Arts & Fun - Best Of LKLD 2025
- Haven Magazine
- Sep 1
- 6 min read
Best Date Night
THE TERRACE HOTEL & GRILLE
329 E Main St, Lakeland
The Terrace Hotel & Grille is winning hearts in Lakeland! They offer an unforgettable evening or weekend for couples seeking romance and refined dining. The historic Terrace Hotel has an upscale restaurant with New American cuisine and locally sourced ingredients. The elegant ambiance features high ceilings, arched windows, and black-and-white patterned floors, creating a sophisticated setting for intimate dinners.
2nd: The Pink Piano
3rd: The Joinery
Best Staycation
THE TERRACE HOTEL
329 E Main St, Lakeland
The Terrace Hotel Lakeland, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, is Lakeland’s top staycation spot! Housed in a beautifully restored 1924 building, the hotel offers rooms and suites with stunning views of Lake Mirror and the promenade. With its prime downtown location, historic charm, and welcoming atmosphere, The Terrace Hotel provides a picture-perfect getaway, making every staycation feel like a mini-vacation right in your own city.
2nd: Camp Margaritaville Auburndale
3rd: LEGOLAND Florida Resort
Best Museum
THE ASHLEY GIBSON BARNETT MUSEUM OF ART
800 E Palmetto St, Lakeland
The AGB at Florida Southern College wins year after year and for very good reason. They are truly a master in Polk County’s cultural scene! With seven galleries and an impressive new wing, they are inspiring local creatives daily. With exhibitions changing seasonally, there is always something new to see. Every visit is a brush with greatness, and the best part? Admission is always free.
2nd: Florida Children’s Museum
3rd: Mulberry Phosphate Museum
Best Live Music Venue
SWAN BREWING
115 W Pine St, Lakeland
Known for hosting a variety of live performances, from rock and jazz to blues, every band brings energy and talent. Guests can enjoy award-winning craft beers while listening to musicians bring the house to life. The intimate atmosphere makes every performance memorable, and the friendly bartenders make sure everyone has a fantastic experience. With a stage that showcases both local and touring talent, Swan Brewing has become the go-to spot for live music.
2nd: The Pink Piano
3rd: Union Hall
Best Band/Musician
DANIEL PEPIN
When it comes to strumming his way into your heart, Daniel Pepin absolutely shreds the competition. He likes to say, “You’re getting a Canadian playing Spanish guitar.” From chill inducing riffs to literal pick-on-fire solos, this unicorn haired guitarist truly strikes the right chord. Find him playing all over Polk County from bars to farmers markets to breweries. Definitely do not miss this guy.
2nd: These Times
3rd: The Kutoffs
Best Dance Studio
ULTIMATE DANCE CENTER
2980 Lakeland Highlands Rd, Lakeland
Inspired by the vibrant studios of NYC and LA, UDC crafted a state-of-the-art studio that gives dancers top instruction. With extensive class offerings, they dance past competitors by welcoming dancers from toddlers to adults, including specialty classes for boys, adult dancers, and those with developmental needs. Led by Artistic Director Ferdinand “Freddie” DeJesus, whose training includes Alvin Ailey and Dance Theatre of Harlem, UDC is where the whole community gets in step.
2nd: LKLD Lindy Hop
3rd: Crystal’s World of Dance
Best Event Entertainmant
DREAMS COME TRUE ENTERTAINMENT
Dreams Come True Entertainment has truly charmed its way to the crown! Since 2012, their award-winning, custom-made costumes and theater-trained performers have been bringing fairy-tale fun to life across Central Florida. From princess parties, in-person appearances, and virtual visits, they cast a spell over guests of all ages. Their goal is to make each celebration special and unforgettable. Congratulations on your win again!
2nd: SLS Entertainment
3rd: Triviosity Live
Best Event Venue
THE TERRACE HOTEL
329 E Main St, Lakeland
The elegant Cypress Ballroom has historic charm and room for large celebrations. The Lake Mirror Room provides an intimate setting with stunning views. Guests love the versatile Mezzanine for cocktail hours and picture-perfect moments. With modern amenities and a dedicated team, The Terrace Hotel is more than a venue, it’s the stage where memories are made.
2nd: Union Hall
3rd: Camp Margaritaville Auburndale
Best Party Rentals
RVGAMERZFL
RVGamerZFL has officially leveled up the party scene in Polk County! Their mobile gaming theater is a total power-up, rolling in with PS5s, Xbox Series X, Nintendo Switches, and six massive 4K screens for nonstop action. With a friendly Game Coach guiding the fun, every celebration feels like a high score. Add-ons like Giant Jenga, Connect 4, and Cornhole make the fun go into multiplayer mode.
