered at your home or business? You need Superior Spray Service! Superior, founded in 2003 by Kevin Blanks, offers a full range of

indoor/outdoor pest control, including termite control, aquatic pest control, mosquito control, lawn/shrub/tree spraying, moss removal, and tree injections. One customer writes, “Superior Spray Service has consistently helped maintain our yard’s health, and keeps the things we don’t want to have in house out of it. They’re on time, reliable, and responsive. Highly recommend them. Our peace of mind from our subterranean termite system and the annual maintenance has been smooth since the day it was installed. We appreciate the entire team and the literal Superior Service they deliver.”

2nd: Massey Services Pest Control

3rd: Country Boy Pest Control LLC.

BEST CONTRACTOR OR CONSTRUCTION CO.

TRUE BUILDERS

2829 Badger Rd #19, Lakeland (863) 624-6123

FB: True Builders true-builders.com

It’s true… you heard it here first – True Builders is the Best Of LKLD! Founded in 2010 by best friends Issac Turpin and Mark Lever, True Builders has served 50,000 customers across Central Florida. Today, the contractor has over 50 full-time employees and every piece of state-of-the-art equipment needed to handle the job. In 2017, True Builders made the Inc. 5000 list of America’s fastest-growing private companies and remains the leading restoration company for water damage, fire damage, and general remodeling services in Central Florida. Noting their professionalism, one customer writes, “The guys at True Builders did a great job repairing my home after my floor was damaged from water. Thank you True Builders.”

2nd: Waller Construction and Design Center

3rd: Strickland Construction, Inc.

BEST POOL CONSTRUCTION

GRIFFIN POOLS

3404 Reynolds Rd, Lakeland (863) 665-8080

FB: Griffin Pools By Bosse IG @griffinpoolsbosse griffinpools.com

Family-owned since 1975, Griffin Pools is lauded for its stunning custom pools and unmatched customer service. The largest pool builder in Polk County, Griffin, has built over 7,000 pools. To ensure your pool is masterfully crafted, the team at Griffin only uses the highest-quality material and a highly experienced crew. “From helping you understand all of the design options to clearly communicating what you can expect during the construction process, we make sure that you are well-informed during each phase of the project.”

A look through the gallery of this industry leader in

new pool construction is sure to give you pool envy and new ideas for your summertime space.

2nd: Goldsmith Pools

3rd: Roden Pool Contracting, Inc.

BEST RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

THE ESTATES AT CARPENTERS

1001 Carpenters Way, Lakeland (877) 849-7815

FB: The Estates at Carpenters IG @theestatesatcarpenters estatesatcarpenters.com

For over 30 years, the Estates At Carpenters have worked to create a meticulously designed environment for seniors to live carefree and thrive in their golden years. The Estates At Carpenters offers independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing, and rehabilitation. Their resort-style amenities and activities include a state-of-the-art fitness center, heated swimming pool and spa, chef-prepared cuisine, a billiards room, an art studio, two libraries, a pet-friendly park, and cultural and recreational events. According to the Estates At Carpenters, “We are continually evolving in our senior care practices, life-enrichment programs, and health services offerings to meet changing needs and desires.”

2nd: Florida Presbyterian Homes

3rd: Beacon Terrace

BEST HOTEL

THE TERRACE HOTEL, TAPESTRY COLLECTION BY HILTON

329 E Main St, Lakeland (863) 688-0800

FB @TerraceHotel IG @terracehotellakeland terracehotel.com

A historic boutique hotel overlooking Lake Mirror, the Terrace offers full-service luxury a short walk from Munn Park. Guests don’t have to roam far to grab a bite to eat with the on-site restaurant, The Terrace Grille, which boasts fresh, madefrom-scratch dishes and upscale dining space with floor-to-ceiling arched windows and black and white patterned floors. The Terrace Hotel offers 88 guest rooms and three meeting rooms, including the grand Cypress Ballroom, an ideal space for wedding and corporate events. One guest wrote, “This hotel is quite nice. Updated and the location is perfect if you are visiting Lakeland. We love to have the ability to walk to restaurants and go for walks to explore the city. This gives both.”

2nd: Staybridge Suites Lakeland West, an IHG Hotel

3rd: Home2 Suites by Hilton

BEST APARTMENT COMMUNITY

CARLTON ARMS OF NORTH LAKELAND

4500 Williamstown Blvd, Lakeland (863) 695-1544

FB: Carlton Arms of North Lakeland carltonarmsofnorthlakeland.com

CARLTON ARMS OF SOUTH LAKELAND

1000 Carlton Arms Dr, Lakeland (863) 277-6902

FB: Carlton Arms of South Lakeland carltonarmsofsouthlakeland.com

Carlton Arms has communities suitable for any lifestyle. Minutes from Lakeland Square Mall, Carlton Arms of North Lakeland is a lakefront property with 950 apartments surrounded by dreamy landscaping, with spacious interiors, and on-property activities, including tennis, basketball, and a fitness center. While Carlton Arms of South Lakeland sprawls across 137 wooded acres with six gleaming lakes and lighted fountains. These South Lakeland luxury apartments provide a dog park, freshwater fishing, a playground, and two swimming pools (one heated). Both locations offer various floor plans to accommodate residents’ needs.

2nd: Mirrorton Apartments

3rd: Preserve at Lakeland Hills

BEST CLEANING CO. ONE CLEAN MOM CLEANING & ORGANIZATION

(863) 670-9615

FB: One Clean Mom onecleanmom.com

Need a refresh or a deep clean? One Clean Mom can help! After all, they did mop the floor with their competition again this year. According to this Lakeland-based cleaning and organization service, “Cleaning messes is our passion.” Owner Ashley Miller and her staff provide initial/ deep cleaning, standard clean, and move-in/move-out cleaning services. Additionally, One Clean Mom offers organizing services, with or without side-byside client help. “Ashley and her team were able to help us with a last-minute request around the holidays! She’s very responsive and takes great care in [...] providing quality service.” writes one squeaky-clean client.

2nd: Busy Bees Cleaning Service

3rd: The Cleaning Authority

BEST POOL SERVICE CO.

PURELY POOLS, INC.

863-738-9075

FB: Purely Pools purelypoolsinc.com

Customers have purely sparkling pools thanks to Purely Pools. “Friendly. Dependable. Quality.” That’s their motto! Purely Pools was established by brothers-in-law Joel and Josh in 2014. Their services include weekly pool service (chemical balancing, PH balancing, tile scrub, deck cleaning, vacuum or sweep, netting, and filter cleaning), repairs, system changeovers, and cleanouts. Go from green to gleaming with Purely Pools, Inc.!

2nd: Pinch A Penny Pool Patio Spa

3rd: Aquatone Pool Care

BEST STORAGE FACILITY

EXTRA SPACE STORAGE

Multiple Locations

(877) 540-3698

FB @extraspace

IG @extraspace extraspace.com

If you’ve got a lot of stuff – you need a lot of space… Extra Space! Founded in 1977, Extra Space Storage is now the second-largest operator

of self-storage facilities in the United States. Their facilities are equipped with video surveillance, personalized security codes to access gates and entry points, and are well-lit throughout the property so you can ensure your belongings stay safe. Extra Space Storage offers climate-controlled storage, vehicle storage, and more. Their online Storage Unit Size Guide can even help you determine what size storage unit would best fit your needs!

2nd: Life Storage

3rd: Storage King USA

PRO SERVICES

BEST FLORIST

BLOOM SHAKALAKA

640 E Main St, Lakeland (Inside The Joinery) (863) 417-3007

FB: @bloom.shakalaka1 IG @bloom.shakalaka bloomshakalaka.com

Have you stopped to smell the roses lately? Bloom Shakalaka is a funky fresh flower shop and gift boutique started by Laura Helm. They offer flower wraps and arrangements, wearables, full-service event florals, subscriptions, and a pick-your-stems flower bar. Need some peonies in a pinch? They offer next-day delivery in the Lakeland area! “At Bloom Shakalaka, we want to be known as the funky, fresh flower shop whose mission is to spread joy. We believe that every single bloom is a miracle of both strength and hope - and we love getting to offer that to others.”

2nd: Flower Cart Florist

3rd: Golden Wild Florals

BEST WEDDING VENUE

HAUS 820

820 N Massachusetts Ave, Lakeland (888) 428-7820

FB: Haus 820 IG @haus820 haus820.com

This renovated historic warehouse is a blank canvas for clients to make their own. It’s a wedding spot for the cool kids. Haus 820 is an industrial chic event venue built in 1924 as an A&P grocery store, then a furniture warehouse, before it was brought back to its roots and restored, including original wall-to-wall white brick, 17-foot exposed rafters, and charcoal-stained and sealed cement floors. In addition to the main spacious area, Haus 820 features a permanent 16-foot bar, catering finishing kitchen, restrooms, and a bridal suite in the building next door with private bathrooms. The private courtyard was created from the original loading docks and is perfect for a sunny afternoon ceremony or vows under the stars.

2nd: Bonnet Springs Park

3rd: White Horse Venue

BEST PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER

WERLOSTBOYS MEDIA COLLABORATIVE

FB: werlostboys IG @werlostboys werlostboys.com

This Lakeland media collaborative was started in 2019 when freelancing videographer Cole Adams teamed up with photographer and entrepreneur Earnest J. Odom. Together they formed a film production and creative agency. Since partnering with Lakeland event series Buena Market, over 50 clients have seen their visions materialize through werlostboys’ photography, videography, and design services. “Our team of experienced photographers, filmmakers, and designers strive to create unique visuals that truly capture the essence of each story. From promotional videos for small businesses to event highlight reels for organizations in the community, we are dedicated to delivering stunning images and videos that showcase the best of what Lakeland has to offer.”

2nd: Jonicia Rodrigues

3rd: Tina Sargeant Photography

BEST EVENT ENTERTAINMENT

DREAMS COME TRUE ENTERTAINMENT

214 Traders Alley, Lakeland (863) 944-1264

FB @DreamsComeTrueEntertainment

IG @dctemagicalmemories dreamscometrueentertainment.com

It’s all in the name! Dreams Come True Entertainment sets out to create magic for party-goers by providing character entertainment for all ages. After all, “all it takes is faith, trust, and a little pixie dust.” They can make an appearance at your private party, host your private event at their Enchanted Fairytale Hollow, or you can join them for weekly and monthly events! Award-winning custom-made costumes and experienced actors bring an unmatched level of authenticity to each fairytale and superhero character. Owner Amy Sharpe says, “It has always been my dream to make children happy and make a difference in their lives, and with my new company, now I can do that while doing something I love and bring magic and hope into hearts young and old. I strive my hardest to be the most memorable, authentic, and fun entertainer you ever meet!”

2nd: Momma and Friends Brunch Show (Rose Dynasty Foundation)

3rd: Graingertainment

BEST FUNERAL SERVICES

HEATH FUNERAL CHAPEL & CREMATORY

328 S Ingraham Ave, Lakeland (863) 682-0111

FB: Heath Funeral Chapel & Crematory heathfuneralchapel.com

“Funeral care that’s state-of-the-heart.” Heath Funeral Chapel has been family-owned and operated since 1959. In addition to their Best Of LKLD win this year, Heath has been honored numerous times with the Pursuit of Excellence Award by the National Funeral Directors Association. “Heath has been continuously recognized for professional, ethical excellence and for providing quality, compassionate care, and aftercare to all families served.” That care is reflected in their many glowing reviews. One heartfelt review reads, “Heath Funeral Chapel took great care of our family and helped us through the very hard times you face after the death of a loved one. We have used their services twice since 2020 and they have been professional and keep in frequent contact during the steps in the cremation and service process.”

2nd: Gentry-Morrison Funeral Homes

3rd: Coney Funeral Home

BEST DRY CLEANER GARMENT CARE PROS AT SOUTHSIDE CLEANERS

901 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (Second location in Plant City) (863) 688-4747

FB @SouthsideCleaners garmentcarepros.com

The clever signs draw you in – the quality dry cleaning services keep your business. Garment Care Pros at Southside Cleaners continues to be a Best Of LKLD voter favorite. Since 1954, Southside Cleaners has provided Lakeland with the highest quality of care for their garments. They are one of the only eight companies worldwide to have multiple employees pass the rigorous training to become a Certified Garment Care Professional (CGCP). This team of garment care professionals offers traditional dry cleaning and laundry services, weekly home/office service plans, and historic garment and wedding gown restoration. One freshly laundered customer wrote, “They give great time and attention to my dry cleaning requests and my clothes always look good as new when they are delivered.”

2nd: Regal Cleaners

3rd: Executive Cleaners & Launderer

BEST DAYCARE

LITTLE SHEPHERDS PRESCHOOL

175 Lake Hollingsworth Dr, Lakeland (863) 616-9196

FB: First Presbyterian Church of Lakeland, Florida IG @fpclakeland

littleshepherds.fpclakeland.org

This licensed preschool for children three months to four years old has served Lakeland for over 25 years. Little Shepherds is a church-supported program regulated by the Polk County Health Department/Department of Children and Families with oversight from the session, pastors, and church administration of First Presbyterian Church (FPC), Lakeland. The preschool prides itself on providing quality, safe childcare, noting, “The mission of Little Shepherds Preschool is to communicate God’s message of love and redemption through Christ by prayer, teaching, example, worship, and play.”

2nd: Country Lane Child Enrichment Center

3rd: Bright Imaginations Learning Centers of Lakeland

BEST AUTO REPAIR

LEVY’S IMPERIAL TIRE & AUTO SERVICE

833 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 688-7131

This tire dealer and automotive repair shop take the worry and hassle out of car repairs. Whether your A/C is on the fritz or your check engine light is aglow, Levy’s is the place to go! Customers laud Levy’s Imperial Tire & Auto for good, honest service. One forever patron writes, “I had a nail in my tire four years ago and I never forgot the wonderful service I received when I visited Levy’s. Today I bought a brand new set of tires from the same man who helped me back then and I am naturally very happy with the service I received today! You have a customer for life, Levy’s! Thank you for the consistently awesome customer service!!”

