Polk GOP and Polk County Republican clubs share a booth at Lakeland First Friday. Stop by downtown from 6–9 PM to meet local Republicans, learn about the clubs, and get involved. Free and family-friendly.
Polk GOP and Republican clubs from across Polk County come together for one shared booth at Lakeland First Friday. Stop by to meet local Republicans, learn about the clubs and the Republican Executive Committee, and find a place to volunteer. Look for the Polk GOP and Republican club signs; the booth's exact spot can change with the monthly event layout.
About First Friday
First Friday runs from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. in Downtown Lakeland. Kentucky Avenue becomes a five-block Makers Market and exhibitor showcase, with food, local crafts, giveaways, family activities, streets closed to traffic, and downtown shops and restaurants open late. The event is free and family-friendly.
- September 4, 2026 — Now Boarding, sponsored by Tampa International Airport
- October 2, 2026 — Cookie Carnival, sponsored by Bartow Ford
- November 6, 2026 — Goin' Country, sponsored by Bartow Ford
- December 4, 2026 — Holiday Spectacular
- January 1, 2027 — no First Friday; the official schedule resumes February 5
Parking
City-owned permit lots and garages are free after 5:00 p.m. Private lots marked with blue 717 Parking signs are not free. Free valet is offered at Lemon Street and Tennessee Avenue. Streets inside the event footprint are closed, so allow extra time and consider carpooling.
Official event information and monthly updates: downtownlkld.com/firstfriday. Official parking map: downtownlkld.com/first-friday-parking.