Marking its 90th anniversary, this beloved event ranks among North America’s Top 40 Fairs¹. Set in Plant City, known as the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World, it draws crowds with sweet treats and vibrant traditions¹.

Over 500,000 visitors flock here yearly for unforgettable experiences¹. From star-studded concerts to carnival thrills, there’s something for everyone. Agricultural exhibits showcase local pride, while crafts and livestock displays highlight regional talent.

The festival beautifully blends American culture with agricultural heritage². Community spirit shines through social events and friendly contests, creating lasting memories. Don’t miss Booth 25 in the Parke Building for special surprises!

• 90th anniversary of a Top 40 North American fair
• Hosted in Plant City, the Winter Strawberry Capital
• 500,000+ annual attendees enjoy diverse attractions
• Features concerts, agriculture exhibits, and carnival fun
• Celebrates American agricultural traditions

For nearly a century, Plant City has hosted an iconic gathering that honors agriculture and entertainment³. Since 1930, this lively event has blended farm-fresh fun with thrilling attractions, drawing crowds eager for a taste of local culture¹.

Over 11 action-packed days, visitors enjoy 100+ activities. From 20+ free stage performances to 85 carnival rides, there’s no shortage of excitement³. Food lovers relish offerings from 150 vendors, while agricultural exhibits spotlight the region’s farming pride.

The 2025 celebration marks a milestone—the 90th anniversary. A new soundstage will debut, enhancing the experience for concertgoers³. Special contests and exhibits will honor decades of tradition.

Local farmers thrive thanks to the festival’s support. With 10,000+ acres of strawberries planted yearly, the event boosts crop values exceeding $360 million¹. It’s a win for both visitors and growers.

Whether you crave sweet treats or live music, this Plant City tradition delivers. Plan your trip to savor the best of Florida’s agricultural heritage.

What started as a small-town gathering in 1930 has blossomed into a nationally recognized event. Founded by the Plant City Lions Club, the festival aimed to showcase the region’s thriving strawberry industry⁴. Back then, few could predict its rise to becoming one of North America’s Top 40 Fairs⁵.

The early years were modest, with locals celebrating harvests and farm life. World War II paused the festivities, but the City Lions Club and American Legion Post #26 reignited the tradition in 1948⁵. That year, 15,000 visitors returned—a sign of its enduring appeal.

“The revival wasn’t just about strawberries; it was about rebuilding community pride after the war.”

By the 1950s, attendance soared, thanks to added attractions like carnival rides and live music. Today, over 500,000 visitors flock annually⁴. The 2025 edition will honor this journey with special historical displays, including vintage photos and farm equipment⁵.

From a single-day harvest party to an 11-day extravaganza, the festival’s history reflects Florida’s agricultural heart. Don’t miss the 2025 exhibits—they’re a tribute to nine decades of sweet success.

Get ready for 11 days of berry-filled excitement in 2025. The milestone 90th edition runs from February 27 to March 9, offering nonstop fun at 303 BerryFest Place in Plant City⁶. Gates swing open daily at 10 AM, with festivities lasting until 10 PM⁷.

For shorter lines and cooler temps, arrive between 10 AM and 3 PM. Weekends see earlier midway openings at 10 AM, while weekdays start at noon⁶. Don’t miss the 90th-anniversary kickoff on February 27—a special ceremony kicks things off!

Located just 25 miles east of Tampa, the grounds are a breeze to reach⁷. Tampa International Airport is the closest hub, with Orlando International under 90 minutes away.

Plug these GPS coordinates into your navigation: 27.9806° N, 82.1267° W. Early birds snag the best spots—arrive before noon on weekends!

Smart visitors know advance tickets mean more savings and shorter lines. The 2025 event offers several options to fit every budget, from gate purchases to discounted passes at local retailers⁸. Children under 5 always enter free, making it ideal for young families.

Walk-up rates are $15 for adults and $5 for kids aged 6-12⁸. Seniors 55+ save $5 on gate admission, paying just $10 with valid ID⁹. Military personnel and first responders get free entry on American Heroes Day—don’t forget your credentials!

Over 250 Publix locations sell passes at reduced rates: $10 for adults and $4 for children⁸. Amscot Financial also offers deals at their main ticket gate—just present your voucher at the booth.

Pro tip: Ride wristbands cost $20 with O’Reilly Auto Parts vouchers or $30 with Publix/GreenWise donations⁹. Family Day grants free entry to school-aged kids, while Moonlight Magic wristbands unlock evening thrills.

