Summer's here and LAL is so ready. From live music and Independence Day celebrations to family fun and festivals, summer is where Swan City thrives.

Get ready to get outside with this guide featuring 25+ summer events happening between May and August.

Meet community organizations and join free activities at every First Friday event. | Photo by LALtoday

Festivals and markets

First Friday, Downtown Lakeland
Vendors and community members come together on the first Friday of each month, 6-9 p.m. This summer's themes are Tres de Mayo, Family Fun Night, Stay Cool, and Back to School.

The Aquarian Market, The Yard on Mass
Say farewell to this pet and family-friendly night market for vegan food and drinks at its final event on Thursday, May 16, 6-10 p.m.

Polynesian Celebration, Bonnet Springs Park
In honor of Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month, party at the park on Friday, May 17, 6-9 p.m. This free event will include live performances, lawn games, and food by local vendors.

Pride in the Park, Munn Park
Polk Pride will cap off a week of celebrations with a family friendly event featuring local vendors + entertainment on Saturday, June 15, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Watermelon Weekend, Keel Farms
Celebrate the watermelon harvest with family friendly fun and summery drinks from the winery on Saturday, June 22 + Sunday, June 23.

Fine art by Lake Morton — what more could you ask for? | Photo by Gregory Mills

Concerts, live music, and art

Mayfaire by-the-Lake, Lake Morton
This annual outdoor art festival takes place Saturday, May 11-Sunday, May 12, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. on the shores of Lake Morton. It's free to browse the works of 150+ fine artists.

"Radium Girls," Lakeland Community Theatre
Actors from around Lakeland will perform this fast-paced play about workers at the US Radium Corporation. See it onstage Wednesday, May 15 and Thursday, May 16 at 7:30 p.m.

Completely Unchained, Union Hall
"Jump" to this Van Halen tribute performance on Friday, May 24 at 7 p.m. VIP and general admission tickets are available.

Classic Albums Live, RP Funding Center
Hear hits from your favorite albums performed live in concert each month. (Think: Prince's "Purple Rain," Pink Floyd's "Wish You Were Here," and AC/DC's "Highway to Hell".)

"School of Rock," Lakeland Community Theatre
Rock out with this comedic musical based on Jack Black's hit movie. It runs three weekends from Friday, July 12 to Sunday, July 28.

Fine Art at the Magnolia, Magnolia Building
Attend this indoor art show to see works by 19 artists, including paintings, sculptures, fiber art, and more. It's free to attend Saturday, Aug. 17 and Sunday, Aug. 18.

Holidays

Cinco de Mayo, Swan Brewing
Spanish guitarist Samuel Ortiz and Tito's Latin Cuisine food truck will be on hand for this celebration happening Sunday, May 5, 12-7 p.m.

Mother's Day Brunch, The Terrace Grille
Treat mom to a high tea in the Lake Mirror Room or an exclusive brunch on Sunday, May 12 — reservations are required.

Juneteenth Celebration, Jackson Park
The whole family can celebrate with live music, community dance showcases, and arts + culture exhibitions on Saturday, June 15 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Red, White & Kaboom, Frances Langford Promenade
This annual Independence Day event is set for Wednesday, July 3, starting at 6 p.m. Come out for food trucks, live music, and an unforgettable fireworks show over Lake Mirror starting at 9 p.m.

Lakeland Flying Tigers Fourth of July Fireworks, Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium
Cheer on the Flying Tigers as they face the Tampa Tarpons on Thursday, July 4, then stick around for a post-game fireworks show.

Christmas in July, Keel Farms
Get into the Christmas spirit with unique vendors, food and drink specials, farm animals, and family fun on Saturday, July 20.

Find this 100-ft Blinky playground at Florida Children's Museum. | Photo by @lkldlense

For the family

Watermelon Festival, Florida Children's Museum
Enjoy watermelon and hands-on activities for kids on Saturday, May 4 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. — museum admission is free during the event.

"Star Wars" Party, Larry R. Jackson Branch Library
Padawans, Jedi masters, and Sith lords of all ages can enjoy themed activities on Saturday, May 4, 2-4 p.m.

Wawa Summer Fun Days, Bok Tower Gardens
Visit the gardens with complimentary admission from Wawa on the final Thursday and Friday of each month from May to August — online registration is required.

Summer Film Fest, CMX Lakeside Village 18 & IMAX
Head to the box office each Tuesday-Thursday from June 18 to Aug. 8 for $1.99 tickets to family movies. This year's lineup includes "Shrek," "Minions," and more favorite films.

"Mean Girls Jr.," Lakeland Community Theatre
Sing along with young actors as they perform the story of Cady and the Plastics from Friday, June 14 to Sunday, June 23.

There's a place to run all around Lakeland this season. | Photo by Lakeland Police Foundation

Active

45th Mayfaire 5K Road Race & Walk, Lake Morton
Take an evening run through the downtown and Lake Morton districts during the annual art festival. The race starts at 7 p.m. on Saturday, May 11.

Fallen Heroes Memorial 5K, Lakeland Family YMCA
This race on Saturday, May 18 at 7 a.m. aims to raise funds for the Lakeland Police Foundation's local programs.

Run for Their Lives 5K, Peterson Park
Take off on Three Parks Trail on Saturday, May 25 at 7:30 a.m. to raise money for SPCA Florida's animals in need.

29th Summer Sunrise Watermelon 5K Races, Lake Hollingsworth Park
Join this 5K series that benefits scholarships for local students. Races are set for June 8, July 13, and Aug. 10 at 7 a.m.

Seasonal essentials

Tired of losing your sunglasses in the water? These floating sunglasses provide optimal clarity and comfort for all your summer adventures.
Shield yourself from the sun while adding a touch of flair to your outfit with one of our hats.
This iceless cooler keeps your drinks cold for 7 hours.