Florida Strawberry Festival Plant City – Family Guide

Published on 03/08/21: For those who follow our FB/IG stories on social media, you saw that we visited the Florida Strawberry Festival yesterday to preview it for you! Colt’s a busy kid, but he wanted to ensure you knew what you were getting into before making the drive. 😁

The annual Florida Strawberry Festival is 45-50 minutes from St Pete and runs through this coming Sunday! Picture the county fair you visited growing up. At the time of this writing, tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for kids ages 6+, and free for those in Colt’s age bracket. Our parking was an additional $10-$20.

Couple of ProTips to the Florida Strawberry Festival:

1. Pre-purchase your tickets online and print to avoid waiting in line.
2. Even though the parking spots further away are full, the ones right near the gate may be open! This was the case yesterday and the parking director told me it happens frequently. When people see a full lot further out, they assume the closer ones must be full too, so his lot ‘often’ has spots (30 steps from the entrance).
3. Most everything is outdoors, though be prepared for crowds, especially if you wait until the weekend. The festival operates at night too, so maybe try to go after work & school.
4. While the cost to enter is reasonable, keep in mind the rides require tickets ($) and the games require cash. It quickly adds up! Here’s the website to purchase entry passes: https://flstrawberryfestival.com

My Facebook and Instagram Stories on Social Media:

A side note on my Facebook and Instagram ‘stories’ on social media. Stories are posts that last only 24 hours. I typically post them on the fly in 30 seconds and they can’t be edited. The occasional grammatical or spelling typo drives me a bit crazy (even deleted a story yesterday after posting) however I’m going to just start going with it, as to preserve the moment. While my AP English teacher would certainly frown, I would argue his lessons didn’t include an energetic 5 year old wrapped around my shoulders while writing. 🤣 Same with these posts. They’re a bit raw as simply a busy Realtor/IT guy, husband, and dad. So…I’m trying to ‘let it go’ as my wife would say. No one has ever mentioned it (thank you), though it still bugs me.

Google Reviews: 406 with a 4.4/5 Average

Address: 2209 W Oak Avenue, Plant City

Phone: 813-752-9194

I’m a St Petersburg Realtor, with over 56K people following my LovingStPete Guide on social media! My past includes developing a vacation rental advertising business that I ran for more than a decade, then sold to HomeAway/VRBO. I’d love to help you buy or sell a property, so simply contact the locally trusted St Pete real estate agent team!

Discovering the Florida Strawberry Festival: A Sweet Celebration in Plant City

Nestled in the heart of Plant City, Florida, the Florida Strawberry Festival is a beloved annual event that celebrates the region’s rich agricultural heritage and the delicious strawberry harvest. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, family-friendly activities, and mouthwatering strawberry-themed treats, the festival draws visitors from all over to experience the best of Florida’s strawberry bounty. Here’s an in-depth look at what makes the Florida Strawberry Festival a must-visit event.

Event Overview – Strawberry Festival

• Location: The festival takes place at the Florida Strawberry Festival Grounds, located at 2209 W Oak Ave, Plant City
• Dates: The festival usually runs for 11 days in late February to early March. Exact dates can vary each year, so be sure to check the festival’s official website for the most current information.
• Admission: Ticket prices vary, with options for single-day tickets, multi-day passes, and special packages. Advance tickets are often available for purchase online, offering a convenient way to secure your spot.

Festival Highlights

1. Strawberry-Themed Delights

• Strawberry Treats: The festival is renowned for its array of strawberry-themed foods. From classic strawberry shortcakes and fresh strawberry pies to innovative strawberry ice cream and milkshakes, there’s a sweet treat for every palate.
• Local Vendors: Explore a diverse selection of food vendors offering both strawberry-centric dishes and other festival favorites, including savory snacks and fairground classics.

2. Entertainment and Activities

• Live Music and Performances: Enjoy a variety of live entertainment throughout the festival, featuring performances by popular musicians, bands, and local acts. The entertainment lineup often includes country, rock, and pop genres, catering to a wide range of musical tastes.
• Carnival Rides and Games: The festival grounds are home to a bustling carnival area with a range of rides and games for all ages. From thrilling rides to classic carnival games, there’s plenty of fun to be had by the whole family.

3. Agricultural and Educational Exhibits

• Strawberry Farming Exhibits: Learn about the region’s strawberry farming industry through educational exhibits and demonstrations. Discover the process of growing and harvesting strawberries and gain insights into the agricultural practices that contribute to the festival’s success.
• 4-H and FFA Shows: The festival showcases the achievements of local 4-H and Future Farmers of America (FFA) members, featuring livestock shows, agricultural exhibits, and educational displays.

4. Arts and Crafts

• Craft Vendors: Browse through a variety of arts and crafts booths showcasing handmade goods, artwork, and unique gifts. The craft area features items such as jewelry, home décor, and artwork, offering a great opportunity to find special souvenirs.
• Festival Merchandise: Pick up festival-themed merchandise, including t-shirts, hats, and other memorabilia to remember your visit.

Family-Friendly Fun

• Children’s Activities: The festival is designed to be a family-friendly event, with numerous activities and attractions for children. From face painting and crafts to interactive exhibits and kid-friendly rides, there’s plenty to keep younger visitors entertained.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The festival’s welcoming and inclusive atmosphere makes it an ideal destination for family outings, providing a fun and safe environment for all ages.

Community and Cultural Impact

• Local Impact: The Florida Strawberry Festival plays a significant role in the Plant City community, bringing together residents and visitors to celebrate local traditions and support local businesses. The festival’s success helps promote tourism and supports the regional economy.
• Cultural Heritage: The festival honors the rich agricultural history of Plant City, highlighting the importance of strawberry farming in the area and preserving local traditions.

Practical Tips for Visiting

• Parking and Transportation: The festival provides ample parking, but it can get busy, especially on weekends. Consider arriving early or using alternative transportation options such as ridesharing services.
• Weather Considerations: The festival typically takes place in late winter or early spring, with mild temperatures. However, it’s a good idea to check the weather forecast and dress accordingly, including comfortable footwear for walking.
• Planning Your Visit: Review the festival schedule in advance to plan your visit around specific events or performances you’d like to attend. Also, consider purchasing tickets in advance to avoid long lines at the gate.

Final Thoughts

The Florida Strawberry Festival in Plant City is a vibrant and cherished event that celebrates the region’s strawberry harvest with an array of delicious treats, lively entertainment, and engaging activities. Whether you’re a fan of fresh strawberries, enjoy carnival rides, or simply want to experience the local culture, the festival offers something for everyone. So mark your calendar, bring your appetite, and get ready to indulge in a sweet celebration of Florida’s strawberry season at this delightful annual event.