Whether you’re a tried-and-true Swan City citizen, a long-time snowbird, or new to the flock, here are some unofficial rules of engagementthat every Lakelander needs to know.

We asked our readers + followers to share Lakeland's unwritten rules, from common city knowledge to relatable trends and local lingo. You won't find these rules in a handbook, but they are undoubtedly absorbed by the community — and if you’re not in the 863, these might be a little difficult to explain.

Shop local

“Weekly if not monthly trips to Lakeland curb market are a must!” — @scoutandtag
“Always shop small when able, especially when it comes to eating local.” — Reader Carole C.
“You must shop local! Coffee shops, the Saturday Market, etc!” — Lakeland South Rotary
"Saturdays are for the Downtown Lakeland Farmers Market" — @terrkreamer

Putting the lakes in Lakeland

“Don’t feed the swans or other birds any bread! It’s not good for them!” — @Tonyafayesanchez
“You will find Lakeland Rocks. You will hide Lakeland Rocks.” — @orangeblossompoems
"When we say “I’m going to walk the lake” 99.9% of the time it is Lake Hollingsworth." — @sharronk1020

Roads, roads, roads

“Avoid 98 at 👏 all 👏 cost 👏” — @notheories
"Avoid South Florida Avenue if you can between 4-5:30pm" — Reader Peyton B.
"Get to the top of the parking garage (lake mirror) before the gate closes at 8." — @vashtiajay
"Drive slow around lake Morton" — @jjflrealtor
"Always be cautious as really any body of water can and probably does have a gator 🐊 in it." — @joshbell100
"Do not let the art distract you while driving downtown — some lights are stop signs." — Lakeland Parks, Recreation & Cultural Arts Department

Just Lakeland things

“You and your friends as teens call Lakeland a black hole and then you go off for a few years after you graduate and you come back only to realize it’s literally one of your favorite places on earth. We also all brought back ideas for businesses, restaurants and more to make Lakeland as amazing as it has become!” — @rituals_by_chelsea
“You are either team northside or southside and both think the other doesn't have everything their side has.” — @theactingmom
“You must, and I mean you must, go to @bornandbreadfl.” — @stilleaglesfan
"Go see @moxielefemme, snack at @sabrinasdelicacies, Saturday mornings are for @lkldcurbmarket, @publix subs, slow down for ducks/swans at Lake Morton, read a book at @lakelandpubliclibrary" — @achils327
"Confirm or dispel any Lakeland legends with help from the team at the Lakeland History Culture Center in Lakeland Public Library on Lake Morton. Bonus tip, [there is] no cost to visit." — Lakeland Parks, Recreation & Cultural Arts Department

Holiday hacks

“Get your chairs set up early for the Xmas parade.” — @ryler75
“Park a ways away from downtown and walk to the parade if you want to get out in a reasonable hour.” — @curlsandcrinolines

What did we miss? If you know an unofficial rule that’s not on the list, let us know.