Birthday cakes are in order for two of the biggest players in the Lakeland arts scene — 2025 marks 40 seasons for Lakeland Community Theatre (LCT) and 60 years for the Lakeland Symphony Orchestra (LSO).

What started with 30 local musicians in 1965 has grown into one of Lakeland's premier musical arts organizations: LSO. It's known for exciting performances, both grand and intimate, at the AGB Museum of Art and Florida Southern College.

Celebrate:

"Toast to the Holidays" | Saturday, Dec. 20 + Sunday, Dec. 21
"Symphony in Sneakers" anniversary celebration | Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026
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See who's taking the stage this season. | Photo by LALtoday

Nearby, you'll find Lakeland Community Theatre, where local actors are putting on professional-level performances. LCT's first season in 1986 staged just two shows — now, its showstopping seasons include Main Stage musicals, The Edge stage reads, and Theatre for Youth productions.

Celebrate:

Disney’s "Dare to Dream Jr." | Friday, Dec. 12-Sunday, Dec. 14
"Puffs" | Friday, Jan. 16-Sunday, Jan. 25, 2026
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