2nd: Webb’s BP Services Center

3rd: Christian Brothers Automotive

BEST AUTO DEALER BARTOW FORD

2800 US-98 North, Bartow (863) 533-0425

FB: Bartow Ford Company

IG @bartowford bartowford.com

Proudly serving Central Florida for over 75 years, Bartow Ford provides unmatched customer care. They specialize in selling and servicing new Ford vehicles and all used makes and models. According to Ford Motor Company, Bartow Ford was the #1 Volume Truck Sales Dealership in Florida for 2014, is part of Ford Motor Credit’s Top 25 Commercial Vehicle Center franchises, is a 30-time Ford’s Top One Hundred Club member, and a 19-time President’s Award Winner. With over 250 employees across their 30-acre facility, Bartow Ford has what you need, whether that’s a Service Department, Parts Department, Collision Center, Heavy Duty Shop, Rental Center, or appointment-free Quick Lane for oil changes. One of thousands of five-star reviews reads in part, “I’ve brought a couple trucks from here and have always been satisfied with the entire process. This dealership is not pushy and really tries to do everything they can to get [you] the best deal for your budget. [...]”

2nd: Regal Honda

3rd: Lakeland Automall

BEST CAR WASH MISTER CAR WASH

Multiple Locations

FB: Mister Car Wash IG @mistercarwashhq mistercarwash.com

Mister Car Wash – “Inspiring people to shine!”

Since opening their first Houston, Texas location in 1969, Mister Car Wash has become a premier car wash company, committed to offering customers a clean, dry, shiny car every time using their patented Unity Chemistry system. Whether you’re looking for a single wash or to become a member of the Ultimate Wash Club, Mister Car Wash’s team members are committed to a quality experience. One Mister Car Wash South Florida location customer wrote, “I wish I would have come here ages ago! One of the last full service options out there. They cleaned the car inside and out. [...]”

2nd: Waters CarWash

3rd: Love Express Car Wash

BEST RV DEALER

CAMPING WORLD

7400 E State Rd 60, Bartow (866) 906-9517

FB: Camping World IG @campingworld rv.campingworld.com/dealer/tampa-florida-bartow

Camping World is the nation’s largest retailer of RVs, RV accessories, and RV-related services, with over 185 Camping World SuperCenters across the country. They won by a landslide in this category, not even a close 2nd in sight! Not only do they offer a full-service call center, but their comprehensive website also features thousands of quality products for RVs, camping, towing, and outdoor living. One Bartow Camping World customer raved, “Super experience in all respects! Staff is friendly, knowledgeable & ready to serve your needs. I purchased a new premium camper & the selection process was facilitated by Rhonda, a great sales associate. Took delivery today and am looking forward to my first expedition!”

BEST RV PARK

CAMP MARGARITAVILLE

AUBURNDALE

361 Denton Ave, Auburndale (863) 455-7335

FB: Camp Margaritaville Auburndale

IG @campmargaritavilleauburndale

margaritavilleresorts.com/camp-margaritaville-rv-resort-auburndale

Chill at Camp Margaritaville! This Auburndale luxury RV resort offers 326 RV sites, including 11 Super Premium RV Sites, along with 75 Cabana Cabins. Guests can enjoy a tiki bar, fire pits, resort pool, entertainment stage, playground, dog parks, and putting course, or plan a day with the crew hiking, biking, or sightseeing. One happy camper noted, “First time stay and will definitely come back! The resort is very clean and organized. The staff is friendly, helpful and FUN! There are plenty of activities all day long for kids and adults! Our boys loved Gaga ball! Our adult group loved the License to Chill bar and Name That Tune! Our dogs loved the dog park!! Thank you for a great ending to our summer!!”

2nd: Sanlan RV & Golf Resort

3rd: The Outpost Luxury RV Resort Park and Community

BEST POWERSPORTS DEALER

SKY POWERSPORTS OF LAKELAND

1638 Kathleen Rd, Lakeland (863) 682-4607

FB: Sky Powersports

IG @skypowersports_lakeland

skypowersportslakeland.com

Have you been to Sky Powersports? We hear they’re wheelie good. “Fantastic dealership and even better staff. Was there yesterday and purchased a Polaris XP 1000 NorthStar Edition and a trailer. Jeff the salesperson was phenomenal. Bre and Jeremy were fantastic as well. They made the process smooth, easy, and a warm exchange all around. Thank you all at SkySports Lakeland! We will be back soon!” writes one powersport patron. Sky Powersports has a large selection of new and pre-owned models of motorcycles, ATVs, and sideby-sides and is an authorized Indian Motorcycle®, Polaris®, Slingshot®, Suzuki, Victory Motorcycles®, and Yamaha powersport dealership. They are the most progressive multi-line powersports dealer in Florida, with a team of professional sales members, finance experts, service technicians, and a knowledgeable parts and accessories staff.

2nd: Fun Bike Center Motorsports

3rd: 92 Powersports

BEST OIL CHANGE

LEVY’S IMPERIAL TIRE & AUTO SERVICE

833 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 688-7131

Best Auto Repair and Best Oil Change?! Best Of LKLD voters are revved up about Levy’s Imperial Tire & Auto Service. Known for reliable, honest service, Levy’s is the place to go for that oil change you’re overdue for. One customer writes, “Competitively priced and great service. They helped us out one time and it really stayed with us and recommend them, always. Family establishment and if you hang around for your car you can play with the dog. Highly recommend.”

2nd: Take 5 Oil Change

3rd: Christian Brothers Automotive

BEST PRINT OR SIGN SHOP

WHATEVER TEES

4020 Kidron Rd #6, Lakeland (863) 370-0740

FB: Whatever Tees Screen Printing & Embroidery IG @whatevertees whatever-tees.com

“Could not be happier with our shirts and the customer service of Whatever Tees! I had messaged and even stopped into four other local companies for quotes and never heard back from any of them. When I emailed Whatever Tees, I had a response within minutes and each subsequent email was answered just as promptly. They were able to do

exactly what I wanted, offered suggestions, and completed the project quickly. Would recommend them to everyone looking to have shirts screen printed. [...]” raves one Whatever Tees customer. This family-operated embroidery and screen printing shop focuses on quick turnaround, quality work, and customer service. “We can handle any size order, as many as you need, or just one shirt. Whatever!”

2nd: Dixie Signs

3rd: iNK Screen Printing

BEST CPA

PARRISH & PARRISH CPAS, P.A. 6700 Florida Ave S STE 19, Lakeland (863) 709-8337

FB: Parrish & Parrish CPAs, P.A. parrishcpas.com

Parrish & Parrish, P.A., is a Certified Public Accounting firm with offices in Lakeland and Plant City, providing a wide variety of accounting, tax and financial management services tailored to meet the needs of their business and individual clients. “Our Certified Public Accounting (CPA) services are designed to make your job easier and provide you with more time to focus on building your business. We keep abreast of tax law changes throughout the year to ensure that you are taking advantage of ALL tax incentives.” Their Lakeland-based team has over 50 years of combined accounting experience with experts in the areas of Business and Individual Tax Preparation, Tax & Estate Planning, IRS Problem Resolution, Sales Tax Audit Representation, Accounting, Bookkeeping, Payroll, QuickBooks, Guardianship Accounts, New Business Formations, Financial Statements, Business Valuation, and Litigation Support.

2nd: Kellie M. Deitrick, P.A. CPA

3rd: Brinton Fairchild, LLC - CPAs

BEST FINANCIAL ADVISOR

CPS INVESTMENT ADVISORS

205 E Orange St #310, Lakeland (863) 688-1725

FB: CPS Investment Advisors IG @cpsinvestmentadvisors cpsinvest.com

Since 1975, CPS Investment Advisors have helped clients plan for the future and achieve financial independence. They’ve forged trusting, long-lasting relationships to craft comprehensive financial plans that deliver long-term security and success. “We provide each client with a highly coordinated team of finance, tax, investment, and business

experts, all working together to provide clients with comprehensive solutions as unique as their situations.” Clients praise CPS for their friendly, knowledgeable staff and individualized customer service.

2nd: Allen & Company

3rd: CORE Wealth Advisors

BEST ATTORNEY DOUG BURNETTI

LAW OFFICES OF BURNETTI, P.A.

211 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (888) 444-8508

FB: Burnetti, P.A.

IG @burnetti_pa burnetti.com

“As a board-certified civil trial lawyer, I have had the opportunity to handle many different types of cases in the courtroom, including auto accidents, premises liability, medical malpractice, nursing home neglect, and products liability. As the founder of Burnetti, P.A., I am very pleased to have watched the firm develop over the years,” says Doug Burnetti. The personal injury attorneys at Burnetti, P.A. have served clients across the state for over 25 years. One client testimonial reads in part, “My Burnetti experience was amazing. I felt the concern and care they had for me. They were always calling to check on me and keep me updated on my case. I highly recommend Burnetti P.A. as a great and caring law firm. [...]”

2nd: Brooks Law Group

3rd: Lauriane Ciccarelli | Troiano & Roberts

BEST BANK MIDFLORIDA CREDIT UNION

Multiple Locations

FB @MIDFLORIDA

IG @midflorida_creditunion midflorida.com

MIDFLORIDA, a repeat winner for Best Bank, is not-for-profit and member-owned, offering banking products and services from personal and business banking to loans, mortgages, and investing. It began in 1954 as Polk County Teachers Credit Union and now has more than 60 branches as Central Florida’s community credit union.

MIDFLORIDA emphasizes personal attention and competitive rates “Because your money isn’t just a string of numbers on an account statement. It’s personal—and we think the way you bank should reflect that.”

2nd: (TIE) Citizens Bank & Trust

2nd: (TIE) SouthState Bank

3rd: Bank of Central Florida

BEST INSURANCE AGENT

JOY MORSE | STATE FARM

5727 US Hwy 98 S, Lakeland (863) 647-2915

FB @JoyMorseInsurance joymorse.com

“My team of licensed insurance professionals and I are here to help make insurance & financial services easy to understand. We are here to protect you from everyday risks and make sure that your insurance program doesn’t have gaps or caps that you are unaware of.” Joy Morse is in her 35th year of business serving Lakeland and the surrounding areas. Her agency has qualified for multiple State Farm Awards over the years, including Ambassador Travel, State Farm Crystal Honor, and State Farm Chairman’s Circle. The Joy Morse State Farm Insurance Agency can help you with Car, Home, Life, Renters, Boat, Motorcycle, and Health Insurance and assist small business owners with their Commercial Insurance.

2nd: Ewing Blackwelder & Duce Insurance

3rd: Mark Lanier | State Farm

BEST SPA

DAYDREAMS DAY & MED SPA

1463 Town Center Dr. E, Lakeland (863) 686-5859

FB @DayDreamsDaySpaLakeland

IG @daydreams.dayspa daydreamsdayspa.com

This is the stuff dreams are made of. “A brand that is synonymous with luxury, beauty, and high-end services,” DayDreams Day & Med Spa offers spa packages, massages, facials, chemical peels, HydraFacial/Oxygeneo, permanent makeup, nails, waxing, lashes and brows, and even a kid’s spa. One pampered patron writes, “I love the atmosphere of the spa. It smells great, it instantly relaxes you, the staff is always friendly and who doesn’t love a mimosa? I’ve had several massages, eyebrow and nail treatments and they have all been amazing. I leave feeling relaxed and pampered. I have recommended DayDreams to numerous people.”

2nd: Vega Spa

3rd: Pura Vie Holistic Studio

BEST MEDICAL SPA

DAYDREAMS DAY & MED SPA

1463 Town Center Dr. E, Lakeland (863) 686-5859

FB @DayDreamsDaySpaLakeland

IG @daydreams.dayspa daydreamsdayspa.com

Get back your glow at DayDreams Day & Med

Spa in Lakeland. This med spa offers premium services in medical esthetics performed by licensed healthcare providers. Whether you’re in the market for Botox and fillers or facial resurfacing, DayDreams can assist you. The spa recommends one of its most popular services, the DayDreams Medical Esthetics procedure. “In a true spa setting, cutting-edge technology, top-notch products, and decades of medical aesthetic experience make for the area’s premier medical spa experience.” Step into a plush robe and slippers, enjoy complimentary guest services, including infused waters, coffee, tea, and snacks, and relax. You deserve it!

2nd: Bella Viságe Medical & Aesthetic Rejuvenation

3rd: Ageless Aesthetics & Wellness

BEST HAIR SALON

BLOWN BEAUTIFUL DRY BAR

1021 E County Rd 540A, Lakeland (863) 937-3428

FB: Blown Beautiful Dry Bar IG @blownbeautifuldrybar bbdrybarlakeland.com

Best Of LKLD voters are blown away by this dry bar! Blown Beautiful Dry Bar is a luxury beauty bar dedicated to providing clients with a premier experience. “We’ve created a space for individuals to come, take a relaxing moment for themselves, be pampered, and leave feeling empowered, confident, beautiful, and ready to conquer the world!” Known for their signature blowouts, Blown Beautiful has a full menu of other services, from hair and makeup to waxing and extensions. “I highly recommend Blown Beautiful because I have had an amazing experience every time that I have gone,” writes one beautified babe, “The staff is so friendly and personable, and I always leave there feeling confident and beautiful.”

2nd: Local Remedy

3rd: Woodlund Salon

BEST BARBER

SKULLY’S BARBER SALON

434 W Pipkin Rd, Lakeland (863) 224-3507

FB: Skullys Barber Salon IG @skullysbarbersalon skullysbarbersalon.com

Skully’s can’t be stopped! This year after year Best Barber went from “a tank of gas and a dream” to an award-winning mobile and brick-and-mortar salon. A master barber, Skully founded his hair biz doing house calls in 2015 and opened his mobile barbershop out of a 32-foot RV in 2017. Now Skully’s Barber Salon has a physical location on W. Pipkin Road in Lakeland. Skully can hook you - CONTINUED ON PAGE 43 -

up with a haircut, skin fade, beard trim, or shave (he does women’s hair too)! One customer review reads, “I just moved into the area after having seen my previous barber for seven years. Totally was not looking forward to having to go through all the trials of finding another good one. I was super impressed by how good of a job Skully did with my cut. He’s [won] best barber shop for years in a row and I can see why. Really great price for the cut as well. I absolutely found my next seven-year guy!”

2nd: Lakeland Barber Company

3rd: Gents Classic Cuts

BEST NAIL SALON

PAINT NAIL BAR

1486 Town Center Drive, Lakeland (863) 777-2947

FB @paintnailbarlakeland

IG @paintlakeland paintnailbar.com/lakeland-fl

“I have been visiting this nail salon for about a year now, and my experiences have been consistently amazing. The salon creates a welcoming atmosphere, and its cleanliness and organization are impeccable, [...]” writes one freshly painted patron. Now, it’s time for an Uptown Girl mani/ pedi! PAINT nailed it again this year. They are committed to their client’s health and the earth through their choice of product lines. They also opt for ceramic pedicure basins over whirlpool jets (which often harbor bacteria). “Whether it is cleanliness, color selection, client service, nail art, environment, attention to detail, or the wonderful energy at PAINT… you name it, we’ve thought of it, developed it, and fine-tuned it based on staff and client feedback.”

2nd: Noire The Nail Bar

3rd: Lee Spa Nails

BEST TATTOO STUDIO

BLACK SWAN TATTOO

1119 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 937-9777

FB @blackswantattoo

IG @blackswantattoo blackswantattoo.com

Taking the top tattoo spot again this year, Black Swan provides a relaxed atmosphere, a clean environment, and tattoos worth talking about.

Established in 2007, they now have six artists with over 70 years of combined experience, versed in all styles of tattooing. One Black Swan patron writes, “One of my favorite shops to go to. All the artists are talented and very professional. Shop is always clean and provides a positive environment for

everyone.” Clients consistently rave about the level of service and quality of work they receive from this Best Of LKLD voter favorite shop.

2nd: Patterson Tattoos

3rd: (TIE) Gaslight Tattoo Company

3rd: (TIE) Holy Grail Tattoo

BEST PIERCING

HOLY GRAIL TATTOO

121 E Alamo Dr, Lakeland (863) 510-5990

FB: Holy Grail Tattoo

IG @holygrailtattoos holygrailtattoos.com

Best Of LKLD voters say this place is the Holy Grail of piercing. Holy Grail Tattoo is a premier custom tattoo and piercing studio in South Lakeland, dedicated to quality and customer satisfaction. The shop boasts hundreds of five-star reviews, many of which applaud the shop’s piercer. One freshly pierced patron writes, “Janet is the by far the best piercer I’ve been to. I have had multiple piercings and jewelry upgrades performed by her. She’s always welcoming and makes sure to thoroughly explain the process so you’re always aware of what’s happening. Not to mention her amazing style and creative piercing plans and ideas. Will not be going to anyone else!”

2nd: Gaslight Tattoo Company

3rd: Black Swan Tattoo

- CONTINUED ON PAGE 44 -

HEALTH + WELLNESS

BEST GYM OR FITNESS STUDIO

JUST MOVE NORTH LAKELAND

3195 US Hwy 98 N, Lakeland (863) 683-1900

FB: Just Move Athletic Club (North Lakeland) IG @justmovenl justmovenorthlakeland.com

JUST MOVE SOUTH LAKELAND

3625 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 232-5411

FB: Just Move Athletic Club (South Lakeland) IG @justmovesl justmovesouthlakeland.com

Love handles have a little too much love lately? Don’t sweat it – Just Move! With their premier facilities and programming, Just Move can help you achieve your individual health and wellness goals. According to the gym, “The beauty of Just Move is that it embraces the idea that every person can get one step closer to feeling fit by just moving forward.” Just Move has curated a space that offers custom fitness experiences to its members, from weight machines, cross training, a women’s only area, group classes, and circuit training to boxing, racquetball, basketball, and cable training.

2nd: Planet Fitness

3rd: The Balance Culture

BEST MARTIAL ARTS STUDIO

KARATE BEYOND BY MASTER CHOE

4124 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 354-5467

FB: Karate Beyond IG @karatebeyond karatebeyond.com

“Martial arts classes benefit growing children far beyond the dojo and in many real-world scenarios,” according to Karate Beyond by Master Choe. The structured classes at Karate Beyond are infused with the latest understandings in child psychology and development. They are meant to help develop coordination, physical fitness, and mental strength and gain valuable social skills. They offer a pre-k ninja class, kid, teen, adult martial arts, summer camp, and after-school pick-up. “Through positive reinforcement, we can bring out the best in your children to help them succeed in life.” One parent writes, “Karate Beyond has taught my boys discipline and given them confidence. We have tried many different kinds of martial arts and self-defense classes. Karate Beyond stands out above the rest by providing skills and guidance for real life situations. It’s a great place for all ages and skill levels! Give them a try…you won’t be disappointed!”

2nd: Sifu Och Wing Chun Kung Fu

3rd: Twisting Tiger Academy

BEST MEDICAL CANNABIS DISPENSARY

SURTERRA WELLNESS

1222 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (850) 391-5455

FB: Surterra surterra.com/dispensaries/lakeland

Surterra comes “highly” recommended by Best Of LKLD voters! “Feeling truly well is a gift—and everyone should be able to achieve it. We’re here to empower you and your family to unlock all the benefits of cannabis with the safest, highest quality products and a welcoming experience that’s designed to help you feel your best.” Surterra’s products are cared for in their state-of-the-art facility, the largest greenhouse on the East Coast, and they don’t use harmful chemicals or ingredients in the growing process. They offer a full menu of medical cannabis products, from pre-rolls and edibles to vaporizers, concentrates, oral and sublingual, flower, topicals, and more.

2nd: MÜV Dispensary

3rd: Liberty Health Sciences

BEST MEDICAL SUPPLY

GARRETT’S MEDICAL SUPPLY

485 1st St N, Winter Haven (863) 293-9747

FB @garrettsmedical garrettsmedical.com

Garrett’s Medical Supply has been family-owned and operated since 1986, and owner Jeannine Russell brings with her over 30 years of experience in the medical supply industry. The store carries medical supplies, uniforms, and miscellaneous items for medical care at home or in the field, and if they don’t currently have what you’re looking for, they can order it or inform you on where to find it. One satisfied customer wrote of Garrett’s Medical Supply, “I have been a customer of Garrett’s Medical Supply for 30 years. The excellent hometown family professionalism has not changed.”

2nd: Southeastern Medical Supply

BEST WELLNESS STORE

CHAMBERLIN’S NATURAL FOODS

1521 Bartow Rd, Lakeland (863) 687-8413

FB: Chamberlin’s Natural Foods IG @chamberlinsfl chamberlins.com

4001 US Hwy 98 N, Lakeland (863) 815-0001

“Natural, wholesome, and trustworthy has always been our creed.” Chamberlain’s Natural Foods has provided thoughtfully selected, responsibly sourced food and products to their local Florida friends and neighbors since 1935. Their stores are

a resource for all-natural vitamins and groceries, organic and local produce, cruelty-free cosmetics, organic pet food, and baby care. You’d be hardpressed to find a product with artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives on Chamberlin’s shelves. Plus, they believe in community involvement through partnering with local farms, helping local food outreach initiatives, and hosting community events.

2nd: Anthony’s Health Hut & Restaurant

3rd: Your CBD Store | SUNMED

BEST PLACE OF WORSHIP

TRINITY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

301 N Florida Ave, Lakeland (863) 603-7777

FB: Trinity Presbyterian Church IG @trinitylakeland trinitylakeland.org

“As Trinity Presbyterian, we want to always clarify our vision – helping people grasp why we do what we do. We want to see our city reached with the love of Christ and to do that efficiently, we want to go where the people and culture are most concentrated.” The church, led by Pastor & Director of Church Planting Tim Rice, was planted in January 1997. One congregant wrote, “Absolutely adore this church and these people. I’ve sat on the pew all my life, but coming here was like hearing the gospel for the first time. Family, community, support, truth, Jesus -- this is what you’ll find at Trinity.”

2nd: Grace City Church

3rd: Access Church

BEST FAMILY DOCTOR

DR. CELESTINO VEGA

LAKELAND REGIONAL HEALTH

Lakeland Regional Health Auburndale Clinic

208 Main Street, Auburndale (863) 284-5000

FB: Lakeland Regional Health IG @lakelandregionalhealth

Dr. Celestino Vega, a provider with Lakeland Regional Health, has been practicing Family Medicine since 1995. He attended medical school at Univercidad Central del Este, completed his residency at the University of Louisville, and is Board Certified with the American Board of Family Medicine. Working as a Family Medicine Physician in LRH’s Auburndale primary care location, Dr. Vega sees patients ages two years and older. He often works with families, treating multiple generations, which he says is special to him. Dr. Vega loves science and medicine and has a passion for helping others. His patient care philosophy is, “I believe prevention is the key to good health. We want to be proactive and not wait till there’s a problem. I aim to be compassionate and very caring with my patients.” Helping people apparently runs in the family as both of Dr. Vega’s children, who grew up

in Polk County, are also pursuing medical careers.

2nd: Dr. Dannie Earl | Watson Clinic

3rd: Dr. Youssef Ghaly

BEST PEDIATRICIAN

DR. CYNTHIA H. HUTTO

WATSON CLINIC SOUTH

1033 N. Parkway Frontage Rd., Lakeland 863-647-8012

FB @watsonclinicfl

IG @watson_clinic watsonclinic.com

Dr. Cynthia Hutto joined Watson Clinic in 1995, specializing in Pediatrics. She attended the University of South Florida College of Medicine for her MD and All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg for her residency. Dr. Hutto is a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Board of Pediatrics Certification. “Dr. Hutto has provided great care for all of our children for many, many years. She is great! Highly recommend!” wrote the parent of one of Dr. Hutto’s patients.

2nd: Dr. Sheena H. Tonkin | Watson Clinic

3rd: Dr. Raul Alvarez | Lakeland Regional Health

BEST EYE SPECIALIST OR OPTOMETRIST

EYE SPECIALISTS OF MID-FLORIDA, P.A

3350 Harden Blvd, Lakeland (863) 662-3010

FB: Eye Specialists of Mid Florida PA IG @eyespecialistsmidfl eyesfl.com

2004 CR 540 A, Lakeland (863) 937-4515

I would tell an ophthalmology joke, but they’re as cornea as it gets! What started as a modest ophthalmology/optometry practice in downtown Winter Haven in the early 1960s, Eye Specialists of Mid-Florida, P.A. has grown into multiple locations offering specialized treatment throughout Central Florida. You don’t need glasses to see what makes Eye Specialists of Mid-Florida the Best Of LKLD. They focus on personalized, high-quality eye care, including ophthalmology, optometry, glaucoma, LASIK, laser surgery, treatment of cataracts, and eyelid lifts. Additionally, they carry a full range of eyeglass lenses and frames, contact lenses, sunglasses, frame repair, and optical accessories. According to Eye Specialists of Mid Florida, “Our commitment has always been to put our patients first and to provide the level of care our patients deserve.”

2nd: MyEyeDr.

3rd: Eyes on Lakeland

BEST ORTHOPEDIC DOCTOR

DR. PHUC VO WATSON CLINIC

Watson Clinic Main

1600 Lakeland Hills Blvd., Lakeland

863-680-7214

FB @watsonclinicfl

IG @watson_clinic watsonclinic.com

Dr. Phuc Vo specializes in Orthopaedic Surgery / Sports Medicine and joined Watson Clinic in 1994. Dr. Vo graduated from the University of Florida College of Medicine and did an internship, residency, and fellowship at the University of Florida and a fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania Sports Medicine Center. Dr. Vo has multiple professional activities and membership affiliations, including an American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery Certification; Subspecialty Certification in Orthopaedic Sports Medicine, Associate Professor of Orthopaedics, University of South Florida, Arthroscopy Association of North America, American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine, American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, and Alpha Omega Alpha.

2nd: Dr. Renee Genova | Lakeland Regional Health

3rd: Center for Spinal Stenosis

BEST OB-GYN

DR. TAREK G. GARAS WATSON CLINIC

Watson Clinic Bella Vista Building

1755 N Florida Ave, Lakeland (863) 680-7312

FB @watsonclinicfl

IG @watson_clinic watsonclinic.com

Dr. Tarek Garas is board-certified in OB-GYN and Female Pelvic Medicine & Reconstructive Surgery (Urogynecology). He offers his services at Watson Clinic Bella Vista Building, and the Watson Clinic Bartow Building B. Dr. Garas specializes in general gynecology, advanced gynecologic surgery, bladder incontinence, bowel incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, pelvic pain, robotic surgery, and diVa® laser vaginal therapy. He received his medical degree from Creighton University of Medicine and then completed his internship and residency in obstetrics and gynecology at the University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital. Dr. Garas is a Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and a member of several prestigious medical organizations, including the American Urogynecologic Society, Physicians for Women’s Health, American College of Surgeons, Florida Obstetric and Gynecology Society, Society of Laparoendoscopic Surgeons and American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists. He is bilingual in English and Spanish.

2nd: Dr. Samantha J. Curtis | Watson Clinic

3rd: Dr. John R. Ellington, Jr. | Watson Clinic

BEST PLASTIC SURGEON

DR. FAEZA R. KAZMIER WATSON CLINIC

Watson Clinic Women’s Center

1400 Lakeland Hills Blvd, Lakeland

(863) 680-7676

FB @watsonclinicfl

IG @watson_clinic watsonclinic.com

Dr. Faeza R. Kazmier provides a variety of plastic surgery services ranging from cosmetic procedures to reconstructive care, from her office in Suite B at the Watson Clinic Women’s Center. Having completed dedicated training focused in plastic surgery, along with 18 years of experience, Dr. Kazmier seeks to help her patients achieve real, natural-looking results from head to toe. By seeking to understand her patient’s desired goals and utilizing advanced plastic surgery techniques, she designs personalized plans to achieve their plastic surgery goals. She received her medical degree from Albany Medical College and completed a general surgery internship and plastic surgery residency at the University of Missouri. She has authored or contributed to various medical publications and has received honors from the American College of Surgeons. She graduated Summa Cum Laude from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honors Medical Society while at Albany Medical College. Dr. Kazmier, who is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons, is also an active member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.

2nd: Dr. Jacob Gerzenshtein

3rd: Dr. J. Scott Ferguson | Watson Clinic

BEST DENTIST OR ORTHODONTIST

SCOTT ORTHODONTICS

5030 S Lakeland Dr, Lakeland

(863) 709-1941

211 6th St SE, Winter Haven (863) 299-1261

FB @DrScottSmiles

IG @scottortho scottsmiles.com

Now here’s a win to smile about! Best Of LKLD voters trust their pearly whites to the Smile Specialists at Scott Orthodontics year after year. The board-certified orthodontists at Scott Orthodontics provide comprehensive orthodontic options for children, teens, and adults. They offer traditional metal or clear ceramic braces or more advanced appliances and braces like Invisalign, Damon Smile, Incognito hidden lingual braces, and In-Ovation C. One patient wrote, “Everyone in the offices are wonderful! Dr. Scott has the best bedside manner than any doctor I’ve ever

come across. He is so gentle with my daughter and speaks to her and asks her questions (it is her orthodontic care after all). We have had a great experience so far.”

