Events in Lakeland, FL

The menu features a deal on fish and chips, along with happy hour drink specials.

JohnnyB's in Lakeland, Florida hosts a Friday Night Magic event focused on the Modern format. It is a chance to play Magic: The Gathering and meet other players.

Tick Tock Ultra challenges participants to run for 12 hours or 6 hours on a paved path that circles Lake Hollingsworth, aiming to rack up as many 2.84-mile laps as possible before the finish. The Runners Village fuels the effort with hot food rolling out over the day, beginning with pancakes and moving into hotdogs and hamburgers, then quesadillas and smoked or grilled chicken, with smoked pork butt and brisket served later, alongside staples like soda, pickles, and snack bars. Entry is limited to 200 runners.

Repticon Lakeland offers two full days devoted to reptiles and exotic animals. See live species from across the globe, shop for pets and pet supplies directly from experts at standout prices, and take in opportunities to learn more about these animals. This expo brings together the hallmarks of Repticon for a fun, two day experience.

Celebrate the grand opening of Pavilion Poolside, a new venue debuting with a broad mix of live entertainment. Look forward to performances across a wide range of musical styles alongside comedy, with more show announcements to be shared.

Each complete session combines classroom learning with real flight experience for students and their parents. It begins with about an hour and a half of structured group ground instruction at an on-airport training facility, where core aviation concepts are introduced in an engaging, professional setting. Afterward, every student takes to the sky for roughly one hour of individualized instruction with an FAA-certified flight instructor in a comfortable four-seat training aircraft. Under close supervision, the student will handle the controls and operate the airplane. When space and operating conditions allow, a parent may ride in the back to observe and capture photos or video. The cost for a full session is $299, and sessions are available on Saturday and Sunday. Those who wish to continue can enroll in a structured 12-week Youth Aviation Program that builds a strong foundation toward future FAA pilot certificates and ratings, subject to applicable age and eligibility requirements. For students who aim to fly professionally, this path can provide an early step toward a career in aviation.

The Sellouts bring live music to Swan Brewing with a lineup featuring vocalist Rick Gold, bassist Walt Clayton, drummer Eina Dorado, and guitarist Tom Norman. Expect a music-filled set and a relaxed atmosphere.

Free and open to all ages, this punk rock flea market takes over Swan Brewing with live sets and a massive marketplace. The stage lineup features Government Subs, Twiggy Branches, Severed Silence, No Fraud, and Pangolin, with more to be announced. More than seventy vendors and food trucks from around Central Florida bring a mix of vintage and upcycled apparel, band shirts, horror collectibles, skate gear, hard to find vinyl and CDs, stickers, patches, buttons, original art, handmade jewelry, indie board and card games, pottery and quirky dishware, taxidermy and other oddities, plus many surprises. Skaters can enjoy a free area with ramps and boxes, and families will find a VW bus photo booth and kids activities including a bounce house. Refreshments and treats come from Level Up Lemonade, Moonlit Macarons, Pamz Pizza Cones, Swan Brewing, The Melt Machine, The Rolling Pin Handmade, SB&B Seafood, and Bussin Ice Cream. All vendor spots are booked. Poster artwork is by Chain Assembly, with support from Swan Brewing, LKLD / Haven Magazine, Art Crawl, DB Music, Scaradise, Boards For Bros, and Skully's Barber Salon. Produced by A Punk Kid Production, LLC.

Expect a high energy mix of rock and roll favorites from Van Halen, Journey, STP, Loverboy, and more, packed with big hooks, sing along choruses, and guitar driven hits.

Taking place at the RP Funding Center, this two-day gathering combines a showcase of businesses with a conference-style program centered on professional networking. It offers space for participants to meet, exchange ideas, and build new connections.

Live & Loud spotlights Polk County’s underground scene with a $5, all-ages show that highlights rising bands from across rock’s many styles. The vibe is high energy, the environment is welcoming and inclusive, and the focus is on discovering new talent and loud, live sound.

Car enthusiasts converge at Bonnet Springs Park for a relaxed cars and coffee gathering that welcomes exotics, classics, luxury vehicles, hot rods, and imports. The meet takes place in the parking lot opposite the welcome center, making it easy to park, connect, and admire a diverse lineup. Bring your ride to display without signing up in advance. Coffee and breakfast items are available to purchase while you browse.

