.png "The Florida Strawberry Festival 2025") |
| The Florida Strawberry Festival 2025 |
A Sweet Celebration in Plant City: The Florida Strawberry Festival 2025, In the heart of Florida’s agricultural legacy, every spring Plant City transforms into a wonderland of strawberries, smiles, and unforgettable experiences. The 90th annual Florida Strawberry Festival, set to run from February 27 through March 9, 2025, promises not only a taste of the region’s prized fruit but a celebration of community, history, and innovation. Whether you’re a long-time attendee or a first-time visitor, this festival story is one of traditions revived and new adventures waiting to be discovered.
The Story of the Festival
Imagine the crisp morning air as you approach Plant City, where rows of strawberry fields have nurtured this festival for nearly a century. Over decades, families have returned year after year to marvel at the artistry of strawberry shortcake booths, the lively tunes of headline entertainers, and the simple joy of sharing a bowl of freshly-picked berries. Now, in 2025, the festival not only pays homage to its storied past but introduces exciting new attractions that ensure every moment is infused with magic.
“The Florida Strawberry Festival is more than just a celebration of fruit it’s a testament to community spirit, local agriculture, and timeless traditions,” noted a local organizer during early preparations.
What’s on the Agenda?
Dates & Hours
The festival kicks off on February 27 and runs until March 9. Guests can explore daily events from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. at the administrative office and even catch late-night festivities during special “Moonlight Magic” sessions that keep the energy high into the early hours.
Ticketing and Special Discounts
Admission is designed to be family-friendly:
- Adults (ages 13+): $15 (Discounted at $10 through special Publix promotions)
- Children (ages 6-12): $5 (Discounted at $4)
- Children 5 and under: Free with an accompanying adult
Special days like the Florida Blue Senior Citizens Day and Publix Food & Fun Friday offer additional discounts and free rides, ensuring every generation finds a reason to celebrate.
A Day of Spectacular Entertainment
Headlining the festival are performances that span genres and generations. From the lively tunes of Jimmy Stuff & His Orchestra and the soulful strains of Reba McEntire to rock legends like Lynyrd Skynyrd and contemporary stars like Nelly and John Fogerty, the festival’s stage transforms into a melting pot of music.
Each evening, the excitement builds with headline performances that echo the festival’s historic blend of tradition and modern flair.
Culinary Adventures: A Feast of Strawberry Delights
Food is at the heart of the festival, and the offerings are as diverse as they are delicious:
- Fresh Strawberry Shortcake: Enjoy the “Make Your Own” Shortcake Booth experience by St. Clement a tradition that encapsulates the festival’s playful spirit.
- Innovative Treats: Savor deep-fried strawberry shortcake, chocolate strawberry milkshakes, and even strawberry wings a creative twist on a classic favorite.
- Global Flavors: From strawberry crepes to decadent strawberry cheesecake, each bite is a journey into a world where sweet meets savory.
Engaging On-Ground Activities
The festival isn’t just about rides and treats. It’s also a vibrant showcase of Florida’s rich agricultural heritage:
- Livestock and Plant Exhibits: Young farmers and seasoned agriculturalists alike display their best produce and livestock, reviving a tradition that has fed communities for generations.
- Family-Focused Entertainment: From the charming Buford Bear and his Miniature Truck to the delightful Butterfly Kingdom, interactive activities are scheduled throughout the day to captivate both kids and adults.
Navigating the Festival
With 13 parking lots, shuttle trams, and accessible pathways, every detail is designed to provide a seamless experience. Whether you’re driving into one of the designated lots or hopping on the T-Mobile tram, convenience meets celebration in every corner of Plant City.
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| The Florida Strawberry Festival 2025 image by baynews9 |
Behind the Scenes: Community and Culture
The Florida Strawberry Festival is more than a public event it’s a cultural cornerstone. Locals reminisce about childhood memories of winning ribboned prizes at livestock shows or eagerly waiting for the grand parade. Community organizations, local businesses, and even church groups pitch in to create an atmosphere where every attendee feels at home. The festival embodies Florida’s agricultural identity, celebrating everything from traditional strawberry jams to cutting-edge culinary creations that push the boundaries of flavor.