2nd: Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics

3rd: Agnini Family Dental

BEST CHIROPRACTOR

CHEATWOOD CHIROPRACTIC

737 S Missouri Ave, Lakeland (863) 680-1064

FB: Cheatwood Chiropractic Offices PA cheatwoodchiropractic.com

“Our services aim to restore the body to its natural state of optimal health. We offer a wide range of specialized services, therapies, and techniques to make your journey to lasting wellness as efficient and effective as possible,” says Cheatwood Chiropractic. Extending compassionate, comprehensive care, the team at Cheatwood Chiropractic offers chiropractic care, therapeutic laser, acupuncture, massage therapy, corrective exercises, lifestyle counseling, and nutritional counseling. Patients rave about the friendly staff and excellent chiropractic care they receive from Dr. Cheatwood.

2nd: Love Chiropractic Center

3rd: The Lakeland Chiropractic Center

BEST HOSPITAL

LAKELAND REGIONAL HEALTH

Multiple Locations

FB: Lakeland Regional Health

IG @lakelandregionalhealth mylrh.org

Congratulations to Lakeland Regional Health on yet another year as the Best Hospital, according to our voters. The hospital has a history spanning back over 100 years and continues to strive to “deliver the best outcomes and safest care by placing people at the heart of all we do. We improve lives every day by promoting wellness, education, and discovery.” The LRH Physician Group has over 270 providers practicing in more than 40 specialties across 14+ locations.

2nd: AdventHealth

BEST URGENT CARE

WATSON CLINIC URGENT CARE MAIN

1600 Lakeland Hills Blvd, Lakeland (863) 680-7271

WATSON CLINIC URGENT CARE SOUTH

1033 North Parkway Frontage Road, Lakeland 863-647-4047

FB @watsonclinicfl

IG @watson_clinic watsonclinic.com

At Watson Clinic Urgent Care, “We Make You Feel Better Quicker.” When you need on-demand care for minor emergencies, illnesses, and accidents, you don’t have to go to the emergency room. Watson Clinic Urgent Care is fully staffed by board-certified specialists and highly trained care team members to treat earaches, minor cuts and fractures, upper respiratory infections, and more. No appointment is necessary, and new patients are welcome. Watson Clinic Urgent Care offers on-site x-ray, laboratory, CT, other diagnostic testing, and medical support from trained professionals. “It’s an appealing, lower-cost alternative to an emergency room.”

2nd: Lakeland Regional Medical Center Urgent Care 3rd: Baycare

BEST REHABILITATION SERVICES

BANNASCH INSTITUTE FOR ADVANCED REHABILITATION MEDICINE LAKELAND REGIONAL HEALTH

FB: Lakeland Regional Health IG @lakelandregionalhealth mylrh.org

The Bannasch Institute for Advanced Rehabilitation Medicine is Polk County’s only CARF Accredited inpatient rehabilitation facility. Located at Lakeland Regional Health Medical Center, the Bannasch Institute was designed with input from industry experts, care providers, and community members to ensure accessible, coordinated, and cutting-edge services for patients and their families. Some special features of their inpatient facility include a 32-bed unit with all private patient rooms, a 2,300+ square foot physical therapy gym, a family area, and more. Lakeland Regional Health also offers outpatient rehabilitation services at their award-winning Grasslands Campus and North Lakeland YMCA. Their outpatient services are also home to one of Polk County’s only Pelvic Rehabilitation programs for men and women experiencing pelvic pain or urinary conditions.

2nd: Watson Clinic

3rd: CORA Physical Therapy

BEST MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES

LAKELAND REGIONAL HEALTH

BEHAVIORAL HEALTH

3030 Harden Blvd, Lakeland

(863) 687-1222

FB: Lakeland Regional Health

IG @lakelandregionalhealth mylrh.org/behavioralhealth

Lakeland Regional Health says, “If you or someone you know is dealing with a mental health or behavioral health issue, you are not alone. Over 20% of adults and 20% of children experience a mental illness in a given year.” Lakeland Regional Health offers comprehensive behavioral health care through both inpatient and outpatient services for adults, children, and adolescents. Their experienced psychiatrists, psychologists, advanced practitioners, nurses, and mental health professionals can provide care in person or via Telehealth.

2nd: Walk with Hope

3rd: Atala Counseling

BEST DOGGY DAYCARE

HOLLYWOOF PET RESORT

5845 Brannen Rd S, Lakeland

(863) 644-8152

FB: Hollywoof Pet Resort

IG @hollywoofpetresort hollywoofpetresort.com

Your dog is the celebrity of your house. Treat them like it! Hollywoof Pet Resort, formerly Sunny Days Pet Resort, was founded in 2001. “We are located in a quiet area away from traffic and residential areas, but still remain close to locations like the SPCA Adoption Center and S. Florida Avenue located in South Lakeland.” Under new ownership since 2019, Hollywoof continues to improve and expand their services, including boarding, grooming, and doggy daycare. “Every dog is different, and we do our best to adapt to each dog’s needs and behaviors to make their stay as comfortable as possible. Our resort is a safe environment where we do not overcrowd our playgroups, and we keep large dogs separated from small ones to ensure safety.”

2nd: Atta Boy! Animal Care

3rd: Parkway Pet Resort

BEST DOG GROOMER

HAPPY PAWS PET SPA

5131 Florida Ave S # 6, Lakeland

(863) 644-4223

FB: Happy Paws Pet Spa IG @happy_paws_pet_spa happypawsspa.com

When your pet starts looking ruff, it’s time for a puppy spa day at Happy Paws Pet Spa! They offer

a full range of cat and dog grooming services, including bath, brush, gland expression, hair cutting, styling, nail trimming, and more. Happy Paws Pet Spa can also do specific breed haircuts and non-anesthetic dental cleaning for your pets. One dog mom says, “We have a husky, and she turned out beautiful when I picked her up from Happy Paws!! She is super fluffy & so soft and clean! It was a lot of hair that had to come off, and they did a fabulous job. Thank you!”

2nd: Lucky Puppy Nail Specialists

3rd: Doggie Divas Grooming Salon

BEST VETERINARIAN

SPCA FLORIDA MEDICAL CENTER

5850 Brannen Rd S, Lakeland (863) 646-7722

FB @SPCAFlorida IG @spca_florida spcaflorida.org

Here’s to the best dog-tors around! Founded in 1979, SPCA Florida is an independent 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of pets and people in the community. They provide care, compassion, and hope to several thousand homeless pets every year. SPCA Florida’s Medical Center is an open-tothe-public, state-of-the-art veterinary facility that helps 20,000 patients annually, with thousands more served through community outreach and education programs. One review for the Medical Center reads, “We just rescued a Golden Retriever and took her in to get checked out. The staff was amazing. Made us and Berkley feel so comfortable. We will not go to any other vet but here.”

2nd: All Creatures Animal Hospital

3rd: Cleveland Heights Animal Hospital

- CONTINUED ON PAGE 50 -

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT

BEST PARK

BONNET SPRINGS PARK

400 Bonnet Springs Boulevard, Lakeland (863) 732-7000

FB: Bonnet Springs Park

IG @bonnetspringspark bonnetspringspark.com

Bonnet Springs Park rests on 168 acres of repurposed land near downtown that once helped Lakeland thrive. “Bonnet Springs Park is a place within walking distance to our city’s urban core where art, recreation, fun, and tranquility intersect by design. This blended urban/natural park provides spaces to escape, engage, and explore with one another and with nature while experiencing and learning about the extraordinary history of Central Florida.” The park features a Welcome Center with a gift shop, history gallery, and coffee shop, Heritage Gardens, the Florida Children’s Museum, the Depot Cafe, a family lawn, playground, botanical gardens, butterfly house, nature center, tree house, canopy walk, and more.

2nd: Common Ground Playground

3rd: Barnett Family Park

BEST DATE NIGHT

THE JOINERY

640 E Main St, Lakeland (863) 808-4025

FB: The Joinery

IG @thejoinerylkld thejoinerylkld.com

Food, drinks, flowers – everything you need for the perfect date night! The Joinery is a modern food hall and craft brewery on the banks of Lake Mirror. Their selection of vendors suits any craving and can make a date night compromise easy to reach. You get pizza, and I’ll get ramen! Currently filling the food hall are Ato sushi burritos and poke bowls, Ava Neapolitan wood-fired pizza, Gallito Taqueria, Sabu ramen, Blue Dog Craft Barbeque, Super Duper Spot badass burgers, and Mayday Ice Cream. Grab a craft cocktail at the bar and a funky fresh bloom from Bloom Shakalaka for your sweetheart on the way out!

2nd: Silver Moon Drive-In Theatre

3rd: Rec Room

BEST GOLF COURSE

CLEVELAND HEIGHTS

GOLF COURSE

2900 Buckingham Ave, Lakeland (863) 834-2377

FB: The Heights At The Cleveland Heights Golf Course clevelandheightsgolf.com

Hole in one for Cleveland Heights Golf Course! This 27-hole municipal facility is open to the public and boasts a full-service Pro Shop, golf instruction, practice areas, and a restaurant. They also have a full driving range with small, medium, or large

buckets available for purchase. Green fees vary according to the season, but annual memberships are available. After playing a few rounds, stop in for some chicken wings or shepherd’s pie at 1916 Irish Pub located at Cleveland Heights Golf Course.

2nd: Lone Palm Golf Club

3rd: The Club at Eaglebrooke

BEST DANCE STUDIO

ULTIMATE DANCE CENTER

2980 Lakeland Highlands Rd, Lakeland (863) 333-0567

FB: Ultimate Dance Center IG @udclakeland udclakeland.com

Ultimate Dance Center (UDC) is Polk County’s elite dance center. They offer dance education for all ages and all levels. Offering a variety of dance styles, students can learn in their state-of-the-art dance studio in the heart of Lakeland. The classes at UDC deliver a dance experience with staff and instructors emphasizing technique. “There are opportunities for those dancers who want to be professional dancers to perfect their current skills and acquire new ones,” says UDC. They offer homeschool, special needs, and toddler options too! Ultimate Dance Center has a World Dance Championship nationally ranked competition dance team and in-house non-profit contemporary dance company called FrediDance Project. One parent writes, “Quite the brilliant school for my kid. Talent, inclusivity, diversity, and a true sense of belonging. Lucky to have found them in town.”

2nd: Tammy’s Dance Company

3rd: Just Dance Academy of Dance & Etiquette

BEST LIVE MUSIC VENUE

UNION HALL

1023 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 288-0372

FB @unionhallevents

IG @unionhallevents unionhallevents.com

Union Hall is an intimate Dixieland listening room with lofty ceilings, exposed terracotta brick from the 1920s, art deco accents, and concrete bar tops. Grab a cocktail at the bar and enjoy the show or book the space in advance for a private event. One Union Hall patron wrote, “The perfect place in Lakeland for Private events and live music! They also have Karaoke on Wednesday nights. The outdoor patio is perfect for hanging out and eating. The staff here is amazing.” Check out their website to see what bands are coming to Union Hall next.

2nd: Swan Brewing

3rd: The Yard On Mass

BEST ANNUAL COMMUNITY EVENT

MAYFAIRE BY-THE-LAKE mayfairebythelake.org

Established in 1971 as a small crafts fair on the lawn of the Lakeland Public Library, Mayfaire by-the-Lake has become one of Florida’s largest and most celebrated annual outdoor art festivals. It is presented on Mother’s Day weekend every year and features more than 150 artist booths on the shores of Lake Morton. Artist tents feature jewelers, clay artists, painters, and photographers displaying their creations. One of the oldest arts festivals in Central Florida, Mayfaire has been ranked among Sunshine Artist Magazine’s “200 Best Art Shows” for ten years in a row.

2nd: (TIE) Lakeland Christmas Parade

2nd: (TIE) Pride in the Park

3rd: Art Crawl

BEST MUSEUM

POLK MUSEUM OF ART

AT FLORIDA SOUTHERN COLLEGE

800 E Palmetto St, Lakeland (863) 688-7743

FB: Polk Museum of Art IG @polkmuseumofart polkmuseumofart.org

Some 140,000 visitors come to the Polk Museum of Art annually. Admission to the Museum is free and exhibits typically change every few months. PMA patrons can enjoy their diverse collection of more than 2,800 objects with a focus on collecting and exhibiting contemporary art, Asian art, Pre-Columbian art, African art, and decorative art. Some exhibitions are from their collection, but many are from local, nationally, and internationally known artists such as Pablo Picasso, Albert Paley, Miriam Schapiro, Donald Sultan, James Rosenquist, Andy Warhol, and many others. In 2022, the Museum announced plans for a $6 million expansion and renovation project slated for completion in the summer of 2024.

2nd: Florida Children’s Museum

3rd: Polk County History Center

BEST MURAL

LET’S RIDE BY GILLIAN FAZIO

1066 S Florida Ave, Lakeland (located at Bent’s Schwinn Cycling & Fitness)

FB: Gillian Fazio Art

IG @gfazioart gfazioart.com

This vibrant mural depicts a penny farthing bicycle with colorful foliage, flowers, and a butterfly bursting through the spokes, preceded by floral encased letters reading Let’s Ride. Fazio’s talent can be seen in other colorful, nature-inspired pieces around Polk County, like the CREATE mural at

Catapult or the oranges and butterflies in Slice of Happiness in Lake Wales. A Lakeland native, Fazio graduated Magna Cum Laude with a bachelor’s degree in fine arts from the University of Florida in 2017. Fazio has painted over 20 murals across Central Florida from Tampa to Anna Maria Island and specializes in “murals that are interactive, engaging, colorful & uplifting, used for countless photoshoots and beautification across the country.”

2nd: CREATE at Catapult by Gillian Fazio

3rd: Angel Wing Selfie Wall by Aaron M. Corbitt

BEST VISUAL ARTIST BUMP GALLETTA

FB: Bump Galletta IG @bumpgalletta bumpgalletta.com

Bump just can’t be beat! A repeat Best Visual Artist winner, Josh “Bump” Galletta is a Lakeland-based commercial artist and illustrator. “I specialize in creating dynamic designs with an organic feel,” says Galletta. “I don’t wear a suit and tie to work; I roll up my sleeves and get down with paper.” His cool black and white style can be seen on t-shirts and living room walls across Polk County (and beyond). In November 2020, Galletta and Ida Mundell released their Swan City picture book, “Goodnight Lakeland.” In addition to his personal work and commissions, Bump has created for brands like Starbucks, Swan Brewing, Top Buttons, Haus 820, Smoothie King, and many more.

