We're tossing our caps for these college graduations around Lakeland

Photo by @ calgolden

Swan City’s about to get hotter by several degrees — college degrees, that is . As we get ready to celebrate grads from four of Lakeland’s colleges + welcome their loved ones to our city, we’ve rounded up the information you need to know so you can plan your weekends accordingly.

Graduation schedule

Photo courtesy of @ polk_state

All of the following commencements will be held at the RP Funding Center.

Southeastern University | Friday, April 26 | 6:30 p.m.
Polk State College | Thursday, May 2 | 10:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m.
Florida Southern College | Saturday, May 4 | 1:30 p.m.
Florida Polytechnic University | Sunday, May 5 | 2 p.m.

Things to know

Photo by @ photographyemmarenee

On the days of the graduations, make sure to plan for traffic delays and leave earlier than usual if you’re traveling near the RP Funding Center. Pro tip: We recommend avoiding West Lemon Street, Lime Street, and Sikes Boulevard if possible — instead, consider accessing downtown via South Florida Avenue or Bartow Road.

If eating out is in your weekend itinerary, be prepared for extended wait times — especially if you’re planning to dine at one of these go-to brunch spots . Consider checking out one of these hidden gems around Lakeland instead, or branch out and try these places less than 30 minutes away.

Are you a graduating college senior this year? Send us your Lakeland college graduation photos and we may highlight them on our socials.