If you’re planning a trip to Florida’s berry heartland, you probably want to know when is the strawberry festival in plant city. This major event is a highlight of the year for both locals and visitors. It celebrates the area’s rich agricultural history and, of course, its delicious strawberries. The festival is a long-standing tradition that fills the city with music, food, and family fun every spring.
Mark your calendars, because the Plant City Strawberry Festival typically runs for 11 days in late February and early March. The exact dates shift slightly each year to align with the peak of the harvest season. It’s always scheduled to include the first full week of March. For the most accurate planning, always check the official festival website as the new year approaches.
When Is The Strawberry Festival In Plant City
Getting the dates right is your first step to a great visit. The festival’s timing is no accident. It’s carefully chosen to coincide with the height of the winter strawberry harvest in the Tampa Bay region. This ensures the fruit is at its absolute best. The event transforms the Florida Strawberry Festival grounds into a hub of activity, with something new to see and taste each day.
Planning Your Visit to the Festival
A little planning makes your experience much smoother. The festival can get busy, especially on weekends. Here are some key tips for your trip:
- Buy Tickets Early: Purchase admission tickets online in advance. This often saves you money and always saves you time at the gate.
- Check the Schedule: Each day features different headline concerts, parades, and contests. Look at the daily schedule online to pick the day that has the events you most want to see.
- Consider the Weather: March in Florida is usually warm and sunny, but it can be unpredictable. Pack sunscreen, hats, and a light rain jacket just in case.
- Arrive Early: For the best parking and shortest lines at popular exhibits, aim to arrive when the gates open.
Must-See Attractions and Events
With so much to do, it’s helpful to have a game plan. The festival is famous for more than just strawberries, though they are the star. Here’s a breakdown of the top attractions you shouldn’t miss.
The Strawberry Displays and Agricultural Tents
Start your visit here to appreciate the festival’s roots. These exhibits showcase the farming process and the different strawberry varieties grown locally. You’ll see impressive fruit displays and learn about the industry that built Plant City. It’s a wonderful way to connect with the community’s heritage.
Live Entertainment and Concerts
The festival secures big-name musical acts across genres like country, pop, and classic rock. These concerts are included with your admission, but reserved seating usually requires a separate ticket. There are also free shows throughout the grounds all day, featuring local bands, dancers, and performers.
The Famous Strawberry Shortcake
Yes, you have to try it. The festival’s strawberry shortcake is legendary. Made with fresh, local berries, soft cake, and whipped cream, it’s the iconic treat of the event. You’ll find stands dedicated to it all over the grounds. Pro tip: get yours earlier in the day for the best berry selection.
Rides and Midway Games
A massive midway with thrilling rides and classic carnival games is a huge draw for families. There’s a seperate ticket or wristband system for rides, so budget accordingly. The lights and sounds add to the festive atmosphere as the sun goes down.
Growing Your Own Strawberries at Home
Inspired by the festival? You can grow strawberries in your own garden or containers. They are a rewarding fruit for gardeners of all levels. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to get you started.
- Choose the Right Variety: For Florida and similar climates, select “day-neutral” or “everbearing” types like ‘Seascape’ or ‘Albion’. They produce berries throughout the warm season.
- Plant at the Right Time: In Florida, the best time to plant is in October. This allows the plants to establish thier roots during the cooler months for a spring harvest.
- Provide Plenty of Sun: Strawberries need at least 6-8 hours of full, direct sunlight each day to produce sweet fruit.
- Use Well-Draining Soil: They hate wet feet. Plant in raised beds, mounds, or pots filled with a rich potting mix. Good drainage prevents root rot.
- Water Consistently: Keep the soil moist but not soggy. Water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the leaves, which can lead to disease.
- Fertilize Regularly: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer when planting and then a liquid fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season.
- Protect from Pests: Watch for snails, birds, and squirrels. Netting can be very effective at keeping birds away from your ripening berries.
Beyond the Festival: Plant City’s Berry Culture
The celebration may last 11 days, but Plant City’s strawberry culture is year-round. While the festival is the peak, you can support local farms through “U-Pick” operations during the season. Many local restaurants feature strawberry specialties on their menus in spring, from salads to drinks. The area’s commitment to agriculture is a core part of its identity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much does it cost to go to the Plant City Strawberry Festival?
Admission prices vary yearly but are typically very reasonable. Discounts are often available for advance online purchase, seniors, and children. Concert seating and ride wristbands are additional costs.
Where is the Florida Strawberry Festival located?
The festival grounds are at 2202 W. Reynolds Street in Plant City, Florida. It’s easily accessible from I-4, with clear signage directing traffic during the event.
What is there to do at the Strawberry Festival for free after you pay to get in?
Your admission includes access to all exhibits, agricultural shows, many entertainment stages, and the parade. You can also walk through the commercial vendors and see the strawberry displays without any extra charge.
Can I bring my own food and drinks into the festival?
Outside food and beverages are generally not permitted. There are many affordable food vendors inside offering everything from classic festival treats to full meals. Exceptions are usually made for infants and those with specific dietary needs.
What are the best strawberry varieties to grow in Florida?
As mentioned, everbearing or day-neutral varieties perform best in the Florida heat. ‘Florida Brilliance’ is a popular variety actually developed by the University of Florida for its disease resistance and sweet flavor. Your local nursery can recommend the best choice for your specific area.
Remember, the key to a perfect festival visit is checking the official website for the current year’s dates, concert lineup, and ticket information. Planning ahead ensures you get the full experience of this cherished Florida tradition. The community puts its heart into this event, and it shows in every detail, from the giant strawberry shortcakes to the proud displays by local growers. Its a truly special way to welcome spring.