2nd: Sara Savannah Jones

3rd: Scott Audette

BEST BAND

THESE TIMES

Spotify @thesetimes

FB: These Times IG @thesetimesfl

These Times is a Florida heavy-hearted pop punk band formed in 2015. Current members include Skully Scott on vocals, Kurt Montroy on rhythm guitar/ backing vocals, Chris Olivares on drums/ vocals, Josh Hannah on bass/ backing vocals, and Evan Dyer on lead guitar/ backing vocals. Check out their easycore music on Spotify and follow their social media to see where they’ll play next!

2nd: Smokepoint

3rd: Gary Love and the Moonlighters

BEST DRAG QUEEN

MOMMA ASHLEY ROSE

FB: Rose Dynasty Foundation Inc.

IG @rosedynastyfoundation

rosedynastyfoundationinc.org

Congrats to one of our favorite queens! Momma Ashley Rose is a fabulous and philanthropic drag performer spreading the message that all are “loved, accepted, and wanted.” Along with her husband, Scott DeShazo, Momma Ashley Rose founded the Rose Dynasty Foundation, which has helped to raise thousands of dollars for charities, community outreaches, and non-profits through drag, dinner, brunch, children’s events, and variety shows. Momma’s mission is to “provide a safe and family-friendly atmosphere for all people no matter their gender, race, sexual orientation, and/or religion, through mentoring, fundraising, fostering community, and promoting awareness of resources.”

2nd: Kathryn Nevets

3rd: Marina Maroney

BEST LOCAL MAKER

MAMACITA LIFESTYLE CO.

IG @mamacita.lifestyleco

This Latina and mama-owned Central Florida pop-clothing boutique makes super cute

‘Spanglish’ tees. The Mamacita herself, Jessica Ferguson, told LKLDlense that when she started her brand, she wanted it to be “fun, bold, and rich in Latin pride/culture.” Her on-trend bright tees don phrases like “Barbicita,” “Necesito Cafecito,” and “Muy Festive” for the holidays. She told LKLDlense, “The name itself has everything to do with who I am as a Latina mama who is wholeheartedly so proud of her motherhood journey and beautiful Latin heritage. I believe the combination of all these factors is what sets the brand apart.”

2nd: Swan City Ceramics

3rd: Jaime Jay Handmade

BEST HIDDEN GEM IN POLK COUNTY

ART CENTRIC STUDIO

1035 Florida Ave S #180, Lakeland (407) 489-0179

FB: Art Centric Studio

IG @artcentricstudio artcentricstudio.com

Art Centric is a cozy art studio in the heart of Dixieland. ACSI-certified art teacher Mrs. Becky started this hidden gem in 2015. The space is a studio for children of all ages in Lakeland, providing authentic opportunities to make and create. Art Centric boasts a stunning studio space with plenty of natural light and large open tables. “Through the

step-by-step process of exploring materials, building skills, making mistakes, and creating solutions, you and your child will be taught to work and think like an artist.” Art Centric offers a variety of classes for all ages, homeschool classes, After School ArT, and KiDz NiGhT OuT. The owner “loves art in all its forms and has a growing passion to share it with others. She is excited to encourage creativity at Art Centric Studio and looks forward to seeing you soon!”

2nd: Rose Dynasty Foundation Fundraising Events

3rd: Quinteassence Kava Bar

TIFFANY BLUE

1 tablespoon corn syrup

1 tablespoon sugar sprinkles

6 ounces lemonade

2 splashes blue curacao

6 ounces prosecco

“What I’ve found does the most good is just to get into a taxi and go to Tiffany’s.”

– From ”Breakfast at Tiffany’s” by Truman Capote.

In two little dishes, pour corn syrup in one and sugar sprinkles in the other. Dip the rim of a champagne flute into the syrup and then the sprinkles.

Pour lemonade into glass, filling halfway. Add a splash of curacao, then top with prosecco. Celebrate!

Check Me Out ;)

THE NIGHT TRAVELERS

By Armando Lucas Correa

Separated by time but united by sacrifice, four women experience love, loss, war, and hope from the rise of Nazism to the fall of the Berlin Wall as they embark on journeys of self-discovery and find themselves to be living testaments to the power of maternal love.

THE WIND KNOWS MY NAME

By Isabel Allende

Traces the ripple effects of war and immigration on two children—5year-old Samuel, whose mother puts him on a Kindertransport train out of Nazi-occupied Austria to England in 1938, and 7-year-old Anita, who boards another train eight decades later to the U.S., where she’s separated from her mother.

FAMILY LORE

By Elizabeth Acevedo

Follows the lives of several generations of women in the Marte family after gathering to honor Flor, who can predict the day someone will die, decides to throw herself a huge party as a living wake.

MY BOY WILL DIE OF SORROW

By Efren C. Olivares

Sharing gripping family separation stories alongside his own, a human rights lawyer gives voice to immigrants who have been punished and silenced for seeking safety and opportunity, discussing what nationhood means in America and challenging us to question our own empathy and compassion.

I AM NOT YOUR PERFECT MEXICAN DAUGHTER

By Erika L. Sánchez

When the sister who delighted their parents by her faithful embrace of Mexican culture dies in a tragic accident, Julia, who longs to go to college and move into a home of her own, discovers from mutual friends that her sister may not have been as perfect as believed.

TWIN CITIES

By Jose Pimienta

Being twins means having a best friend forever. But when one goes to school in Mexico and the other across the border in California, can that bond withstand the distance?

SILVER NITRATE

By Silvia Moreno-Garcia

Helping a cult horror director shoot the missing scene from his magic film that was never finished to lift a curse, sound editor Montserrat and her best friend Tristán start seeing strange things and must unravel the mystery of this film and the obscure occultist who once roamed their city.

ANA MARIA AND THE FOX

By Liana De La Rosa

Seeking refuge in London from the French occupation of Mexico, a Mexican heiress enjoys her first taste of freedom away from her domineering father and the scorching looks she begins receiving from a member of Parliament, Gideon Fox.

ORDINARY GIRLS

By Jaquira Diaz

A biographical debut by a Pushcart Prizewinning writer traces her upbringing in the housing projects of Puerto Rico, her mother’s battle with schizophrenia, her personal struggles with a violent assault and her efforts to pursue a literary career.

BALLAD AND DAGGER

By Daniel José Older

Mateo and Chela discover their powers during a political battle between neighborhood factions. They must learn to set aside their differences to unravel the mystery behind their sunken homeland and stop a dangerous political operative who is trying to harness their gifts and unleash terror on the world.

THE FIRST RULE OF PUNK

By Celia C. Pérez

Twelve-year-old Malú reluctantly moves with her mom to Chicago and starts seventh grade with a bangviolating the dress code with her punk rock aesthetic and spurning the middle school’s most popular girl in favor of starting a bang with a group of like-minded weirdos.

FEDERICO AND THE

By Rebecca J. Gomez

With his red hoodie on and his bicycle basket full of food, Federico is ready to visit his Abuelo. But on the way, he meets a hungry wolf. And now his grandfather bears a striking resemblance to el lobo...

WOLF

Compiled by the staff of the Lakeland Public Library 100 Lake Morton Dr, Lakeland

Larry R. Jackson Branch 1700 N Florida Ave, Lakeland lakelandgov.net

Samuel Bak, ‘Adam and Eve and the Sweat and the Pain’ (detail), 2009, Oil on canvas, Courtesy of Pucker Gallery, Boston. Reynier Llanes, ‘Festive on to Spring’ (detail), Courtesy of the artist.

SEPTEMBER 2023 ADD YOUR EVENT

YOGA FOR PAIN RELIEF

Sep 1, 2023 | 9:00 AM - 10:15 AM

Buffy’s Boutique

301 3rd Street NW, Winter Haven

Lee Albert, NMT shares a series of poses, breath, and meditation geared towards pain-free living. Prima shares these principles in this yoga class supported by breath work and meditation. Every Friday. Register at buffylaroux.com.

IMPROV COMEDY SHOW

Sep 1, 2023 | 7:30 PM - 10:30 PM

Rec Room

202 N Massachusetts Ave, Lakeland

Two show times 7:30 PM is the Family Friendly Show and 9:30 PM is the 21+ Show. swancityimprov.com

LAKELAND DOWNTOWN FARMERS CURB

MARKET

Sep 2, 2023 | 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM

N Kentucky Ave, Downtown Lakeland

Every Saturday, shop local, handmade, homegrown, plants, artisan gifts, pastries, breads, specialty foods, and more! Enjoy live entertainment most Saturdays. downtownfarmerscurbmarket.org

WINTER HAVEN FARMERS MARKET

Sep 2, 2023 | 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM

250 Magnolia Ave, Winter Haven

Every Saturday, not located in a park. Shop artisan food vendors, plants, food trucks, and more while supporting a healthy & connected community. Across from Grove Roots on the NE corner of 3rd St. & Ave C SW in the old BB&T parking lot in downtown Winter Haven every Saturday. winterhavenfarmersmarket.com

YOGA IN THE GARDENS

Sep 2, 2023 | 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM

Bok Tower Gardens

1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales

This inclusive class includes gentle yoga movements that move our spine in all directions, breathing techniques, and extended relaxation infused with a sprinkling of yoga philosophy. All levels are welcome. Beginners are encouraged to attend. Price $12 members / $17 nonmembers, registration required. boktowergardens.org

BIRDING ON THE BOARDWALK

Sep 2, 2023 | 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Bonnet Springs Park

400 Bonnet Springs Blvd, Lakeland

BSP Staff and Volunteers will have binoculars and birding guides for guests to use while visitors explore the plants and animals that call Bonnet Springs Park their home! Participants are encouraged to dress based on seasonal weather and bring a water bottle. bonnetspringspark.com

FLORIDA’S CARNIVOROUS PLANTS TALK & PLANT SALE

Sep 2, 2023 | 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

Bok Tower Gardens

1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales

Learn about Florida’s endemic carnivorous plants. Florida has dozens of native species of carnivorous plants––more than any other state in the country. Register in advance. boktowergardens.org

DOCENT-LED TOUR

Sep 2, 2023 | 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Polk Museum Of Art

800 E Palmetto Street, Lakeland

Join the museum for a docent-led tour to get a fresh look into the Museum’s featured exhibition through an informative and engaging conversation with one of their passionate docents.Free for everyone. Registration is required. polkmuseumofart.org

DOCUMENTARY SCREENING - SAMUEL BAK: PAINTER OF QUESTIONS

Sep 2, 2023 | 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Polk Museum Of Art

800 E Palmetto Street, Lakeland

Join the museum for a free screening of the documentary, “Samuel Bak: Painter of Questions.” Learn more about the artist featured in their latest exhibition, Remembering Vilna: The Holocaust and the Art of Samuel Bak during this hour-long documentary. Tickets/reservations are not required for the film screening. polkmuseumofart.org

they enter the gates, with a chance to win prizes from local area restaurants and attractions. Baseball Bingo takes place at bat beginning in the bottom of the 1st inning. The fun ends once 10 winning fans have been announced. milb.com/lakeland

ART HISTORY LECTURE SERIES

Sep 5, 2023 | 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM

Polk Museum Of Art

800 E Palmetto Street, Lakeland

Four class sessions led by Dr. H. Alexander Rich, Executive Director & Chief Curator.

In this interactive four-week course, join Dr. Rich as he takes you on an unforgettable journey through the essential turn-of-the-century movements that came to define the new avant-garde — and the way we see our world and ourselves to this day. 4 Class Sessions and Champagne Reception, September 5, 12, 19, 26, 2023, 6:30 to 8:30pm. Register online or call 863.688.7743 x240. This series will be held in-person with remote attendance options made available for those who wish to join from afar. polkmuseumofart.org/arh

POKER NIGHT

Sep 5, 2023 | 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Barrel 239

8pm. More info on FB @LaughOutLoungeWH.

ACCESS ART SPECIAL NEEDS

Sep 7, 2023 | 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

Polk Museum Of Art

800 E Palmetto Street, Lakeland

Participants will create and discuss art with specially trained educator and artist, Tinia Clark. This program invites individuals with special needs and varying exceptionalities to engage in viewing and discussing artwork that is exhibited. Registration preferred but not required. For registration or questions, please text Tinia Clark at 863-224-8557 or register online. polkmuseumofart.org Please included guardian or caretaker in total attendee number.

AFTER HOURS AT THE MUSEUM

Sep 7, 2023 | 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Polk Museum Of Art

800 E Palmetto Street, Lakeland

During the evening, Dr. H. Alexander Rich, Executive Director and Chief Curator, will host a Curator Tour at 6 pm, providing in-depth art-historical and curatorial insight into one of their current exhibitions. polkmuseumofart.org

CRYSTAL CUP: CRAFT COFFEE EXPO & COMPETITION

Sep 3, 2023 | 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Honeycomb Bread Bakers

140 6th Street SW, Winter Haven

This year’s expo features guest speaker Coffee educator Tara Robert from Lineage Coffee in Orlando on accessibility, education, and bringing specialty coffee to a wider audience; and a Q&A panel with specialty roasters from across Central Florida. The competition features a series of competitors brewing craft coffee for a blind taste-test by our judges, with plenty of samples for the audience to try. Purchase in advance. centralfloridatix.com

LABOR DAY

Sep 4, 2023

LUNCH & LEARN: BENEFICIAL INSECTS

Sep 5, 2023 | 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Haines City Public Library

111 N 6th Street, Haines City

Join UF/IFAS Extension Polk County and Haines City Water Utilities for a class on beneficial insects in the garden. Registration is required and seating is limited. Lunch is included for pre-registered, in-person participants that are registered by August 29, 2023. Anyone registering after that is welcome to attend, but may not be provided lunch. Go to https://sfyl.ifas. ufl.edu/polk/ for more information. If you have any questions, please call 863-519-1041.

KNIT & CROCHET NIGHT

Sep 5, 2023 | 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM

The Union Taproom

245 W Central Avenue, Winter Haven

Every Tuesday! Bring your Knit or Crochet project and join your friends for Hoppy Hour at Union Taproom.