The Festival Experience: A Day in the Life
Picture this: You wake up early to the tantalizing scent of fresh strawberries and venture to the festival grounds. The sound of laughter mixes with live music as you visit the iconic shortcake booth to craft your very own dessert masterpiece. Later, you stroll past livestock exhibits each one a vivid tableau of Florida’s farming tradition. As dusk falls, the headline stage lights up with live performances, and you find yourself dancing under a starry sky, immersed in the joyous rhythm of community celebration.
Festival Dates & Location
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Festival Dates | February 27 – March 9, 2025 |
| Location | 2209 W. Oak Ave., Plant City, FL 33563 |
| Office Hours | 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. daily |
| Midway Hours | Varies by day (generally 10 a.m. – 11 p.m.; see detailed schedule) |
Ticket Pricing
| Category | Regular Price | Discount Price (if applicable) |
|---|---|---|
| Adults (13+) | $15 | $10 |
| Children (6-12) | $5 | $4 |
| Children (5 & Under) | Free (with adult) | Free (with adult) |
Entertainment Schedule
| Date | Time | Headline Entertainment | Ticket Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Feb 27, 2025 | 10:30 a.m. | Jimmy Stuff & His Orchestra | Free with admission |
| 3:30 p.m. | Tommy James & The Shondells | $40 | |
| 7:30 p.m. | Nate Smith | $45 | |
| Feb 28, 2025 | 3:30 p.m. | Roots & Boots | $45 |
| 7:30 p.m. | Reba McEntire (Sold Out) | – | |
| Mar 1, 2025 | 3:30 p.m. | Home Free | $35 |
| 7:30 p.m. | Lauren Daigle | $65 | |
| Mar 2, 2025 | 7:30 p.m. | Bailey Zimmerman | $75 |
| Mar 3, 2025 | 3:30 p.m. | Cornell Gunter's Coasters, The Drifters, The Platters | $30 |
| 7:30 p.m. | Boyz II Men | $55 | |
| Mar 4, 2025 | 3:30 p.m. | Sara Evans | $40 |
| 7:30 p.m. | Chris Tomlin | $40 | |
| Mar 5, 2025 | 3:30 p.m. | The Bellamy Brothers | $25 |
| 7:30 p.m. | Lynyrd Skynyrd | $70 | |
| Mar 6, 2025 | 10:30 a.m. | Jimmy Fortune (Free with admission) | Free with admission |
| 3:30 p.m. | The Oakridge Boys | $40 | |
| 7:30 p.m. | Whiskey Myers | $65 | |
| Mar 7, 2025 | 3:30 p.m. | The Beach Boys | $45 |
| 7:30 p.m. | Jon Pardi | $70 | |
| Mar 8, 2025 | 3:30 p.m. | Sawyer Brown | $40 |
| 7:30 p.m. | Nelly | $65 | |
| Mar 9, 2025 | 7:30 p.m. | John Fogerty | $75 |
FAQs
Q1: When is the Florida Strawberry Festival 2025?
A: The festival is scheduled from February 27 to March 9, 2025.
Q2: Where is the festival held?
A: It is held at 2209 W. Oak Ave., Plant City, FL 33563.
Q3: What are the ticket prices?
A: Standard admission is $15 for adults and $5 for children, with additional discounts available on special days.
Q4: What kinds of entertainment can I expect?
A: The festival features headline concerts by artists like Reba, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and John Fogerty, along with a range of free on-ground entertainment and interactive exhibits.
Q5: What food options are available?
A: From classic strawberry shortcake and deep-fried treats to innovative strawberry milkshakes and gourmet dishes, there is something to satisfy every palate.
Q6: Is parking available?
A: Yes, there are 13 parking lots with varied rates, along with shuttle services for easy access.
Conclusion: Join the Celebration!
The Florida Strawberry Festival 2025 is not just an event it’s a vibrant chapter in Florida’s ongoing story of community, agriculture, and cultural heritage. As Plant City gears up for another year of strawberry delights, every visitor is invited to be part of a legacy that celebrates the past while embracing the future. Grab your ticket, bring your loved ones, and get ready to experience a festival that promises memories as sweet as the strawberries it celebrates.
For more detailed information and real-time updates, please visit the official festival guide on Bay News 9, check out Tampa Bay Times, and read additional insights on Yahoo Entertainment.