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With cooler temperatures in the forecast and four major events scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 17, downtown and central Lakeland could be busier than usual.

The Downtown Farmers Curb Market, Lake Mirror Classic car show, No Kings rally, and Orange Cup Regatta are all expected to draw crowds, potentially creating heavier than usual traffic and parking challenges in and around downtown on Saturday.

“Thankfully, we live in a city where having several events taking place on the same weekend is a common occurrence,” said a spokesperson for the City of Lakeland. 

“All permitted special events undergo a review by the City’s Special Events Team, which includes representatives from various City departments, including public safety, parking and traffic, and parks and recreation.”

How big could downtown crowds be?

The Downtown Farmers Curb Market, which runs every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. from Sept. to July, brings an estimated 3,500 to 5,500 people into the heart of Lakeland each week. 

The Lake Mirror Classic, which features over 500 classic cars, draws an estimated 35,000 spectators over the 3 day event according to Visit Central Florida. 

The previous No Kings rally held on March 28 of this year drew an estimated crowd of over 4,000 people. 

Find more details on the car show and boat races

Lake Mirror Classic Event Map
Event Map for the Lake Mirror Classic car show

What You Should Know

With increased pedestrian activity expected, The City of Lakeland is reminding residents to anticipate road closures throughout the weekend. 

“The Lakeland Police Department has met with event organizers to coordinate plans and will have additional officers in the area to address any needs that may arise,” said a spokesperson for the City of Lakeland.

Drivers traveling in or around the downtown area are encouraged to allow for extra time and consider alternative routes to avoid delays.

The Iowa Ave. Garage at 501 E Lemon St. will be open this weekend for public parking, with accessible parking available next to Hollis Garden.

Event maps and parking information for the Lake Mirror Classic car show are available on their website, which includes details to help visitors plan ahead. 

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

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After completing her studies at New York University with a degree in Broadcast Journalism and Social and Cultural Analysis, Fionna returned to Lakeland to pursue her passion for human-interest stories. Originally from Atlanta, she’s excited to learn more about the Lakeland community and get to know the people who call it home.

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