Warning: Only buy from official outlets. Third-party sellers often charge inflated prices or provide invalid passes. Stick with Publix, Amscot, or the festival’s website for guaranteed entry.

Music lovers rejoice—the 2025 concert lineup brings legendary performers to Plant City. The Wish Farms Soundstage will host unforgettable shows from February 27 through March 9¹⁰. Best of all, these performances are free with paid gate admission¹¹.

Southern rock fans won’t want to miss Lynyrd Skynyrd on March 5 at 7:30 PM¹⁰. The Beach Boys bring their sunny harmonies on March 7, while the Oak Ridge Boys deliver country gospel on March 4¹⁰.

Opening day features three incredible acts. Jimmy Sturr and His Orchestra, America’s top polka band with 18 Grammys, performs at 10:30 AM and 3:30 PM¹¹. Tommy James, known for 23 gold singles, takes the stage at 3:30 PM¹¹.

Upgrade your experience with premium reserved seats. These guarantee the best views and often include early entry. Prices vary by artist but typically range from $25-$75.

For general admission, arrive early—popular shows fill quickly. Bring folding chairs for lawn seating comfort. The soundstage opens 90 minutes before each performance.

“Hearing ‘Sweet Home Alabama’ under the stars with thousands of fans—that’s what festival memories are made of.”

Backstage passes occasionally become available through radio contests or charity auctions. Follow the festival’s social media for last-minute opportunities to meet the artists.

Adrenaline meets tradition at the event’s action-packed midway. The 2025 edition introduces the Strawberry Twister, a berry-themed coaster with corkscrew turns and a 60-foot drop⁵. Families love the expanded kiddie zone, featuring 12 gentle rides perfect for younger visitors⁵.

Thrill seekers must meet height requirements: 48″ for extreme rides like the Berry Blast tower¹². Moderate attractions start at 36″, while the children’s area welcomes riders as young as 2 with adult supervision⁵.

Unlimited ride wristbands cost $30 daily—a steal for frequent thrill-chasers¹². Safety comes first, with all attractions inspected by the Florida Department of Agriculture before opening⁵.

Test your skills at 30+ game booths with prizes ranging from plush toys to giant stuffed strawberries⁵. The Ring Toss and Milk Can Throw remain crowd favorites, offering fair odds for all ages.

Pro tip: Midweek afternoons see shorter lines for both rides and games. Evening shows often include midway performers, adding extra magic to the experience⁵.

“Watching my daughter’s face light up when she won her first prize—that’s what makes these games special.”

Foodies rejoice—the 2025 event unveils mouthwatering creations beyond imagination. Last year’s record-breaking 85,000+ strawberry shortcake servings prove this official Florida dessert remains king¹³. New this year: a daring strawberry sushi roll that’s already generating buzz.

Three vendors dominate the florida strawberry shortcake scene. St. Clements Catholic Church serves theirs with homemade biscuits, while Parkesdale Farms—visited by presidents—offers their World Famous version with fresh whipped cream¹².

Wish Farms, the official sponsor since 2011, adds a twist with their golden strawberry parfait¹². All use berries picked within 24 hours from local fields.

Adventurous eaters will love this year’s lineup. Try deep-fried strawberry shortcake cookie dough bites or chocolate-covered strawberry slush¹³. The new strawberry crunch waffle cones are already trending on social media.

Dietary needs? Gluten-free funnel cakes and vegan strawberry smoothies are available. Look for the green leaf symbol at participating booths.

While florida strawberry treats star, other classics shine too. Fried Oreos, turkey legs, and BBQ ribs satisfy hearty appetites¹². Don’t miss the fresh lemonade—perfect for Florida afternoons.

The annual eating contest happens March 3 at 4 PM. Contestants face off devouring strawberry pies in record time. Last year’s winner finished three pies in 4 minutes!

“The shortcake melts in your mouth—you can taste the sunshine in every berry.”

Farm-fresh flavors make this a true taste of florida strawberry country. With so many options, come hungry and leave happy!

Agriculture takes center stage with interactive exhibits celebrating rural traditions. These displays honor the region’s farming history while showcasing modern techniques¹. Families can spend hours exploring everything from prize-winning livestock to futuristic growing methods.

Young ranchers shine during daily cattle judging at the Livestock Pavilion. The schedule features:

4-H members compete for $15,000 in college scholarships through animal care demonstrations¹. Don’t miss the hands-on milking station—visitors can try their skill at this daily farm chore.

Rare heritage breeds like Florida Cracker cattle make special appearances. These living pieces of agricultural history help educate about genetic diversity in farming¹.