A nationwide rally and ride for mental health awareness and suicide prevention returns to Lakeland, Florida, hosted by Love Surrounds You. Created by Amanda Burns in honor of her sister Kristen, the movement brings riders and supporters together to offer connection, healing, and hope for those facing mental health struggles, suicide loss, and PTSD. The route begins at Auburndale Speedway and concludes at Sun 'n Fun, where a community rally welcomes participants with entertainment, a 50/50, car, jeep and truck show, bike shows, more than 90 vendors, and over 10 food trucks. The ride is open to motorcycles, cars, trucks, and more. For safety, four wheeled vehicles may be moved out of the escorted line. It is rain or shine, and a signed registration waiver is required to ride. Early registrants receive an official Ride Out of the Darkness shirt to wear during the ride, and shirts will be available at the rally for $30. Co-hosts include Lakeland Harley-Davidson, Revolution Church, Infidels Motorcycle Club, and Sun 'n Fun. Last year saw 636 riders in line and more than 3,000 people at the rally, with a coast to coast Travel Train of groups from 48 states converging for the cause. The effort supports veterans and first responders facing PTSD, survivors of suicide loss, people seeking therapy scholarships and financial assistance, and the families and friends who stand with them. Vendors and sponsors are welcome, especially organizations offering mental health, holistic care, veteran, youth, family, and homelessness resources. Booth insurance is not required for most vendors at Sun 'n Fun, though food trucks and alcohol vendors must carry insurance.

At Tall Palm Ranch, this six-hour live-fire training focuses on the essentials of handgun use for personal defense. Participants spend substantial time on the range with structured drills, coaching, and individualized feedback to build solid technique. The curriculum draws on more than seven decades of combined operational experience in law enforcement, national security, and high-risk security work, delivering practical, proven skills for using a pistol to protect oneself.

At Tanners Lakeside, Culpeppers Cardiac Foundation partners with Melanies Cutting Edge for a community fundraiser that supports placing AEDs in local communities, reflecting the mission that saving lives matters. The event features live entertainment, family activities, and several ways to contribute. MC Joey Foley hosts the program with sound by Dave Arnold. Performers include Jim N Judy Taylor, Ryan Joyce, Blake Free, Korey Ketchum, Eric Grubb, Amanda Smith, Brandon Marshall, Spankin’ Sadie, Got UR 6 Band, and a special appearance by Tristan Tritt. Fundraising moments include raffles, a live auction, and a 50/50 drawing. Highlights also include a Chest of Cheer, a Lotto Hat, two gun raffles in partnership with Wild Wild West Arms in Polk County, Florida, a Kid Zone, and food plates. Support comes from Winter Haven Hospital Bostic Heart Center as title sponsor and the Daily Ridge as media sponsor.

At Theatre Winter Haven’s Ghostlight Lounge, award-winning entertainer and TEDx speaker Cody Byrns delivers a lively mix of family friendly comedy, mind bending magic, high caliber juggling, and interactive moments with the audience. After surviving a life changing accident, he performs with humor and awe, weaving in themes of resilience and authenticity to create an experience that entertains, inspires, and brings people together. This intimate program lasts about 75 minutes and is well suited for couples, friends, and anyone seeking something out of the ordinary. Recommended for ages 12 and up. Presented for one night only with limited seating. Free on site parking is available at North Entry 1.

Caribbean Bay hosts a rock and roll celebration for music lovers. The show delivers that Twizted fix fans are looking for, all about the sound that keeps the soul moving.

Celtic Thunder takes the stage at Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater, Florida.

Gram Parsons Derry Down hosts an all-acoustic open mic in a historic setting, welcoming musicians of every age and experience level. Performers can add their names to the sign-up list on arrival and share up to three songs. The atmosphere supports beginners, seasoned players, singer-songwriters, and anyone honing their craft. Listeners are encouraged to attend and enjoy the music. Admission is free. Hosted by Jay Hill.

Explore how to use lemongrass and learn about its health benefits. This event highlights a flavorful, beneficial plant, with Linda Miller. Plant starts should be available.