TRIVIA TUESDAYS

Sep 5, 2023 | 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

Grove Roots Brewing Company

302 3rd Street SW, Winter Haven

Play trivia every Tuesday with Triviosity! Free to play.

FLYING TIGERS VS TAMPA TARPONS

Sep 5, 2023 | 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium

2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd, Lakeland

Baseball Bingo! All fans will receive a bingo card as

239 3rd Street SW, Winter Haven

Every Tuesday. Players receive 10% off drinks while at the table. Sign up early at the bar for more chips. This event is 21 & up.

CHAIR YOGA

Sep 6, 2023 | 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Bok Tower Gardens

1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales

Now you can practice yoga from your chair. This class is appropriate for beginners, anyone with limited mobility, those recovering from injury, and anyone who has wanted to try yoga but felt intimidated. You can use a provided chair or your own chair, and wheelchairs are always welcome. Registration required. 863-734-1222 boktowergardens.org

WINE DOWN WEDNESDAY

Sep 6, 2023 | 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Obscure Wine Company

276 W Central Avenue, Winter Haven

Unlimited wine tasting of a Sommelier selected producer every Wednesday for one price. Check out their Facebook or Instagram page for each week’s wine lineup.

FLORIDA’S WILDLIFE: LIVING WITH SNAKES (WEBINAR)

Sep 6, 2023 | 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM

Learn to live with snakes. Join UF IFAS Extension Faculty, Shannon Carnevale, to learn all about coexisting with snakes. Register in advance on UF/IFAS Extension Polk County’s eventbrite page.

FLYING TIGERS VS TAMPA TARPONS

Sep 6, 2023 | 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd, Lakeland

All-You-Can-Eat Wednesday. This all-inclusive package includes your game ticket and all-you-can-eat for one price. milb.com/lakeland

WEDNESDAY OPEN MIC NIGHT

Sep 6, 2023 | 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Laugh Out Lounge

19 3rd Street NW, Winter Haven

Every Wednesday. Come see new and established comedians work on new material and hone their craft! Doors open and sign-ups begin at 7pm. Show starts at

FLYING TIGERS VS TAMPA TARPONS

Sep 7, 2023 | 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium

2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd, Lakeland milb.com/lakeland

TRIVIA NIGHT

Sep 7, 2023 | 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Barrel 239 239 3rd Street SW, Winter Haven Thursday Trivia.

FILMED IN FLORIDA:

THE TRUMAN SHOW (1998)

Sep 7, 2023 | 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Historic Ritz Theatre

263 W Central Avenue, Winter Haven

The story of an average man who, unbeknownst to him, has been the star of a pre-scripted, around-theclock television series since the moment of his birth. The majority of filming took place in Seaside, Florida. Enjoy specialty drinks, cocktails, beer, wine, and light snacks for sale at before and during the movie in The Ritz Lounge on the first floor. centralfloridatix.com

YOGA FOR PAIN RELIEF

Sep 8, 2023 | 9:00 AM - 10:15 AM

Buffy’s Boutique

301 3rd Street NW, Winter Haven

Yoga for pain relief aims to bring balance where there is imbalance. Offering you the opportunity to create more space and connection in your practice. Every Friday. Register at buffylaroux.com. - CONTINUED

SEPTEMBER 2023

DRUMBEAT

Sep 8, 2023 | 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Bok Tower Gardens

1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales

The Education team has been trained to use DRUMBEAT, which is an acronym that stands for “Discovering Relationships Using Music, Beliefs, Emotions, Attitudes, Thoughts.” All are welcome, aged 13 and up. No previous drumming experience necessary. Register online. boktowergardens.org

GALLERY PERSPECTIVES

Sep 8, 2023 | 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Polk Museum Of Art

800 E Palmetto Street, Lakeland

The second Friday of the month, hear from special guests to discuss a current exhibition at the Museum, incorporating their own unique expertise and perspective. polkmuseumofart.org

MAKING STRIDES OF POLK COUNTY KICKOFF CELEBRATION

Sep 8, 2023 | 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

114 E Parker St, Lakeland

If you’re thinking of starting a team, the Making Strides kickoff is a great opportunity to learn more. If you’ve already decided that you want to make a difference for those facing breast cancer, the kickoff will help you be the most successful team leader you can possibly be.

More info on FB

@MakingStridesPOLK

CAFFEINE & GASOLINE

Sep 9, 2023 | 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

Bonnet Springs Park

400 Bonnet Springs Blvd, Lakeland

Roll into Bonnet Springs Park on the third Saturday of every month for a new local car meetup. All exotic, classic, luxury, hot rod, and import cars are welcome. Coffee and breakfast items will be available for purchase. If you would like to show off your ride, no registration is required.

LAKELAND DOWNTOWN FARMERS CURB

MARKET

Sep 9, 2023 | 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM

N Kentucky Ave, Downtown Lakeland

Every Saturday, shop local, handmade, homegrown, plants, artisan gifts, pastries, breads, specialty foods, and more! Enjoy live entertainment most Saturdays. downtownfarmerscurbmarket.org

WINTER HAVEN FARMERS MARKET

Sep 9, 2023 | 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM

250 Magnolia Ave, Winter Haven

Every Saturday, not in a park. Shop artisan food vendors, plants, food trucks, and more while supporting a healthy & connected community. We are across from Grove Roots on the NE corner of 3rd St. & Ave C SW in the old BB&T parking lot in downtown Winter Haven every Saturday. winterhavenfarmersmarket.com

ALL LEVELS YOGA FLOW + SOUND BATH

MEDITATION

Sep 9, 2023 | 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

Bok Tower Gardens

1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales

A morning of relaxation & self-care.

Join Meditation Teacher & singing bowl specialist, Anthony Profeta and Yoga teacher, Jody Reece, in this yoga & sound bath for a very therapeutic morning practice. This class is open to all levels of experience. Registration required. boktowergardens.org

7 RIVERS WATER FESTIVAL

Sep 9, 2023 | 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Martin Luther King Jr Park

199 Lake Silver Drive, Winter Haven

ARTLAB

Sep 9, 2023 | 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

Polk Museum Of Art

800 E Palmetto Street, Lakeland

Each month, participants will be introduced to one of the Museum’s exhibitions in a fun and interactive way. Registration will open two weeks prior. polkmuseumofart.org

DOCUMENTARY SCREENING - SAMUEL BAK: PAINTER OF QUESTIONS

Sep 9, 2023 | 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Polk Museum Of Art

800 E Palmetto Street, Lakeland

Join the museum for a free screening of the documentary, “Samuel Bak: Painter of Questions.” Learn more about the artist featured in their latest exhibition, Remembering Vilna: The Holocaust and the Art of Samuel Bak during this hour-long documentary. Tickets/reservations are not required for the film screening. polkmuseumofart.org

MEET THE AUTHOR: NIKKI STERLING

Sep 9, 2023 | 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Winter Haven Public Library

325 Avenue A NW, Winter Haven

Join us for a special Meet the Author Event with Nikki Sterling, a poet, and writer who has been crafting heartfelt poems for many years. She will be signing copies of her debut poetry collection, “Sackcloth & Silk,” which explores themes of love, life, faith, trauma, and healing. Q&A and door prizes. Books will be available for purchase, for $10. Each purchase comes with a free gift!

FLYING TIGERS VS TAMPA TARPONS

Sep 9, 2023 | 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium

2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd, Lakeland

Minor League Baseball. Cheer on your local team! milb. com/lakeland

skate rentals available. Ages 18+. buenamarket.com/ disco-fest

FLYING TIGERS VS TAMPA TARPONS

Sep 10, 2023 | 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM

Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium

2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd, Lakeland

The young Flying Tigers fans can enjoy kids’ zones with multiple activities during the game, including face painting, balloon artists and bounce houses. All kids ages 12 and under may run the bases after the game weather permitting. milb.com/lakeland

SECOND SUNDAY ARTISAN MARKET

Sep 10, 2023 | 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Lakeside Village

1479 Town Center Drive, Lakeland

Celebrate the cooling temps when the Second Sunday Artisan Market makes its triumphant return! Shop unique offerings by top local makers at Lakeside Village’s Second Sunday Artisan Market - by the lawn from 12-5 pm on 9/10/23! Live Music by: Adrienne Richards

SOUND BATH WITH CRYSTAL SINGING BOWLS

Sep 11, 2023 | 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM

Bok Tower Gardens

1151 Tower Boulevard, Lake Wales

During the session, Himalayan & Crystal Singing Bowls, tuning forks, and other vibrational tools are used to de-stress, restore balance, and bring well-being to your body, mind & soul. Bring your mat or favorite blanket and pillow. Register in advance. boktowergardens.org

TRIVIA NIGHT

Sep 11, 2023 | 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM

Cob & Pen

1221 Florida Avenue S, Lakeland

Every Monday, play along with Triviosity. Tons of fun with your friends, plus a huge craft beer selection, unique craft cocktails, and an amazing food menu.

KNIT & CROCHET NIGHT

Sep 12, 2023 | 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM

The Union Taproom

LKLD SHUFFLE

Sep 8, 2023 | 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Lakeland Shuffleboard Club

820 E Robson Street, Lakeland

On the second Friday of every month. All equipment will be provided by the Shuffleboard Club, but feel free to bring your own if you have it. Instruction provided. Shuffleboard is a great sport for people of all abilities (suggested age 10 and up). Closed-toe shoes required. centralfloridatix.com

COME BACK, LITTLE SHEBA

Sep 8 - 24, 2023 | Times Vary

Haines City Theatre

303 Ledwith Avenue, Haines City

Doc’s sobriety is tested when Marie, a young college student becomes their boarder bringing new life and long-dormant hostilities to the surface of Doc and Lola’s troubled marriage. hainescitytheatre.com

NUNSENSE: THE MEGA MUSICAL VERSION

Sep 8 - 17, 2023 | Times Vary

Lakeland Community Theatre

121 S Lake Avenue, Lakeland

To save their convent from financial ruin, the Little Sisters of Hoboken have “One Last Hope” to raise the money and properly bury their accidentally poisoned sisters. With new songs, new dance numbers and more wacky characters, expect an evening of toe-tapping, mega-musical fun! lakelandcommunitytheatre.com

So many family-friendly activities planned for the day. You won’t want to miss the opportunity to kayak with the City of Winter Haven’s Natural Resouces Department or interact with animals from Gatorland as they bring an educational and entertaining experience to this festival. Plus, watch the 1st Cardboard Boat Race. More info on FB

@winterhavenflorida

NUTS ABOUT NATURE

Sep 9, 2023 | 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Bonnet Springs Park

400 Bonnet Springs Blvd, Lakeland

Join us for an exciting day at Bonnet Springs Park filled with different craft, play, and learning opportunities each month. Nuts About Nature encourages guests of all ages to soak up the joy and happiness found in nature through a variety of themed activities. bonnetspringspark.com

MORNING YOGA AND SOUND BATH

Sep 9, 2023 | 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

Bok Tower Gardens

1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales

This is a flow style yoga class, linking movement with breath, and includes gentle warm-ups and cooldowns. This 1hr class ends with a beautiful guided 30-minute extended savasana sound meditation. Register in advance. Please bring your own yoga mat. boktowergardens.org

JONITA & FRIENDS

Sep 9, 2023 | 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Historic Ritz Theatre

263 W Central Ave, Winter Haven

Fiddle the night away to the Irish band featuring Jonita and friends who will delight with Celtic music with old tunes and new favorites.Enjoy specialty drinks, cocktails, beer, wine, and light snacks for sale at The Ritz Lounge before and during the concert. centralfloridatix.com

DISCO FEST II

Sep 9, 2023 | 8:00 PM - 1:00 AM

Haus 820 820 N Massachusetts Ave, Lakeland

Plan your outfit, lace up your skates, and get ready for a night of throwback fun with Buena Market and friends!

Pop-Up Roller Rink, Disco Dance Party, Nostalgia Market by Buena Market, Arcade Games and Bar by Rec Room LKLD, and Local food pop-ups! Hourly

245 W Central Avenue, Winter Haven

Every Tuesday! Bring your Knit or Crochet project and join your friends for Hoppy Hour at Union Taproom.

TRIVIA TUESDAYS

Sep 12, 2023 | 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

Grove Roots Brewing Company

302 3rd Street SW, Winter Haven

Play trivia every Tuesday with Triviosity! Free to play.

POKER NIGHT

Sep 12, 2023 | 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Barrel 239

239 3rd Street SW, Winter Haven

Every Tuesday. Players receive 10% off drinks while at the table. Sign up early at the bar for more chips! This event is 21 & up.

FLORIDA WATER STEWARDSHIP PROGRAM

2023 (POLK COUNTY)

Sep 13, 2023 | 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM

Locations Vary.

An intensive program to learn all about Florida’s waters. Each class takes place at a new location with guest speakers, tours, and more! You’ll also attend stakeholder meetings and utilize online resources for additional learning. Each three-hour session blends state-level water presentations, communication bestpractices, group discussions, guest speakers, and field tours. There are course requirements. Please apply

here: https://go.ufl.edu/jpsscy5. For more information about this course, please contact your local UF/IFAS Extension Polk County Natural Resources Agent, Shannon Carnevale at 863-519-1051 or via email at scarnevale@ufl.edu

WINE DOWN WEDNESDAY

Sep 13, 2023 | 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Obscure Wine Company

276 W Central Ave, Winter Haven

Unlimited wine tasting of a Sommelier selected producer every Wednesday for one price. Check out their Facebook or Instagram page for each week’s wine lineup.

WEDNESDAY OPEN MIC NIGHT

Sep 13, 2023 | 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Laugh Out Lounge

19 3rd Street NW, Winter Haven

Every Wednesday, come see new and established comedians work on new material and hone their craft! Doors open and sign-ups begin at 7pm. Show starts at 8pm. More info on FB @LaughOutLoungeWH.

LAKELAND FOOD TRUCK RALLY

Sep 14, 2023 | 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Munn Park

210 E Main Street, Lakeland

Second Thursday of every month. family-friendly. More info on FB @LakelandFoodTruckRally.