Innovation meets tradition in the Agricultural Hall. New this year—vertical strawberry growing systems demonstrate space-efficient techniques¹. Interactive displays explain how technology helps local growers.

The youth development programs highlight the event’s educational mission. Over 500 students participate annually, gaining real-world skills¹.

“Seeing my daughter present her goat to judges taught her confidence that lasts beyond the show ring.”

From antique tractors to robotic harvesters, these exhibits reveal how farming continues to grow in popularity across generations¹.

Colorful traditions come alive during the event’s signature spectacles. Each afternoon at 3 PM sharp, the “Berries Through the Decades” parade transforms the streets into moving history lessons¹⁴.

This year’s floats required 1,200 hours of volunteer work. Local clubs used 4,000+ fresh berries as decorations—all replaced daily for peak freshness¹⁴. The Shoebox Float Contest adds creative flair, with kids designing miniature versions¹⁵.

Marching bands from 15 schools keep the energy high. Look for the Baby Parade on March 2—a crowd favorite featuring decorated strollers¹⁴. Social media lights up with photos of the giant strawberry balloon.

“Walking in the parade with my 4-H club showed me how much pride our community shares.”

The Queen’s Scholarship Pageant crowns its winner after rigorous judging. Contestants are evaluated on:

New for 2025: a Junior Royalty division for ages 8-12¹⁵. Past winners often return as judges, creating generational connections.

The event’s popularity grows yearly—last season drew 72 pageant entries¹⁴. Winners receive college funds and represent the region at statewide fairs.

Don’t miss the Deep Fried Strawberry Shortcake Relay, where teams race while balancing sweet treats¹⁵. It’s one of many quirky contests that showcase the event’s playful spirit.

Young visitors find endless excitement with specially designed attractions. The SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo Kiddie Korral opens daily at 10 a.m., featuring over 80 rides and stroller-friendly pathways¹⁶.

Kids explore agriculture through hands-on experiences. The Berry QUESTival trivia game teaches fun facts while the Coloring Corner sparks creativity⁶.

Educational workshops run hourly, including:

• Strawberry planting demonstrations
• Livestock care basics
• Farm equipment safety

Children adore daily mascot appearances. Mr. & Miss Berry pose for photos at the Orthotic Works gazebo throughout the day⁶.

Comfort stations make visits easier for families:

“My toddler couldn’t stop giggling when Mr. Berry high-fived her—these moments make family trips magical.”

Plan your time wisely—mornings see shorter lines for popular attractions. The expanded kiddie zone ensures smiles for visitors aged 2-12.

Smart planning transforms a good visit into an unforgettable experience. These insider strategies help you make the most of every moment while avoiding common pitfalls.

Arrive early to enjoy the festival before afternoon crowds¹⁷. Weekdays see lighter attendance, especially between 10 AM and 3 PM¹².

The midway opens at noon on weekdays and 10 AM on weekends¹⁶. For shorter lines, target these opening times when excitement peaks but crowds remain manageable.

Pack these must-haves for comfort:

• Sunscreen – Florida sun can be intense
• Reusable water bottle – refill stations available
• Comfortable walking shoes – you’ll cover miles
• Cash – some vendors don’t accept cards

Leave these at home:

• Drones – strictly prohibited
• Alcohol – not permitted on grounds
• Pets – only service animals allowed¹²

“Bringing a collapsible wagon saved our backs—we could carry supplies and tired kids without hassle.”

The official app enhances your experience with:

• Real-time crowd heat maps
• Interactive event schedules
• Food vendor locator
• Emergency information

Download it before arriving as cell service can be spotty in peak times. Paper maps are also available at information booths.

Remember these tips to create stress-free memories. With proper preparation, you’ll spend less time waiting and more enjoying the festivities!

Behind every sweet berry lies generations of farming expertise. The event showcases local 4-H and FFA members with agricultural exhibits, highlighting local farmers¹⁸. Meet the people who make Plant City the Winter Strawberry Capital.

Berry Good Farms, a fourth-generation operation, demonstrates sustainable growing techniques daily at 11 AM and 2 PM. Their Meet the Farmer program lets visitors ask questions about florida strawberry cultivation¹⁸.

Artisans display their crafts Wednesday through Sunday:

• 10 AM – Hand-carved wooden signs
• 1 PM – Strawberry-themed quilting
• 4 PM – Jewelry making with local materials

Thirty percent of all vendor proceeds support agricultural education programs¹⁸. This funding helps maintain the region’s farming legacy.