Downsizers Club returns with a refreshed format that centers on support, connection, and shared experiences. Now structured as a monthly, facilitator-led support group, it welcomes adults who are considering downsizing, whether the change is immediate, in the future, or simply on the horizon. The gathering is held at Home Instead in Lakeland, FL. Expect open and respectful conversation, encouragement from peers facing similar decisions, and room to sort through overwhelm, uncertainty, and potential next steps. The tone is calm and pressure-free, with no lectures and no sales pitches, and any accountability happens gently and at your pace. Some participants are actively downsizing, others are preparing for when the time comes, and everyone with downsizing on their mind can find a supportive place to think things through with people who understand.

Enjoy a faith-focused roller skating night at Skate World Lakeland, with Christian music providing the soundtrack in a positive, uplifting setting. Youth groups, church friends, and families are welcome, and there is plenty of opportunity to meet new friends. Admission is $4 and skate rentals are $4. For more information, call 863-687-6447.

Tavern style small batch pizza takes center stage.

The monthly Sierra Club Meeting at Circle B Bar Reserve - Lakeland Area features speakers alongside their feathered ambassadors.

This session at Skate World Lakeland is tailored to ages 16 and up, pairing upbeat music with an adults-only atmosphere. Admission is $10, and skate rentals are available for $5. Participants can roll around the rink, enjoy the soundtrack, or simply spend a relaxed evening with friends.

Celebrate your pet with a one-day, drop-in custom ceramics collaboration at Paw Printz featuring Austin Snedden Ceramics. Pet parents can choose a wheel-thrown food or water bowl handcrafted by Austin Snedden for $50 or a custom paw print ornament made on site for $20. A bundle with both items is available for $50. Select a glaze color, then each piece is custom finished and professionally fired, with completed items ready for pickup at Paw Printz in two weeks. Pre-sale options are available to reserve bowls and ornaments, and supplies are limited.

Registration is open for the 21st Lakeland Cardboard Boat Challenge & Lakes Festival. Put your creativity to work on the water, then see how your design handles the waves and the spotlight. There are two ways to compete. Build on site with materials provided to craft a quick masterpiece or a glorious mishap, or arrive with a boat you built ahead of time that follows the rules. Form a crew with friends, coworkers, clients, or even an ex if you are feeling bold, and keep the friendly rivalries going with those who sit out… lunch might be on them. Rescue teams will be ready, the crowd will cheer and laugh in equal measure, and live music will keep the energy high. Bring your imagination, a drive to win, and a towel plus a change of clothes just in case. Information on team registration, race rules, sponsorships, and vendor space is available through the event’s organizers.

This event takes place on select days throughout the year, recurring multiple times from winter into fall.

Daniel Pepin takes the stage at Grove Roots Brewing Co. for a live performance that spotlights music and more.

Tom Jones performs live at Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater, Florida as part of the Come Gather Round Tour. This concert brings the artist to the stage for an evening of music.

At Lake Mirror Auditorium, Lakeland Record Fair Volume VIII brings together over 25 vendors offering new and preowned LPs, CDs, cassette tapes, memorabilia, and more. Food and coffee will be available. This edition also introduces the first-ever Halloween costume contest, with additional details to come.

Tedeschi Trucks Band performs live at The BayCare Sound in Clearwater, FL for an evening of music.

A monthly meetup by the Swan City Cigar Society brings enthusiasts together at Cigar Life - A Diamond Crown Cigar Lounge in Lakeland for relaxed conversation and cigars. New and experienced smokers can socialize with fellow locals and community leaders, explore featured selections, and take part in occasional giveaways. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, making it easy to unwind and build connections over a favorite cigar.

ThunderBeard, billed as America’s number one ZZ Top tribute, brings a memorable live show to The Polk Theatre that evokes the band’s peak years. The performance focuses on faithful sound and stage presence for an experience that feels true to the original. Feedback from The Vault in Saginaw, MI and Lexington Village Theatre highlights the trio’s professionalism, tight presentation, and attention to the look, even down to the beards, with praise that places them very close to the real thing.

