November 2025

 

Christmas Parade is back! 
Bigger and jollier than ever.


The 44th‑annual Lakeland Christmas Parade will light up downtown on Thursday, December 4 at 7 p.m., kicking off with fireworks over Lake Mirror. The parade starts at the RP Funding Center and winds through downtown, ending with Santa and Mrs. Claus.


This year’s theme is “Rocking Around Lakeland.” Participants will compete in eight fun categories, including Best Band and Judge’s Choice.


Parade Safety Reminder:

To keep sidewalks and crosswalks clear, do not place chairs, tape, or blankets along the parade route before Thursday, Dec. 4. Items placed early will be removed. Let’s keep it safe and accessible for everyone.

Dear Lakeland Residents,​


As we move into the holiday season and wrap up the fall calendar, I’m thrilled to share some exciting developments and community stories that reflect both our growth and the spirit of Lakeland. From improvements to roads and utilities, to honors for our city’s rich history, there’s a lot to celebrate and be aware of this month.


Warm regards,​

Shawn Sherrouse

City Manager​

Featured Stories

Improving Infrastructure

A new sewer line is underway. Work began Nov. 24 on the next phase of the Western Trunk Gravity Sewer Line upgrade. Installation of a modern 42‑inch trunk sewer line, a new pump station, and related improvements. During construction, a section of Highland Street will be closed for about three weeks with traffic detoured as posted. These upgrades are essential to safeguard wastewater capacity and resilience.

New Roundabout Opens at Waring & Drane Field

New traffic pattern alert: the roundabout at Waring Road and Drane Field Road opened November 24. Drivers should slow down and yield — and please pay close attention to signage. 

Residential Paving Projects Underway

The City’s residential paving program continues — beginning mid‑November, crews will mill and repave sections of Eden Parkway, S. Lincoln Ave, Ariana St., and nearby streets. Expect daytime work and occasional lane reductions; door‑hanger notices will be delivered 48 hours before work begins. 

Impact Fee Rate Changes Effective Jan. 1, 2026

The adopted fee schedule for non‑utility impact fees (transportation, fire, law enforcement, parks/recreation and cultural facilities) will change. Residents and developers should review the updated rates available on the City website or contact the Community & Economic Development Department. 

Community Spotlight

Remembering the Morehead Community
This month we honor the deep heritage of the historic Morehead Community, Lakeland’s first Black neighborhood, founded in the 1880s by railroad workers and their families. In November, the City opened the new Morehead Community Plaza, dedicated to acknowledging and preserving the community’s legacy. A ribbon‑cutting ceremony was held Nov. 20 to honor the people who helped build our city, ensuring that their stories remain part of Lakeland’s future.

More Flights for Lakeland!

Avelo Airlines is bringing back to nonstop flights to Atlanta and will introduce seasonal service to Detroit beginning spring 2026. Additionally, a second aircraft based at Lakeland Linder International Airport (LAL). This expansion reflects strong community support, and will make it easier for you to travel affordably from our area

A graphic banner showing a 747 airplane with the Avelo Airlines logo flying through a clear blue sky. Bold text reads, 'Where will you fly next?' The banner invites viewers to check out flights from Lakeland International Airport with Avelo Airlines.
 

Solid Waste Collection Schedule

The next holiday affecting collection will be Christmas Day on Thursday, December 25, 2025. Monday and Tuesday customers will have no change to their service. Thursday customers will be collected on Friday, December 26, and Friday customers will be collected on Saturday, December 27.

Project Updates

Events

🎭 Disney’s Dare to Dream Jr.

December 12–14 & 19–21, 2025

At Lakeland Community Theatre

  • This musical celebration brings together five inspiring heroines—Moana, Belle, Cinderella, Rapunzel, and Tiana—on a journey to dream big, believe in yourself, and discover the power within. Perfect for the whole family!


🖼 Andy Warhol Portfolios: A Life in Pop

Now through January 5, 2026

At Polk Museum of Art

  • Explore the iconic works of Andy Warhol in this major exhibition featuring his famous silkscreen prints, including portraits of Marilyn Monroe, Mick Jagger, and more. A vibrant look at one of pop art’s most influential figures.


🩰 Florida Dance Arts Presents The Nutcracker

Saturday, December 20 at 7 PM & Sunday, December 21 at 2 PM, 2025

At RP Funding Center

  • Join Clara on a magical journey to the Land of Sweets in this enchanting performance of The Nutcracker. A holiday tradition full of wonder, perfect for all ages.
Promotional graphic from the City of Lakeland’s Business Resource Office. The text reads: 'Starting a new business? We can help.' Below, it lists: 'City of Lakeland, Community & Economic Development, Business Resource Office.' The right side features a photo tinted in blue of a person working at a desk with business charts and papers. The City of Lakeland logo, featuring a stylized swan, appears at the bottom.

Meeting Minutes

Andrew Gash, with the Communications Department, breaks down the City Commission Meeting in our video series "Meeting Minutes."

Listen Lakeland

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