ATHENA AWARDS

Sep 14, 2023 | 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Lakeland Community Theatre

121 S Lake Avenue, Lakeland

Honoring local women. The ATHENA Awards honor individuals and organizations that demonstrate excellence, creativity and initiatives that give back to the larger community. lakelandchamber.com

THE GALLERY CONCERT SERIES

Sep 14, 2023 | 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Polk Museum Of Art

800 E Palmetto Street, Lakeland

The Museum invites you to join them for The Gallery Concert Series, a special set of ensemble performances, live in the galleries and inspired by their current exhibition, Remembering Vilna: The Holocaust and the Art of Samuel Bak. Purchase tickets online. polkmuseumofart.org

TRIVIA NIGHT

Sep 14, 2023 | 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Barrel 239

239 3rd Street SW, Winter Haven

Thursday Trivia, free to play. 21+

FLORIDA LECTURE SERIES: ANN MCCUTCHAN

Sep 14, 2023 | 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Branscomb Memorial Auditorium

1100 Johnson Ave, Lakeland

Ann McCutchan, an accomplished author, lyricist, and librettist, will present The Life She Wished to Live: A Biography of Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings, Author of The Yearling.

The story of a tough, passionate, and independent woman who refused the early 20th-century conventions of her upbringing, More info on FB @FloridaSouthern.

MORE EVENTS ONLINE

ARE WE THERE YET?

Sep 15 - 24, 2023 | Times Vary

Lake Wales Little Theatre

411 N 3rd Street, Lake Wales

(Children’s Show with a Special Performance by The Theatre Tots). Explore transportation through time and ask the age-old question “Are we there yet?” With catchy original songs, this musical revue is a fun journey through the ages of travel. www.lwlt.org

ROSH HASHANAH

Sep 15, 2023 | Sundown

RUN FOR THEIR LIVES:

SPCA FLORIDA 5K RUN

Sep 16, 2023 | 7:30 AM - 11:00 AM

Peterson Park

3700 Cleveland Heights Blvd, Lakeland

Walkers, families, and dogs are welcome, virtual option & kids race available. Register in advance. spcaflorida. org/run

LAKELAND DOWNTOWN FARMERS CURB MARKET

Sep 16, 2023 | 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM

North Kentucky Avenue, Lakeland

Every Saturday in downtown Lakeland. Shop local, handmade, homegrown, plants, artisan gifts, pastries, breads, specialty foods, and more! Enjoy live entertainment most Saturdays. downtownfarmerscurbmarket.org

WINTER HAVEN FARMERS MARKET

HISPANIC HERITAGE FESTIVAL

Sep 16, 2023 | 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Lake Gwyn Park

137 Avenue A East, Wahneta

This day of celebration will feature live entertainment, games, crafts, art, and music.

Food will be on-site from local vendors to enjoy and share. For additional information, reach out to Polk County Parks & Recreation at (863) 298-4485

6TH ANNUAL TEAL GONE MAD

TEA PARTY

Sep 16, 2023 | 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Junior League Building

90 Lake Morton Drive, Lakeland

All proceeds benefit the Ovarian Cancer Support Group of Polk County. Your ticket will provide: lunch, unlimited tea, fashion show, raffles, crazy hat contest, and a Meet and greet with Alice in Wonderland characters. Tickets are on sale now at event.gives/teaparty.

GROVE ROOTS BREWING

7TH ANNIVERSARY PARTY

Sep 16, 2023 | 12:00 PM - 11:00 PM

Grove Roots Brewing Company

302 3rd Street SW, Winter Haven

Cheers to 7 years! The party will have limited beer releases, multiple food trucks, live music all day, a huge cake, new merch including a limited release anniversary shirt, and fun vendors!

GIRLS NIGHT OUT

Sep 14, 2023 | 6:45 PM - 9:00 PM

Balmoral Event Center

116 Kenny Blvd, Haines City

This show will drive you absolutely Wild… in the best possible way of course! Girls Night Out the Show is designed with your entertainment in-mind, as the men bring down the house. centralfloridatix.com

FILMED IN FLORIDA: EASY TO LOVE (1953)

Sep 14, 2023 | 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Historic Ritz Theatre

263 W Central Avenue, Winter Haven

Esther wins fans at the Cypress Gardens’ aqua show, but will she ever win the heart of her all-business boss Van Johnson? Busby Berkeley guides the legendary water-ski number. Filmed right here in Winter Haven, Florida. centralfloridatix.com

YOGA FOR PAIN RELIEF

Sep 15, 2023 | 9:00 AM - 10:15 AM

Buffy’s Boutique

301 3rd Street NW, Winter Haven

Offering you the opportunity to create more space and connection in your practice. Every Friday. Register at buffylaroux.com.

UAW MID FLORIDA RETIREE COUNCIL

Sep 15, 2023 | 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Knights of Columbus 1500/4726

3308 Avenue West NW, Winter Haven

A Region 8 Retiree Representative will be our guest speaker, relaying retiree issues in our area. Also in attendance will be vendors from Blue Cross and United Healthcare. If you have any problems with claims, bring the paperwork to speak to a representative. Our monthly meetings are held on the third Friday of every month. We encourage members to come early for some coffee and donuts and to socialize with fellow members. Anyone wishing to wear a mask for safety reasons may do so. The UAW Mid Florida Retiree Council’s drop in center in Winter Haven is open every Tuesday and Thursday from 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. The office is located in the Hope Plaza strip mall (off Hwy 17 by the WAWA and across the street from Big Lots). Please contact us at (863) 293-5556 or drop by with any problems you have with your benefits. Please pass this info along to any UAW retired members you know who may not get this publication.

Sep 16, 2023 | 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM

250 Magnolia Ave, Winter Haven

Every Saturday, not in a park. Shop artisan food vendors, plants, food trucks, and more while supporting a healthy & connected community. We are across from Grove Roots on the NE corner of 3rd St. & Ave C SW in the old BB&T parking lot in downtown Winter Haven every Saturday. winterhavenfarmersmarket.com

YOGA IN THE GARDENS

Sep 16, 2023 | 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM

Bok Tower Gardens

1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales

This inclusive class includes gentle yoga movements that move our spine in all directions, breathing techniques, and extended relaxation infused with a sprinkling of yoga philosophy. All levels are welcome. Beginners are encouraged to attend. Price $12 members / $17 nonmembers, registration required. boktowergardens.org

BRICK-OR-TREAT

Sep 16, 2023 | 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM

LEGOLAND® Florida Resort

1 Legoland Way, Winter Haven

Select weekends in September & October.

Join the Monster Party! The party kicks off as Monsters take over LEGOLAND® and host the Halloween party of the year featuring: Live Entertainment & Shows; Limited-Time Attractions; Character Meet & Greets; a Fireworks Show; And of course, Trick-or-Treating! Purchase tickets online. legoland.com/florida

DISCOVERY BAGS

Sep 16, 2023 | 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Bonnet Springs Park

400 Bonnet Springs Blvd

Stop by the GiveWell Community Foundation Nature Center Classroom to check out a Discovery Bag. Each Discovery Bag is filled with a unique set of books, activity cards, hands-on activities, and extras for all ages! bonnetspringspark.com

DOCUMENTARY SCREENING - SAMUEL BAK: PAINTER OF QUESTIONS

Sep 16, 2023 | 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Polk Museum Of Art

800 E Palmetto Street, Lakeland

Join the museum for a free screening of the documentary, “Samuel Bak: Painter of Questions.” Learn more about the artist featured in their latest exhibition, Remembering Vilna: The Holocaust and the Art of Samuel Bak during this hour-long documentary. Tickets/reservations are not required for the film screening. polkmuseumofart.org

DUNLAP & MABE

Sep 16, 2023 | 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Historic Ritz Theatre

263 W Central Avenue, Winter Haven

Jack Dunlap & Robert Mabe have formed one of the Southeast’s most talented bluegrass groups in the US. Come and listen to a great mix of original tunes, classic bluegrass numbers, and crowd favorites.Enjoy specialty drinks, cocktails, beer, wine, and light snacks for sale at The Ritz Lounge before and during the concert. centralfloridatix.com

SEPTEMBER 2023

TRIVIA NIGHT

Sep 18, 2023 | 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM

Cob & Pen

1221 Florida Avenue S, Lakeland

Every Monday! Play along with Triviosity. Tons of fun with your friends, plus a huge craft beer selection, unique craft cocktails, and an amazing food menu.

KNIT & CROCHET NIGHT

Sep 19, 2023 | 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM

The Union Taproom

245 W Central Avenue, Winter Haven

Every Tuesday! Bring your Knit or Crochet project and join your friends for Hoppy Hour at Union Taproom.

TRIVIA TUESDAYS

Sep 19, 2023 | 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

Grove Roots Brewing Company

302 3rd Street SW, Winter Haven

Play trivia every Tuesday with Triviosity! Free to play.

PRESSED LKLD AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT: HOCUS POCUS COMICS

Sep 19, 2023 | 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

Pressed LKLD

213 East Bay Street, Lakeland

Meet the author from Hocus Pocus Comics!

Pressed LKLD will host a Meet & Greet with Hocus Pocus Comics. Get your books signed, and take part in a Q & A with the creator and author of several comic books. hpcomics.net

POKER NIGHT

Sep 19, 2023 | 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Barrel 239

239 3rd Street SW, Winter Haven

Every Tuesday. Players receive 10% off drinks while at the table. Sign up early at the bar for more chips! This event is 21 & up.

UNCHAINED MELODYS:

MUSIC FACULTY RECITAL

Sep 19, 2023 | 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM

Anne McGregor Jenkins Recital Hall

1100 Johnson Ave, Lakeland Florida Southern College Music Faculty Recital. Please join Mark Thomsen, tenor, with Jeff Mattsey, baritone, and James Caraher on piano for an evening of arias from opera, jazz and Broadway for an evening of musical enjoyment! For more information, call 863680-4296. flsouthern.edu/ffa. Free Admission, no ticket required.

EAT TO BEAT DIABETES

Sep 20, 2023 | 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Johnny and Freda Brooks Eloise Resource Center, 710 Snively Avenue, Eloise

If you have diabetes or know someone that does, this class is for you! Through games and activities, learn how to fill a healthy plate and fit in all the foods you love. Food demonstration and tasting included. Questions? Call 863-519-1072 or email Andrea andreanikolai@ ufl.edu. Register on UF/IFAS Extension Polk County’s eventbrite page.

CHAIR YOGA

Sep 20, 2023 | 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Bok Tower Gardens

1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales

Now you can practice yoga from your chair. This class is appropriate for beginners, anyone with limited mobility, those recovering from injury, and anyone who has wanted to try yoga but felt intimidated. You can use a

provided chair or your own chair, and wheelchairs are always welcome. Registration required. 863734-1222 boktowergardens.org

WINE DOWN WEDNESDAY

Sep 20, 2023 | 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Obscure Wine Company

276 W Central Avenue, Winter Haven

Unlimited wine tasting of a Sommelier selected producer every Wednesday for one price. Check out their Facebook or Instagram page for each week’s wine lineup.

WEDNESDAY OPEN MIC NIGHT

Sep 20, 2023 | 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Laugh Out Lounge

19 3rd Street NW, Winter Haven

Every Wednesday, come see new and established comedians work on new material and hone their craft! Doors open and sign-ups begin at 7pm. Show starts at 8pm. More info on FB @ LaughOutLoungeWH.

NEIGHBORHOOD STORY TIME

Sep 21, 2023 | 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Medulla Community Center 1049 Parker Road, Lakeland

For kids 6 and younger with accompanying adult. Neighborhood Story Time is a monthly event to experience activities and a storybook reading. Entry is free with limited capacity. To attend, please RSVP by e-mail to Cherry Alston at cherryalston@polkcounty.net.

ART CONNECTS ALZ

Sep 21, 2023 | 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

Polk Museum Of Art

800 E Palmetto Street, Lakeland

Participants create and appreciate art and its various forms. No art experience required. Be engaged through art and have an opportunity to communicate emotions, stories, and memories. This program is for person with dementia and their care partner. Space is limited and reservations are required. Please call 800-272-3900 to reserve a spot. This event is organized by the Alzheimer’s Association.

POLK PRIDE HAPPY HOUR

Sep 21, 2023 | 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Front Page Brewing Company

190 S Florida Avenue, Bartow

Happy Hour events are a great way to connect with members of the LGBTQ+ community around Polk and meet with members of the LYA/Polk Pride board.

CELEBRATE WINTER HAVEN

Sep 21, 2023 | 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Nora Mayo Hall

500 3rd Street NW, Winter Haven

Celebrate Winter Haven is a night to revel in all things Winter Haven! In honor of the year the Chamber was incorporated, we will be celebrating like it’s 1923. Dust off your flapper dress or bow tie and get ready to toast to all the Chamber has accomplished in 100 years! In keeping with tradition, they will award the 98th annual Citizens of the Year Banker’s Cup Awards, honor the Small and Large Business of the Year and the Entrepreneur of the Year. Purchase tickets online. winterhavenchamber.com

FILMED IN FLORIDA: CREATURE FROM THE BLACK LAGOON (1954)

Sep 21, 2023 | 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Historic Ritz Theatre

263 W Central Avenue, Winter Haven

Scientists track a prehistoric monster in the South American jungle while it tracks them. Underwater sequences filmed in North Florida’s Wakulla Springs. Join us as we celebrate the life of the man who gave the underwater creature life, Ricou Browning. centralfloridatix.com

SENIOR SOCIAL - PAINT PARTY!

Sep 22, 2023 | 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Wabash Resource Center and Park

1230 Southern Avenue, Lakeland

Polk County Parks & Recreation in partnership with Humana invite seniors 55+ to enjoy an afternoon of art and social time.

Participation is free, but pre-registration to attend is required. To register, please call the Wabash Community Center at (863) 284 – 4223.

FIRST DAY OF AUTUMN

Sep 23, 2023

LAKELAND DOWNTOWN FARMERS CURB MARKET

Sep 23, 2023 | 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM

North Kentucky Avenue, Lakeland

Every Saturday in downtown Lakeland. Shop local, handmade, homegrown, plants, artisan gifts, pastries, breads, specialty foods, and more! Enjoy live entertainment most Saturdays. downtownfarmerscurbmarket.org

FALL WREATH MAKING WITH BLOOM BOX FLORAL

Sep 23, 2023 | 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Bok Tower Gardens

1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales

Participants will learn floral arranging and styling techniques, tips and tricks to make and take home a stunning autumn wreath. All materials will be supplied. Register in advance. boktowergardens.org

WINTER HAVEN FARMERS MARKET

Sep 23, 2023 | 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM

250 Magnolia Avenue, Winter Haven

Shop artisan food vendors, plants, food trucks, and more while supporting a healthy & connected community. We are across from Grove Roots on the NE corner of 3rd St. & Ave C SW in the old BB&T parking lot in downtown Winter Haven every Saturday. winterhavenfarmersmarket.com

NATIONAL DRIVE ELECTRIC WEEK ELECTRIC VEHICLE SHOW

Sep 23, 2023 | 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Munn Park, 210 East Main Street, Lakeland

Different makes and models will be represented, including plug-in hybrids and all electric vehicles. This family friendly event will include children’s activities and a free drawing for prizes. driveelectricweek.org/ event?eventid=3867

STEM IN THE PARK

Sep 23, 2023 | 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Bonnet Springs Park

400 Bonnet Springs Blvd, Lakeland

Explore topics in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math! Each month will have a new and engaging activity fit for a wide range of learners.

DOCUMENTARY SCREENING - SAMUEL BAK: PAINTER OF QUESTIONS

Sep 23, 2023 | 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Polk Museum Of Art

800 E Palmetto Street, Lakeland

Join the museum for a free screening of the documentary, “Samuel Bak: Painter of Questions.” Learn more about the artist featured in their latest exhibition, Remembering Vilna: The Holocaust and the Art of Samuel Bak during this hour-long documentary. Tickets/reservations are not required for the film screening. polkmuseumofart.org

AUTUMNAL EQUINOX YOGA NIDRA

Sep 23, 2023 | 3:00 PM - 4:15 PM

Yoga Haven

1511 6th Street SE, Winter Haven

The aim is to induce a state of conscious relaxation that encourages the body to release tension and stress. Yoga Nidra can help reduce anxiety, improve sleep quality, enhance creativity, and promote overall well-being. You will leave feeling nourished, rested, and renewed. No yoga experience is required. $20 per person. Bring a yoga mat, water bottle, and an open mind. winterhavenyoga.com

FOSSILS OF FLORIDA

Sep 23, 2023 | 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM

Bok Tower Gardens

1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales

Explore the geological timelines and the fossils found within them, including many examples for guests to see and touch.

Join Derek Demeter, director of the Emil Buehler Planetarium at Seminole State College in Florida, for a trip through time, exploring the various fossils found in Florida. Register in advance. boktowergardens.org

THE BARK EASYPROHIBITION ENDS HERE

Sep 23, 2023 | 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM

Lakeland Loft

108 S Tennessee Avenue, Lakeland

The inaugural Bark Easy Fundraiser for the Polk County Bully Project. With our take on a speakeasy, join us as we go back to the Roaring 20s when the pitbull was the dog of America. Dress to impress in your finest 20s attire as you enjoy a night of live jazz, drinks, appetizers, a wine pull and a silent auction. Proceeds from this event benefit the rescue. Purchase tickets online. givebutter. com/c/TheBarkEasy

DINNER AND A MOVIE:

LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS

Sep 23, 2023 | 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM

Gem Theater

110 NW 1st Avenue, Mulberry

Admission includes screening of the film and seated dinner (appetizer, entree, dessert, water/tea). Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and screening at 7:00 p.m. This is a popular event and expected to sell out. centralfloridatix. com

LAKELAND PUNK ROCK FLEA MARKET

Sep 24, 2023 | 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Swan Brewing

115 W Pine Street, Lakeland

Over 80 vendors & food trucks from Central FL (and even one from GA), this will easily be the largest punk flea yet! As always, it’s totally FREE admission, sk8r approved, pets welcome and mostly kid safe (PG-13ish) plus live music and award-winning Swan Brewing craft beer for sale. More info on FB @lakelandpunkflea/ events

YOM KIPPUR

Sep 24, 2023 | Sundown

AFTER SCHOOL ART

Sep 25, 2023 | 4:30 PM - 5:30 PM

Polk Museum Of Art

800 East Palmetto Street, Lakeland

After School Art is designed for the parent and child to learn creative new skills together. Join the museum for a new lesson each week using a different medium and learn about the elements of art. The activities are easily designed to be recreated at home to further enhance your young artists’ skills - and yours, too! Doors open at 4:20 pm. Space is limited; be sure to arrive early to secure your spot! polkmuseumofart.org

TRIVIA NIGHT

Sep 25, 2023 | 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM

Cob & Pen

1221 Florida Avenue S, Lakeland

Every Monday, play along with Triviosity! Tons of fun with your friends, plus a huge craft beer selection, unique craft cocktails, and an amazing food menu.

KNIT & CROCHET NIGHT

Sep 26, 2023 | 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM

The Union Taproom

245 W Central Avenue, Winter Haven

Every Tuesday! Bring your Knit or Crochet project and join your friends for Hoppy Hour at Union Taproom.

POKER NIGHT

Sep 26, 2023 | 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Barrel 239

239 3rd Street SW, Winter Haven

Every Tuesday. Players receive 10% off drinks while at the table. Sign up early at the bar for more chips! Gift card prizes are awarded to 1st and 2nd place winners for each session! This event is 21 & up.

WINE DOWN WEDNESDAY

Sep 27, 2023 | 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Obscure Wine Company

276 W Central Avenue, Winter Haven

Unlimited wine tasting of a Sommelier selected producer every Wednesday for one price. Check out their Facebook or Instagram page for each week’s wine lineup.

WEDNESDAY OPEN MIC NIGHT

Sep 27, 2023 | 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Laugh Out Lounge

19 3rd Street NW, Winter Haven

Every Wednesday. Come see new and established comedians work on new material and hone their craft! Doors open and sign-ups begin at 7pm. Show starts at 8pm. More info on FB @LaughOutLoungeWH.

WAWA SUMMER FUN DAYS

Sep 28, 2023 | 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Bok Tower Gardens

1151 Tower Boulevard, Lake Wales

This complimentary offer is limited to four visitors per registration, and admission for the day is limited to assist with capacity issues. All members of the party visiting on Wawa Summer Fun Days will need to have a ticket to enter. You must register in advance. boktowergardens.org

ADD YOUR EVENT

TRIVIA TUESDAYS

Sep 26, 2023 | 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

Grove Roots Brewing Company

302 3rd Street SW, Winter Haven

Play trivia every Tuesday with Triviosity! Free to play.

LADIES NIGHT - DOWNTOWN

WINTER HAVEN

Sep 28, 2023 | 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM

Downtown Winter Haven

Downtown Winter Haven businesses will be open late for a night of food, drink and shopping specials. Good vibes only while you wear your favorite 60’s outfit for a GROOVY night out with your girls! Register in advance for $10 and pick up your event map that night. centralfloridatix.com

TRIVIA NIGHT

Sep 28, 2023 | 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Barrel 239

239 3rd Street SW, Winter Haven

Every Thursday, free to play. 21+

FILM: DRACULA (1931) SPANISH VERSION |

PELÍCULA: DRACULA

Sep 28, 2023 | 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Historic Ritz Theatre

263 W Central Avenue, Winter Haven

While director Tod Browning and his crew were filming Lugosi and his fellow actors during the day, another cast and crew used the same set at night to produce a Spanish-speaking iteration of the picture. Explore the same story as interpreted by a different director and different actors in Spanish. centralfloridatix.com

PITTIES & KITTIES

Sep 29, 2023 | 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM

SPCA Florida Medical Center

5850 Brannen Road S, Lakeland

Low-cost spay/neuter for low-income pet owners. This event is for pets belonging to income-qualified residents of Polk County. If you belong to that group and have a pitbull-type dog or a cat that needs to be spayed or neutered, e-mail us at clinic@spcaflorida. org or by go to http://surveymonkey.com/r/ pittiesandkitties.

WAWA SUMMER FUN DAYS

Sep 29, 2023 | 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Bok Tower Gardens

1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales

This complimentary offer is limited to four visitors per registration, and admission for the day is limited to assist with capacity issues. All members of the party visiting on Wawa Summer Fun Days will need to have a ticket to enter. You must register in advance. boktowergardens.org

GROWING AND COOKING:

HERBS & SPICES

Sep 29, 2023 | 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Haines City Public Library

111 N 6th Street, Haines City

Join UF/IFAS Extension Polk County to learn about herbs that grow well in central Florida and get tips on how to use them in meals. Go to https://sfyl.ifas. ufl.edu/polk/ for more information. If you have any questions, please contact us at 863-519-1041. Please register in advance.

ICE CREAM SOCIAL

Sep 29, 2023 | 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Mary Norma Campbell Resouce Center

2226 Karen Street, Lake Wales

Stop by for free ice cream sundaes! Sundaes will be served alongside creation stations for kids plus family games, giveaways, and prizes! Admission is free, but sundaes will be limited to 1 per person, all ice cream and snacks will be first come, first served.

THE BOXERS - A SIMON AND GARFUNKEL TRIBUTE

Sep 29, 2023 | 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Historic Ritz Theatre

263 W Central Avenue, Winter Haven

Brothers Todd and Greg Pitts have been playing and singing these timeless tunes together since they were kids growing up in the 60’s and 70’s. For years they’ve traveled the country sharing the Simon & Garfunkel concert experience with thrilled audiences nationwide. centralfloridatix.com

LAKELAND DOWNTOWN FARMERS CURB MARKET

Sep 30, 2023 | 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM

North Kentucky Avenue, Lakeland

Every Saturday in downtown Lakeland. Shop local, handmade, homegrown, plants, artisan gifts, pastries, breads, specialty foods, and more! Enjoy live entertainment most Saturdays. downtownfarmerscurbmarket.org

WINTER HAVEN FARMERS MARKET

Sep 30, 2023 | 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM

250 Magnolia Avenue, Winter Haven

Every Saturday, not in a park.Shop artisan food vendors, plants, food trucks, and more while supporting a healthy & connected community. We are across from Grove Roots on the NE corner of 3rd St. & Ave C SW in the old BB&T parking lot in downtown Winter Haven every Saturday. winterhavenfarmersmarket.com

ILLUSTRATIONS FROM THE MIRROR: THE ART OF AHMED TAYLOR

Sep 30, 2023 - Feb 04, 2024

Polk Museum Of Art

800 E Palmetto Street, Lakeland

See how a storybook comes to life via the imaginative mind of illustrator Ahmad Taylor. In this exhibition, Reflections from the Mirror, Taylor, an Atlanta-based artist who created the illustrations for the book “El’s Mirror,” invites visitors to learn about the illustration process, from initial storyboarding to character studies, while immersing them in El’s world. polkmuseumofart.org

DOCUMENTARY SCREENING - SAMUEL BAK: PAINTER OF QUESTIONS

Sep 30, 2023 | 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Polk Museum Of Art

800 E Palmetto Street, Lakeland

Join the museum for a free screening of the documentary, “Samuel Bak: Painter of Questions.” Learn more about the artist featured in their latest exhibition, Remembering Vilna: The Holocaust and the Art of Samuel Bak during this hour-long documentary. Tickets/reservations are not required for the film screening. polkmuseumofart.org

SERGIO’S LIVE ART & MUSIC

Sep 30, 2023 | 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Historic Ritz Theatre

263 West Central Avenue, Winter Haven

Join us for this unique live art experience by Sergio who will create a painting live on stage, and an authentic reggae band who will perform Top 40 hits to this fun mix of art and music. centralfloridatix.com

BARTOW

DAVENPORT

- CONTINUED ON PAGE 66 -

LAKE WALES

HAINES CITY

LAKELAND

WINTER HAVEN

We’re All Stardust

ARIES

March 21 - April 19

Cosmic warriors, September sparks your passion. Embrace your fiery spirit and blaze new trails. It’s a month of fearless self-expression and taking the lead. Dance to your own rhythm and paint the universe with your vibrant hues.

TAURUS

April 20 - May 20

Hey, Earth angels! This month, connect with Mother Nature’s gentle rhythm. Embrace serenity and let your creative energies bloom like wildflowers. Time to channel your artistic vibes and create cosmic masterpieces.

GEMINI

May 21 - June 20

Cosmic twins, it’s a month of dual energies. Embrace your chatty side and connect with your soul tribe. Dive into deep conversations and let your curiosity lead you on cosmic adventures. Your words are spells – cast them wisely!

CANCER

June 21 - July 22

Love and compassion fill the air, Cancer. September is about nurturing connections and healing wounds. Dive into your emotional depths and embrace your intuitive wisdom. Remember, a heart full of love can heal the universe.

LEO

July 23 - August 22

Cosmic royalty, it’s your time to shine! September ignites your creative spark. Let your inner artist roam free and bask in the spotlight. Express yourself boldly and illuminate the world with your unique brilliance.

VIRGO

August 23 - September 22

Hey, cosmic healers! September whispers self-care and self-love. Embrace your inner goddess and pamper your mind, body, and soul. Tune into your intuition and let the universe’s wisdom guide you.

LIBRA

September 23 - October 22

Cosmic balancers, unite! September is all about harmony and connections. Embrace your diplomatic charm and create cosmic collaborations. Spread love like confetti and let your relationships bloom.

SCORPIO

October 23 - November 21

Deep and mysterious Scorpio, September brings transformation. Embrace your inner phoenix and rise from the ashes. Let go of the old to welcome the new. Your cosmic energy is magnetic – embrace the magic within.

SAGITTARIUS

November 22 - December 21

Hey, adventurous archer! September calls for exploration. Embrace your wanderlust and seek wisdom from distant horizons. Expand your mind, ignite your spirit, and let the universe guide your cosmic journey.

CAPRICORN

December 22 - January 19

September shines a cosmic spotlight on your ambitions, Capricorn. Channel your practical magic and climb those cosmic mountains. Embrace your earthly wisdom and trust the universe to manifest your dreams.

AQUARIUS

January 20 - February 18

Hey, cosmic innovator! September sparks your revolutionary spirit. Embrace your unique perspective and be the change you wish to see. Dance to your own cosmic rhythm and let your ideas illuminate the world.

PISCES

February 19 - March 20

In September, dive into your dreamy depths, Pisces. Embrace your intuition and artistic flow. Let your cosmic imagination run wild and create masterpieces that speak to the soul. Your dreams are galaxies waiting to be explored.

Small City Rising!

WALKABLE, BIKEABLE, EATABLE, DRINKABLE

Six/Ten has plans to build additional townhomes and apartments in vibrant downtown Winter Haven.

Interested? Intrigued? Register your interest at ideas@sixtenllc.com