Vintage Market Days brings a curated, vintage-inspired shopping experience set both indoors and outdoors, with a mix of original art, antiques, clothing, jewelry, handmade goods, home décor, outdoor furnishings, tasty options from food trucks, and seasonal plants. This pop-up spans three days and is part of a series that appears in communities across the United States, giving makers and merchants a platform to share their work in creative settings. Guests can enjoy climate-friendly comfort in the Grimes Building with central air, while the covered pavilion stays breezy with large overhead and auxiliary fans. Weekend re-entry is complimentary when you capture a photo at the event’s photo walls. Families are welcome, and children 12 and under receive free admission. Parking is free, and only service animals are permitted. A limited number of vendor spaces remain. There is also an opportunity to support the nonprofit First Assembly Uth Ministry through VIP parking, a bag check, and porter help for large items.

Experience the Strokes Fore Hope Golf Scramble at Cleveland Heights Golf Course, benefiting Talbot House Ministries of Lakeland. This community tournament brings golfers together for a round that blends camaraderie, friendly competition, and purpose. Participation supports individuals and families facing homelessness and hardship, advancing hope, healing, housing, and vital services through Talbot House Ministries. The event uses a shotgun start format, and team registration is $500. The experience features opportunities to connect, prizes, and meaningful impact on and off the course.

The IWWF Junior, U23, and Open 2026 Barefoot World Championships return with competition across the Junior, U23, and Open divisions. Sponsorship and tournament information is available from the organizers.

This barefoot waterskiing gathering at Champions Lake Auburndale is dedicated to the art of riding the water without skis. The focus is on the sport itself.

Enjoy good company, good food, and rock tunes at The Twisted Prop Bar & Grille.

This event at Grove Roots Brewing Co. highlights tavern-style pizza prepared in small batches.

Be among the first to explore this year’s Empty Bowls collection at a preview evening hosted by United Food Bank & Services at Red Calliope Art Gallery. Discover artist-made bowls and ceramic pieces slated for the upcoming Soups at Sunset event, meet the creators alongside community partners and supporters of Empty Bowls in Plant City, and get a head start on bidding. Enjoy small bites and refreshments while the community gathers in support of a cause where every bowl helps provide meals for local neighbors facing hunger.

Classic Rock Legacy presents an evening honoring the music of Eric Clapton at the Ritz Theatre in Winter Haven. This tribute concert celebrates his career with a live performance featuring music from across the years.

Fans of the Night Court can gather for a midnight release celebration honoring the A Court of Thorns and Roses series. The evening features books, themed treats, and lively activities. Guests are encouraged to arrive in their court colors or dressed as a favorite character, and to enjoy the festivities with fellow readers. Pre-ordering ensures a copy will be ready at midnight.

At Cattlemen's Livestock Auction Market, Inc., a consignment-only sale highlights replacement-type cattle with an anticipated offering of more than 150 head of quality crossbred stock. The lineup includes bred females, open heifers, and cow-calf pairs, plus 50 Charolais bulls. Bull consignments include Whiting Charolais, Volborn Cattle, Leport Charolais, and Ohillco Farms. For consignment information, contact the office at 863-665-5088 or Dave at 863-559-3266. Further details will be shared as they become available.

Phoenix5 brings an energetic, feel-good night to Lucky's Sports, Oyster and Tiki Bar in Lakeland. The atmosphere is upbeat with plenty of positive energy throughout.

Celebrate Halloween at Swan Brewing with live music from Smokepoint, a Florida rock band known for a crowd-pleasing mix of classic and modern rock and pop. Expect favorites spanning Journey, Collective Soul, Bon Jovi, Foreigner, AC/DC, Hall and Oates, and more. Admission is free. Costumes are encouraged, with cash awards for first, second, and third place. Food and drinks will be available for purchase, including craft beer, wine, cider, and non-alcoholic options. Comfortable seating is offered both inside and outside for a lively night of music and costumes.

A free, family friendly marketplace celebrating Día de los Muertos brings the community together in Lakeland to honor loved ones and the traditions that keep their stories alive. Presented by Latinas Profesionales in Action (LPA), this second annual gathering features local artisans and small businesses, flavorful food and cultural treats, live music and performances, and traditional ofrendas that invite remembrance. After welcoming more than 450 attendees last year, the celebration returns in an expanded daytime format with memorable photo opportunities and plenty of moments for connection through art, food, and culture. Admission is free and open to all. Vendor applications and sponsorship opportunities are available. By attending, participants accept responsibility for their own health and safety and agree not to hold Latinas Profesionales in Action or affiliated staff liable for any circumstances that may occur during or after the event.