“Teaching kids where food comes from ensures our community’s future.”

Farm stands accept SNAP/EBT benefits, making fresh produce accessible to all. The Plant City community thrives when everyone shares in the harvest.

Craft vendors offer handmade goods, supporting local artisans while preserving traditional skills¹⁸. From berry baskets to folk art, these creations celebrate the area’s rich culture.

Few events capture Florida’s agricultural spirit like this cherished gathering. Ranking among North America’s Top 40 Fairs, it outshines similar events with its authentic farm roots and modern appeal⁵.

The economic impact astonishes—over 500,000 visitors annually pump $38 million into local businesses⁵. Hotels, restaurants, and farms all thrive during the 11-day run. This makes it a vital economic engine for the region.

Deep history gives the event soul. Started in 1930 during tough times, it preserved hope through agricultural pride¹⁹. Today, Depression-era traditions like the strawberry shortcake contest still delight crowds.

“My grandfather competed in the first pie-eating contest—now my granddaughter wears the Strawberry Queen crown.”

Agricultural innovation sets it apart. The Berry Breeding Showcase displays rare strawberry varieties developed locally. These plants now grow worldwide, thanks to pioneering farmers⁵.

Compared to other state fairs, this experience feels more intimate. Visitors meet growers face-to-face in the Agricultural Hall. Kids pet calves while learning where food originates.

The blend of history and progress creates magic. Classic lumberjack shows return alongside high-tech farming exhibits¹⁹. This balance makes each visit both nostalgic and fresh.

New grandstands and star performers attract younger crowds, while longtime fans cherish unchanged traditions¹⁹. The “Building New Memories” theme honors this generational bridge.

At its core, the event remains a love letter to Florida’s land and people. Few gatherings so beautifully harvest community spirit alongside ripe berries.

Nine decades of tradition come alive in 2025 with unforgettable anniversary surprises. The florida strawberry festival marks this milestone with special events honoring its rich agricultural heritage.

New this year: a historical exhibit tracing the event’s evolution since 1930. Rare photographs and vintage farming tools showcase how the celebration grew into a national phenomenon.

Foodies will adore the limited-edition anniversary shortcake. Local bakeries created this special version using heirloom berry varieties and golden sponge cake. Only 5,000 servings will be available daily.

Commemorative merchandise includes:

• 90th anniversary collector’s pins
• Vintage-style posters
• Limited-run strawberry glassware

Fireworks light up the sky March 8 at 9 PM during the grand finale. The pyrotechnic show synchronizes with a live orchestra performing festival favorites.

“We’re burying a time capsule with mementos from all nine decades—future generations will discover what made this event special.”

Surprise celebrity appearances occur throughout the 11-day run. Past headliners often drop by unannounced for impromptu performances.

Grab limited-edition golden tickets for premium perks. These include backstage access and reserved seating at all concerts. Only 90 sets will be sold.

The florida strawberry festival celebrates its legacy while creating new memories. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this historic occasion!

As the final berry is picked and the last carnival light dims, memories from this iconic gathering linger. With over 600,000 annual visitors, it’s clear why this remains one of North America’s most beloved fairs⁷.

• Arrive early to beat crowds—weekdays between 10 AM and 3 PM offer the best experience²⁰
• Don’t miss Booth 25 in the Parke Building for exclusive surprises and limited-edition treats
• Capture moments using #FloridaStrawberryFestival to join the digital celebration²⁰

The once-a-year magic includes:

“We’ve already marked our 2026 calendars—this tradition brings our family together like nothing else.”

Mark February 26-March 8, 2026, for next year’s adventure²⁰. Early bird tickets go on sale January 5—set reminders for the best deals.

From agricultural pride to carnival thrills, this event delivers unforgettable moments. Whether it’s your first visit or fiftieth, the warmth of Plant City’s hospitality keeps visitors returning year after year⁷.

Polka legend Jimmy Sturr and his Orchestra bring their Grammy-winning sound to the stage with 18 awards and 106+ recordings under their belt²¹. Their February 27 performance at 10:30 AM kicks off the musical festivities with free admission⁸.

Country fans shouldn’t miss Collin Raye joining the Roots & Boots lineup on March 3 at 3:30 PM¹⁰. Reserved seats for this show offer premium views at $45 per ticket.

On March 8, Sawyer Brown delivers their high-energy performance at 3:30 PM⁸. Autograph sessions follow most shows near the artist merchandise booths.

Accessible seating is available for all concerts. Contact (813) 719-6680 in advance to arrange special accommodations¹⁰.