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Lakeland’s Arts and Health Week returns for year three in 2026, with opportunities to connect, create, and celebrate the power of the arts to improve lives.

Organizations from across Lakeland have joined the initiative, led by the Watson Clinic Foundation’s Arts in Medicine program.

Here are some of the upcoming highlights. A full schedule can be found on the event website.

Saturday, Nov. 7

Color Wave Walls Community Mural
Where: Downtown Lakeland 

Make your mark on downtown Lakeland during the Farmers Curb Market by joining in Color Wave’s community mural.

Sunday, Nov. 8

13th Annual Art Crawl
What: A free family and pet friendly outdoor festival celebrating the arts 
When: Sunday, Nov. 8, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Swan Brewing, 115 W Pine St.

What to expect:

  • Over 70 local artists selling artwork and competing for prizes
  • Skateboard Deck Design competition hosted by Grade 8 Skateboards
  • Art demonstrations and live performances
  • Food trucks and holiday shopping
An artist shares his work at Art Crawl 2025. | Courtesy ArtCrawl

New this year:

  • “Street Stories” – a mural experience featuring six artists exhibiting their portable murals
  • Notta Gallery‘s “Notta Swan” Art Battle with 10 artists competing live to win prizes
  • Bartow’s own A Heart for H.E.R.O’s painting ponies, Jimbo and Knight

More information can be found on the Art Crawl website.

Monday, Nov. 9

State of the Arts: Conversation to Experience
When: Monday, Nov. 9, 6 to 7:30 p.m., doors open at 5:30pm
Where: Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art, 800 E. Palmetto St.

What’s next for Lakeland’s creative community? Join LkldNow, Lakeland Vision, Color Wave Walls, and the Watson Clinic Foundation for local perspectives on progress, opportunities, and challenges, and explore how arts and culture help our community thrive.

Tuesday, Nov. 10

Breast Cancer Survivorship Workshop
When: Tuesday, Nov. 10, 6 p.m.
Where: Home Instead, 810 E. Main St.

All cancer survivors are invited to a hands-on workshop exploring the healing power of nature. Join the Breast Cancer Foundation of Central Florida, the Garden Club of Lakeland, and Watson Clinic Foundation to create a miniature succulent garden while learning how connecting with nature can support emotional well-being, reduce stress, and foster resilience.

Wednesday, Nov. 11

Taking Care Documentary Screening and Panel
When: Wednesday, Nov. 11, 6 to 8 p.m.
Where: Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art, 800 E. Palmetto St.

The AGB is hosting a Taking Care, an intimate documentary capturing Seth and Lauren Rogen’s journey as they care for Lauren’s mom, Adele, through early-onset Alzheimer’s. This powerful film gives an inside look at the love, resilience, and support they shared.

Thursday, Nov. 12

Lakeland Seniors Dance & Social Club
When: Thursday, Nov. 12, 10 a.m. to Noon
Where: Magnolia Building on Lake Mirror, 702 E. Orange St.
Tickets: $5 at the door

If you’re a senior, dance can be an incredible way to stay healthy! Join the Lakeland Senior Dance & Social Club for music, movement, and friendly conversation.

Friday, Nov. 13

Little Beats, Big Benefits
When: Friday, Nov. 13, 9:15 to 10 a.m.
Where: Bonnet Springs Park, Carol Jenkins Barnett United Way Children’s Resource Center inside the Florida Children’s Museum, 600 Bonnet Springs Blvd.
RSVP

Little ones learn through rhythm, play, and connection! Designed for children under six and their caregivers, Little Beats, Big Benefits explores how music and movement can support early development.

Saturday, Nov. 14

The Big Sing
When: November 14, 2 to 4 p.m.
Where: Branscomb Auditorium at Florida Southern College, 1100 Johnson Ave.

This event promises a community sing-along with a live chamber orchestra. No auditions. No experience. No pressure.

SEND CORRECTIONS, questions, feedback or news tips: newstips@lkldnow.com

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