An all acoustic open mic fills the historic Gram Parsons Derry Down with live music as performers of any age take the stage. Participants can sign up when they arrive to share up to three songs, whether they are beginners, seasoned performers, singer-songwriters, or artists looking to hone their craft in a supportive setting. Those who prefer to listen are welcome as well. Admission is free. It happens on the first Monday night of each month and is hosted by Jay Hill.

Enjoy a relaxed meetup at O'Briens Irish Pub in Plant City, created for volunteers, adopters, supporters, and anyone who wants to connect with fellow animal lovers. Newcomers to the area who care about dogs and cats are welcome. Everyone will be seated together, so a quick heads up helps ensure a saved seat.

Tanners Lakeside hosts a fun evening with live music from Smokepoint, along with great drink selections and delicious food.

Daniel Pepin performs live at Grove Roots Brewing Co., offering a set of music with a little something extra to enjoy. This event highlights his live sound in the Grove Roots setting.

At the Polk Theatre in Florida, The Women of Rock Las Vegas Show brings a high-energy tribute to groundbreaking female rock artists, powered by a full live band and immersive multimedia elements. Performers step into era-specific looks and channel the vocals and guitar drive that defined the originals. Tributes spotlight Joan Jett, Stevie Nicks, Pat Benatar, the Wilson sisters of Heart, Alanis Morissette, and Linda Ronstadt. Signature songs featured during the night include Hit Me with Your Best Shot and Heartbreaker by Pat Benatar, Back on the Chain Gang and Brass in Pocket by The Pretenders, Stand Back and Edge of Seventeen by Stevie Nicks, I Love Rock and Roll and I Hate Myself for Loving You by Joan Jett, These Dreams and Crazy on You by Heart, Poor Poor Pitiful Me and When Will I Be Loved by Linda Ronstadt, and Hand in My Pocket and Ironic by Alanis Morissette. The evening opens with a special appearance by Linda Maze, who will perform three original songs. This concert celebrates the anthems and artists who reshaped rock, capturing the spirit and stagecraft that made these songs endure.

Dirty Licks performs a blend of dance tunes and rock hits.

At Molly McHugh's Irish Pub, a home pub gathering brings lively craic that lasts into the night, with a cheerful sláinte to toast the occasion.

Enjoy tavern‑inspired pizza prepared in small batches at Grove Roots Brewing Co.

The Swan City Cigar Society hosts a monthly meetup at Cigar Life Lakeland, bringing people together for camaraderie, conversation, and cigars. The gathering welcomes both seasoned aficionados and newcomers, offering a relaxed, welcoming setting to unwind, meet fellow enthusiasts, and build connections. Highlights include networking with leaders, locals, and cigar lovers, plus exclusive giveaways and featured cigars each month.

Held on the front lawn of First Presbyterian Church in Lakeland, the Polk County Out of the Darkness Community Walk brings neighbors together for reflection, healing, and encouragement. Participants honor loved ones, stand in solidarity with those impacted, and raise awareness of how suicide and mental health challenges affect individuals, families, and friends. The walk creates a supportive space to connect with others and share stories while moving forward with hope.

Daniel Pepin performs live at Haven Coffee, creating a welcome pairing of live music and a good cup of coffee. Performance videos are available online for a preview of his sound.

At the Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum, United Food Bank & Services presents the 16th Annual Empty Bowls, a longtime Plant City tradition that brings the community together through art, food, and compassion in support of neighbors facing hunger. This edition introduces Soups at Sunset, a warm evening gathering that celebrates the Empty Bowls legacy in a fresh way. Attendees can enjoy signature soups from local restaurant partners, receive a complimentary handmade bowl crafted by students, and participate in a live auction featuring unique artist-created bowls. The experience also includes live music, appearances by local artists, family-friendly activities, and opportunities to bid in silent auctions and take part in a raffle.

