City editor Connor here. I know Lakeland loves its markets — and here's one you should mark on your calendar each month. The Lakeside Second Sunday Market at Lakeside Village brings together 80+ vendors in a serene setting every month. It's the perfect place to find a unique item you won't find anywhere else while supporting local small business owners.

I recently visited the market for myself — here's what I discovered:

Take a break from browsing to enjoy the soundtrack to the market. | Photo by LALtoday

What we tried

I started my shopping at one end of the market, working my way by each booth. The booths are spaced out so you have plenty of room to browse at your leisure. Each month, a different artist performs on the Lawn, giving the market an easygoing vibe.

Many vendors offer product samples, so I tried the blueberry iced tea by RoyalTea Shoppe — then I just had to order a full glass. It was the perfect way to cool off while I soaked up the sunshine, shopping under the palm trees.

Vendors are just steps away from your favorite Lakeside Village shops and restaurants. | Photo by LALtoday

What not to miss

I like to make a day of shopping, and Lakeside Village makes it convenient. After browsing the market, you're steps away from the shopping center's retailers + restaurants, so you can cross off everything on your shopping list or grab a bite. I refueled with lunch at Gaskins Barbecue BBQ & Lobster.

Stop into each booth to get to know the vendors — many are locals, so they could even be your neighbor. | Photo by LALtoday

What we’re still talking about

The vendors here are incredibly friendly. Each one welcomed me in, telling the story behind their products. This market caters to artisans, and I saw everything from painted pet portraits to homemade pumpkin butter crafted from a family recipe.

You'll run into all types of shoppers here — it's family and pet-friendly.

How you can experience this

The Lakeside Second Sunday Market happens on — you guessed it — the second Sunday of each month, September-May (no markets in summer).

Mark your calendar for the next one on March 10. It's completely free to enter, parking is easy to find, and you can spend as long as you want meandering through Lakeside Village.

Things to know if you go

Experience: Second Sunday Market at Lakeside Village
Price: Free to enter (plus price of purchases)
Website: shoplakesidevillage.com
Address: 1479 Town Center Dr., Lakeland
Hours: Second Sunday of each month, 12-5 p.m., September-May
Social: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram