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First Friday – General Information

Every Month, 6 – 9pm :: Family Friendly :: FREE

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First Friday is one of the most popular recurring events in Lakeland. Every month, on the first Friday of the month (hence the name), people from all over the community converge in Downtown Lakeland for an evening of FREE family friendly entertainment, activities, live music, art receptions, a car show, and, of course, the chance to check out a great, locally-owned restaurant or retail establishment. Each month, First Friday has a different theme, and special activities are provided to complement the theme.

Upcoming themes:  (Subject to change)

May 4, 2012 – “Public Works Night” - Presented with the City of Lakeland’s Public Works Department, this is always a family favorite.  Who can resist gawking at heavy equipment and machinery and finding out “how they do those things they do.”  There will be lots of displays, demonstrations, giveaways, entertainment and music throughout Downtown.

June 1, 2012 – “Taking it to the Streets” – We’re partnering with the Florida Department of Transportation and the City of Lakeland to kick-off a month of activities focused on alternative forms of transportation. As we all know, gas prices are going up and our streets are getting more and more crowded. So what can you do about it? Come to this First Friday to find out!

July 6, 2012 – “Hats!” - You can leave your hat on for this First Friday. Wear your most creative, festive, or comfortable hat and be a part of the festivities.

Businesses and non-profit organizations participating in First Friday are members of the Downtown Lakeland Partnership, Inc. or approved exhibitors. First Friday does not hire food vendors or allow unapproved businesses to set up during the event. Events are paid for by dues collected from DLP members. For membership information, please see the “Basics” tab under the “Who Makes This Happen” section on this website.

Funding for First Friday comes from DLP fundraising activities, sponsorships and support from the City of Lakeland.

FAQ’s

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  • Jean Ahearn

    I was disapointed that there were no pictures of the downtown car show on the first friday event. We are mostly a group of seniors that faithfully bring our cars downtown to show and be with other friends to enjoy the evening. We eat & shop downtown at the shops that are open and I think a little recognition should be shown to us just as well as the other things going on around the area on First Friday.

    Thank you for your time.

  • Julie Townsend

    Jean,
    Thanks for your comments. There is one photo of the car show in this set, but there should be more. I will be sure to get photos at the next First Friday event and add them to the rotation.

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  • Jesse McCauley

    i am an “amateur” musician, and would love to know about how i could be able to perform during a first Friday. I write my own music, and i also used to lead worship, and i love to play and perform and I’m very interested in getting involved if at all possible.

  • Ldavis

    Will there be any Halloween events in Lakeland this year?

  • Ldavis

    Will there be any events for Halloween this year in Lakeland (2010)

  • erick

    Lakeland needs another bike night. That one time outdid Plant city and Winter haven

  • Jake

    yo is lakeland cancled 2nite