Enjoy an uplifting gospel concert featuring The Epps Family and Chad Greer at Shepherd Road Presbyterian Church. All are welcome, and a freewill love offering will be received. For more information, call 863-528-1140.

General Hospital’s Steve Burton and Bradford Anderson bring their Stone Cold and the Jackal holiday show filled with festive songs, comedy, and audience participation. The performance runs about 80 minutes and offers ways to connect with the stars based on your ticket type. Platinum tickets, limited to 50, include early admission with priority seating, access to the sound check, selfies and autographs with Steve and Bradford, the show itself, and a post show meet and greet. VIP tickets include the show and a meet and greet with a photo opportunity after the performance, with no autographs. Bring your own camera. Autographs are available only for Platinum ticket holders.

Experience an evening of country music complemented by delicious food and refreshing drinks.

A complete concert featuring Psalm 101 will be held at First Baptist of Lucerne Park.

Experience pizza in the tavern tradition, prepared in small batches.

Phoenix5 sets the tone for an upbeat night at Lucky's Sports, Oyster and Tiki Bar in Lakeland, bringing a lively atmosphere and plenty of feel-good energy.

Central Florida’s largest holiday festival features over 200 local vendors with unique finds across arts and crafts, home and garden items, 3D toys, vintage clothing and collectibles, fashion designers, homemade goods, and more. The event also includes chefs, a book signing, food trucks, a kids art area, and live music, plus information booths from both for-profit and nonprofit organizations, health care services, and pet-friendly products and services. More than 15,000 visitors attended last year. Free parking is available.

Pastor Chad Greer will present a live singing performance at Denny's in Plant City, Florida.

A simple reminder asks people to set aside the day, with a friendly message looking forward to seeing everyone in person.

The third annual No Fear Poker Run raises funds to support people who have experienced sexual abuse. The event focuses on restoring hope and uplifting voices that have too often gone unheard.

An annual Toys for Tots night at Swan Brewing features live music from SmokePoint along with food offerings, drink specials, and a focus on supporting a meaningful cause. There is no cover, and SmokePoint will give away T shirts throughout the evening. Attendees are encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy to benefit children in the community through the Marine Corps Toys for Tots program during the holiday season. The performance covers classic and modern rock and pop favorites from artists such as Journey, Collective Soul, Bon Jovi, Foreigner, Motley Crue, Maroon 5, Van Halen, Greta Van Fleet, Styx, the Rolling Stones, The Cars, The Weeknd, AC/DC, and Hall and Oates.

At Grove Roots Brewing Co., savor small-batch, tavern-style pizzas.

Step into a lively holiday market featuring skilled makers, tasty local fare, live music, and an atmosphere enriched by the charm of Lunenburg, Nova Scotia. Explore more than 150 vendors spread across multiple buildings, with a newly added building for 2026 expanding the experience. Find handcrafted pottery, woodworking, glass art, textiles, home décor, jewelry, and more from Nova Scotian artisans and makers. Savor baked goods, fudge, nuts, specialty foods, and beverages, along with local wines, while food trucks are on site throughout the weekend. Outdoor tents offer even more to discover, and admission includes a weekend wristband for convenient access. Only service dogs are permitted inside buildings, and bringing cash is recommended for a smooth shopping experience.

Returning for its third year, this festive celebration brings together more than 100 local vendors alongside the popular Bandit Market. Capture a photo with Santa, enjoy live entertainment, and explore additional holiday activities throughout the day. Vendor applications are currently open.

Discover more than 150 vendors showcasing handmade, one-of-a-kind holiday goods at a lively market at Raider place in Plant City. Enjoy a selection of food trucks, visit the petting zoo, and take in live music. Complimentary photos with Santa are available.

Set in the storied Gram Parsons Derry Down, this acoustic-only open mic welcomes performers of every age. Sign up when you arrive to share up to three songs. First-timers, seasoned players, singer songwriters, and anyone looking to develop their material will find an encouraging setting, and listeners are welcome to enjoy the music. There is no admission charge. Hosted by Jay Hill.

A market event with a playful, jingle-themed name.

Daniel Pepin performs live at Grove Roots Brewing Co., presenting a set of live music.

A festive holiday party featuring the band Insomnia. Holiday attire is encouraged.