Family events in Lakeland, FL

SeaWorld Orlando transforms into a course for the MADD Monster Mash & Dash, a costumed run that brings together more than a thousand participants in support of MADD Central Florida. Runners and walkers follow an exclusive route through the park before crowds arrive, passing coasters and water features. Costumes take center stage with a spirited contest that includes awards, a DJ, and surprises. Families will find options for all ages, including a Kids Dash. A moving Memory Mile pays tribute to those injured by or lost to impaired driving. Every participant earns a finisher medal, and a silent auction featuring special items and experiences is planned. Virtual participation is available, with finisher medals and shirts mailed within 30 days after the event. For a smooth start, plan to arrive early. This rain or shine event supports MADD Central Florida’s mission to end impaired driving. MADD is a 501(c)(3) public charity, EIN 94-2707273.

Blanchard Park hosts a festive day of running with multiple distances for every age and pace, including a half marathon, 10k, 5k, a 1 mile option, and a kids dash. Packet pickup takes place before the start. The kids dash group meets at the start line, and participants are guided to the starting area. The National Anthem precedes the main kickoff. Live results and awards are available at the registration tent as soon as participants finish. Every registration features a designer shirt, a custom medal, chip timing with live results and awards, free photos, and free snacks at the finish line. Youth-based pricing for the 5k and 10k is offered at $17 for ages 12 and under. Half marathon, 10k, and 5k entries include a custom bib, designer shirt, and a finisher medal. The 1 mile option is untimed and also includes a custom bib, designer shirt, and finisher medal. The kids dash is a fun, untimed run for ages 10 and under, with a mini bib, a youth-sized shirt, and a medal created just for this event. Children who prefer to skip the included items may participate in the kids dash at no cost. The atmosphere is family-friendly, inclusive, and supportive of all fitness levels, whether aiming for a personal record or enjoying the experience. Register early to guarantee your shirt.

At ZooTampa at Lowry Park, this community walk brings together individuals impacted by lupus and their families to unite around the goal of ending the disease. The event supports the Lupus Foundation of America, Southeast Region by raising funds for lupus research, increasing public awareness, and strengthening support for those living with lupus.

Families can take advantage of an offer where children dine at no cost when an adult meal is purchased. A happy hour is available as well.

Children dine at no cost with the purchase of an adult meal. A happy hour is available as well.

Funtastic Depot transforms into a neon themed celebration for families, teens, and friends, featuring live DJs, arcade games, climbing walls, and a grand finale show. Guests can jump, dance, and compete while neon lights set the mood across the park, and unlimited attractions are included. More than a trampoline park, it offers a Friday night tradition in the making.

Downtown Lakeland turns festive for First Friday with a cookie carnival theme, blending carnival style fun and sweet treats with bubbly refreshments from Zesty Bubbles. Look for signature sips like Dirty Sodas, fresh lemonade, and Dirty Energy, a playful mix of flavors to enjoy while exploring the celebration. Families and friends can take in the First Friday Cookie Carnival atmosphere and treat themselves to something Zesty.

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 complete session costs $299 and is offered on Saturday and Sunday. Each session begins with about an hour and a half of structured group ground instruction at an aviation training facility at the airport, where students explore aviation fundamentals in a professional, engaging, and interactive setting. After the ground portion, every participant receives roughly an hour of one-on-one, hands-on flight training with an FAA-certified flight instructor in a comfortable four-seat training airplane. This is genuine flight instruction, and under the instructor's supervision the student will have the chance to operate the aircraft. When space and operating conditions allow, a parent may ride in the back seat during the flight and take photos or videos. After completing the first session, families who want to continue can enroll in a structured 12-week Youth Aviation Program that introduces more formal pilot training and helps build a foundation toward future FAA pilot certificates and ratings once applicable age and eligibility requirements are met. For those aiming for an aviation career, this can be an early pathway toward becoming a professional pilot.

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.

Experience an intimate evening with award-winning entertainer and TEDx speaker Cody Byrns as he blends clean comedy, jaw-dropping magic, and world-class juggling with lively audience interaction. Drawing on his recovery from a life-changing accident, he weaves humor, resilience, and authenticity into a 75-minute show that entertains, uplifts, and connects. Suitable for ages 12 and up, this one-night engagement delivers laughter, wonder, and unexpected moments in Theatre Winter Haven’s Ghostlight Lounge. Seating is limited.