The "where my lore began" trend is taking over social media, with thousands sharing where they feel like life truly began for them. We put a local spin on it, and the results might have you taking a walk down memory lane to those pivotal moments + places that had you feeling like a real Lakelander.

For many, childhood memories weren't complete without trips to Explorations V Children's Museum or Family Fun Center. When it came to entertainment, readers reminisced on the AMC Theatre at Merchant's Walk, the bandshell at Florida Southern College, and the Cobb Theatre at Lakeside Village.

Do you remember Food World, Publix's discount store at Lake Miriam Square? | Photo via Lakeland Public Library

Lakeland's food + drink scene is unmatched, and many said their lore began at a local eatery, grocery store, or coffee shop. Among those mentioned were Mister Fish, Gelati Joe's, Food World, the former Starbucks on Beacon Street that's now home to LoveBird, and the Poor Porker. We'll never forget those lakeside beignets, either.

Reader Beth B. remembers Searstown as "a very active place," calling out the S&H Green Stamps store, Eckerd Pharmacy, and restaurants like Morrison's Cafeteria, Kissin' Cuzzins, Benny’s Oyster Bar, and Jimbo's BBQ. "Much has changed but Lakeland is a great place to live," Beth said.

The iconic Southgate Shopping Center opened in 1957. | Photo by Joe Castagno

Finally, we loved this story from @hadleystrainge: "My lore began before I even knew Lakeland existed. Saw the Southgate Plaza in 'Edward Scissorhands' when I was 12 and told myself I would see all the places in the movie as an adult. By pure coincidence I work in that plaza now."

Do you have some local lore of your own? Drop it in the comments over on Instagram and see if any other Lakelanders can relate.