2nd: Clover Events
3rd: Premier Parties
Best Pro Photographer
SHAI LYNN SMITH
IG @shailynnsmith_
Shai Lynn Smith has snapped her way to the top, winning Best Photographer! Her lens catches the moments others miss, turning fleeting glances and raw emotion into art. Every frame is perfectly exposed, every detail crisp, and every shot full of life. With a vision that cuts through the ordinary, she’s developed a style that’s sharp, daring, and unapologetically unforgettable.
2nd: Echoes of Motion
3rd: Jonacia Rodrigues Photography
Best Public Art
“BLOOM” BY GILLIAN FAZIO
Lakeside Village
Every brushstroke bursts into life, transforming the space into a beautiful garden of colors. Visitors can’t help but stop and admire as they pass by. Gillian’s artistry roots beauty in every detail, making this mural the crown jewel of Lakeside Village. With creativity that continues to flourish, she proves she’s at the top of her craft again this year. There is no stopping her!
2nd: Rec Room exterior wall by Arielle “AKAT” Katarina
3rd: LoveBird Almost Famous Chicken mural by By Aaron Conley + Gaby’s Art Gallery
Best Visual Artist
SARA SAVANNAH JONES
IG @sara.savannah.jones
Each of Sara’s detailed paintings tells a story. From thought-provoking exhibits like “BREAKING IN!” and most recently as the founder & director of the new SPACE Art Collective, Sara’s creativity leaves a lasting mark on the community. With a vision that’s both daring and deliberate, she solidifies her place as a standout visual artist. Learn more about SPACE on IG @space.artcollective.
2nd: Chris Roll
3rd: Josh “Bump” Galletta
Best Local Maker
JAIME JAY HANDMADE
IG @jaimejay863
Jaime Jackson of Jaime Jay Handmade creates crochet pieces that are both bold and meticulously crafted. Her designs, ranging from accessories to home décor, push the boundaries of traditional crochet, turning simple yarn into art. Each piece carries thought and personality, reflecting Jaime’s vision. Every creation is carefully constructed, edgy, and so, so beautiful.
2nd: Swan City Ceramics
3rd: Robert Berganza Furniture
Best DIY Workshop/Studio
THE ASHLEY GIBSON BARNETT MUSEUM OF ART
800 E Palmetto St, Lakeland
Looking to brush up on your creativity? The Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art (AGB) offers adult and teen classes that bring your ideas to life. From painting and ceramics to photography and mixed media, each workshop gives you the chance to explore your artistic side in a supportive, hands-on environment. Guided by talented instructors, participants can sketch, sculpt, and create while learning new techniques.
2nd: PicassoZ Art Cafe
3rd: SPACE Art Collective
Best Annual Event
ARTCRAWL
This event brings together local artists, galleries, and the community, offering a chance to experience creativity up close. Visitors can explore unique exhibits, watch live demonstrations, and discover new talent across the city. ArtCrawl not only showcases art but also fosters connections between artists and the community, making it a highlight of Lakeland’s cultural calendar. This year, it’s November 9, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. at Swan Brewing.
2nd: Lakeland Punk Rock Flea Market
3rd: Mulberry Chili Cook-Off
Best Drag Queen/King
TRISHELLE MICHAELS
Trishelle Michaels didn’t just sashay to the crown, she slayed the competition! With killer lip-syncs, costume fierceness, and comedic timing sharper than her heels, this queen stole the show. Every performance is packed with sass, class, and a whole lot of serving. She glams up venues across Polk County and leaves audiences star struck. When Trishelle hits the mic, she doesn’t just entertain, she reigns supreme.
2nd: Momma Ashley Rose
3rd: Japonika Work
Best Hidden Gem
SILVER MOON DRIVE-IN THEATRE
4100 New Tampa Hwy, Lakeland
This classic drive-in lets guests enjoy films under the stars from the comfort of their cars. From timeless classics to new releases, Silver Moon provides entertainment for all ages, complete with concessions and a retro atmosphere. Its charm makes it a standout destination. For anyone looking for a memorable night out that’s off the beaten path, Silver Moon Drive-In is a true treasure in Lakeland.
2nd: Lakeland Film Lab
3rd: Mulberry Cultural Center
