PLANT CITY, Fla. (March 2, 2025) — The Florida Strawberry Festival, a beloved annual event, is underway in Plant City, drawing thousands of visitors from across the nation to celebrate the region’s rich agricultural heritage.

Running from Feb. 27 to March 9, 2025, the festival is marking its 90th year. Known for its festive atmosphere, live entertainment, and, of course, strawberries, the festival has become a must-visit event for families, music lovers and food enthusiasts.

Entertainment and Performances

The 2025 lineup boasts a wide range of musical performances, with acts such as Nelly, Sara Evans, Lynyrd Skynyrd and The Beach Boys headlining the festival’s concert series. Concerts are scheduled throughout the 11-day event, offering something for every musical taste.

For those who prefer a more hands-on experience, the festival also features a large midway with rides and games, providing fun for all ages.

Food and Culinary Delights

Strawberry-themed treats are a highlight of the festival, with vendors offering everything from strawberry shortcake to strawberry smoothies. Local favorites, including the ——-, are well-known for their delicious strawberry shortcake, a festival staple.

The festival also features a variety of food trucks and booths offering other specialty cuisine and classic fair food, including highly praised lemonade stands that have earned a reputation for their refreshing and tart flavor.

Pros and Cons

While the festival offers an abundance of entertainment, food and family-friendly activities, some customers have noted the crowded walkways, especially during peak hours, making it challenging to navigate the grounds. For families with small children or those looking for a quieter experience, this can detract from the enjoyment.

Another common complaint is the limited availability of strawberry-based dishes, as some vendors offer fewer strawberry-infused options than expected. Despite this, the event remains popular due to its vibrant atmosphere and variety of food options, especially the praised lemonade and other non-strawberry treats.

Festival History and Queens of the Festival

Since its inception in 1930, the Florida Strawberry Festival has grown into one of the largest and most anticipated agricultural events in the United States. Over the years, the festival has not only celebrated the region’s strawberry harvest but also honored its Queens, who serve as ambassadors of the festival. The tradition of crowning a Strawberry Queen began in 1930, and each year a new queen is selected to represent the festival, taking part in parades, appearances, and other community events.

The festival’s history is a testament to the importance of agriculture in Plant City and the surrounding areas. What started as a small community gathering has evolved into an event that attracts nearly half a million visitors annually, cementing its place as a significant cultural event in Florida.

Family Fun and Exhibits

In addition to music and food, the festival offers an array of family-friendly activities. Arts and crafts booths, agricultural exhibits and displays celebrating the area’s farming history are available for visitors to explore. The festival’s agricultural displays highlight the importance of strawberry farming to the region’s economy and community.

Tickets and Admission

Admission to the Florida Strawberry Festival is $15 for adults and $5 for children ages 6-12. Children under the age of 5 are admitted for free with a paid adult. Discounted tickets are available at select Publix stores in the area, offering a reduced price of $10 for adults and $4 for children.

Getting There and Parking

The festival is held at the Florida Strawberry Festival Grounds, located at 303 BerryFest Place in Plant City. Parking is available in nearby lots for a fee, with prices varying depending on location. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early during peak times to secure convenient parking.

Accessibility

The Florida Strawberry Festival is committed to providing accessibility for all guests. ADA seating and assistance are available. For more information on accommodations, visitors can contact the festival office at 813-752-9194.

A Tradition of Celebration

The Florida Strawberry Festival is one of the largest agricultural festivals in the U.S., attracting nearly half a million visitors each year. With its mix of music, food and family activities, the festival remains a celebration of the community’s agricultural roots and a highlight of the Florida event calendar.

For more information, including daily schedules and ticket details, visit the official Florida Strawberry Festival website at www.flstrawberryfestival.com.